Odilbek Manabov, a Leading Research Fellow at IAIS, took part in the “International View” program on the Uzbekistan 24 TV channel, where he commented in detail on the current aspects of the development of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Italy. During the interview, Manabov emphasised that in recent years, cooperation between the two countries has significantly expanded and deepened in both the political and economic spheres.

 

The expert noted that over the past year, Italy was the country from which the largest number of tourists from the EU arrived. He explained that this is due not only to direct flights, but also to the growing popularity of Uzbekistan’s cultural and historical heritage among the Italian public.

 

He also analysed the meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which took place in Samarkand. The speaker pointed out that, following the talks, several important agreements were signed in the areas of investment, tourism, ecology and education. Particular emphasis was placed on the intention of both sides to develop joint environmental projects aimed at conserving water resources and combating desertification, which is in line with sustainable development priorities.

 

In the field of education, an agreement was reached to expand academic mobility programmes — Italian universities will open additional grants for students and postgraduates from Uzbekistan, while Uzbek universities will facilitate the exchange of teaching staff and internships.

 

According to him, the successful implementation of the signed agreements in the coming months will strengthen economic growth, increase the country’s investment attractiveness and expand opportunities for young people through educational and cultural exchanges.

 

* The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.