Chinese Premier Li Keqiang: China-Uzbekistan relations enter golden period of rapid development

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Friday that in recent years, relations between China and Uzbekistan have entered a golden period of rapid development under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, Xinhua writes.

Li Keqiang arrived in Tashkent for the 18th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government.

Upon Li's arrival, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov and other senior officials greeted the Chinese premier at the airport. Aripov also held a grand welcome ceremony for Premier Li.

Noting that Uzbekistan is a friendly neighbor of China, Li stated this is his first official visit to the country as Chinese premier.

Li Keqiang said he looks forward to having an in-depth exchange of views with Uzbek leaders on deepening bilateral relations and practical cooperation in various fields so as to lift the China-Uzbekistan comprehensive strategic partnership to a higher level and better benefit the two peoples.

He stressed that in the current complex international situation, the SCO is playing an increasingly prominent role in maintaining regional security and stability, promoting the development and prosperity of its member states.

During his visit to Uzbekistan, Li will meet with the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The Chinese premier will also hold talks with Prime Minister Aripov, and they will jointly witness the signing of cooperation documents between the two sides.

While attending the SCO meeting, Li will work with other leaders of SCO member states to plan future practical cooperation of the organization and sign cooperation documents.