Center for American Studies

Center for American Studies

The Center for American Studies is a structural subdivision of the Institute for Advanced International Studies, which organizes and conducts research, information and analytical activities, as well as provide educational and methodological assistance to students and teachers of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) on the domestic and foreign policy of the United States and the countries of North and South America.

The main objectives of the Center are:

Participation in the development of cooperation in the field of politics, security, economy and the human dimension within the framework of the Strategic Partnership Dialogue between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States; constant monitoring of key areas and events of U.S. domestic and foreign policy affecting the national interests of the Republic of Uzbekistan; studying the activities of leading national and international centers specializing in the study of the United States.
Systematic study of a wide range of issues related to key aspects of historical, socio-economic development, domestic and foreign policy, scientific and technological progress, foreign trade activities of the United States based on qualitative analysis, reasoned conclusions and judgments, a balanced assessment of the state and prospects of development of the American state and society.
Study of the legislative process in the United States, in particular, the role, prerogatives and mechanisms of interaction of various branches of government in decision-making on a wide range of issues of domestic and foreign policy, inter-party relations, as well as the electoral system and election campaigns.
Generalization and analysis of methods and approaches to the management process practiced in the United States in various fields, including taking into account the ongoing changes in the scientific and technical sphere.
Study of various aspects of national security, including in the military, social, and economic spheres; issues of regional development; the place and role of the United States in international politics; systems of value and political criteria in America; evaluation of the activities of lobbying structures, research centers, philanthropic foundations and sponsorship organizations in the United States and preparation of recommendations for establishing partnerships with them.
Systematization of factors influencing the dynamics and transformation of US domestic and foreign policy, assessment of the conflict potential in the domestic political life of the country, its impact on decision-making, both at the federal and local levels.
Preparation of political portraits of leading American politicians and public figures.
Conducting scientific and expert forums on topical issues of American studies.
Development and implementation in the educational and scientific process of the methodology of an interdisciplinary approach aimed at obtaining a systematic understanding and expanding knowledge about different aspects of the life of American society in their totality and interrelation, about the factors and mechanisms of U.S. policy formation within the country and in the world.
Participation in the formation of the University's development strategy based on the preparation and implementation of proposals on priority areas in educational, scientific and international activities in order to increase the competitiveness and rating of the University at the national and international level.
Main functions of the Center:

Implementation of research activities, development of theoretical, methodological and practical approaches to research and analytical processes.
Discussion and dissemination of the scientific results of the Center through the organization and holding of seminars, round tables, open lectures, participation in national and international conferences.
Publication of educational and methodological materials, scientific articles and the formation of collections of scientific papers based on them.
Development of a list of topics for theses and obtaining scientific degrees in American studies.
Involvement of the teaching staff, postgraduates, undergraduates, students of UWED in the research activities of the Center.
Establishment of partnerships with specialized research and educational structures of foreign countries, study of their work experience; development of projects and programs of joint fundamental and applied research; preparation of documentation for international grants; involvement of qualified specialists and teachers from abroad in scientific and educational processes.
Development and creation of an information base for scientific research.

Head of Center

Director

Ulugbek Ishankhodjaev

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Mr. Ulugbek Ishankhodjaev is the head of the Center for American Studies at the Institute for Advanced International Studies affiliated with the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, where he also lectures on the subject of American Government.

Mr. Ishankhojaev has extensive experience of working in public agencies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, such as the Office of the President and the Academy of Sciences. In his Foreign Service career, he worked as a Head of the Department of Americas and the Department of Europe at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He served two tours of duty as Deputy Chief of Mission at the Uzbek Embassy in Washington, D.C. as well as at the Uzbek Embassy to Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg and a mission to NATO.

 

Experts

leader

Alexander Schrier

Non-resident Research Fellow

 

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leader

Fazliddin Djamalov

Research Fellow at the Center for American Studies

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leader

Shahzoda Jumaniyazova

Research Fellow at the Center for American Studies

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leader

Ulugbek Ishankhodzhaev

Head of the Center for American Studies

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Outputs

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Media Appearances

22 October, 2024

Fazliddin Djamalov on key points of Kamala Harris’ interview and the US presidential race

Leading researcher of the Center for American Studies, Fazliddin Djamalov, on the air of the programme “International View” (“Xalqaro nigoh”) of Uzbekistan 24 TV channel, presented an in-depth analysis of recent events in American politics, focusing on the recent interview of US Vice President Kamala Harris for Fox News. It should be noted that Fox News traditionally supports the Republican Party, which makes this interview particularly significant given the complex political atmosphere and the heat of the election campaign.

