The first "Central Asia – European Union" summit took place in Samarkand under the theme "Investing in the Future." The event includes the participation of representatives from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the European Investment Bank.
During the forum, Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Alisher Shukurov, shared his perspective on the country's role in regional development.
"In Uzbekistan, where more than half of Central Asia's population lives, demographic growth continues," said Shukurov. "This creates a strong basis and resource for long-term sustainable development."
He noted that Uzbekistan has a long-standing record of cooperation with EU countries in the agricultural sector. Uzbek fruits and melons have entered European markets due to their specific characteristics.
European countries have maintained trade relations with Uzbekistan in the agricultural field for many years. Products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, and organic goods are exported to the EU. This trade allows local farmers and producers to access international markets.
In the export structure of fruits and vegetables, the leading categories are fresh vegetables ($21 million), grapes ($18.3 million), dried grapes ($18 million), dried fruits ($16.6 million), dried vegetables ($11 million), melons ($8.4 million), nuts ($7.9 million), and legumes ($6.4 million).
The export of processed fruits and vegetables was $9.2 million.
Source: uza.uz