An expert discussion on Uzbekistan’s strategy towards Afghanistan took place in Washington, DC, within the framework of the Central Asia Program at the George Washington University. The event brought together a wide range of participants, including leading experts, faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates.

At the meeting, Director of the International Institute for Central Asia Javlon Vakhabov presented Uzbekistan’s approach to this issue based on pragmatic cooperation and integration of transnational infrastructure. It was emphasized that Uzbekistan considers Afghanistan not a separate geopolitical factor but an integral part of its neighborhood and future.

The experts discussed key infrastructure projects such as the Trans-Afghan Railway, the Surkhan – Puli-Khumri power transmission line, and the TAPI gas pipeline, which can significantly increase Afghanistan’s economic stability and integrate it into regional and global economic processes.

Special attention was paid to humanitarian and educational support and the implementation of initiatives aimed at developing trade, education, and social reintegration. In particular, a free economic zone was opened in Termez in 2024, which has already received tens of thousands of visitors, including Afghan citizens.

Following the meeting, the participants stressed that Uzbekistan’s strategy for involving Afghanistan in regional processes can serve as a model for sustainable regional peace and development. The parties expressed readiness to continue the dialogue and cooperation in this direction.

G. Khonnazarov, UzA