Uzbekistan–Czech Republic ties enter new strategic Phase

Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic are advancing into a new stage of bilateral cooperation, strengthening a partnership built over more than three decades, according to article written by Kayumova Madinabonu, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th Apr, 2026) Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic are advancing into a new stage of bilateral cooperation, strengthening a partnership built over more than three decades, according to article written by Kayumova Madinabonu, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan.

Since establishing diplomatic relations on January 1, 1993, the two countries have transformed their engagement from largely formal interactions into a comprehensive partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The Czech Republic has emerged as one of Uzbekistan’s key partners in Central Europe as Tashkent expands its ties across the continent, said a release issued here on Wednesday.

The foundation for this cooperation was laid early, with Prague opening a trade mission in Tashkent soon after independence, later upgraded to a full embassy in 1994. Over the years, both sides have developed a solid legal and institutional framework, including intergovernmental and inter-parliamentary mechanisms.

A significant turning point came in 2023, when reciprocal visits by Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov resulted in the signing of a Joint Declaration on Enhanced Cooperation. The agreement outlined priorities for deepening ties across key sectors.

High-level engagement has continued, including a 2024 visit to Tashkent by Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský and a 2025 meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President Petr Pavel on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. In parallel, inter-parliamentary groups established in 2025 have strengthened legislative cooperation.

Economic ties are showing steady growth. Bilateral trade reached $189.7 million in 2025—three times higher than in 2018—despite a slight year-on-year dip. More than 40 companies with Czech capital are now operating in Uzbekistan, reflecting rising investor confidence.

Industrial cooperation is gaining momentum, highlighted by plans from Škoda Group to establish a joint venture for railway rolling stock assembly and maintenance, along with a training academy. Czech firms are also expanding their footprint in Uzbekistan’s healthcare sector, supplying pharmaceuticals and modern medical equipment.

The Czech Republic continues to support Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization, a move expected to further enhance trade and attract foreign investment.

Humanitarian and cultural ties remain a cornerstone of the relationship. Since 2003, joint archaeological work between Uzbek institutions and Charles University has yielded significant discoveries in the Surkhandarya region. Cultural exchanges, including participation in festivals and activities of friendship societies, continue to strengthen people-to-people links.

Academic cooperation is also expanding, with joint programs between leading universities in both countries. The number of Uzbek students in the Czech Republic has nearly doubled over the past five years, reaching around 700, supported by government scholarship programs.

Labour mobility is increasing, with approximately 3,000 Uzbek citizens employed in the Czech Republic. Regular air connections between Tashkent and Karlovy Vary further facilitate travel and exchange.

Looking ahead, experts highlight key priorities, including opening an Uzbek embassy in Prague, boosting trade volumes, and expanding collaboration in high-tech sectors such as engineering and industrial automation.

With its strong industrial base and technological expertise, the Czech Republic is positioning itself as a strategic European partner for Uzbekistan, paving the way for long-term, innovation-driven cooperation and large-scale joint projects.