 

The expert covered in detail the key topics that Harris touched upon in her speech, including migration issues and the prospects of the Biden-Harris tandem in the upcoming elections. He stressed that migration policy remains one of the most controversial topics in American society, and Harris, discussing it on Fox News, came under the scrutiny of both critics and supporters. Fazliddin Djamalov also noted that the current administration has faced serious challenges in implementing its programme, which could have a significant impact on the election results.

 

Special attention was paid to the topic of Harris’ relationship with former President Donald Trump, emphasising her sharp criticism of him. Despite this, the expert noted that such rhetoric is quite expected, given the long political confrontation between them. Harris actively contrasts her political agenda with Trump’s position, which, according to the expert, is part of the Democratic Party’s overall strategy to strengthen its position in the election race.

 

In addition to analysing the interview, Fazliddin Djamalov offered a brief overview of the prospects for the presidential election to be held on 5 November 2024. He warned that the outcome of the election remains unpredictable due to the dynamic changes in the political situation, and its outcome will have a significant impact on both domestic politics and the country’s foreign relations.

 

* 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.

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Research Articles

15 October, 2024

Brazil and the Central Asia: Prospects and Opportunities for Cooperation

This article was co-authored with Professor Joscimar Souza Silva from the Political Science Institute, University of Brasília    



Brazil has been increasingly asserting its role on the global stage, seeking to become a key player in both political and economic affairs. The country is a prominent member of the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), where it advocates for the reform of international economic institutions and the strengthening of economic ties among developing nations. Through BRICS, Brazil has been promoting multipolarity and greater representation for emerging economies in global governance. Brazil’s foreign policy has also shown a growing focus on expanding its influence in regions beyond Latin America. This strategic outreach is part of Brazil’s broader effort to diversify its international partnerships and assert its presence in global South-South cooperation frameworks. The relationship between Brazil and the countries of Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, is a fascinating example of cross-regional diplomacy and cooperation. Despite geographical distance and distinct historical trajectories, Brazil and Central Asian states have found common ground in promoting economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and multilateral diplomacy.

 

When it comes to Uzbekistan, despite historically modest trade volumes, the country’s economic relations with Brazil show significant growth potential. On August 17, 2015, the Agreement on Economic and Trade Cooperation between the Government of Uzbekistan and the Government of Brazil entered into force[1]. This agreement lays the foundation for strengthening bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries. In 2023, the trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Brazil amounted to $656.6 million[2]. In 2023, Brazil’s imports from Uzbekistan amounted to approximately $413.1 million[3]. Brazil’s exports to Uzbekistan mainly include agricultural products such as sugar, tobacco, grains, and meat, as well as machinery and equipment[4]. In turn, Uzbekistan exports textiles, cotton, and plastics to Brazil.

 

The international financial institutions (IFIs) support Uzbekistan’s efforts to transition to a market economy, aiming to enhance private sector participation in key sectors and reduce state dominance. These reforms are expected to improve economic opportunities and facilitate trade growth with partners like Brazil, especially in agriculture and energy sectors. To support these efforts, the World Bank alone has provided financial assistance amounting to $800 million in concessional loans[5].

 

Brazil and Central Asia could engage in resource and expertise exchange in key sectors. Brazil could import oil and gas from Central Asia, while the region could benefit from Brazil’s advanced agricultural technologies. Central Asia is already exploring ways to diversify its economy and access new markets, making Brazil an attractive partner for trade and investment. Given that both parties have competitive export sectors, they can negotiate mutually beneficial trade agreements. Infrastructure development is another crucial area for potential cooperation. Brazil has extensive experience in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects—from roads and bridges to ports and railway networks. Some of the most significant infrastructure projects in Brazil include the Trans-Amazonian Highway (BR-230), the Port of Santos Expansion, the North-South Railway (Ferrovia Norte-Sul) and the São Francisco River Transposition Project. This expertise could be beneficial for Central Asian countries as they continue to develop their transportation systems and logistics infrastructure to enhance regional integration and attract international investments. In agriculture and major infrastructure projects, Brazil is also learning about the socio-environmental impacts and challenges of climate change, and is a pioneer in the transition to green energy[6].

