Uzbek President Mirziyoyev discusses Uzbek-EU broader partnership with EU rep

TASHKENT. Oct 19 (Interfax) - Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and European Union Special Representative for Central Asia Terhi Hakala have met to discuss steps to bolster Uzbek-European relations and regional interaction and facilitate a peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, the Uzbek presidential press service said.

"The further enlargement of multifaceted Uzbek-European relations and the strengthening of regional interaction have been considered," it said.

Mirziyoyev and Hakala attached special significance to developing a constructive political dialogue, promoting programs and projects of mutually beneficial cooperation in the trade-economic, investment, and financial-technical sectors, as well as in the environmental protection, education, and tourism fields, it said.

They also exchanged opinions on the international agenda, particularly the situation in Afghanistan.

"The parties considered assistance to the soonest possible peaceful settlement and socioeconomic reconstruction in Afghanistan," it said.