9 May is a day of remembrance in Uzbekistan. For the European Union it is Europe Day. We celebrate the vision of our leaders who in 1950, only five years after the end of the brutal Second World War that ended with half of the continent under Soviet occupation, decided to create something completely new: a community of very different nations that would be bound together by common interest, that chose cooperation over conflict and that has developed into to a shared, European, identity. Europe Day celebrates decades of peace, democracy, economic prosperity, innovation and technological progress.

In a world increasingly challenged by polarization and conflict, the principles embodied by the European Union - democracy, rule of law, inclusiveness, and respect for human dignity - are more relevant than ever.

Our relationship with Uzbekistan reflects these same values. Last year, we celebrated 30 years of diplomatic relations, and we can confidently say that the next 30 years promise even deeper ties. This growing partnership reached a significant milestone just one month ago, when the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit was held in Samarkand. At this historic event, a decision was made to elevate our relations to a strategic partnership a clear sign of mutual trust and commitment.

We are also expecting President Mirziyoyev to visit Brussels later this year to sign the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. This historic visit will open a new chapter as we will deepen, diversify, and modernize EU-Uzbekistan relations across multiple dimensions.

Our partnership is deeper than ever, encompassing multiple sectors and actors. We learn from each other and we progress together. 

Happy Europe Day!