The presidents of Uzbekistan and Belarus, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Alexander Lukashenko, have signed a declaration establishing a strategic partnership between their two nations. Following the talks in Minsk, the Uzbek leader described the document as "truly historic," according to the press service of the Belarusian president.
"We have reaffirmed a shared commitment to the long-term development of our partnership and friendly relations. This solidifies the core foundations and principles of our interaction, outlining a wide range of cooperation areas," Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated, adding that the move would enjoy widespread support in both countries.
During the meeting, the President of Belarus invited citizens of Uzbekistan to come and work in Belarus along with their families.
Lukashenko remarked: "Uzbekistan faces water shortages, and you could certainly use more land. We have both in Belarus, but we often lack human resources. We would love for Uzbek people, specifically families, to come to Belarus, settle here, receive healthcare and education if needed, and thrive. We deeply need this so that the Belarusian land does not go empty."
"Let us work together. Belarusians have a very warm attitude toward Uzbeks, just as the citizens of Uzbekistan do toward Belarusians. We must leverage this. Let us move toward each other. The presidential will is there, the support is there, so we must act. We must act quickly. If we delay, someone else will take our place," Lukashenko added.
This invitation highlights a logical economic and demographic alignment between the two post-Soviet states. Belarus faces severe demographic challenges, with a fertility rate well below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman and a total population that has steadily decreased since gaining independence in 1991. Conversely, Uzbekistan is experiencing a major demographic boom; since its independence in 1991, the country's population has more than doubled—surpassing 37 million people—resulting in a highly youthful demographic profile and a surplus of labor.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev assured that the reached agreements would remain a top priority for Uzbekistan.
"Today's talks have laid a strong foundation for future cooperation. Both teams are results-oriented. I am leaving with great optimism regarding our future relationship," the Uzbek president said.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s official visit to Belarus took place on July 8–9. At its conclusion, Alexander Lukashenko personally saw his counterpart off at the airport.
As a result of the negotiations, the sides signed an agreement on the organized recruitment and employment of Uzbek citizens for temporary labor in Belarus, along with a series of other bilateral documents designed to bridge Belarus's labor deficits with Uzbekistan's expanding workforce.
Stay up to date with all the latest news:
