THE FORMATION OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN UZBEKISTAN AND CHINA

Аннотация

This article examines the establishment and evolution of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China, highlighting their historical underpinnings, political dynamics, and strategic significance within the broader context of Central Asian geopolitics. By situating the formation of bilateral relations in the aftermath of Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991, the research underscores the multifaceted drivers of cooperation, including political recognition, economic interdependence, and regional security imperatives. Special emphasis is placed on the mechanisms through which China’s growing global influence, articulated through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, has shaped Uzbekistan’s foreign policy orientations, while Uzbekistan’s strategic geographical position and reform-driven domestic policy have enhanced its role as a reliable partner for China. The study not only investigates the political and economic determinants of bilateral cooperation but also addresses the challenges, contradictions, and opportunities inherent in these relations. In doing so, the article contributes to the academic discourse on post-Soviet state diplomacy, Sino-Central Asian engagement, and the transformation of Eurasian international relations.