 

Furthermore, Kazakhstan is the world’s leading uranium producer, largely through its national atomic company, Kazatomprom, could collaborate with Brazil in the field of energy. In 2023, Kazakhstan produced approximately 20,500 to 21,500 tons of uranium on a 100% basis, which represents the total production volume of all entities in which Kazatomprom has an interest[7]. This production is expected to increase to between 21,000 and 22,500 tons in 2024. Kazatomprom accounts for about 20% of the global primary uranium production, making it the largest producer in the world[8].

 

In the same vein, Turkmenistan is a significant player in the natural gas market.  The country expanding its natural gas production to meet both domestic and international demands by increasing its gas production by an additional 60 billion cubic meters in the coming years[9]. The development of the Galkynysh gas field, one of the world’s largest, is central to this strategy[10]. This expansion will enable Turkmenistan to significantly boost its exports, including to new markets through strategic projects such as the Trans-Caspian Gas Pipeline. These initiatives present valuable opportunities for Brazil to invest in and partner with Turkmenistan in the energy sector.

 

Tajikistan has significant hydroelectric potential due to its mountainous terrain and numerous downstream rivers, while Brazil has extensive experience in hydroelectric power generation and renewable energy technologies. A notable example of Brazil’s expertise is the Itaipu Dam, shared between Brazil and Paraguay, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world, located on the Paraná River[11]. This dam, with a capacity of 14,000 megawatts[12], is a symbol of Brazil’s capability in managing complex hydropower infrastructure. Tajikistan, in turn, is developing the Rogun Dam, which, upon completion, will be the tallest dam in the world and have a generating capacity of 3,600 megawatts[13]. Collaboration between the two countries could involve technical support, best practices sharing, and strategic partnerships to optimize the construction and operation of large-scale hydro projects like Rogun. With regard to hydroelectric plants, it is essential to understand the socio-environmental impacts involved at all stages of the process, especially during implementation, the phase with the greatest risk[14].

 

Additionally, Brazil’s experience with smaller-scale hydro projects[15], which have been crucial in providing sustainable energy to rural areas, could be adapted to Tajikistan’s context. For example, Brazil’s development of mini and micro hydropower plants could be replicated in Tajikistan to electrify remote mountainous regions, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, Brazil’s comprehensive approach to integrating renewable energy into its national grid—illustrated by programs like PROINFA[16], which promotes wind, biomass, and small hydro projects—could serve as a model for Tajikistan to diversify its energy portfolio. This collaboration would not only enhance Tajikistan’s energy capacity but also strengthen bilateral ties, leveraging Brazil’s expertise in sustainable energy solutions and Tajikistan’s natural hydropower resources.

 

In recent years, Central Asian countries have taken steps to improve trade conditions and reduce barriers for exports and imports. Within the framework of the B5+1 format, these countries aim to establish a free trade zone, which could open up additional opportunities for trade with Brazil and larger MERCOSUR trade block. Another potential aspect of bilateral relations could be cultural exchange and the development of educational programs. Establishing direct ties between universities in Brazil and Central Asia would enable students to exchange knowledge and experiences, conduct joint research, and open new opportunities for young professionals. Brazil already has experience participating in educational programs in other developing countries.

 

Cooperation could be carried out, for instance, within the framework of the program, which constitutes one of the key initiatives—the Post Graduate Student/ Covenant Program (PEC-PG). This program offers full PhD scholarships to professors, researchers, and professionals from developing countries that have cooperation agreements with Brazil in education, culture, science, and technology[17] in 112 public universities with free education and grants to encourage research and permanence in higher education and postgraduate studies. This program aims to enhance the qualifications of these professionals to support the development of their home countries. Cultural ties are also important to consider. Brazil is a country with a rich cultural heritage, while Central Asia has a remarkable cultural legacy, including contributions to science, art, and literature. Organizing joint cultural events such as exhibitions, concerts, and festivals could strengthen mutual understanding and stimulate tourism between the regions.

