TASHKENT: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan welcomed a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih, in discussions focused on strengthening multifaceted cooperation between the two nations. The meeting aimed at the practical implementation of agreements previously established at the highest diplomatic level.
During the meeting, Saudi Minister Al-Falih conveyed greetings from Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. President Mirziyoyev acknowledged the dynamic growth in mutually beneficial cooperation over recent years, with increasing trade turnover, Saudi direct investments in Uzbekistan’s economy—particularly in green energy—and expanded air connectivity.
Socially significant projects in healthcare, education, water supply, and other areas, supported by the Saudi Fund for Development, were highlighted as indicative of the growing partnership. The establishment of a joint fund to enhance Uzbekistan’s economic opportunities is also underway.
Shavkat #Mirziyoyev has received a delegation from #SaudiArabia🇸🇦 led by the Minister of Investment of the Kingdom @Khalid_AlFalih Khalid Al-Falih.
They discussed current matters of Uzbek-Saudi cooperation and partnership. pic.twitter.com/QT2gLcngg8
— Shavkat Mirziyoyev's Press-service (@president_uz) November 27, 2023
Collaboration Between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia
As part of the Saudi delegation’s visit, agreements totaling $12 billion were signed for collaborative projects in chemistry, energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, IT, and infrastructure development. Additionally, both parties committed to promoting new projects and programs amounting to $11 billion, spanning transport infrastructure, utilities, geology, irrigation, household waste processing, higher education, and labor migration.
The strategic partnership with ACWA Power, a major investor in Uzbekistan’s green energy development, was emphasized. Ongoing projects under ACWA Power’s investment total $7.5 billion. The recent inauguration of a modern thermal power plant in Syrdarya region and the commencement of a pilot production of green hydrogen in Tashkent region were appreciated during the discussions.
In recognition of Saudi Minister Khalid Al-Falih’s significant contributions to fostering bilateral relations, President Mirziyoyev awarded him the “Dustlik” (Friendship) Order in a ceremony that underscored the commitment to advancing the strong and mutually beneficial ties between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia.
