Turkey's Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Ufuk Ulutaş, stated in an interview with Kun.uz and a speech at the International Institute of Central Asia that Turkey and Uzbekistan must boost investments in transport-logistics corridors and expand cooperation in underdeveloped economic sectors, including agriculture and regional production. This statement comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East and their impact on global trade chains.
According to the diplomat, the resilience of international trade increasingly depends on the physical and institutional connectivity of regions, especially amid global economic instability and fragmentation. He noted, "When discussing trade security, we must look beyond state borders," emphasizing that investments in transport infrastructure are not merely an option but a necessary condition for economic stability today.
Ulutaş highlighted that Turkey and Uzbekistan occupy complementary positions in global trade geography: Turkey serves as a "bridge" to European and Western markets, while Uzbekistan connects Central Asia with China and Eastern economies. He added, "This is an advantage that must be utilized," stressing that developing transport corridors requires regional and international coordination, not the efforts of a single country.
In response to a question from Kun.uz about prospects for achieving the $5 billion mutual trade target amid Middle East tensions, the ambassador pointed out that transport costs remain a key factor limiting trade growth. He stated, "If the conflict in the Middle East continues and its impact on oil markets and logistics persists, it will lead to increased transport costs and complicate achieving trade goals."
The diplomat also noted that while Turkish businesses are present in almost all sectors of Uzbekistan, new growth opportunities remain, primarily in agriculture and regional development. He said, "Many investors are now exploring opportunities in regions, not just major centers," expressing confidence that this trend will lead to further growth of Turkish investments in Uzbekistan's regions in the coming years.
Source: kun.uz