The Third China–Uzbekistan Interregional Forum opened in Xi’an on May 21–22, bringing together representatives of regional administrations, businesses, academic institutions, and development organizations from both countries to discuss practical areas of bilateral cooperation.
The forum is being held under the theme “Shared Modernization through High-Quality Development” and is focused on expanding cooperation between Uzbekistan and China through regional partnerships, industrial projects, trade, and investment initiatives.
Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjaev stated that the interregional format plays a notable role in developing production chains, supporting export-oriented enterprises, and implementing projects that directly affect regional economic activity and employment.
According to information presented during the forum, China remains Uzbekistan’s largest trade, investment, and technology partner. Bilateral trade between the two countries has tripled over the past five years and reached nearly $18bn by the end of 2025.
Khodjaev also noted that direct investment from China into Uzbekistan reached $17bn in 2025. More than 5,400 enterprises with Chinese capital are currently operating in Uzbekistan across various sectors of the economy.
The discussions in Xi’an focused on several priority areas proposed by the Uzbek side. These included industrial cooperation, development of investment project portfolios, agro-processing, green energy, modern technologies, education and workforce training, women’s entrepreneurship, and tourism.
Uzbek officials stated that the country remains interested in expanding practical cooperation with Chinese companies and regional partners and is prepared to support projects aimed at long-term economic development.
The forum is being held as part of the 10th Silk Road International Expo in China, where Uzbekistan is also participating through a national pavilion.
