President Xi urges boost in China-Uzbekistan trade and investment ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the sidelines of the second China-Central Asia Summit in the Kazakh capital of Astana.

President Xi called for aligning development strategies, deepening trade and investment ties, and promoting joint projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. He also proposed expanding collaboration in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, new energy, smart agriculture and public health.

The two presidents also exchanged views on the current situation in the Middle East. President Xi expressed deep concern over Israel's recent military actions against Iran, noting that such operations have significantly escalated regional tensions. He said China opposes any actions that violate the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of other nations.

President Xi emphasized that military conflict is not a viable solution and that further escalation runs counter to the interests of the international community. He called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and work toward de-escalation, stressing the urgent need to prevent the situation from deteriorating further. Xi said China is ready to work with the international community to play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in the region.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev praised President Xi's leadership and China's development achievements, and reaffirmed Uzbekistan's commitment to the one-China principle.

He added that Uzbekistan is willing to work with China to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, safeguard international fairness and justice, and advance the noble cause of world peace and development.