On December 23, 2024, in Tashkent, the official cooperation agreement between the Federation of Trade Unions of Kyrgyzstan (FTUK) and the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan (FTUU) was signed.

This important document is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the trade union organizations of the two states and developing joint approaches to addressing socio-economic issues. It will also serve as a basis for further cooperation not only between the federations but also between the industry, territorial, and primary trade union organizations of both countries.

The agreement was signed by FTUK chairman Muradil Dzhumadilde uulu and FTUU chairman Kudratilla Rafikov. The delegation from Kyrgyzstan was received on a high level.

During his speech, Muradil Dzhumadilde uulu noted that cooperation with the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan opens up new horizons for uniting efforts in the interests of the workers of both countries. “Together, we can achieve significant results in improving social protection and advancing workers’ rights,” he said, also outlining the main directions of cooperation.

“At present, the Federation of Trade Unions of Kyrgyzstan prioritizes occupational safety and the protection of workers’ rights—not only within the country but also abroad. The agreement provides for the development of joint programs, including projects to support labor migration, improve working conditions, and prevent labor conflicts. In the context of the work of the Trade Union of Workers Abroad, I am confident that significant progress will be made together with the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan. We also plan to organize regular meetings, seminars, and training sessions for exchanging knowledge in trade union activities as well as best practices in protecting workers’ rights. In addition, we intend to jointly promote mechanisms of social partnership and develop interaction with government bodies, employers, and international organizations,” he concluded.

In turn, the FTUU chairman added,

“Thanks to the efforts and political will of the presidents of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, in recent years the relationship between our countries has taken on a neighborly, truly fraternal character, as it should be. After all, we share common roots, and therein lies the strength of national unity, which cannot be broken. This step will serve as the basis for constructive interaction and for addressing the common challenges facing the trade unions of our countries.”

Furthermore, FTUU chairman Kudratilla Rafikov awarded Muradil Dzhumadilde uulu the title “Laureate of the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan” for his significant contribution to strengthening friendly cooperation between the trade unions of the two countries. The decision to honor him was made by the executive committee of the Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan.

During the visit, the Kyrgyz delegation toured the FTUU Institute for Advanced Training, the Trade Union History Museum, Victory Park, viewed exhibits at the Museum of Glory, and laid flowers at the “Ode to Resilience” memorial as well as at the Independence Monument in New Uzbekistan Park.

In the context of the signing, the chairmen of both federations emphasized the importance of unity among the trade union movements in Central Asia to ensure decent working conditions and the protection of workers’ rights.