Macron says France and Uzbekistan aim for 'strategic' ties

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Uzbek counterpart Shavkat Mirziyoyev meet in Samarkand, Uzbekistan November 2, 2023. Press service of the President of Uzbekistan/Handout via REUTERS

(Reuters) - President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that France and Uzbekistan would develop what he described as a strategic partnership, as the two countries discussed projects in agriculture and uranium.

Uzbekistan has, like its neighbours, refused to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and vowed to abide by Western sanctions despite maintaining close ties with Moscow.