Rubio Says Trump May Visit Uzbekistan as U.S. Ties Deepen

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on October 19 during his visit to Samarkand that U.S. President Donald Trump could visit Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, in the coming year. No dates have been set. “We would love to see that happen, and we’ve got to work on that in the year to come and see what dates are possible, because I think he would like to come if he can,” Rubio said. He added that he could not comment on the president’s future travel plans.

Rubio made the remarks in response to a question about the main issues discussed during his talks with Uzbek officials and the timing of a potential visit. He said the discussions covered bilateral issues as well as broader global economic developments and their impact on Uzbekistan and other countries. He described the U.S.-Uzbekistan relationship as defined by economic opportunities rather than challenges or conflicts, pointing to Uzbekistan’s economic growth and its potential to attract American investment.

The visit included the launch of the Uzbekistan-U.S. Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue. Discussions also focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy, critical minerals and advanced technologies. “There is nothing that strengthens relationships more than shared prosperity,” Rubio said.