Executive Summary
This report provides an analytical overview of the upcoming signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between Uzbekistan and the European Union, scheduled for October 24, 2025, in Brussels.
The agreement represents a major milestone in EU–Uzbekistan relations, expanding cooperation beyond trade into governance, human rights, investment, and sustainable development.
For the EU, the EPCA strengthens its long-term presence in Central Asia and supports its goal of building a stable and connected Eurasia. For Uzbekistan, it reflects recognition of the country’s reforms, growing openness, and commitment to align with international standards.
Key Takeaways
- President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will sign the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) with the European Union in Brussels on October 24, 2025.
- The EPCA replaces the 1999 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, introducing modern frameworks for trade, investment, and political dialogue.
- The agreement expands cooperation in areas such as green energy, governance, education, and digitalization.
Background Information
Over the past several years, Uzbekistan and the European Union have developed a steadily growing partnership. Following Uzbekistan’s entry into the EU’s GSP+ trade system in 2021, both sides intensified dialogue on governance, environmental sustainability, and investment.
On October 24, 2025, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, will visit Brussels to sign the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), a comprehensive document covering over 20 policy areas.
This new agreement goes far beyond the 1999 framework by establishing mechanisms for cooperation in:
- trade in goods and services,
- intellectual property and public procurement,
- energy and digital transformation,
- environmental protection, and
- education and mobility.
The EPCA also builds on the EU–Central Asia Summit held in Samarkand in April 2025, where Brussels announced a €12 billion Global Gateway package for infrastructure, renewable energy, and transport connectivity across the region.
Geopolitical Scenario
The signing of the EPCA occurs when Uzbekistan’s foreign policy is characterized by openness and diversification. Since 2017, the country has introduced broad reforms in governance, trade, and the economy, creating an increasingly attractive environment for international cooperation.
Trade between Uzbekistan and the EU has more than doubled over the past five years, reaching approximately €6.4 billion in 2024. European companies from France, Germany, Belgium, and Italy have expanded operations in sectors such as textiles, renewable energy, and logistics. Over 1,000 joint ventures are currently active in Uzbekistan, supported by a European investment portfolio estimated at €40 billion.
The EPCA strengthens this cooperation by offering legal stability and clearer rules for investors, including transparent customs procedures, protection of intellectual property, and dispute-resolution mechanisms.
Politically, the agreement also institutionalizes dialogue between Tashkent and Brussels on security, human rights, and migration management. Uzbekistan’s participation in international conventions under the GSP+ scheme is now embedded in a deeper political framework that includes regular consultations and technical assistance.
For the EU, this partnership fits into its broader engagement strategy in Central Asia, designed to enhance connectivity through the Middle Corridor, reduce dependency on Russian transit routes, and promote stability in the region. Uzbekistan’s central geographic position makes it an essential hub for this European vision.
A key part of the EPCA focuses on education, research, and innovation. Through Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and joint programs with European universities, Uzbekistan is building a more skilled workforce aligned with global standards.
These initiatives support Uzbekistan’s goal of expanding access to quality higher education, which has grown five-fold in the past decade. They also promote collaboration in agriculture, water management, and digital technologies, which are sectors vital to sustainable growth.
Environmental and green-energy cooperation are also expanding. Under the Global Gateway initiative, the EU will finance renewable energy and clean transport projects in Uzbekistan, complementing the country’s own green transition strategy.
Conclusion
The signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement might mark a new chapter in relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union.
For Uzbekistan, the EPCA is recognition of its successful reforms and international credibility. It will open new markets, attract sustainable investments, and create opportunities for citizens through education and professional exchange.
For the EU, this agreement deepens engagement with a key Central Asian partner and strengthens Europe’s strategic presence in the region.
Ultimately, the EPCA is not only a legal framework but a long-term investment in trust, cooperation, and shared growth between Uzbekistan and Europe. Its success will depend on effective implementation, continued reform, and the ability of both partners to turn commitments into tangible results.
Disclaimer. The analyses and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, positions, or endorsements of SpecialEurasia, which assumes no responsibility for the content or any actions taken based upon it.
