In an interview with the Azerbaijani news agency Trend, leading research fellow at IAIS Dr. Khayotjon Ibragimov emphasized that the TRIPP initiative (Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity) could become an important tool for reducing investment risks in Central Asia. According to him, this project should be viewed not only as a logistics route, but also as a kind of “financial shield” for the Middle Corridor, since American patronage effectively acts as insurance for Western capital and makes infrastructure projects in the region more attractive and affordable in terms of financing costs. The expert also noted that the visit of US Vice President Jay D. Vance to Baku signaled Washington's transition from declarative rhetoric to pragmatic action in the Caspian region. In his opinion, US policy toward Central Asia is based on energy and critical minerals: Washington seeks to weaken China's monopoly on rare earth metal supply chains, while Uzbekistan, which has significant reserves of copper, uranium, and lithium, has the opportunity to attract American deep processing technologies instead of relying on a raw material export model. In the long term, Dr. Ibragimov believes that cooperation will develop around “resource pragmatism,” including increased investment in geological exploration and the possible promotion of American small modular reactors (SMRs) in the nuclear energy sector. Read on Trend * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In the Geopolitics program of the Kun.uz news agency, Hamza Boltaev emphasized that Pakistan's role in today's international politics is becoming increasingly significant. In his view, Pakistan is one of the few countries in the Muslim world with nuclear capabilities, strong military-political influence, and a strategic geographical position. As such, it is considered an important player not only in South Asia but also in broader geopolitical processes. The expert noted that within the framework of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's official visit to Islamabad, Uzbekistan-Pakistan relations have risen to a new political and economic level. This visit demonstrated that it strengthens bilateral cooperation with concrete agreements and opens up new opportunities in the areas of trade, transport and logistics, and regional integration. The expert emphasized that the intensification of relations with Pakistan is also of strategic importance for Uzbekistan in terms of gaining access to South Asia and developing alternative economic corridors. Additionally, the program discussed unusual developments in China, particularly the reshuffling of generals in the military leadership. Hamza Boltaev pointed out that such changes are interpreted in various ways in a country with a closed political system, which intensifies questions about Beijing's internal political balance and external strategic directions. He reminded that such processes could also affect regional security and the balance of power. * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

Nargiza Umarova, Head of the Center for Strategic Connectivity, took part in an analytical program released by Daryo.uz. During the discussion, she highlighted Iran’s enduring strategic importance as a key land bridge between Europe and Asia, emphasizing that geography remains a decisive factor regardless of sanctions and political pressure. Particular attention was paid to Iran’s role within the East–West and North–South continental transport corridors and its relevance for Central Asian connectivity. Ms. Umarova also examined China’s growing interest in Iran, assessed Türkiye’s role in regional logistics, and outlined why Iran matters for Uzbekistan’s efforts to diversify its transport and foreign economic links. In addition, she addressed regional security concerns and the drivers behind U.S. pressure on Tehran. * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

Khayotjon Ibragimov gave an interview to the analytical outlet National Business Kazakhstan on Uzbekistan’s uranium sector and nuclear energy plans. His expert commentary examines Uzbekistan’s first official disclosure of uranium production and reserve figures, as well as plans to develop new deposits and construct a nuclear power plant. In his remarks, Dr. Ibragimov stressed that Uzbekistan does not seek to compete with Kazakhstan in terms of uranium reserves or production volumes. Instead, he emphasized that Tashkent’s strategic objective is to secure a stable level of uranium output, position itself among the world’s leading producers, and strengthen long-term national energy security. The expert also addressed issues related to the nuclear fuel cycle, noting that Uzbekistan is expected to export raw uranium, while enrichment and fuel assembly production for the future nuclear power plant will take place abroad, in line with existing technological and partnership arrangements. Read on National Business Kazakhstan * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In recent years, Uzbekistan-China relations have consistently risen to a new level, deepening political trust and economic integration. Abbos Bobokhonov and Mokhinur Khasanova, an undergraduate student at UWED and an IAIS volunteer, noted that China is strengthening its position as one of Uzbekistan's largest trading partners and a leading investor, while Tashkent considers Beijing an important strategic partner in modernizing the national economy, enhancing infrastructure and industrial potential, as well as technological renewal. It is noted that the high-level meetings and sectoral consultations held during 2025 contributed to institutionalizing existing cooperation and strengthening practical effectiveness. The article emphasizes the stability of political dialogue: cooperation is being strengthened at the level of "comprehensive strategic partnership" through mechanisms such as regular meetings between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and PRC Chairman Xi Jinping in 2025, the Intergovernmental Committee, and Strategic Dialogue between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs. Economic indicators are also cited as an important foundation for this process: in January-November 2025, trade turnover reached $14.6 billion, Chinese investments attracted in 2017-2024 amounted to $24.6 billion, and the portfolio of joint projects is expanding. The increase in the number of enterprises with Chinese capital and large industrial initiatives (including manufacturing and energy sectors) are cited as factors expanding the practical scope of cooperation. At the same time, the authors note the need for balanced development of cooperation in the next stage: deepening integration in innovation and education, expanding export opportunities, aligning standardization and certification mechanisms, and gradually reducing trade imbalances are put forward as priority tasks. The introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime from 2025 is expected to accelerate people-to-people relations, cooperation in tourism and education, and further strengthen mutual trust in the long term. Read on the website of the National News Agency of Uzbekistan “UzA” * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In an interview with the Kyrgyz news agency Kabar, Azamat Seitov offered an in-depth assessment of the first five years of President Sadyr Japarov’s tenure, describing this period as a turning point in Kyrgyzstan’s modern history. According to Seitov, Japarov assumed office at a time of profound political instability, weakened state institutions, and widespread public dissatisfaction. Over the past five years, however, Kyrgyzstan has managed to move away from chronic turbulence toward a more stable governance model, focused on strengthening state sovereignty, mobilizing domestic resources, and articulating a clearer strategic development agenda. A central part of the analysis is devoted to economic and institutional transformation. Seitov highlights steady GDP growth, a significant increase in the state budget, renewed investment activity, and the gradual restoration of public trust in government institutions. In his view, this period laid the foundations for a more predictable and resilient system of governance—an essential condition for long-term stability in a multiethnic society. The interview also places strong emphasis on foreign policy achievements, particularly the normalization and deepening of relations with neighboring Central Asian states. Seitov underscores the high level of mutual trust between the presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, noting that direct and sustained leadership dialogue has become a key driver of regional stability and strategic cooperation. In his assessment, the country is now stepping into a new phase of its historical evolution, where regional stability is gradually becoming a norm rather than an exception. Read on Kabar * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.