Uzbekistan and Serbia announced the establishment of a strategic partnership, opening a new stage of bilateral cooperation. The decision was made during Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's visit to Belgrade, where the two sides discussed expanding ties in the economy, transport, and defense industries, Gazeta.uz reported.
One of the most notable announcements was Serbia's willingness to cooperate with Uzbekistan in the defense industry. President Aleksandar Vučić announced that Belgrade expects to begin producing long-range ballistic missiles within the next year and is open to cooperation with Uzbekistan. This aspect requires special attention, as it extends the two countries' relations beyond traditional trade and economic cooperation.
At the same time, the two sides are focusing on a broader economic agenda. Direct flights between Tashkent and Belgrade may be launched within the next seven to eight months, which should stimulate trade, investment, tourism, and business contacts. Uzbekistan has also decided to open a diplomatic mission in Belgrade to facilitate cooperation between Uzbek and Serbian companies.
For Uzbekistan, rapprochement with Serbia is of interest as part of its policy of diversifying external economic and political ties. Belgrade, in turn, gains access to Central Asia's largest market and a potential partner in the region.
However, military-technical cooperation could be the most sensitive area. Its development will require consideration of international obligations, regional security, and Tashkent's balance of foreign policy interests.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 9, 2026