Uzbekistan Woos US with Trump Visit, Security & Trade Deals

In a significant move to bolster the strategic partnership between Tashkent and Washington, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has extended an official invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit Uzbekistan. The invitation was made during a recent telephone conversation where the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties and the prospects for regional cooperation within the “C5+1” framework, which is set to mark its 10th anniversary with a summit in Samarkand.

During the call, President Trump lauded the pace of ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan, expressing support for the nation’s comprehensive economic modernization and social liberalization. The discussion highlighted a positive trend in economic relations, with bilateral trade turnover reportedly growing by 15% in 2024 to reach $882 million. Both leaders emphasized the need to intensify joint projects in strategic sectors such as energy, agriculture, and digital technology, underscoring a shared commitment to deepening economic integration.

This high-level dialogue follows a series of concerted efforts by Tashkent to strengthen its American partnership, a priority outlined in its 2025 State Program. Earlier this year, a US congressional delegation visited Uzbekistan to discuss repealing the Jackson-Vanik amendment to expand trade, with Congresswoman Carol Miller, a member of the Uzbekistan Caucus, praising the country’s economic growth and rich cultural heritage. Subsequently, an Uzbek delegation to the US in April secured agreements on critical minerals, mining investments, and tourism infrastructure.

Military and security cooperation is also expanding rapidly. Uzbekistan’s parliament recently ratified an agreement with the United States on the protection of classified military information, a move described by officials as crucial given the complex regional security landscape. This builds on previous arrangements, including Washington’s transfer of military vehicles and other equipment to Tashkent, much of it freed up after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. An American firm, Ecology Mir Group, has been engaged to facilitate the acquisition of defense products from the US, further solidifying the security alliance.

Central to the US-Uzbek relationship is the shared agenda on Afghanistan. Washington has increasingly leaned on Tashkent to serve as a key political negotiator for Afghan settlement, a role Uzbekistan has embraced by engaging with all political factions, including the Taliban. Recent talks between Uzbek and US diplomatic representatives reaffirmed their mutual interest in a peaceful resolution in Afghanistan, solidifying Uzbekistan’s position as a pivotal American partner for regional stability.