Beijing, China: In a significant development, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev upgraded bilateral ties between their nations to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. The announcement came during President Mirziyoyev’s visit to Beijing, symbolizing a deepening of relations and increased cooperation between the two countries.
Xi Jinping highlighted the historic ties between China and Uzbekistan, noting that 32 years ago, Uzbekistan took the lead among Central Asian countries in establishing diplomatic relations with China. He emphasized the enduring friendship rooted in the spirit of the Silk Road and the deep-rooted vitality of their relationship. The leaders expressed a shared vision of building a solid foundation for a community of shared future between China and Uzbekistan, focusing on high-level political mutual trust and joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
President Xi stressed that the good relations between the two countries are a result of mutual sincerity and trust. In the face of the complex international situation, both leaders committed to firm support for each other. China pledged support for Uzbekistan’s safeguarding of national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, respecting its right to choose an independent development path.
President Mirziyoyev expressed hope that his visit would strengthen mutual trust, expand comprehensive cooperation, and promote high-quality joint construction of the BRI. The leaders discussed practical cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, agriculture, green energy, local development, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
The elevation of bilateral ties signifies a new era in China-Uzbekistan relations, with experts noting the growing importance that President Mirziyoyev attaches to ties with China. The visit is expected to promote cooperation, especially after the China-Central Asia Summit held last year, expanding the potential for collaboration.
Several projects between China and Uzbekistan, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, are underway, and the visit aims to accelerate their progress. As Central Asian countries undergo an energy transformation, they seek collaboration with China, a leader in green transformation, to expedite the process.
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao met with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev, highlighting the record-high bilateral trade volume achieved in 2023. Wang pledged to deepen cooperation in areas like energy, mining, and infrastructure while expanding new growth points in green energy, digital trade, and cross-border e-commerce.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) signed a three-year project investment plan with Uzbekistan, covering sectors such as transportation, energy, water resources, and the environment. The plan aims to provide financial support for the development of multiple areas in Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan, under President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, places significant emphasis on the Belt and Road Initiative, considering it a main priority in its foreign policy. The initiative has transformed Uzbekistan’s landlocked status into a strategic advantage, positioning it as a crucial transportation hub in Central Asia.
As Central Asia becomes a focal point in global power struggles, Central Asian nations, including Uzbekistan, see security collaboration with China as essential. The emerging trend of major nations vying for influence in the region poses both opportunities and potential risks for Central Asian nations.
In conclusion, the comprehensive strategic partnership marks a new chapter in China-Uzbekistan relations, with a focus on deepening cooperation across various sectors and enhancing mutual trust in the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics.
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