 

In addition to education and cultural exchange, collaboration on sustainable development is crucial. In the era of globalization, it is vital to address global challenges such as climate change, desertification, environmental pollution, and food security. Brazil is one of the world’s leading agricultural countries, specializing in the export of agricultural products such as soybeans, sugar, coffee, meat, and corn. Its expertise in agribusiness could be highly beneficial for Central Asian countries, many of which are still striving to modernize their agriculture and increase productivity. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, in particular, are major producers of cotton, wheat, and other agricultural products, but their agricultural sectors need innovative technologies and management systems to enhance efficiency.

 

Figure 1: Comparison of the Economies of Brazil and CA Countries

 

In the last two decades, Brazil has also advanced in digital transformation. Today, Brazil has one of the most advanced electoral systems, using electronic ballot boxes since 2000, despite being a young democracy of just over 36 years[18]. It also has one of the most advanced banking and payment systems, as well as a broad program for offering and integrating digital public services, which include everything from digital personal signature services to advanced systems for transparency of public accounts via government websites and open data systems. Brazil’s long experience in digital transformation, given its population and economic size, can serve as a model for other countries, such as those in Central Asia.

 

In sum, specific cooperation areas between Brazil and Central Asia could include the following:

  • Exchange of advanced agricultural technologies. Brazil could offer precision farming technologies, sustainable agricultural practices, and water resource management, which are especially important for the arid regions of Central Asia.
  • Joint farmer training programs. Organizing training courses for farmers and agricultural specialists from Central Asia with the participation of Brazilian experts could help improve farming methods in the region.
  • Development of joint agricultural projects. Establishing agribusiness enterprises and producing processed goods for export could be another step towards deepening cooperation.
  • Brazil’s investment in Central Asian agriculture could enhance the competitiveness of the region’s agribusiness sector in the global market and help these countries not only reduce their dependence on food imports but also enter export markets with higher-quality products.
  • Sharing Brazil’s environmental and socio-economic expertise, especially regarding the undertaking of major infrastructure projects and the risks and regulations associated with them.
  • Developing partnerships between Brazil and Central Asian countries for socio-economic development, including universities, research and technological development, while respecting socio-cultural and environmental diversity and climate change.
  • Sharing Brazil’s experience with digital transformation and its impact on providing more efficient and transparent public services.

 

Despite the lucrative prospects, there are also challenges that need to be addressed to deepen cooperation between Brazil and Central Asia. One of the challenges is geographical distance. Both sides are located on different continents, and trade and economic ties may face logistical difficulties related to the transportation of goods and the organization of joint projects. More active diplomatic engagement is also required. This includes strengthening existing diplomatic channels, opening new embassies and trade missions, and intensifying intergovernmental negotiations. It is also essential to create favorable conditions for investors and simplify business procedures between countries. Nevertheless, the potential for growth and development of partnership relations between Brazil and the Central Asian countries is substantial. Cooperation in energy, agribusiness, tourism, education and digital transformation could significantly strengthen the economies of both regions and lead to mutual benefits on the global stage.

 

[1] https://www.norma.uz/novoe_v_zakonodatelstve/s_braziliey_ustanovlen_blagopriyatnyy_rejim_sotrudnichestva

[2] https://en.trend.az/casia/uzbekistan/3912963.html

[3] https://tradingeconomics.com/brazil/imports/uzbekistan

[4] https://tradingeconomics.com/brazil/exports/uzbekistan

[5]https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/12/08/uzbekistan-s-transition-to-market-economy-to-accelerate-by-strategic-reforms-supported-by-the-world-bank

[6] https://agenciagov.ebc.com.br/noticias/202408/plano-unifica-acoes-de-estado-para-politica-energetica-mais-verde-e-inclusiva

[7]https://www.kazatomprom.kz/en/media/view/finansovie_rezultati_ao_nak_kazatomprom_za_1e_polugodie_2024_goda_i_obnovlenie_proizvodstvennih_planov_na_2025_god

[8]https://www.kazatomprom.kz/en/media/view/kazatomprom_4Q23_operations_and_trading_update

[9]https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/74532/turkmenistan-plans-increase-gas-production-60-billion-cubic-meters-near-future

[10]https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/74532/turkmenistan-plans-increase-gas-production-60-billion-cubic-meters-near-future

[11] https://www.itaipu.gov.br/en/nossahistoria

[12] https://www.itaipu.gov.br/en/nossahistoria

[13] https://www.power-technology.com/projects/rogun-hydropower-plant/

[14] https://periodicos.unb.br/index.php/sust/article/view/40635/33074

[15] https://energypedia.info/wiki/Small_Hydro_Power_(SHP)_Brazil_-_Institutional_Set-up

