Jonathan Henick: Partnership between the United States and Uzbekistan is growing rapidly
Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States continues to grow, opening new opportunities and supporting practical initiatives. Political dialogue, trade and economic ties, and investment partnerships are central to relations between the two countries. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Samarkand and the C5+1 ministerial meeting on October 19, 2026, renewed momentum for efforts to strengthen regional cooperation.
The meeting focused on strengthening transport and communication links, deepening economic integration, and expanding cooperation in energy and critical minerals. Agreements and initiatives aimed at developing business ties between the two countries were also announced.
Jonathan Henick, U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan, answered questions from UzA correspondent on the current state of relations between Uzbekistan and the United States, the outcomes of the Samarkand meeting, regional connectivity, and promising areas for future cooperation.
– How would you assess the main areas of relations between Uzbekistan and the United States today and the tangible results achieved so far?
– The partnership between the United States and Uzbekistan is growing rapidly. As U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said during his recent visit to Samarkand, our relationship is defined “not by challenges, not by conflicts, but by opportunity”. The close relationship between President Trump and President Mirziyoyev drives much of this momentum. The Donald Trump Administration’s renewed attention to Central Asia has come at the same time as President Mirziyoyev’s historic economic reforms, which have made Uzbekistan more welcoming to business.
The results are real. Since the C5+1 Leaders’ Summit in Washington last November, American and Central Asian partners have concluded more than $25 billion in commercial deals. Uzbekistan Airways is buying 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and the Uzbek company AKFA has invested $80 million in a manufacturing facility in Kentucky. Our governments have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on critical minerals and created the U.S. – Uzbekistan Business and Investment Council.
– What were the main outcomes of the C5+1 ministerial meeting in Samarkand on October 19 this year, and what do they mean in practice?
– The October 19 C5+1 Ministerial in Samarkand built on that foundation. The six foreign ministers committed to stronger connectivity, deeper economic integration, and closer cooperation on energy, critical minerals, and security. To advance commercial ties between the United States and Uzbekistan, over 200 American business leaders accompanied the Secretary. At the Business and Investment Council, the two sides announced 54 agreements and initiatives expected to total about $12 billion once implemented. Uzbekistan also signed the Artemis Accords and became the 77th nation to commit to peaceful and transparent space exploration. As Secretary Rubio said, “This is not the end. This is the beginning”.
– What opportunities does the United States see to strengthen Central Asia’s role in international transport and trade corridors?
– For centuries, Samarkand stood at the crossroads of global trade, and we want to help Central Asia play that role again, including by strengthening the Trans-Caspian Trade Route. In 35 years of independence, the countries of Central Asia have shown that they are sovereign and able to set the terms of their own relationships. We do not ask anyone to choose sides. We offer options that widen each country’s room for action and help them preserve their independence.
– What other areas should be prioritized to strengthen cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States?
– Looking ahead, we see great potential in civil nuclear energy (including small modular reactors), critical minerals, aerospace, agriculture, and advanced technologies. In all these areas, Uzbekistan’s young and talented population is a major asset.
– Which outcomes matter most when evaluating the effectiveness of this cooperation?
– In the end, the measure of success will be agreements that are carried out, bringing more trade, more investment, and more jobs for both our peoples. We look forward to President Mirziyoyev’s participation in the G20 Summit in Florida. Our partnership is only beginning.
Interviewed by Mirhabib Sayfullayev, UzA
