In a significant diplomatic engagement, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, warmly welcomed the UAE’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei. This meeting underscores Uzbekistan’s strong appreciation for its relations with the Emirates and aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, particularly energy.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During the meeting, President Mirziyoyev received Minister Al Mazrouei, accompanied by a distinguished delegation, including Dr. Saeed Matar Al Qemzi, the UAE Ambassador to Uzbekistan. The gathering also featured several executives and representatives from both the public and private energy sectors in the UAE. Minister Al Mazrouei conveyed the warm regards of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, along with best wishes for continued prosperity for the people of Uzbekistan.
Exploring New Opportunities
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple fields, with renewable energy, transportation, and logistics taking center stage. Both parties reflected on promising investment opportunities and the importance of fostering economic partnerships between their nations. The dialogue confirmed their commitment to further deepen the growing economic ties, echoing a shared enthusiasm for mutual growth and development.
Acknowledgment of Strong Ties
President Mirziyoyev expressed a warm welcome to the UAE delegation and extended his greetings to the Emirati leadership. He highlighted Uzbekistan’s appreciation for the solid relations shared by the two countries and looked forward to advancing them to meet shared aspirations. The positive momentum in their partnership was evident throughout the encounter.
Inauguration of New Energy Projects
Minister Al Mazrouei and his delegation participated in the inauguration of several new energy projects in Uzbekistan, under the auspices of President Mirziyoyev. During the ceremony, Minister Al Mazrouei emphasized that the UAE stands as a key partner in enhancing Uzbekistan’s energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and strategic initiatives that support sustainable growth.
He noted that the projects by Masdar in Uzbekistan have become a significant portfolio of clean energy development in Central Asia, with around 2,000 megawatts of production capacity through crucial initiatives like the Nur Bukhara project, which is the country’s first integrated solar and battery facility, and the Gozar solar and battery project.
Additionally, other UAE companies are executing major projects within Uzbekistan’s energy sector, contributing to energy security, improving electrical network efficiency, and expanding reliance on clean energy. Minister Al Mazrouei reiterated the UAE’s commitment to supporting economic and investment cooperation with Uzbekistan.
The UAE delegation included high-ranking representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, as well as executives from Masdar, TAQA for water solutions, and Union Water and Electricity, showcasing the collective dedication to fostering robust UAE-Uzbek ties.