China and Uzbekistan have committed to deepening their collaboration across various sectors, including infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and trade. This development follows Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to Uzbekistan, where he met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and held discussions with Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov.
During the two-day visit to Tashkent, the two nations inked multiple cooperation agreements spanning trade, education, healthcare, customs, e-commerce, climate, media, and poverty reduction. A significant focus was placed on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which both countries pledged to advance. This project aims to enhance regional connectivity and bolster economic growth.
China expressed its interest in increasing investments in Uzbekistan by encouraging Chinese companies to explore opportunities in the region, while Uzbekistan assured the provision of a favorable business environment. Additionally, both countries agreed to collaborate further in energy, mineral resources, modern agriculture, digital technology, artificial intelligence, and environmental protection.
The agreements also highlighted China’s intention to import more high-quality products from Uzbekistan, encouraging the latter to expand its access to the Chinese market. Currently, China is Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $16.1 billion last year, marking a 17.9 percent increase from the previous year.
In their talks, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political trust, expanding investment, and promoting cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges. They also emphasized the importance of enhanced coordination on regional and international issues, aiming to further develop their strategic partnership.