[16]https://www.researchgate.net/publication/224384110_The_Brazilian_Renewable_Energy_Incentive_Program_-_The_Second_Phase_of_the_PROINFA_Assessing_Policy_Efficiency_And_Barriers_in_Long-term_Scenarios

[17]https://www.gov.br/capes/en/access-to-information/actions-and-programs/scholarships-and-students/international-cooperation-programs/multinational/post-graduate-student-covenant-program-pec-pg

[18] https://www.tse.jus.br/comunicacao/noticias/2023/Janeiro/urna-eletronica-de-2000-permitiu-a-primeira-eleicao-100-informatizada

 

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Commentary

08 October, 2024

Prospects for the Development of CIS in the Context of Contemporary International Transformations

The emergence of a multipolar world and the establishment of a neo-colonial order bring to the forefront issues regarding the future prospects of existing international organizations such as the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Amidst current geopolitical tensions, the Commonwealth faces turbulence due to the absence of a cohesive strategic vision for its development, further exacerbated by political challenges, economic crises, and ideological conflicts.

 

Political differences. Diverging viewpoints among CIS members are evident in their systematic absence from the Council of Heads of State summits, with Armenia, Ukraine, and Moldova consistently missing these meetings for several years. Although Armenia remains a member, Prime Minister N. Pashinyan has not attended since 2022, expressing dissatisfaction with Russia’s role in the Karabakh conflict, which favored Azerbaijan. Consequently, Yerevan views the CIS as an ineffective organization, incapable of resolving internal political disputes, and has indicated intentions to exit the organization[1].

 

Despite this, Russian President Vladimir Putin views the CIS as “a reliable, in-demand, and effective format of cooperation,” even though the summits have devolved into formalities. According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diplomatic Academy, only 2% of the agreements signed within the CIS framework have a tangible impact. Western experts warn that if the organization, dominated by Russia, fails to expand its influence, it risks losing relevance on the global stage[2]. This concern is underscored by efforts among Central Asian CIS members to diversify their economies, comply with Western sanctions, and reduce reliance on Russia[3]. Russia’s narrative suggests that the United States and the European Union are encouraging regional distance from Moscow, with fears that Western powers could provoke conflict in Central Asia to justify NATO intervention. To counter this, Moscow has intensified military cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, a Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) member, with the Kyrgyz parliament ratifying an agreement for a unified air defense system with Russia before the 2023 CIS leaders’ summit[4].

 

Economic challenges. The CIS member states possess significant combined resources, accounting for nearly 30% of global natural gas and coal reserves, 20% of oil, 36% of uranium, 20% of gold, and 13% of arable land. Yet, they have not eliminated trade barriers or fostered favorable tariff conditions. Most members, excluding Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, have signed the CIS Free Trade Area (FTA), which reduces import duties on numerous goods. However, mutual trade between CIS FTA members accounts for only 11.9% of their total trade volume, signaling a preference for global trade over regional cooperation. For Russia, CIS countries constitute over a third of its foreign trade. Despite this, from 2010 to 2023, total foreign trade among FTA members grew by 25%, while mutual trade increased by only 8%, illustrating a growing focus on external markets over intra-CIS trade[5].

 

The CIS’s primary economic framework, the “Strategy for Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Independent States until 2030,” aims to promote sustainable economic growth and improve living standards within member states. However, this strategy lacks legal obligations and primarily complements agreements under the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). In recent years, disintegration trends have prevailed, with slowed trade and economic activities among CIS members.

 

Cultural and value motives. Ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as territorial disputes between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, diminish the CIS’s appeal to non-Western actors. Experts suggest that, due to Moscow’s waning influence in the South Caucasus, Russia is focusing on Central Asia, leveraging summits to reinforce its regional presence and preserve the status of the Russian language. During the 2023 CIS summit in Bishkek, an agreement was signed to establish an International Russian Language Organization, emphasizing this cultural priority[6].

 

A significant factor influencing the CIS is the presence of over ten million workers from member countries in Russia, which has substantial economic implications, with remittances to their home countries exceeding $4 billion annually. However, anti-immigrant sentiment is growing in Russia, where 51% of the population opposes living with CIS migrants[7]. In 2023, crimes committed by CIS citizens increased by 6.5% compared to the previous year, further straining relations[8].

