Brussels, September 4, 2025 – The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Belgium hosted a reception marking the 34th anniversary of the country’s independence, bringing together a distinguished audience of diplomats, parliamentarians, and representatives of European institutions.

Among the attendees were Members of the European Parliament, as well as the ambassadors of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkiye, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uruguay, and envoys from the Middle East and the European Union.

Ambassador Fazilov’s Address

H.E. Gayrat Fazilov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan, delivered a keynote speech highlighting 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 emphasized five strategic priorities for national development:

quality education,
commercial growth,
a fair, corruption-free judiciary,
improved healthcare,
and environmental sustainability.

Ambassador Fazilov also underlined Uzbekistan’s determination to join the World Trade Organization, with the strong support of the European Union and its member states.

A Dynamic Central Asia

The ambassador placed Uzbekistan’s progress within the broader context of regional cooperation in Central Asia:

“Thanks to our joint efforts, the dream of a new Central Asia—where countries develop in peace and harmony—is becoming a reality.”

He noted growing ties with the South Caucasus and Europe, highlighting the opening of the Uzbekistan–Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Tashkent as a key step to attract investors from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

Strengthening Ties with the European Union

Relations with the EU have gained new momentum, particularly after the first official EU–Central Asia Summit in Samarkand and the visits of European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

“Uzbekistan is firmly committed to deepening a strategic partnership with the European Union in all fields,” Ambassador Fazilov declared, announcing two major events to be hosted in Tashkent this November: an economic forum and an EU investors’ forum on sustainable transport connectivity.

The anticipated signing of an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the EU is expected to elevate bilateral relations to an unprecedented level.

Congratulations and Cultural Reception

On this occasion, Ms. Audrone Perkauskiene, EU representative, and Mr.Pierre Cartuyvels, Chief of Protocol of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

congratulated Uzbekistan and praised the strategic reforms of recent years. Distinguished guests included H.E. Aidit Erkin, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Belgium.

The evening concluded with a reception featuring traditional Uzbek cuisine, offering a warm and authentic cultural experience.

EUReflect is proud to witness Uzbekistan’s growing role as a bridge of dialogue, cooperation, and shared progress between Central Asia and Europe.