BAKU: Uzbekistan and State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) have begun geological exploration on the Ustyurt Plateau in Uzbekistan, Uzbek Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov said at the Uzbek-Azerbaijani business forum in Tashkent, Trend reports. The minister noted that the energy and oil and gas cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan is showing positive results. 'We are working on a project to produce green energy for export through Azerbaijan to European countries. Together with SOCAR, we have started exploration on the Ustyurt Plateau. I believe this marks the beginning of our broader strategic partnership in the energy sector,' he said. The minister also mentioned Uzbekistan's plans to process minerals in Azerbaijan. 'We intend to develop and process minerals in Azerbaijan, including producing construction materials for use in the reconstruction of Karabakh. We also invite Azerbaijani companies to join in developing non-ferrous metal deposits, including copper,' he emphasized. Additionally, Kudratov highlighted that projects for creating orchards, greenhouse complexes, dried fruit production, hazelnut cultivation, and other ventures have already begun. The Uzbek-Azerbaijani business forum, which kicked off in Tashkent today, aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries, enhance cooperation, attract investments, and realize joint projects. The forum will serve as a platform for discussing ways to increase trade, share experiences, and establish new business partnerships. Currently, a total of 236 Azerbaijani-capital enterprises operate in Uzbekistan, including 62 joint ventures and 174 fully foreign-owned enterprises. Additionally, 70 Uzbek companies are active in Azerbaijan. The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan surpassed $118.2 million from January to July 2024. Source: Trend News Agency