Uzbekistan’s Efforts in Building Relations with Afghanistan

Uzbekistan is focusing on mutually beneficial economic cooperation with Afghanistan, as noted by journalists from The Diplomat.

Previously, Tashkent’s policy towards its southern neighbour was largely driven by security concerns. However, Uzbekistan now aims to promote peace in the region through trade, logistics, and humanitarian projects.

Uzbek businesses are keen to tap into the $41 million Afghan market, leveraging the cultural ties with Afghanistan’s northern provinces as a competitive advantage.

The government plans to boost trade with Afghanistan to $3 billion, establish an Uzbek trade center in Mazar-e-Sharif, and develop the trans-Afghan transport corridor.

Uzbekistan’s stance on Afghanistan’s irrigation projects has shifted. The country has indicated that it will not obstruct the development of irrigation systems in the Amu Darya basin and intends to negotiate with Kabul on the volume of water usage.

The Diplomat concludes that economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan could serve as a strong foundation for security and provide benefits for Uzbek businesses. However, other countries, particularly China and Pakistan, are also seeking to increase their influence in Afghanistan.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reported that the trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan rose to $276 mln in 2024.