Latvia’s Decade of Development Support for Uzbekistan
BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 2. For over a decade, Latvia has played a pivotal role in Uzbekistan’s development journey, focusing on key areas such as good governance, sustainable economic growth, gender equality, and climate action. According to Ambassador of Latvia to Uzbekistan, Reinis Trokša, this partnership has seen significant progress and mutual benefits for both countries.
Promoting Good Governance
One of Latvia’s primary focus areas has been promoting good governance in Uzbekistan. The country has actively supported administrative reforms and anti-corruption efforts, aiming to build a more transparent and accountable government.
Trokša mentioned that there is a strong interest from Latvian implementers to work with Uzbekistan. Uzbek partners have shown openness to cooperation in various sectors, expressing a willingness to adapt and implement best practices from Latvia.
Sustainable Economic Growth
Latvia’s support for sustainable economic growth in Uzbekistan is particularly evident in the agricultural sector. The country has focused on modernizing agriculture and introducing standardization practices that align with European Union (EU) norms.
In 2024, several new agricultural initiatives have been launched, backed by Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One such project, titled “Improving Phytosanitary Systems to Boost Food Exports in Uzbekistan,” aims to help Uzbekistan align its standards with EU regulations, facilitating international trade.
Empowering Women through Gender Equality
A significant aspect of Latvia’s assistance is the promotion of gender equality. The country supports public service delivery in Uzbekistan’s rural areas, with a focus on empowering women.
“Latvia’s role is to ensure that marginalized groups, including women, have access to necessary services, which aligns with broader commitments to sustainable development goals,” Ambassador Trokša elaborated.
Biotechnology and Digital Skills
Another major initiative launched in 2024 is the “Development of Biotechnology and Digital Skills for Climate-Controlled Agriculture (BioDigiSkills)” project. This project, implemented by the Bulduri Horticultural School, focuses on modernizing the horticulture sector through the integration of biotechnology and digital skills.
“This will contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture in the country, ensuring it remains adaptable to climate change,” Trokša explained.
Strengthening Aquaculture
Latvia’s Food and Veterinary Service is also involved in a project designed to strengthen Uzbekistan’s aquaculture sector. The goal is to bring the country’s fish processing and aquaculture businesses into line with EU standards.
One such project, “Strengthening the Official Control System and Improving the Compliance of Aquaculture Farms and Establishments Processing Fishery Products,” seeks to enhance the Committee of Veterinary and Livestock Development’s knowledge and capability. This will facilitate the export of Uzbek products to other international markets.
Latvia’s National Development Cooperation Agency (CFCA)
Uzbekistan has become a pilot country for Latvia’s National Development Cooperation Agency (CFCA). The CFCA is already engaged in various projects funded by international donors like the EU and GIZ.
One of the recent developments includes the signing of a Multi-partner Contribution Agreement (MPCA) to implement the Team Europe Initiative on Digital Connectivity in Central Asia. CFCA will lead one of the four components, focusing on transparent and inclusive access to connectivity services, with a special emphasis on rural areas and marginalized groups.
EU Border Management Program in Central Asia (BOMCA)
Since 2003, the EU Border Management Program in Central Asia (BOMCA) has worked to strengthen border management and develop trade corridors while eliminating drug trafficking in the region.
BOMCA continues to play a significant role in enhancing regional cooperation and ensuring security.
Commitment to Key Areas
Latvia remains committed to supporting Uzbekistan’s development in key areas such as governance, sustainable agriculture, climate action, and digital connectivity. This ongoing cooperation aims to foster mutual growth and prosperity.
“We believe in a continued and fruitful partnership that benefits not only the people of Uzbekistan but also contributes to regional and global stability,” Ambassador Trokša concluded.
Conclusion
Latvia’s decade-long partnership with Uzbekistan illustrates the power of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals. Through initiatives focused on governance, economic growth, gender equality, agriculture, and digital connectivity, LFDA and other Latvian agencies have made a significant impact on the country’s development landscape.
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