In recognition of the importance of securing supply of critical raw materials and diversification of industrial value chains, during the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, the EU and Uzbekistan agreed to work on a Memorandum of Understanding in the field of sustainable critical raw materials (CRM). This strategic partnership will provide a platform for both sides to advance trade and investments into secure, sustainable, and resilient raw materials value chains. Moreover, Uzbekistan confirmed that they would join the Critical Raw Materials Club announced by President von der Leyen earlier this year.
Uzbekistan is in possession of large reserves of a variety of raw materials such as silver, titanium, and lithium, being for example the world’s fifth-ranking uranium supplier and having the eleventh largest proven copper reserves, making them a vital player in the global critical raw material landscape.
European Commission Executive Vice President for an economy that works for people and Trade Commissioner, Valdis Dombrovskis, said:
“I welcome today’s announcement of strengthened cooperation between the European Union and Uzbekistan on critical raw materials, opening the process for an eventual EU-Uzbekistan strategic partnership. Uzbekistan will also join the CRM Club, an initiative launched earlier this year. Expanding our network of trusted partnerships will contribute to addressing global challenges to secure sustainable raw materials that are indispensable for the green and digital transitions.”
European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, said:
“Uzbekistan’s rich reserves of critical raw materials are a great asset for Uzbekistan and sustainable green transition globally. It is with great pleasure that we welcome a closer collaboration, which will help ensure a sustainable and secure supply chain for the world’s evolving industries. Global Gateway is a mutually beneficial partnership offer – we want to great local added value, with benefits for the Uzbek people. I look forward to fruitful discussions, which would eventually lead to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of critical raw materials.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, said:
“Today we launching negotiations on an important bilateral document – a Memorandum of Understanding on strategic cooperation in the field of critical raw materials. I am confident that the future signing of such a document will give additional impetus to the development of multifaceted and mutually beneficial cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EU. Strategic partnership in the field of critical raw materials is one of the most promising areas of our cooperation. “
Background
EU-Uzbekistan
The European Union has been a firm supporter of Uzbekistan’s ongoing reform and integration processes since 2017. Uzbekistan’s efforts harmonise with a number of EU policy objectives, which the EU supports through the Multiannual Indicative Programme (MIP) for Uzbekistan for 2021-2024, totalling €76 million.
Global Gateway Forum
The Global Gateway Forum brings together an assembly of government representatives from the European Union and across the globe, alongside key stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, thought leaders, financial institutions, and international organisations to promote global investment in infrastructure.
During this landmark occasion, a series of strategic investment announcements and agreements with partner countries are being presented, marking a significant leap towards the implementation of the Global Gateway strategy. These announcements not only underscore the tangible worldwide impact of Global Gateway but also provide a platform for governments and businesses to engage in critical discussions surrounding its priorities.
The Global Gateway Forum highlights a collective commitment to fostering sustainable growth and resilience worldwide through a Team Europe approach.
Global Gateway
Global Gateway represents the European Union’s effort reduce the worldwide investment disparity and boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems. It provides sustainable investment opportunities to enhance the prosperity and security of our global partners and Europe alike.
The Global Gateway strategy embodies a collaborative approach that brings together the European Union, EU Member States, and European development finance institutions. Together, we aim to mobilize up to €300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.
Team Europe stands out with a compelling proposition for democratic partner nations, focusing on sustainability across social, environmental, and financial aspects, promoting long-term drivers of growth through a comprehensive 360-degree approach, encompassing both hard and soft infrastructure, and reinforcing the resilience of nations seeking strategic autonomy.
More Information
EU Uzbekistan Cooperation
Global Gateway Forum
Global Gateway
