BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 17. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding critical minerals highlights the intentions of the US and Uzbekistan to diversify global mineral supply chains and promote the transition to clean energy, Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy in Uzbekistan Laura Brown told Trend in an exclusive interview.
“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,” she said.
She also shone a light on a customs mutual assistance agreement (CMAA) inked between the US and Uzbekistan on September 13, 2024.
“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,” Laura Brown noted.
According to her, upon its enactment, the CMAA signifies the US' dedication to an ongoing partnership and cooperation with Uzbekistan's customs authorities on various matters, including fortifying national borders against terrorism, combating drug trafficking, and dismantling transnational criminal organizations.
“The US and Uzbekistan cooperate on a wide range of economic development initiatives, including projects of mutual interest to increase bilateral trade and investment. Both countries are working together to qualify one or more commercial banks for the US Department of Agriculture’s GSM-102 program to provide agricultural financing. The financing will be extended on advantageous conditions to facilitate bilateral trade in agricultural commodities such as cotton and soymeal. Also, in September 2024, a large mining sector delegation from Uzbekistan visited MINExpo 2024 (the premier mining trade show in the world) in Las Vegas,” the public affairs officer emphasized.
She added that the US values its growing trade relationship with Uzbekistan and is pleased to have several strong partners across the government. Uzbekistan’s officials regularly meet with leading U.S. companies, including Air Products and Coca-Cola, with major investments in the country.