Xi meets individually with leaders at forum

Uzbekistan

While meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Xi encouraged the alignment of Uzbekistan's development priorities with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Xi hailed Uzbekistan as a key hub of the ancient Silk Road throughout history and a significant participant and promoter of the BRI.

The two nations should promote trade, investment and transportation, and also strengthen infrastructure connectivity and expand energy cooperation, particularly in the new energy field, Xi said.

He added that the two nations should also deepen people-to-people, cultural and security exchanges as well as between local governments.

Calling Uzbekistan an important strategic partner of China, Xi said the country stands ready to join hands to pursue common development and prosperity and make joint efforts to preserve the peace and stability of Central Asia.

Mirziyoyev said his country considers China a sincere friend and he values the profound friendship with Xi. He also highly appreciates the significant and positive role that China plays in international affairs under the leadership of Xi, Mirziyoyev added.

Uzbekistan fully supports the BRI and is willing to promote the Central Asian region to become more involved in the initiative to raise the level of trade, investment and cross-border transport as well as deepen security cooperation, he said.