Uzbekistan appoints its first ambassador to Serbia, as the two countries discuss bilateral cooperation.

On July 8 local time, it was learned that Oybek Shakhodjanov, the first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Uzbekistan to Serbia, has presented his credentials to Serbian President Vucic. Shakhodjanov also serves as the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro, with his permanent residence in Budapest, Hungary. During the official appointment ceremony, the two sides discussed the current situation and development of Uzbek-Serbian relations. Vucic positively assessed Uzbekistan's efforts to expand its diplomatic influence in Southeastern Europe and expressed willingness to deepen bilateral cooperation. Both sides confirmed that there is huge potential for cooperation in areas such as politics, economy, trade, investment, culture, and focused on discussing cooperation projects in industries, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, education, tourism, and labor migration. During the talks, both sides expressed their intention to strengthen bilateral relations, improve the legal framework, and support direct business cooperation including the private sector.