The Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Alikhan Smailov held negotiations with the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov on the eve of the 20th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in Tashkent.

The parties discussed a number of topical issues of Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan cooperation, including joint steps in trade, industrial cooperation, investment activities, energy, logistics, use of transboundary water bodies, strengthening of cultural and humanitarian ties, etc.

Alikhan Smailov said that Uzbekistan is one of Kazakhstan's largest trade partners. In particular, by the end of 2022, the bilateral trade turnover reached the planned $5 billion.

"This has become possible thanks to our joint efforts. Now, in accordance with the tasks set at the highest level, we have to increase the volume of mutual trade turnover up to $10 billion in the medium term," Prime Minister said.

In this case, he noted the special role of the Kazakh-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission in addressing a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation.

In turn, Abdulla Aripov identified a high potential for further strengthening of strategic partnership between the republics.

"There is a positive dynamics in mutual trade. Significant projects of industrial cooperation in many sectors of the economy are being implemented. Uzbekistan is aimed at further strengthening cooperation in trade, energy, transport, agriculture, water management and other spheres. In general, we are interested in further deepening relations with the brotherly Kazakhstan," Abdulla Aripov said.