Ammon News - Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Jordan, Nodirjon Turgunov, said bilateral relations have reached an "advanced" stage, entering a new phase of "strategic" dialogue and accelerated cooperation in 2025.

In an interview with Petra marking the 33rd anniversary of the two countries' celebration of the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1993, Turgunov said relations have evolved through two distinct phases, reflecting the "steady growth of the partnership."

He said the first phase spanning from 1993 to 2024, was characterized by "stable and gradual" development, sustained through regular diplomatic dialogue and ministerial, expert and parliamentary exchanges.

The diplomat added that this period laid the foundation for political, economic and humanitarian cooperation based on mutual trust, shared values and support for regional security and stability.

Meanwhile, he noted the second phase, launched in 2025, has seen rapid and dynamic expansion across sectors. Dozens of official visits have strengthened political dialogue and opened new prospects for joint projects aimed at mutual benefit and deeper integration.

During 2025, the two countries signed 15 agreements and joint statements that form the cornerstone for enhancing political coordination, expanding investment and trade, and advancing cooperation in agriculture and logistics, alongside strengthening people-to-people ties rooted in shared Islamic traditions and values.

Cooperation areas include establishment of a joint committee, visa exemption arrangements, and collaboration in education, tourism, air transport, veterinary services, plant quarantine and health controls.

He noted a practical action plan, which was signed by the two countries’ foreign ministers, is currently implemented under reciprocal visits and ongoing negotiations to translate agreements into tangible programs and projects.

The ambassador said continued engagement has accelerated cooperation, particularly in investment, trade, cultural exchanges and joint initiatives within international organizations.

Both countries actively support each other in multilateral forums, especially within the United Nations and its specialized agencies, as well as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and other regional and global platforms.

Economic cooperation is developing steadily. Bilateral trade reached $8.6 million in 2025, doubling compared with the previous year. Uzbekistan’s exports to Jordan totaled $5.5 million, while imports from Jordan stood at $3.1 million, marking an 11% increase.

Last year, in cooperation with Jordanian partners, he said a food supply network was established, enabling the export of more than 800 tons of confectionery products to the Jordanian market, valued at nearly $3.5 million.

Turgunov said 18 Jordanian companies operate in Uzbekistan through joint projects in textiles, agriculture, geology, chemicals, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, electricity, transport and logistics.

He announced the imminent launch of the Uzbek–Jordanian Business Council to enhance private-sector cooperation.

In culture, education and tourism, the ambassador said cooperation remains "a priority," built on shared Islamic heritage and long-standing traditions.

The two countries’ culture ministries are collaborating on heritage protection, cultural dialogue and joint festivals, exhibitions and educational programs, particularly targeting youth engagement.

Jordanian tourism flow to Uzbekistan rose by more than 200% last year, supported by visa facilitation and joint promotional campaigns. Talks are underway to launch direct flights between Tashkent and Amman to boost tourism flows, he pointed out.

On its tourist destinations, he noted Uzbekistan is home to historic cities such as Bukhara and Khiva, while Jordan’s landmarks include Petra and the Dead Sea.

Noting expansion of academic partnerships, he stated dozens of Uzbek students are enrolled in Jordanian universities in Islamic studies, medicine and engineering.

He indicated that cooperation between the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan and the World Islamic Sciences and Education University in Jordan includes joint programs and research exchanges.

He announced plans are underway to host a forum for university presidents in Uzbekistan this year to advance dual-degree programs, student exchanges and joint research.

Looking ahead, Turgunov said the next phase will focus on fully implementing signed agreements, activating the joint governmental committee and business council, and diversifying cooperation based on economic complementarity.

Uzbekistan offers strong capacities in agriculture, textiles and minerals, while Jordan brings expertise in tourism, education, logistics and advanced technologies.

Future plans aim to increase trade volumes, launch joint projects in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, green energy and information technology, and promote public diplomacy through regular business forums and expanded academic and cultural exchanges.

He expressed optimism that the partnership, grounded in mutual respect and shared values, will witness a qualitative leap in the coming period.