On Cooperation in support of the Middle Corridor

08.09.2026

Memorandum of understanding

between the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of the Republic of Serbia

The Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of the Republic of Serbia (hereinafter referred to individually as a “Participant” and collectively as the “Participants”),

Recognising the shared interest of the Participants in strengthening resilient, secure and diversified transport and digital connectivity networks;

Acknowledging the importance of alternative Eurasian trade routes for enhancing supply chain reliability and supporting sustainable economic growth;

Recognising the role of the Republic of Serbia as a transport and logistics hub in the Western Balkans, connecting South-East European transport corridors with Central and Western European markets;

Recalling Uzbekistanʼs strategic role as a transit hub in Central Asia and its position along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (hereinafter referred to as “the Middle Corridor”), linking East Asia and Central Asia with the South Caucasus, Türkiye and European markets, and Uzbekistanʼs ambitious infrastructure modernisation plans in support of the Corridor, including its onward connections towards South-East Europe;

Noting the interest of the Republic of Serbia in promoting efficient, commercially viable and environmentally sustainable connectivity between the Middle Corridor and South-East European markets;

Desiring to establish a flexible and practical framework for cooperation that supports trade facilitation, private sector engagement and project-based collaboration;

Have reached the following understanding:

Article 1 Purpose

The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is to establish a non-legally binding framework for cooperation between the Participants in the development of the Middle Corridor, with a view to:

(a) strengthening trade and investment links between the Republic of Serbia, the Republic of Uzbekistan and wider Eurasian and South-East European markets;

(b) supporting the development and operational efficiency of the Middle Corridor; and

(c) promoting innovation, sustainability and private sector participation.

Article 2 Areas of Cooperation

Cooperation under this Memorandum may include, but is not limited to, the following areas:

1. Middle Corridor and Eurasian Connectivity

(a) supporting political and practical initiatives aimed at improving the performance, reliability and commercial attractiveness of the Middle Corridor;

(b) encouraging greater regional coordination including with relevant regional and international connectivity initiatives to align priorities to tackle bottlenecks.

2. Investment and Private Sector Engagement

(a) facilitating engagement between public institutions and private sector entities of the Participants, including but not limited to companies operating in the technology, design/architecture, construction and finance sectors, recognising that investment decisions by private entities cannot be directed by governments;

(b) facilitating the participation of companies of both countries in the development of infrastructure modernisation;

(c) promoting investment opportunities in transport infrastructure, logistics services and digital platforms;

(d) improving the transparency and competitiveness of procurement processes in relation to Middle Corridor infrastructure development including supporting Uzbekistanʼs cooperation with the Infrastructure Transparency Initiative (CoST).

3. Sustainability and low-carbon transport

(a) adapting transport infrastructure to climate challenges to mitigate risks and ensure full life cycle benefits;

(b) encouraging alignment with all relevant international environmental and social standards, ensuring safety and affordability and providing equitable access to mobility for all;

(c) supporting transition to transport modes and fuels that minimize greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts, linking directly with Nationally Determined Contributions to ensure consistent progress towards net-zero pathways.

4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange

(a) the inclusion of Middle Corridor and transport/infrastructure as a standing item on the agenda of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Uzbekistan;

(b) facilitating exchanges of experts, exchange of best practice, training activities and study visits where agreed between the Participants, covering transport management, streamlining of customs processes, energy efficiency, environmental standards, the prevention of sanctions circumvention, and the facilitation of the movement of goods and services.

Article 3 Implementation Mechanisms

1. The Participants will designate competent authorities or focal points to coordinate activities under this Memorandum.

2. Cooperation may be implemented through joint working groups, project arrangements, technical cooperation programmes or business engagement platforms, as mutually decided.

Article 4 Legal Status

1. This Memorandum is not intended to create legal rights or obligations under international or domestic law.

2. Activities carried out under this Memorandum will be conducted in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations of the State of each Participant.

Article 5 Financial provisions

1. This Memorandum does not create financial obligations for either Participant.

2. Notwithstanding paragraph 1 of this Article, should аny financial commitments arise in relation to activities under this Memorandum, such commitments will be subject to the availability of funds and to separate written arrangements.

Article 6 Confidentiality

Where applicable, the Participants will take appropriate measures to protect confidential or sensitive information exchanged under this Memorandum, in accordance with the laws and policies of their respective States.

Article 7 Consultations

Any differences arising from the interpretation or implementation of this Memorandum will be resolved through consultations and dialogue between the Participants.

Article 8 Amendments

This Memorandum may be amended at any time by mutual written consent of the Participants.

Article 9 Duration and Termination

1. This Memorandum will become effective on the date of its signature.

2. It will remain in effect for a period of five (5) years and may be extended by mutual written consent of the Participants.

3. Either Participant may terminate this Memorandum by providing written notice through diplomatic channels. Termination will not affect ongoing cooperative activities unless otherwise agreed.

Signed at Belgrade, on 8 September 2026, in duplicate, in the Uzbek, Serbian and English languages, all texts being equally authentic. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the English text will prevail.

(signatures)