Škoda Group-Uzbekistan Rail Modernization: EU Partnership & Tech Advancements

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Introduction

Škoda Group, led by CEO Petr Novotný, engaged in business negotiations in Brussels, spearheaded by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, concerning the company’s involvement in modernizing Uzbekistan’s transport sector.

Uzbekistan-European Partnership

The roundtable, which focused on fostering partnerships between Uzbekistan and European industry leaders, aimed to bolster cooperation in transport infrastructure modernization. Škoda Group presented its strategic plan to participate in Uzbek transport modernization projects. This included a joint venture focusing on local assembly of railway vehicles, maintenance and servicing throughout the vehicles’ lifecycle, and the establishment of an academy for local education and professional development.

Škoda Group’s Strategic Plan

Petr Novotný stated, “Each of the three areas represents a concrete step towards fulfilling the new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and the European Global Gateway strategy. We consider Uzbekistan to be a country that is opening up to new investments from European business partners. It has long been in our sights in terms of our strategic ambitions. We therefore very much welcome the opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable transport, education and technological modernisation in the local market.”

Bilateral Talks and Support

During the meeting, Uzbek Minister of Transport Maxkamov Ilhom Rustamovich held bilateral talks with Škoda Group representatives, discussing specific cooperation steps in rail and urban transport. President Mirziyoyev acknowledged Škoda Group’s contributions to Uzbekistan’s transport sector, particularly the transfer of European technology and know-how. He also supported Škoda Group’s long-term presence in the Uzbek market.

Agreement and Future Prospects

The meeting occurred after the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) between the European Union and Uzbekistan. This agreement establishes a new strategic framework for cooperation in investment, transport, energy, trade, and sustainable development. It is intended to create new opportunities for European companies in the Uzbek market and support projects aligned with the Global Gateway strategic initiative. The European Investment Bank (EIB) will fund these projects with support from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA).

Conclusion

Škoda Group, led by CEO Petr Novotný, presented its strategic plan for modernizing Uzbekistan’s transport sector during negotiations in Brussels led by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The plan includes a joint venture for local assembly, maintenance, and an academy for local education. These initiatives are aligned with the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) and the Global Gateway strategy, supported by the European Union, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA).

Škoda Group

Škoda Group is a company involved in the modernization of Uzbekistan’s transport sector, including plans for a joint venture focused on local assembly of railway vehicles, maintenance, servicing, and an educational academy.

European Investment Bank (EIB)

The European Investment Bank (EIB) will finance projects related to the modernization of Uzbekistan’s transport sector.

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