 

Analysts foresee several potential development models for the CIS, all of which will ultimately depend on Russia’s political and economic actions[9]. Three primary scenarios are identified:

 

Status quo preservation: The CIS continues operating without significant political or structural changes, functioning as a formal dialogue platform for post-Soviet leaders.

 

Stagnation and reintegration: A phase of stagnation, followed by potential reintegration processes. However, this scenario is unlikely without a firm stance from Russia, which may reduce CIS membership as the geopolitical memory of the Soviet Union fades in former republics. Russia’s failure to develop a comprehensive post-Soviet engagement strategy contributes to this outcome.

 

Continued stagnation: The Commonwealth structures and relations remain stagnant, with increasing emphasis on bilateral relations rather than multilateral cooperation. In this case, the CIS may gradually dissolve, transitioning into a more flexible, interstate network characterized by both cooperation and rivalry.

 

In conclusion, the CIS faces an uncertain future. Its declining membership and limited regional influence raise concerns, particularly among full members wary of Russia’s dominance. Rather than serving as an effective alliance for regional development, the CIS increasingly symbolizes Russia’s desire to maintain its influence over the region.

 

[1] Гордейчик, А., О Нынешнем Состоянии СНГ и Перспективах Его Развития. Retrieved from: https://evolutio.info/ru/journal-menu/1999-1/1999-1-gordeychik

[2] Попов В.И. Современная дипломатия: теория и практика. Дипломатия – наука и искусство: курс лекций –3-е изд. – Москва: международные отношения, 2022.

[3] Caspian Policy Center, CPC. (March 2023) The Beginning of An End to the CIS? Retrieved from: https://www.caspianpolicy.org/research/security/the-beginning-of-an-end-to-the-cis

[4] Russia-Kyrgyzstan Agreement on a Joint Regional Air Defence System Ratified by the Dum (2023) Retrieved from: https://pacsto.org/events/soglashenie-mezhdu-rf-i-kyrgyzstanom-o-sozdanii.

[5] Статкомитет СНГ (2024). Retrieved from:  https://new.cisstat.org/cis-countries

[6] Daryo.uz, Kazakhstan’s President Proposes International Russian Language Organization at CIS Summit, Daryo.Uz, October 13, 2023b.

[7] Kirillova, K., Anti-Immigrant Sentiments in Russia Lurk Behind Deep Social Issues, Jamestown, May 9, 2024.

[8] Asia-Plus, A., Uzbekistan Tops CIS Member Nations in Terms of Number of Crimes Committed in Russia, Tajikistan News ASIA-Plus.

[9] Тезисы Совета по внешней и оборонной политике (2005). «Содружество Независимых Государств: Есть ли будущее?» Retrieved from: https://svop.ru/public/docs_2005_11_21_1350646825.pdf

 

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Commentary

05 July, 2024

Overview of the visit of Mongolia's President to Uzbekistan

The commentary was prepared by IAIS research intern Malika Khakimova under the supervision of Fazliddin Djamalov.

 

From June 23 to 26,2024 the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, paid a state visit to Uzbekistan. The main agenda of the negotiations between the leaders of Mongolia and Uzbekistan focused on prospects for expanding multifaceted cooperation between the countries and intensifying political dialogue.

During the visit, the two countries signed 14 intergovernmental documents, including agreements on trade and economic cooperation, air and road transportation, tourism, agriculture, science, and culture.

Consequently, the following key trends aimed at intensifying relations between Uzbekistan and Mongolia can be highlighted:

