Iran’s Vice President Pledges to Boost Comprehensive Ties with Uzbekistan
In a significant development for international relations, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has reaffirmed the Iranian administration’s dedication to enhancing ties with Uzbekistan across multiple sectors. This commitment was expressed during a recent high-level meeting held in Tehran with Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov.
Aref emphasized the extensive common ground shared between Iran and Uzbekistan, highlighting potential areas for collaboration:
- Economy
- Tourism
- Energy
- Culture
- Science
- Trade
He remarked on Iran’s strategic position as the shortest route for Central Asian nations seeking access to the high seas and the Persian Gulf, stating that Iran is committed to facilitating this vital access.
Furthermore, Aref pointed out the potential for Iran and Uzbekistan to complement each other within the regional economy, strengthening their bilateral ties even further.
During this meeting, Prime Minister Aripov also acknowledged Iran as a close friend and reliable partner in the region. He estimated the annual trade volume between the two nations to be around $500 million, emphasizing the necessity for long-term strategies and enhanced cooperation to boost bilateral trade.
On the sidelines of this important dialogue, senior officials from both countries signed four pivotal cooperation agreements, including a roadmap for Iran-Uzbekistan intergovernmental cooperation for the years 2025 to 2027.
