Germany and Uzbekistan sign deal to boost skilled migration and address deportations

Germany has signed an agreement with Uzbekistan to facilitate the migration of skilled workers from Central Asia to support the German economy. Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced after meeting with Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Samarkand.

Scholz emphasized that the deal would help bring talented workers to Germany, which is necessary for the country’s economic growth. The agreement also includes provisions for the return of some immigrants, Reuters reported.

The agreement promises “simple, unbureaucratic procedures” for those required to return to their countries, although Scholz did not provide further details.

He did not address speculation that the deal could also involve deporting Afghans who had committed crimes. However, he acknowledged that confidential discussions are ongoing about cooperation in various areas.

Germany resumed deporting convicted Afghan criminals to Afghanistan on August 30, just before regional elections where migration was a key campaign issue.

Germany had previously stopped deportations to Afghanistan due to concerns over human rights after the Taliban took power in 2021.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, who signed the agreement in Samarkand, confirmed plans for further deportation flights to Afghanistan for serious offenders.

Faeser mentioned that Germany would work in cooperation with other countries to implement these deportations, as the German government does not have direct relations with the Taliban. Qatar mediated the first deportation flight in August.

For Afghan refugees in European countries, including Germany, the agreement with Uzbekistan highlights Germany’s efforts to balance economic needs with migration policies. The resumption of deportations, particularly for Afghan offenders, underscores Germany’s evolving stance on migration amid political pressures.

As deportations resume, Afghan refugees living in Germany may face increasing uncertainty, especially those with criminal records, while the overall policy of welcoming skilled workers continues to support Germany’s economic growth.

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