BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 22. Uzbekistan and
Chinese businesses discussed expanding cooperation in the mining
sector during talks focused on investment opportunities, geological
exploration and mineral resource development.
This was reflected in the statement by the Uzbekistan's Ministry
of Mining Industry and Geology following a meeting between First
Deputy Minister of Mining Industry and Geology Feruza Khamidova and
a Chinese delegation led by Zhao Yaqing, head of the Tongchuan
Entrepreneurs Chamber of Commerce in Beijing.
The sides reviewed prospects for broadening bilateral
cooperation in Uzbekistan's mining industry, with particular
attention to investment opportunities and the implementation of
projects in geological exploration and subsoil use.
Khamidova highlighted what she described as the growing interest
of Chinese companies in Uzbekistan's mining sector and outlined the
country's regulatory framework governing access to mineral
resources.
She said Uzbekistan's system for granting subsoil use rights is
based on the principles of openness and transparency, providing
investors with clear mechanisms for participating in mining and
exploration projects.
The Chinese delegation expressed readiness to participate in
prospective mining projects in Uzbekistan and to contribute
advanced technologies and industry expertise, the ministry
said.
The parties agreed to continue discussions on the identified
areas of cooperation and exchange specific proposals for potential
joint projects.
The meeting reflects Uzbekistan's broader efforts to attract
foreign investment into its mining industry as the government seeks
to develop the country's substantial mineral resources and expand
international partnerships. China has become one of Uzbekistan's
key economic partners, with growing cooperation spanning mining,
energy, manufacturing and infrastructure.
