Tashkent seeks EU role in Uzbek fuel and energy complex modernization
TASHKENT. Aug 19 (Interfax) - Uzbekistan is looking to attract advanced European energy technology into its fuel and energy sector, and is interested in European Union organizations being involved in sector modernization.
"There was an exchange of views on prospective directions for cooperation," the country's Foreign Affairs Ministry told Interfax after a Friday meeting in Tashkent with European Investment Bank representative Marion Hoenicke.
It was pointed out at the meeting that a January visit by President Islam Karimov to Brussels had opened new opportunities for larger-scale interaction between Uzbekistan and EU structures.
In particular, the ministry said, unique prospects are opening up for joint efforts in the modernization of Uzbekistan's fuel and energy complex, the introduction of energy-saving technology and alternative energy, the development of transit routes and other areas.
The meeting attendees also talked about other issues of a bilateral and regional nature.
The European Investment Bank delegation has also met with the Foreign Economic Relations and Trade Ministry, Economy Ministry, Finance Ministry, the country's Central Bank, and the Reconstruction and Development Fund.