АNKARA, January 15. /Dunyo IA/.   A delegation from the Agency for the Development of the Light Industry under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan paid a working visit to the Turkish cities of Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara, where a series of bilateral meetings were held with representatives of leading industrial associations, higher education institutions and major companies of Türkiye, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The delegation also took part in the International Carpet and Flooring Expo (ICFE), one of the key international platforms for showcasing innovations and trends in the global carpet industry.

During meetings with the Istanbul Carpet Exporters' Association (İstanbul Halı İhracatçıları Birliği) and Güneydoğu Anadolu Halı İhracatçıları Birliğimizin, agreements were reached to hold international carpet exhibitions in Uzbekistan as well as to organise plenary sessions and sector-specific events within their framework.

In a meeting with İpek Akın Karadayı, Professor of Istanbul Technical University (İstanbul Teknik Üniversitesi), discussions focused on the training of highly skilled specialists for the textile and light industry sectors. Preliminary agreements were reached on the launch of joint educational programs aimed at strengthening professional competencies in these industries.

During discussions with the management of “Defacto” and “Docotton”, particular attention was paid to the formalization of orders and the potential relocation of certain production capacities to Uzbekistan.

During the visit to Izmir, the delegation met with Musa Alçi, Rector of EGE ÜNİVERSİTESİ, to discuss the establishment of a dedicated faculty for light industry in Uzbekistan in collaboration with the university. An agreement was reached with university leadership to conduct further research in March of this year. Additionally, discussions with “IYA Tekstil” focused on the prospects of localizing the company’s production in Uzbekistan.

In Ankara, the delegation held meetings with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development and Support Administration (KOSGEB) under the Ministry of Industry and Technology of Turkey as well as with the Turkish Council of Higher Education. Discussions focused on supporting entrepreneurship, developing innovative projects, and further expanding cooperation in the field of education.

The business visit is expected to further strengthen Uzbekistan–Turkey collaboration in light industry, education, and industrial cooperation.