On January 25, Farkhad Tolipov, geopolitics and regional security expert delved into conversation about multifaceted and thriving dynamics of the relationship between Uzbekistan and China. Highlighting various aspects, including education, tourism, and the Belt and Road Initiative, he provided insights into the robust ties between the two nations.
Education and Growing Prestige of Chinese Universities
Tolipov states that the educational exchange between Uzbekistan and China has gained momentum. Thousands of Uzbekistani students are choosing China for higher education, attracted by the rapidly developing and prestigious university system. The expert noted a personal visit to Fudan University during the Shanghai Forum, emphasizing the remarkable growth of China's education sector.
"Now we are witnessing the new impetus, I would say, in these dynamics, in particular, for example, thousands of students from Uzbekistan are heading to China to get education in universities."
Tourism and Non-Visa Regime
The allure of China extends beyond education, with a non-visa regime agreement between the two countries fostering tourism. The relaxed visa requirements are anticipated to boost the number of tourists traveling between Uzbekistan and China.
"China is so attractive from a touristic point of view that between Uzbekistan and China, the agreement was achieved about a non-visa regime. So, it creates the conditions for growing tourism."
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
The Belt and Road Initiative, a significant global infrastructure development strategy, has found a supportive partner in Uzbekistan. The speaker highlighted Uzbekistan's full support for the BRI and its engagement in various formats, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the recently designed C plus one format.
"All these combinations of all these formats show that there is a big space for cooperation between Uzbekistan and China."
Regional Security and Afghanistan
The conversation also touched upon the potential role of China in contributing to the development of a regional security system in Central Asia, particularly concerning the stabilization of Afghanistan. With Afghanistan facing instability and being a neighbor to Uzbekistan and Central Asia, the need for peace and stability in the region is paramount.
"Whether China can contribute to the development of the regional security system in Central Asia, in particular by contributing to security and stabilization in Afghanistan, which is now experiencing a very tough time, is an important point for further exploration."
Tolipov expressed confidence in the continued positive trajectory of Uzbekistan-China relations, emphasizing the diverse areas of collaboration and the potential for China to play a constructive role in regional security efforts.
During President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's official visit to China on January 23, around 500 projects amounting to $56.7 bn were approved. The delegation accompanying the President included high-ranking officials, ministers, regional governors, and representatives from major companies, highlighting the significance of the economic ties between the two nations. The agreements made during the visit underscore the robust economic partnership. With bilateral trade reaching $14 bn in 2023, both leaders express optimism about elevating this figure to $20 bn. Notably, Chinese investments in Uzbekistan's economy have surged fivefold in recent years, with a particular interest in the renewables sector. The agreements encompass the construction of renewable energy facilities, boasting a collective capacity of 6 gigawatts.
Earlier Daryo reported President Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward the idea of creating a collaborative investment forum and recommended Samarkand as the perfect location for the upcoming gathering at the Uzbekistan-China Investment Forum in Shenzhen on January 25. This forum served as a significant follow-up to the discussions and accords established during the state visit to China in the preceding year.
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