Country
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan, Pakistan Expanding Trade Amid Connectivity Challenges
By Alouddin Komilov
Despite strong mutual interest in deepening investment and trade relations, logistical bottlenecks and high transportation costs pose challenges.
Pickers and Clusters: A Complex Array of Issues Confronts Uzbekistan’s Evolving Cotton Industry
By Catherine Putz
The 2024 harvest saw a shortage of pickers, government backtracking on positive legislation, and issues stemming from the cotton cluster system; problems rooted in continued state efforts to micromanage the industry.
Will Uzbekistan’s 31-Year Effort to Join the WTO Finally Pay Off?
By Niginakhon Saida and Oybek Saidkhodjaev
With one year left until the targeted WTO membership deadline, what could success bring?
Tajik President to Visit Kyrgyzstan, Sign Border Deal, Ahead of Momentous Trilateral Summit
By Catherine Putz
The presidents of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are expected to meet for their first-ever trilateral summit on March 31.
Uzbek Security Service Shakeup Continues With Dismissal of Internal Affairs Minister
By Catherine Putz
Pulat Bobojonov, who has been minister of internal affairs since 2017, was moved to an adviser post in the presidential administration.
Gold Plot Auction Heightens Focus on Chinese Investments in Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
31 plots in Uzbekistan’s prime gold mining region Navoi went up for auction last month, sparking rumors and discussion about China’s growing business interests in the country.
Trump’s ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran Complicates Central Asian Export Routes
By Nargiza Umarova
Changing U.S. policies present both risks and opportunities for countries like Uzbekistan, which have looked to Iran to connect them to global markets via the sea.
Why Is Prominent Uzbek Imam Mubashshir Ahmad Wanted by Authorities?
By Madina Amin
Initial reports suggested the popular figure was wanted on serious charges, but his lawyer refuted that claim.
The Taliban’s Struggle for Legitimacy
By Islomkhon Gafarov
After more than three years in power, the Taliban have struggled to gain recognition for a host of reasons.
Uzbekistan’s Corruption Crackdown: Progress or Perpetual Crisis?
By Kodir Kuliev and Niginakhon Saida
Despite a surge in anti-corruption efforts, systemic fraud and bribery remain deeply embedded in Uzbekistan’s governance. With thousands of officials facing charges yet minimal consequences, is real change on the horizon?
Shifting Gears: China’s Advanced EV Hegemony in Central Asia
By Aigerim Turgunbaeva
Economic, political, and environmental trends are accelerating Central Asia’s shift to EVs, and Chinese firms are at the forefront.
EU-Central Asia Leaders’ Summit Back on the Agenda
By Catherine Putz
Planned originally for 2024, the summit is now scheduled for April 2025 in Samarkand – setting it apart from earlier China- and U.S.-Central Asia leaders summits, which occurred outside the region.
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