Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Qatar Ashraf Khodjaev has officially assumed office as the country's first permanent representative to the African Union, an organization that unites 55 nations across the African continent. This development marks a notable effort by Tashkent to broaden its diplomatic outreach.

The official credential presentation ceremony took place on October 14 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where Khodjaev presented his letters of credence to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. In addition to his primary posting, the diplomat concurrently serves as Uzbekistan’s ambassador to South Africa and Ethiopia. *

Following the ceremony, the parties engaged in discussions regarding the future trajectory of bilateral relations. The talks allegedly focused on exploring new avenues for cooperation in trade, economic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian fields, alongside potential joint initiatives.

While authorities claim this institutional step will strengthen ties with African nations and foster broader multilateral cooperation, observers remain skeptical about the tangible economic impact given the geographical and logistical distances involved.

Source: podrobno.uz