Strengthening Regional Cooperation. This visit underscores Mongolia's ambition to strengthen its position in Central Asia. Mongolia aims to move beyond its status as a "buffer zone" between China and Russia and position itself as part of Central Asia. Following its "third neighbor" policy, Mongolia is developing close political ties with other influential states to secure their support on the international stage. In this context, the European Union (EU) is an ideal "third neighbor"[1] for Mongolia, as it does not provoke strategic concerns in Beijing or Moscow. Experts note that Mongolia's desire to associate itself with Central Asia is linked to the EU's active cooperation with the region. The European Union shows significant interest in Central Asia due to its strategic geographic location, vast energy resources, considerable market potential, and role in ensuring regional security. From 2014 to 2020, the total amount of EU assistance to Central Asian countries was €1.1 billion, and for the period 2021-2024, it is expected to be at least €390 million[2]. At the same time, EU investments in Mongolia for the period 2021-2024 amounted to €31 million[3]. Therefore, through regional integration into Central Asia, Mongolia hopes to strengthen its ties with the European Union.
Diversification of Foreign Economic Relations. Both countries are diversifying their foreign economic relations to reduce dependence on traditional trading partners. Mongolia, situated between China and Russia, is seeking new opportunities for economic growth through cooperation with Uzbekistan. Mongolia specializes in the production and export of cashmere, wool, meat, meat products, and leather goods. Uzbekistan, in turn, offers vegetables and fruits, fertilizers, medicines, household appliances, plastic and rubber products, building materials, ready-made textiles, and footwear in exchange. In 2022, the trade turnover of food and agricultural products between the two countries amounted to about $5.5 million, with the majority of this sum coming from Uzbekistan's exports to Mongolia, which totaled $4.4 million[4]. In the coming years, mutual trade is expected to increase 5-10 times by expanding the range and volume of demanded products.
Intensifying Diplomatic Contacts. The opening of the Mongolian embassy in Tashkent and Uzbekistan's plans to open its embassy in Ulaanbaatar demonstrate the countries' readiness for closer political interaction. To attract Mongolian youth to Uzbekistan, the government of the latter has expressed its willingness to allocate grant funds for the education of Mongolian students. In 2022, Mongolian and Uzbek agricultural universities already negotiated regarding student exchange programs[5]. During the visit, it was noted that it is also necessary to develop partnerships between research institutes, especially in the field of animal husbandry.
Bolstering International Status. Mongolia was one of the first countries to support Uzbekistan's inclusion to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Uzbekistan's accession to the WTO could create favorable conditions for the development of bilateral trade between Mongolia and Uzbekistan. During recent negotiations, Uzbekistan and Mongolia have prepared an agreement on preferential trade and proposals for simplifying mutual market access[6]. This agreement will allow both countries to benefit from preferential tariffs and conditions, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of their products in international markets. For Mongolia, this will also open up new opportunities for exporting its goods and attracting investments.
Developing Transport Infrastructure. The presidents signed agreements on air and road transport aimed at improving transportation infrastructure and logistics. This is particularly crucial for landlocked countries. Prior to the visit of the Mongolian president, the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway was announced, with the parliament ratifying a six-year implementation agreement for the project[7]. Mongolia might be interested in joining this project, which would enable shorter and more economically viable transportation routes for its goods, as well as integration into a wider network of transportation corridors.
Moreover, the project has the potential to connect to the Trans-Afghan corridor, offering Mongolia opportunities to export its agricultural and meat products to Afghanistan and South Asia. Participation in such a significant infrastructure project would also contribute to the formation of a unified Central Asian identity in Mongolia.
 

[1] EUCAM. (2012, July 4). Mongolia’s quest for third neighbors.. Why the European Union? Retrieved from https://eucentralasia.eu/mongolias-quest-for-third-neighbours-why-the-european-union-ru/

[2] European External Action Service. (2022, November 14). Josep Borrell: We are actively working on building a stronger, broader, and modern partnership with five Central Asian countries.

[3]  European Commission. (n.d.). Mongolia. Retrieved from https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/countries/mongolia_en

 

[4] Panfilova, V. (2024, June 23). Mongolia seeks access to the sea through Uzbekistan. Nezavisimaya Gazeta. Retrieved from https://www.ng.ru/cis/2024-06-23/8_9033_sea.html

[5] Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan. (2022, August 27). Student exchange was established between agricultural universities of Mongolia and Uzbekistan. Retrieved from https://www.agro.uz/ru/11-0395/

 

[6] Kun.uz. (2024, June 24). Uzbekistan and Mongolia to prepare an agreement on preferential trade. Retrieved from https://kun.uz/ru/news/2024/06/24/uzbekistan-i-mongoliya-podgotovyat-soglasheniye-o-preferensialnoy-torgovle

[7] Hwan, E. (2024, June 20). Kyrgyzstan: Railway from China to reduce dependency on Russia. Deutsche Welle. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/ru/kyrgyzstan-zeleznaa-doroga-iz-kitaa-snizit-zavisimost-ot-rossii/a-69430517