Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, and its relations with China: A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for All Seasons
The Republic of Uzbekistan, commonly known as Uzbekistan, is an inland country in Central Asia and one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world (the other being Liechtenstein). Uzbekistan borders Turkmenistan to the southwest, Afghanistan to the south, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to the east, and Kazakhstan to the north and west. It gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991. Its capital and largest city is Tashkent.
In ancient times, it was known as the Transoxiana region, with the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers running through most of the country. The Fergana Valley, where the capital is located, is the most densely populated area in Central Asia.
Uzbekistan is the sixth-largest cotton producer in the world, the second-largest cotton exporter, and also the seventh-largest gold producer.
Uzbekistan and China have elevated their partnership to an "all-weather" strategic level, expanding cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and security, while reshaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of Central Asia.
This January, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan made a three-day visit to China, during which he and Chinese leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to an "all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership," pledging to deepen cooperation in economic, security, and diplomatic fields, and reaffirming mutual support on important issues concerning both countries' "core interests."
This formal upgrade reflects the growing importance of the developing relationship between Uzbekistan and China. This partnership has now become one of the most influential forces in the Central Asian region, reshaping Uzbekistan's economic structure, regional connectivity, and geopolitical positioning.
Source: The Diplomat
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1836772991240256/
Disclaimer: The article represents the views of the author(s) alone.