St. Petersburg (TDI): Russia and Uzbekistan are moving toward launching a structured youth exchange program, with both sides eyeing long-term benefits not only for bilateral relations but also for easing persistent issues around labour migration.
The idea came up during a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and heads of international news agencies, including Abdusaid Kochimov, Director General of Uzbekistan’s National News Agency (UzA). The session took place in St. Petersburg earlier this week.
Kochimov, speaking during the meeting, highlighted the shared cultural and historical connections between the two countries. “There’s great interest in Russia among our people,” he remarked. “Our traditions, values, and mindsets are deeply intertwined.”
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He acknowledged recent progress under Presidents Vladimir Putin and Shavkat Mirziyoyev but pointed to lingering challenges, particularly in the area of migration. According to Kochimov, a carefully designed youth program, one with clear goals and structure, could help deepen mutual understanding and address some of these concerns.
“There’s a real need for something long-term and impactful, not just symbolic,” he said. “It would be valuable to bring young people closer through cultural, academic, and professional exchanges.”
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President Putin responded warmly, saying such cooperation aligns with broader plans already in motion. He cited agreements between Moscow and Tashkent to train Uzbek workers in Russian language and culture before their arrival.
“We’ve agreed with President Mirziyoyev to get people ready in advance,” Putin said. “This kind of work, it’s not only helpful, it’s necessary.”
Putin referred to recent visits from Uzbek officials, including Saida Mirziyoyeva, where youth-focused initiatives were on the agenda. “We are ready to support these ideas,” he added.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
