BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 10. Uzbekistan and Sri
Lanka have discussed expanding trade and economic ties and creating
new opportunities for direct cooperation between businesses in
several high-potential sectors.


This was reflected in the statement published by the Uzbek
Chamber of Commerce and Industry following a meeting held on July 9
with a Sri Lankan delegation led by Aruni Ranaraja, first deputy
minister of foreign affairs, foreign employment, and tourism of Sri
Lanka.


According to the Chamber of Commerce, the talks focused on
bringing bilateral trade and economic relations to a new level,
strengthening direct contacts between the two countries' business
communities, and advancing joint projects.


“We see significant potential for expanding practical
cooperation in tourism, textiles, information technology, the
jewelry industry, and pharmaceuticals,” the parties noted during
the meeting.


Particular attention was paid to establishing a stronger
institutional framework for business ties. The sides discussed a
proposal to sign a memorandum of understanding between the Chamber
of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan and the National Chamber of
Commerce of Sri Lanka.


“The proposed memorandum could create a solid institutional
foundation for cooperation between the business communities of
Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka and facilitate direct engagement between
companies,” the Uzbek side said.







During the meeting, Sri Lanka also invited Uzbek entrepreneurs
to participate in the Sri Lanka Expo 2027 international
exhibition.


“Sri Lanka Expo 2027 will provide businesses with opportunities
to identify new partners, enter foreign markets, showcase their
investment potential and expand trade relations,” the Sri Lankan
side said.


The discussions come as Uzbekistan seeks to diversify its
international trade and investment partnerships and develop closer
business links with South Asian markets. Cooperation in technology,
tourism, and manufacturing could provide new opportunities for
companies from both countries to establish commercial partnerships
and implement joint initiatives.


At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed to work
toward translating the discussed initiatives into practical results
and to continue developing mutually beneficial economic and
business relations.