Japan expresses interest in importing oil, gas, and strategic minerals from Uzbekistan

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received the Japanese delegation, which also included the Governor of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Nobumitsu Hayashi, and the Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Masao Yahara.

Minister Katayama highlighted that the current global geopolitical situation has made the stable supply of energy and critical resources a priority for Japan. She emphasized that Uzbekistan, a nation rich in natural resources, represents an essential partner for Japan’s strategy to diversify its sources of oil, gas, and strategic minerals. Beyond natural resources, both sides noted the positive momentum in their bilateral economic relations, characterized by rising trade turnover and the implementation of large-scale investment projects involving major Japanese corporations.

President Mirziyoyev presented several initiatives aimed at modernizing Uzbekistan’s financial infrastructure. These proposals include the integration of artificial intelligence into the national treasury, the digital transformation of public finance, and the training of high-level professionals to manage these transitions. In response, Katayama expressed Japan's readiness to assist, specifically mentioning the President’s proposal to establish a financial education center in Tashkent as a project Japan would consider supporting.

The discussions also covered the future of international trade and financial technology. Minister Katayama noted Japan’s active cooperation with the United States in implementing digital payment instruments, such as stablecoins and electronic currencies. Recognizing Uzbekistan’s high interest in fintech, she expressed Japan’s willingness to facilitate the development of modern financial technologies in the country. Furthermore, both parties agreed to accelerate social projects in sectors such as renewable energy, medicine, information technology, transport, and agriculture.

Minister Katayama also reaffirmed Japan's commitment to personnel training, emphasizing the expansion of long-standing programs that have prepared Uzbek civil servants and specialists for years. Reflecting on the cultural proximity between the two nations, the Japanese Finance Minister remarked that she feels at home during her visits to Uzbekistan and remains a strong advocate for deepening the strategic partnership between Tokyo and Tashkent.