In the modern world, international relations play a key role in forming collaboration between states. Regarding the relationship between Uzbekistan and China, it has ancient roots. Both peoples have a rich cultural heritage. Their ties go back deep into history.

The role of trade routes, such as the Great Silk Road, is worth noting, which connected our regions. This path symbolized peace, cooperation, and openness between East and West. Since then, Uzbekistan and China have continued to share friendship and the richness of their cultures.

Diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and China were established in 1992 when China recognized the independence of Uzbekistan. Since then, both countries have been developing a partnership. Significant milestones included signing various agreements, including the Strategic Partnership Agreement 2012.

China is an important trading partner of Uzbekistan. Both countries are actively developing cooperation in trade and investment. Projects include railway construction, energy projects, and other infrastructure initiatives under the Silk Road Economic Belt, and Belt and Road. China is Uzbekistan’s leading trading partner, with a turnover of $8.3 billion.

Uzbekistan and China have adopted a joint Strategic Partnership Development Program for 2023-2027, signed by the heads of state. The document provides for strengthening close cooperation.

Cooperation routes between the two countries have existed for more than two millennia, allowing for exchanging goods, culture, and knowledge. Famous Chinese dynasties such as the Xihan, Tang, and Ming had contacts with the territory of modern Uzbekistan.

History confirms that in the early Middle Ages, empires maintained ties. China actively developed diplomatic relations with the Ephthalian state, which controlled vital trade routes leading to Iran and Byzantium. The Ming Dynasty is associated with active cooperation and the rapid expansion of the reign of Amir Timur, who maintained close trade and economic relations with China.

Despite different cultural and historical traditions, these two peoples find similarities and everyday interests, contributing to partnership development. One of the foundations of the rapprochement is the Turkic languages, and Uzbek and Chinese have some common linguistic elements. The Turkic languages are rich in elements borrowed from the Chinese language, but we know not much about them at the moment. Interestingly, among the Turkic languages, the influence of Chinese on Uyghur has been studied in the most detail, probably because the Uyghurs live in the northwestern part of China and its surroundings.

In addition, scientists note the noticeable impact of the Chinese language on Eastern Turkic languages, such as Altai, Khakas, Tuvan, Yakut, and others. In addition to ancient common Turkic elements, one can find many unique borrowings from Chinese in these languages.

Since ancient times, the countries have interacted through ancient trade routes. These routes have facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and knowledge between regions for more than two millennia.

For example, traditional similarities in the culture of China, the meeting of guests was called “chali” tea etiquette, and official business meetings at which serious issues were discussed were called “chahui” tea meetings. By the 5th century, tea had become so popular in China that it became an essential part of marriage dowry. The ceremony of the groom sending tea to the bride was called “xiacha”, and the ceremony of the bride accepting such a valuable gift was called “shoucha”.

As for Uzbek tea drinking, it cannot be called a tradition. It is an integral part of the life of the Uzbek people, or even of every person born and living in the East, regardless of nationality. The tea ceremony plays a significant role in Uzbek culture, and every self-respecting Uzbek makes sure that his guest feels the warmth of the welcome.

Historically, before serving hot tea, a special ritual is performed known as “qaytarish”, which is translated from Uzbek as “rehearsal” or “return”. After opening the lid, the person pouring the tea takes a small amount and returns it to the teapot. This process is repeated three times. The goal is to ensure that the tea brews more entirely and thus allows the petals to develop their aroma fully. After this, tea can be served. It is essential to consider that the bowl in which the “qaytarish” was carried out usually remains with the one who pours the tea, since it has already warmed up from the hot tea. Although it may seem unusual, this ritual has deep meaning, symbolizing respect and a pure relationship between hosts and guests, as well as enriching the richness of the aroma of the tea.

I would like to note the cooperation between countries in education. Young people in Uzbekistan are showing interest in learning the Chinese language, and the Chinese are also learning the Uzbek language. This promotes knowledge exchange and cultural connections. For example, the Confucius Institutes, created at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies and the Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages, have become vital centers for studying Chinese culture and language.

At the same time, in China, there is interest in learning the Uzbek language, and it is successfully taught in educational institutions such as the Central University of Nationalities and Beijing Foreign Studies University, Shanghai International Studies University, one of the prestigious educational institutions in China, has a specialized department of the Uzbek language. This interest is reflected in the growing number of Chinese students studying at Uzbekistan universities, promoting knowledge exchange and cultural ties between the two countries.

We intend to continue cooperation in trade, investment, innovation and agriculture. However, competition in the region, maintaining sovereignty, infrastructural difficulties, and balancing interests can become challenges. Successful cooperation requires careful planning and diplomatic efforts on both sides.

The partnership between Uzbekistan and China exemplifies how diverse cultural and linguistic traditions can contribute to developing important international relations.

Abduaziz Khidirov, UzA