ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 10 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
571
THE HISTORY OF UZBEKISTAN–CHINA COOPERATION RELATIONS DURING THE
YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE
Mokhidil Mukhammadjonova
Submitted to.
Inomjon Qo’chqorov
Millat Umidi International University An Article Submitted as Part of the Course
Most Recent History of Uzbekistan
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17468412
Abstract.
Since the independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has developed close and mutual
relations with the Republic of China. The two countries established diplomatic ties in 1992,
which have since evolved into a strong partnership in politics, economy, education, and culture.
This article explores the historical development of Uzbekistan–China relations, major
cooperation projects, and their role in promoting regional stability and prosperity. It also
highlights the strategic importance of this relationship under initiatives such as the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization and the Belt and Road Initiative. The study concludes that mutual
respect and shared goals have made the partnership between Uzbekistan and China one of the
key examples of successful diplomacy in Central Asia.
Key words:
partnership, prosperity, initiatives, China, traditions, the Silk Road,
ИСТОРИЯ СОТРУДНИЧЕСТВА УЗБЕКИСТАНА И КИТАЯ В ГОДЫ
НЕЗАВИСИМОСТИ
Аннотация.
С момента обретения независимости в 1991 году Узбекистан
развивал тесные и взаимовыгодные отношения с Китайской Республикой.
Дипломатические отношения между двумя странами были установлены в 1992
году, и с тех пор они переросли в прочное партнерство в политике, экономике,
образовании и культуре. В данной статье рассматривается историческое развитие
отношений между Узбекистаном и Китаем, крупные проекты сотрудничества и их роль
в содействии региональной стабильности и процветанию. Также подчеркивается
стратегическое значение этих отношений в рамках таких инициатив, как Шанхайская
организация сотрудничества и инициатива «Один пояс, один путь». В исследовании
делается вывод о том, что взаимное уважение и общие цели сделали партнерство
между Узбекистаном и Китаем одним из ключевых примеров успешной дипломатии в
Центральной Азии.
Ключевые слова:
партнерство, процветание, инициативы, Китай, традиции,
Шелковый путь.
Introduction
The relationship between Uzbekistan and China has deep historical origins that stretch
back through many centuries. These long-standing connections now serve as a strong foundation
for building a mutually advantageous partnership in the modern era. The ancient Silk Road, once
a vital route for trade, communication, and cultural exchange, has gained renewed significance
today. It continues to act as an important economic, cultural, and humanitarian link that unites
nations and peoples along its path.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 10 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
572
In ancient times, traders from China set out on long journeys carrying many kinds of
goods like metals (iron, gold, silver), mirrors, handmade crafts, and beautiful silk fabrics. From
Central Asia, they brought back rare animals, birds, plants, spices, colorful glass, jewelry, and
other luxury items. During this period, China also started growing new plants that came from
Central Asia, including grapes, beans, alfalfa, saffron, and different fruit and nut trees
(A.Adigezalov, 2024)
1
Back then China was one of the first countries who recognized our sovereignty,
establishing diplomatic relations with Uzbekistan on January 2, 1992. Now, Uzbekistan and China
have developed their relationship into a strategic partnership. This progress has been strongly
supported by the friendly ties between the leaders of both nations and their shared efforts to
improve the well-being of their peoples. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has repeatedly noted that
building comprehensive relations with China has always been a key direction of Uzbekistan’s
foreign policy and continues to be so today. The partnership between the two countries is
steadily growing and is now at its most successful stage in history. This is understandable, since
both nations are heirs to great ancient civilizations that share similar cultural values and
traditions. Their connection dates back to the time of the Great Silk Road, which played a major
role in global trade and cultural exchange for centuries. Originating in Xi’an, the Silk Road
crossed many lands before reaching ancient Rome, linking peoples through economic, cultural,
and intellectual interaction (O.Nazarbekov, 2016)
2
Results
Economic cooperation has shown the most visible progress. China has become one of
Uzbekistan’s leading trade partners, with steady growth in investment and joint projects.
Infrastructure initiatives such as the
Angren–Pap railway line
, the
Qamchiq Tunnel
, and
modern energy facilities have improved transport links and boosted industrial capacity across the
country.
In
education and culture
, cooperation has deepened through student exchanges,
scholarships, and the activities of
Confucius Institutes
in Tashkent and Samarkand. These
initiatives have promoted language learning, research collaboration, and stronger cultural
understanding between the two peoples.
At the
political level
, regular high-level visits have strengthened strategic trust and
coordination. Dozens of bilateral agreements now cover areas such as technology, tourism,
digital development, and environmental protection. Within the
Shanghai Cooperation
Organization (SCO)
, both nations also work closely on regional stability and security.
Overall, Uzbekistan–China cooperation demonstrates real, measurable achievements in
trade, infrastructure, education, and diplomacy—reflecting a mature and forward-looking
partnership based on shared goals and respect.
Discussion
The partnership between Uzbekistan and China has grown steadily since Uzbekistan
gained independence in 1991. Both countries have prioritized political dialogue, economic
collaboration, and cultural exchange. One of the most significant achievements has been the
deepening of economic ties, particularly through large-scale infrastructure projects supported by
China’s
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 10 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
573
Uzbekistan’s participation in the BRI has improved transportation networks, boosted
trade routes, and strengthened its role as a regional transit hub in Central Asia.
In addition to economics, cooperation has expanded in
education, technology, and
culture
. Many Uzbek students now study in Chinese universities, and cultural centers in both
countries promote mutual understanding and language learning. These exchanges help strengthen
people-to-people connections, continuing the spirit of the ancient Silk Road in a modern context.
Politically, Uzbekistan and China maintain strong relations based on
mutual respect,
sovereignty, and non-interference
. High-level meetings between the presidents and
government delegations have further reinforced trust. This collaboration has also contributed to
regional security, particularly within the framework of the
Shanghai Cooperation
Organization (SCO)
, where both countries work together to combat terrorism, extremism, and
drug trafficking.
However, while the partnership brings many benefits, there are also
challenges
.
Economic dependence on Chinese investment and trade can create imbalances, and
ensuring that cooperation remains fair and sustainable is crucial for the future. Both sides
continue to seek a balance between rapid development and maintaining national interests.
In conclusion, Uzbekistan–China relations during the years of independence reflect a
strong blend of history and progress. The two countries have transformed ancient connections
into a modern strategic partnership that continues to shape the economic and cultural landscape
of Central Asia.
Conclusion
The relations between Uzbekistan and China have developed into one of the most
dynamic partnerships in Central Asia. What began as historical and cultural connections along
the Great Silk Road has evolved into a modern, strategic cooperation based on mutual benefit
and respect. Through joint economic projects, educational exchange, and political dialogue, both
countries have achieved significant progress and strengthened their regional influence.
The partnership continues to demonstrate that shared history and complementary interests
can lead to sustainable growth and stability. By maintaining an open dialogue and supporting
each other’s national priorities, Uzbekistan and China are building not only stronger bilateral ties
but also contributing to wider regional development and understanding in the 21st century.
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Uzbekistan – China: Evolution of historical and cultural ties.
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historical-and-cultural-ties_575210
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ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 10 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
574
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