The European Union can be a reliable partner in improving the living conditions of the population , promoting modernization and transformation of the economy as well as in strengthening its competitiveness . Moreover , other important areas of partnership could be assisting in carrying out reforms in promoting the rule of law , socio-economic development , education , and other fields , which are serving as a basis for sustainable development of the Republic ». Also , the Special Representative of the European Union highlighted the measures taken by the Government of Uzbekistan to ensure a strong social protection of the population .
“ The announcement in Uzbekistan of the current year as “ The Year of a Healthy Mother and Child » is very symbolic . I believe that a healthy mother and child is an important element and the basis of the healthy development of whole society . In this context , I would like to note that the European Union stands ready to support and contribute to the Republic ’ s efforts to further develop and strengthen health systems , improve the services provided in Uzbekistan in this important area .
In addition , I would like to emphasize that we are also ready to deepen cooperation in the field of education and to support the strong desire of Uzbekistan to invest in the younger generation , thus ensuring a bright future for the country . I am confident that a highly educated and skilled Uzbek youth will contribute to the overall development of Uzbekistan , an increase in foreign investment , as well as the achievement of other goals , set up by the Government .
We appreciate the contribution made by Uzbekistan in ensuring security in the region . It is worth to note your actions and support for political and economic processes of your southern neighbor , Afghanistan . I am convinced that Afghanistan could use the experience of the development and the processes of transformation of your country and in the future it can contribute to the stabilization of the whole region .
Also it should be noted that the model of development of Uzbekistan as a stable and prosperous country is a good example for other countries . For instance , your experience in the development of small and medium enterprises in creating strong foundation for economic development can serve of great value elsewhere .
Noteworthy activities of your country within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization , aimed at improving the existing relations between the member countries , both on the regional and bilateral level .
Clear evidence of this we observed by numerous high-level meetings , organized during the visit of the heads of the SCO member states to Tashkent . As we know , within the framework of SCO summit the important issues of regional security and cooperation in the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking have been discussed .
We see that the SCO can play an important role in ensuring stability in the region , and we believe that the results of Uzbekistan ’ s chairmanship in the organization will contribute to the strengthening of cooperation in many areas of mutual interest of its members .
In conclusion , I would like to congratulate the people of Uzbekistan with the 25th anniversary of Independence of the Republic . I wish your country and people further successes and we will share the celebrations of this very important and a great moment with you . The EU is ready to continue support and fruitful cooperation with Uzbekistan and to contribute to achieving its ambitious objectives in doubling the volume of GDP by 2030 , as well as reaching the status of high income industrialized economy by the middle of the century .
I am convinced that our partnership will also play an important role in achieving the objectives of the sustainable socio-economic development of Uzbekistan ».
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