Washington: The United States and Uzbekistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on critical minerals, aiming to diversify global mineral supply chains and bolster clean energy transitions, an official from the US Embassy in Uzbekistan revealed.
According to Trend News Agency, the MoU underscores a mutual commitment between the two countries to advance scientific and technological capabilities within the critical minerals sector. This initiative is expected to enhance Uzbekistan’s mining industry and attract US investments, potentially leading to stronger economic ties. “The memorandum highlights the mutual interest of both nations in advancing scientific and technological capabilities within the critical minerals sector, aimed at further developing Uzbekistan’s mining industry. Furthermore, it highlights the intention to draw US investments into Uzbekistan’s mining sector, which would enhance economic collaboration between the two nations,” Brown stated.
In addition to the MoU, Brown discussed
the recently signed customs mutual assistance agreement (CMAA) between the US and Uzbekistan, which was established on September 13, 2024. This agreement is set to improve law enforcement and customs cooperation by allowing the exchange of information and evidence, aiding both nations in combating duty evasion, trafficking, proliferation, money laundering, and terrorism. “The CMAA is improving law enforcement and customs cooperation. US and international customs administrations enforce CMAAs, or bilateral agreements. They enable the interchange of information and evidence to help countries enforce customs rules against duty evasion, trafficking, proliferation, money laundering, and terrorism,” she explained.
Brown also highlighted ongoing economic development initiatives between the US and Uzbekistan, including efforts to qualify one or more commercial banks for the US Department of Agriculture’s GSM-102 program, which provides financing to facilitate bilateral trade in agricultural commodities such as cotto
n and soymeal. Moreover, a significant delegation from Uzbekistan’s mining sector participated in MINExpo 2024 in Las Vegas, underscoring the growing trade relationship and cooperation in various sectors. “The US and Uzbekistan cooperate on a wide range of economic development initiatives, including projects of mutual interest to increase bilateral trade and investment,” Brown emphasized.
The strengthening partnership between the US and Uzbekistan is further evidenced by regular meetings between Uzbek officials and major US companies, including Air Products and Coca-Cola, which have made substantial investments in Uzbekistan.