Kochanova: Parliamentary diplomacy is vital for inter-state ties

Parliamentary diplomacy remains a key component of inter-state relations, Chairwoman of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Natalya Kochanova said during the plenary session of the Uzbekistan-Belarus interparliamentary forum “Strategic partnership: Development of parliamentary dialogue, new tasks and prospects for cooperation” in Khiva, BelTA has learned.

The speaker emphasized that the forum’s theme was not chosen by chance. “Parliamentary diplomacy is a key component of inter-state relations. It helps us better understand each other’s positions, find common solutions, and remove potential barriers. On the instructions of our presidents, the upper houses of parliament maintain continuous oversight over the implementation of agreements reached at the highest level. Cooperation between the legislative bodies of our countries is systematic,” she noted.

The institutional dialogue is coordinated under the Memorandum of Cooperation signed between the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus and the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan. An Interparliamentary Cooperation Commission is also active, and a joint roadmap for 2026–2027 has been signed.

“Our common task is to create legal conditions that make it easier for businesses to operate, for investors to make decisions, and for projects to be effectively implemented. We should consolidate efforts to harmonize legislation in customs, tax, and other areas where it is objectively necessary,” Natalya Kochanova emphasized.

The speaker of the Council of the Republic recalled that diplomatic relations between the two countries were established 33 years ago, with the Belarusian president making his first official visit to Uzbekistan back in 1994. According to her, this historic fact underscores the special significance that Belarus attaches to its partnership with Uzbekistan. “Over the years, our cooperation has only grown stronger, demonstrating dynamic and progressive development built on a solid foundation of mutual respect, trust, and shared strategic interests,” she said.

This summer, the president of Uzbekistan paid an official visit to Belarus. Following the top-level talks, the countries signed a declaration on establishing a strategic partnership and approved a roadmap for trade, economic, social, and humanitarian cooperation for 2026–2030. Key focus areas include industrial cooperation, setting up joint ventures, agriculture, food supply, transport logistics, and expanding interregional and humanitarian ties.

“It is fundamentally important that Belarusian-Uzbek cooperation at the highest and high levels is both substantive and effective. The meetings between our heads of state set clear guidelines, shape political will, and define priorities, which are then consistently implemented at the level of governments, parliaments, ministries, and regions,” Natalya Kochanova said.