the country, and providing a positive business and investment climate. This has added impetus
to the heartening signs of positive political dynamics and a newfound drive for regional
cooperation in Central Asia. Uzbekistan’s far-reaching program to reform and modernize the
state – what one American scholar called “Extreme Makeover: Central Asia Edition”- is at the
heart of this region-wide process.
Even so, any internal reforms
can be self-defeating in the event of
serious
external
impediments.
Therefore, a friendly relationship with
all of the world’s leading powers
including Russia, China and the U.S.
is crucial for Uzbekistan’s prospects
of success. Even though close ties
with Moscow and Beijing are a given
as a result of geographical proximity,
Washington remains a global leader
that Tashkent seeks to engage, and a
natural ally to any country undergoing
fundamental reforms. This explains
the significance of the strong support
the U.S. expressed for Mirziyoyev’s
reform program, of the U.S.
recognition of Uzbekistan’s increasingly important role as an economic leader, and of American
assistance in achieving WTO membership. The implementation of the agreements signed in
Washington will create a solid foundation for the development of new opportunities to improve
Uzbek-American cooperation in trade, investment and economic activity. As the holder of
significant advantages in innovation and high technology, the U.S. can play an important role in
the modernization of the Uzbek economy, raising the country’s human resources, and enhancing
its scientific and technical potential.
Similarly, the commercial contracts and agreements signed during the visit also send a
clear signal to business circles in other countries regarding the long-term stability of the Uzbek
market. The engagement of key U.S. corporation further increases the interest of business
entities elsewhere in Uzbekistan’s growing economy.
Another important product of the visit was a recognition of Uzbekistan’s improving
international reputation as a country with consistent and constructive foreign policy. Uzbekistan
has always stood out for the pragmatism and results-oriented nature of its foreign policy, based
on Foreign Policy Concept that emphasizes respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity; non-
interference in internal affairs; the peaceful settlement of disagreements; and a commitment to
universally accepted international norms and principles. On this basis, Uzbekistan is effectively
establishing relations based on mutual respect across the globe and with leading international
and regional organizations. In the meantime, Tashkent develops relations with all major powers,
seeking to keep a balance between the interests of foreign powers, and to maintain a platform
for constructive engagement in Central Asia.
Thus, President Mirziyoyev has established positive relations with a number of global
leaders. In 2017, he visited Moscow, Beijing, Ankara and Seoul; at this point, Tashkent is turning
its attention to European states, with forthcoming visits being planned. Tashkent’s growing
profile in the international organizations is worth mentioning. Mirziyoyev participated in the
summit of the United Nations General Assembly, Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS),
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC),
bringing a new “proactive” approach.
In this regard, the United States is a crucial strategic partner for Uzbekistan, given its pivotal
role in the international security. The main directions of the U.S.-Uzbekistan cooperation were
reflected in the Declaration of Strategic Partnership and Cooperation signed on March 12, 2002,
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