Uzbekistan and China deepen ties as joint projects near $60 billion

According to a report datelined Baku, Uzbekistan and China are seeking to deepen economic cooperation across energy, manufacturing, infrastructure and advanced technologies. Following talks on October 17 in Tashkent between Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, the portfolio of projects backed by firm agreements has reached nearly $60 billion, and more than 6,000 joint ventures have been established.

According to a statement from the press service of the Uzbek president, Mirziyoyev received a Chinese delegation led by Li, who conveyed greetings and best wishes from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two sides discussed strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership and implementing agreements reached during Mirziyoyev and Xi's meeting in Bishkek in August 2026. Priority areas include renewable energy, chemicals, automotive manufacturing, agriculture, artificial intelligence and robotics.

The leaders also reviewed progress on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a strategic project under construction that is expected to strengthen trade links and transport connectivity across Central Asia. Talks also covered expanding tourism, cultural and educational exchanges, and increasing flight frequencies between the two countries' cities. The talks reaffirmed Uzbekistan's support for the One China policy.