At the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrived in Uzbekistan for an official visit on September 15. During high-level talks, the leaders discussed furthering Uzbek-German cooperation, focusing on expanding trade, economic, technological, and financial partnerships, and deepening collaboration with leading German companies and banks. Environmental issues, education, healthcare, culture, and tourism were also key areas of focus.
Two days later, the second “Central Asia–Germany” summit took place in Astana, Kazakhstan, chaired by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Chancellor Scholz and the presidents of five Central Asian countries attended the event. In his address, President Mirziyoyev highlighted Germany’s ongoing support for democratic reforms in Central Asia and proposed creating a long-term partnership concept, along with establishing a “Central Asia–Germany” think tank forum, set to hold its first meeting in Khiva next year.
Mirziyoyev emphasized strengthening ties with German companies in investment and technology, calling for a “roadmap” for expanding cooperation and greater involvement of German banks in regional projects. He proposed creating an Investor and Entrepreneur Council and exploring an intergovernmental agreement on investment protection.
Recognizing the growing importance of green energy, Mirziyoyev suggested launching an Energy Dialogue between Central Asia and Germany, involving key government officials, corporate leaders, and industry experts. In climate-related matters, he recommended expanding joint educational programs and introducing German technologies in water management and biodiversity conservation.
Addressing transportation barriers, the president urged Germany to help attract European institutions to develop alternative transport corridors linking Central Asia with Europe. He also called for enhancing cultural collaboration through a plan of cultural events, including Central Asian art and film festivals in Germany, and establishing ties between museum collections.
