Chinese, Uzbek presidents discuss further deepening comprehensive strategic partnership

Source：President of the Republic of Uzbekistan，“Leaders of Uzbekistan and China discuss further strengthening comprehensive cooperation”，August 31,2026.

https://www.president.uz/en/lists/view/9559

Bishkek, 31 August 2026 — On the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held talks with President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, reviewing a partnership that has reached a qualitatively new stage and charting a roadmap spanning trade, investment, industry and connectivity.

Opening the discussion, President Mirziyoyev thanked the Chinese leader for the warm congratulations extended on the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan's independence, as well as for his personal contribution to the multifaceted bilateral relationship. With the two countries set to mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, the leaders agreed to draw up a program of celebratory events.

The two presidents endorsed the continuation of the systematic Strategic Dialogue between their foreign ministries and deeper inter-parliamentary engagement. Uzbekistan reaffirmed its firm adherence to the One-China policy and pledged sustained efforts to combat the "three forces of evil."

Trade and investment took center stage. Bilateral trade approached $18 billion last year, with both sides voicing confidence in further expansion. They set an ambitious new goal of lifting two-way trade to $30 billion in the coming years, committing to boost mutual supplies of industrial and agricultural products and to encourage Uzbek enterprises to take part in trade exhibitions across China. The portfolio of ongoing joint investment projects has reached around $60 billion, while more than 6,000 joint ventures currently operate in Uzbekistan.

The leaders pinpointed energy, chemicals, metallurgy, construction materials, food production, transport and infrastructure, agriculture and high technology as priority areas for industrial cooperation, while also targeting fresh growth points in the digital economy, mining and the development and processing of mineral resources. The partnership with BYD in electric-vehicle manufacturing was singled out as a model of technological collaboration, with plans to expand production capacity and deepen localization. Chinese companies were invited to set up production facilities in joint industrial zones across Uzbekistan, and the Uzbek side expressed interest in broadening cooperation with leading Chinese financial institutions and strengthening their presence in the country.

Energy cooperation drew particular praise. Uzbekistan signalled its wish to widen partnerships in both conventional and alternative energy, and to attract Chinese companies to projects involving the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Subnational ties continue to broaden, with every region of Uzbekistan maintaining active links with Chinese provinces and implementing a substantial portfolio of joint projects; the third Forum of Regions was held in Xi'an in May. On connectivity, the leaders underscored steady progress on the strategic China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, expressing confidence that the route will become a key link in Eurasia's transport architecture and enhance connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative. Tourism and humanitarian exchange featured prominently on the agenda: the visa-free regime remains in place, and the two sides discussed expanding air-route networks and raising flight frequency between their cities. Consistent efforts continue toward opening cultural centers in both countries, with Days of Uzbek Culture in China scheduled for later this year and a Program of Cultural Events for 2027–2029 under consideration.

Cooperation in science, education and vocational training is likewise expanding: both sides reaffirmed support for the Luban Workshops and Confucius Institutes, pledged to advance joint educational projects in the regions, and agreed to expand Chinese-language studies and inter-university programs while increasing quotas for Uzbek students to study in China. Space exploration was identified as a promising frontier for future collaboration.

Regional coordination within the China–Central Asia format was a further focus, with preparations underway for its third summit, to be hosted by China next year. President Mirziyoyev extended an invitation to President Xi to visit Uzbekistan. The meeting took place in a traditionally open, friendly and trusting atmosphere.

Uzbekistan's infrastructure drive and industrial expansion are gathering pace — from the landmark China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway to new manufacturing zones and deepening localization demands. As these projects mature, demand for construction materials, hardware, machinery and industrial supplies is set to climb steadily. Against this backdrop, Central Asia International Hardware Expo（CAIHE）offers a practical meeting point for Chinese suppliers and Central Asian buyers, supporting the region's trade and industrial agenda. With regular exhibitions across the region, Central Asia International Hardware Expo（CAIHE）aims to help manufacturers tap this fast-growing market through direct sourcing, partnerships and localized cooperation.