At the headquarters of the European Council in Brussels, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the European Union signed the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA). The document was signed in the presence of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the European Council António Costa, and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
Signing of the EPCA
The signing of the EPCA marked the conclusion of long negotiations that began in February 2019 and ended in July 2022. The new document replaces the 1996 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and expands the legal framework for bilateral relations. The Agreement consists of 9 titles, 356 articles and 14 annexes, covering almost all areas of cooperation — from trade and investment to science, education, and climate policy.
What is the EPCA
The Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) is a comprehensive international treaty regulating relations between the European Union and a partner state. Its objective is to establish a single legal framework for political dialogue, trade, investment, science, environmental protection and human rights.
For Uzbekistan, the EPCA replaces the 1996 Partnership Agreement and opens access to new formats of cooperation with the EU, including participation in the Global Gateway initiative, green and digital partnerships, and sustainable development projects.
Strategic partnership and economic cooperation
During the meeting, leaders of Uzbekistan and the EU stated that the signing of the EPCA marks the transition of bilateral relations to a strategic level. According to both sides, the Agreement will serve as a tool to strengthen political dialogue, stimulate trade, foster sustainable development and regional integration.
Particular attention was given to energy, transport, high technology, investment in critical raw materials and the green economy. A business forum was also held in Brussels, where agreements were signed for the implementation of new projects worth over €10 billion. The overall portfolio of joint projects with European companies now exceeds €40 billion.
The parties welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and confirmed their readiness to deepen economic cooperation within the multilateral trading system.
A new architecture of cooperation
The Joint Statement adopted following the meeting emphasizes the commitment of both sides to international law, the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states enshrined in the UN Charter. The leaders confirmed their intention to develop a partnership based on mutual respect and multilateralism, with a focus on sustainable development and the peaceful settlement of conflicts.
The EPCA opens new areas of cooperation — cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, border management and resilience to hybrid threats. The document provides for cooperation on digital and transport connectivity under the European Global Gateway initiative, as well as in the fields of critical raw materials and green technologies.
Environmental and humanitarian agenda
Special attention was given to climate and environmental issues. The EU welcomed Uzbekistan’s participation in the Global Methane Pledge and its efforts to restore the Aral Sea region. Joint projects are expected to focus on water-energy cooperation and enhancing the region’s environmental resilience.
The sides also expressed their intention to strengthen cooperation in human rights, rule of law, and civil society development. The EU confirmed its support for ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan, including the protection of labour rights, education development and gender equality. Within the EU-Uzbekistan Civil Society Forum, plans are under way to expand youth exchanges and cultural programmes.
Regional context
EU leaders noted the important role of the Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia, which contribute to regional consolidation and stronger ties with the European Union. The Joint Statement also confirmed that the Central Asia-EU Economic Forum and the Investment Forum on the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and Connectivity will be held in Tashkent in 2025. These events aim to promote infrastructure integration and diversify trade between the regions.
Long-term goals and institutional mechanisms
Uzbekistan and the European Union agreed on the need to strengthen institutional partnership mechanisms. This includes the establishment of working groups and sub-committees responsible for the implementation of the Agreement. The importance of simplifying visa procedures was specifically emphasized, which, according to both sides, will contribute to the development of business and humanitarian contacts.
The Agreement also provides for the possibility of future discussions on readmission and visa facilitation agreements, subject to the fulfilment of necessary requirements by both parties.
Reform context and international significance
The signing of the EPCA fits within the broader context of reforms undertaken in Uzbekistan since 2017. The European Union has repeatedly expressed its support for Tashkent’s efforts to liberalize the economy, modernize legislation and enhance governance transparency.
The new format of engagement with the EU is also viewed as part of Uzbekistan’s policy of openness and integration into international economic structures. Brussels has confirmed its political support for Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization, which is expected to strengthen the country’s position in the global trade system.
Results and significance of the Agreement
The EPCA is regarded by both sides as a historic step in the development of Uzbekistan-EU relations. The document lays the foundation for long-term cooperation focused on innovation, sustainable growth and closer regional integration.
“We look forward to deepening our partnership, harnessing the EPCA’s full potential to foster innovation, resilience, inclusive growth, and promoting closer regional integration, ensuring a brighter future for our peoples and regions in an interconnected world.,” — the Joint Statement published by the European Council on 24 October 2025 said.