Uzbekistan benefits from the arrival of Chinese agricultural technologies (2)

The cotton-picking season arrives in Uzbekistan this month. [Photo/Xinhua]

During a meeting on July 27, Mirziyoyev highlighted new challenges in the cotton industry as a result of climate change, with the lingering heat this year forcing the sector into a state of emergency.

He said the nation must mobilize all resources to tap the potential of cotton production, including the use of scientific approaches in seed production, variety selection, fertilization, irrigation and pest control.

Ma said it is important for China and Uzbekistan to strengthen cooperation in their response to climate change in the cotton industry.

He said the introduction and promotion of Chinese technologies in Uzbekistan must be supported by the promotion of relevant materials and equipment, many of which cannot be produced locally.

"It will be a step-by-step process. We need more Chinese agribusinesses to invest in Uzbekistan so that farmers can obtain the required production materials to support their technology upgrades," he added.

The cotton project is only part of broader steps in agricultural cooperation between China and Uzbekistan.

In the Syrdarya region, Yangling Modern Agriculture International Cooperation Co is developing a pilot park for modern agricultural science and technology, including the growth of new varieties such as peanuts, soybeans and corn.

China continued to be Uzbekistan's largest trading partner, largest source of imports, and largest export destination in the first half of this year, with the bilateral trading volume rising by 34.4 percent year-on-year to $4.53 billion, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.