Balanced foreign policy of New Uzbekistan
The system of international relations is characterized by rapid changes, intensified geopolitical competition, and global uncertainty. In such complex conditions, any state must define a clear strategic path in foreign policy and develop a responsible approach both to safeguarding national interests and ensuring sustainable international cooperation.
For Uzbekistan, this process has coincided with a revision of foreign policy within the framework of the New Uzbekistan concept and the development of a foreign policy course aligned with a new approach.
Political scientist Farhod Karimov presented his scholarly analysis on this matter.
– In recent years, Uzbekistan’s foreign policy has entered a qualitatively new stage. During this period, the country has consistently pursued a multi-vector diplomatic approach grounded in openness, pragmatism, and balance. The foreign policy course within the framework of the New Uzbekistan concept has aimed to safeguard national interests and maintain a balance between regional stability and global cooperation.
A balanced foreign policy is a strategy focused on building mutually beneficial relations with all partners, while avoiding one-sided dependence on major powers and recognized centers of influence.
The main principles of the foreign policy of New Uzbekistan are the priority of national interests, openness and pragmatism, adherence to international law, strengthening regional cooperation, and the development of multilateral diplomacy.
Over the past five years, these principles have yielded tangible, practical results. In particular, Central Asia was identified as the primary direction of foreign policy. Border issues with neighboring countries have been resolved, progress has been made in transport and logistics projects, trade turnover has increased severalfold, and regional consultative meetings have become more systematic. Overall, one of the key achievements has been establishing trust-based, mutually beneficial cooperation in the region.
Relations with the Russian Federation – the region’s main strategic partner – are developing steadily. Cooperation has expanded in particular areas, such as energy and migration, and close dialogue continues on security issues.
Cooperation with China has intensified through investment, infrastructure, and industrial cooperation. Major projects have been implemented under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Strategic dialogue with the United States has also been strengthened. Cooperation has expanded in trade, investment, and security. Negotiations have been held with the European Union on an enhanced partnership, and export opportunities under the GSP+ trade regime have been considered. These directions indicate that Uzbekistan is pursuing a foreign policy within a multipolar framework. Activity within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, particularly the Samarkand Summit, has elevated the country’s international standing. At the global level, initiatives voiced from the UN rostrum on environmental security, the Afghan issue, and youth policy have received broad recognition.
Regarding Afghanistan, Uzbekistan pursues a pragmatic and humanitarian approach. Efforts to maintain dialogue, advance transport and energy projects, and provide humanitarian assistance are recognized by the international community and help ensure regional stability.
Foreign policy has also been enriched with economic substance. Initiatives to attract investment, develop industrial cooperation and transport corridors, and implement green energy projects have proven effective.
In conclusion, in recent years, the foreign policy of New Uzbekistan has taken on a multi-vector, pragmatic, and nationally oriented character, forming a nationally recognized strategy acknowledged by the international community. The creation of a climate of trust in Central Asia, the establishment of balanced relations with global centers of power, and the activation of multilateral diplomacy have significantly enhanced the country’s international standing. Uzbekistan’s foreign policy model can be regarded as an example of distinctive pragmatic diplomacy for the countries of the region.
Musulmon Ziyo, UzA
