Governor of the Irkutsk region, Igor Kobzev, is currently in Uzbekistan, where Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a two-day visit at the invitation of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Yesterday, Kobzev held several key meetings and negotiations, including discussions with Shukhratbek Abdurakhmanov, Khokim of the Andijan region. Just last week, an Andijan delegation, led by the Khokim, visited Irkutsk, where they explored joint projects, investment opportunities, and avenues for regional development.
Today in Uzbekistan, the two leaders signed a memorandum of understanding between the Andijan Khokimiyat and the Irkutsk regional government. This memorandum, signed by Kobzev and Abdurakhmanov, aims to establish mutually beneficial connections and facilitate joint initiatives.
“Today, we are considering opportunities for interregional cooperation. Uzbekistan is one of Priangarie’s primary partners, ranking second in export volume among CIS countries. We discussed collaboration in education, tourism, and labor migration. There is also potential for an Irkutsk company to bring its expertise in producing glucometer test strips to the Andijan region, and we’ve agreed that our colleagues will come to explore this opportunity,” said Kobzev.
“We have signed a memorandum with the Irkutsk region and will work in various sectors, including trade, education, tourism, and mining. I recently visited Irkutsk, which left a strong impression on me. The region has tremendous potential, and we anticipate positive results from our collaboration,” stated Shukhratbek Abdurakhmanov.
Kobzev emphasized that the Irkutsk region is eager to increase trade with Uzbekistan. Uzbek representatives actively participate in joint business events, including companies from Tashkent, Andijan, and Bukhara regions attending the V Baikal International Forum of Partners in Irkutsk. These companies represent industries such as tourism, beverage distribution, retail, and IT, according to the Priangarie government’s press service.
To foster trade and economic cooperation, regional enterprises regularly take part in international business missions and Trade Fairs. Last year, these efforts resulted in several export contracts for construction materials, medical supplies, engineering support, and agricultural products.
In April, the Irkutsk region delegation attended the Trade Fair 'INNOPROM: Central Asia' in Tashkent. During this visit, representatives from the Angara region explored Uzbekistan’s first Russian technopark in Chirchik. Kobzev noted that Irkutsk companies are now expressing interest in joint ventures with this industrial park. Other focus areas include light industry, tourism, agriculture, and education.
Additionally, during a business breakfast with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Zhamshid Khodjaev and Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, Governor Kobzev presented the Irkutsk region’s economic potential.
In a meeting with Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, Kobzev emphasized that the Irkutsk regional government is committed to developing mutually beneficial bilateral relations. For 12 years, the Irkutsk Regional Public Organization Uzbek National Cultural Center
‘Our Fatherland’ has supported the social and cultural integration of Uzbek citizens in Irkutsk, helping to preserve and celebrate their customs and traditions.
Governor Kobzev is set to participate in the Council of Regions of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation, with heads of state in attendance.
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