Brussels, September 4, 2025 — EUReflect: The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Belgium hosted a reception marking the 34th anniversary of the country’s independence, attended by diplomats, parliamentarians, and representatives of European institutions.
The gathering welcomed Members of the European Parliament, as well as ambassadors of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uruguay, and envoys from the Middle East and the European Union.
Ambassador Fazilov Highlights Uzbekistan’s Progress
H.E. Gayrat Fazilov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan, delivered a keynote speech underlining his country’s achievements since independence and its ambitious reform agenda under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
“Uzbekistan has entered a new historical era and taken a worthy place in the global community. In recent years, we have made enormous progress toward building a New Uzbekistan with a strong economy, competitive industries, and a stable financial system attractive to investors,” he noted.
The Ambassador emphasized five national development priorities: quality education, commercial growth, a fair judiciary free of corruption, improved healthcare, and environmental sustainability. He also reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s commitment to joining the World Trade Organization with the support of the EU and its member states.
Central Asia and EU Cooperation
Ambassador Fazilov stressed the importance of regional collaboration, highlighting that a “new Central Asia” of peace and cooperation is becoming a reality. He also underlined Uzbekistan’s growing ties with the South Caucasus and Europe, citing the recent establishment of the Uzbekistan–Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Tashkent as a key initiative to attract investors.
Relations with the European Union have gained new momentum following the first EU–Central Asia Summit in Samarkand and the visits of European leaders António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen. Two major events are scheduled in Tashkent this November: an economic forum and an EU investors’ forum on sustainable transport connectivity.
The signing of an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the EU is anticipated to raise bilateral relations to a new strategic level.
Congratulations and Cultural Exchange
On behalf of the EU, Ms. Audrone Perkauskiene and Mr. Pierre Cartuyvels conveyed congratulations to Uzbekistan and commended its reforms. Among the guests of honor was H.E. Aidit Erkin, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Belgium.
The evening concluded with a cultural reception, where traditional Uzbek cuisine was served, offering guests a warm and authentic experience of Uzbekistan’s rich heritage.
Historian and environmental management expert on Central Asia and researcher on Central Asia post-Soviet period. Journalist for EuReporter and EuReflect and Special Director of “The Gulf Observer” for Europe and Central Asia.
