The article from Penn Today profiles Alexander Schrier, a senior student at the University of Pennsylvania, and his research on Uzbekistan’s evolving role in global geopolitics. Schrier is a Non-resident Research Fellow at the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS). His scholarly interests encompass international relations, technological competitions, and economics, with a special focus on Central Asia’s multi-vector foreign policy. The piece highlights how his academic focus was shaped by early interactions with peers from Afghanistan and the geopolitical shifts following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. His senior thesis, “Reigniting the 'Silk Road Spirit' and the New Age of Central Asian Diplomacy”, explores how Uzbekistan is positioning itself in a changing world order, particularly in balancing relations between major powers like the United States, China, and Russia.   IAIS commends Schrier’s dedication to in-depth research on Central Asia, recognizing his work as a valuable contribution to understanding the region’s strategic developments. During his summer research trip to Uzbekistan, Schrier engaged with a range of individuals to gain firsthand insights into the country’s foreign policy dynamics. His research reflects a growing academic focus on Central Asia’s role in international affairs, particularly as countries in the region seek to assert their independence while navigating complex geopolitical pressures.   Read more in Penn Today

In the latest edition of the International Arena podcast, Dr Islomkhon Gafarov, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies, elaborated on the relationship between processes in Afghanistan and global security. In his interview, he emphasised that instability in this country remains one of the key threats not only to the region, but also to the international community as a whole. According to him, the sustainable development of Central and South Asia, as well as the effectiveness of the global fight against transnational threats such as terrorism, drug trafficking and arms trafficking, largely depend on whether the situation in Afghanistan can be stabilised.   The expert noted that since the Taliban came to power in 2021, the political landscape in the region has undergone significant changes. Despite the fact that the international community remains cautious about recognizing the new regime, the countries of the region are forced to build a pragmatic dialogue with the de facto authorities in Kabul. Uzbekistan, in particular, adheres to a policy of engagement aimed at maintaining stability through economic cooperation and humanitarian initiatives. The expert also emphasised that security issues in Afghanistan are inextricably linked to major geopolitical processes, including the rivalry of leading powers, the growing influence of non-traditional threats and changes in the system of global governance.   In his view, long-term security requires a comprehensive international approach that includes not only political and diplomatic mechanisms, but also support for Afghanistan's economic recovery. Otherwise, the country may once again turn into a source of destabilisation, which will affect not only neighbouring states but also world security as a whole.   * 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.

The issue of Uzbekistan’s interaction with the Taliban in the context of the transfer of US helicopters to the Afghan people remains a matter of diplomatic calculations. As Dr Islomkhon Gafarov, senior research fellow at the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies, noted in an interview with Paradigma.uz, Tashkent's position on this issue is formed on the basis of international law, national interests and strategic partnership with key powers. Uzbekistan maintains a pragmatic approach focused on maintaining stability in the region and preventing escalation of tensions. The return of US helicopters was part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening dialogue with Washington, as well as preventing the use of this equipment in unpredictable scenarios.   Dr Gafarov stressed that the Taliban’s demands for the transfer of helicopters back to Afghanistan are unlikely to be met, as they contradict the logic of the agreements between Tashkent and Washington. However, this does not mean that Uzbekistan completely ignores the Taliban’s position. Bilateral contacts continue in the economic and humanitarian spheres, especially in trade, electricity supplies and food security. At the same time, Uzbekistan remains in dialogue with international partners, including the United States, to develop the most balanced policy towards Afghanistan without creating precedents that could affect its own security and international reputation.   * 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.

During his appearance on the International View programme of Uzbekistan 24 TV channel, Dr Islomkhon Gafarov, senior research fellow at the Centre for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies, analyzed the outcome of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States.   The expert elaborated on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor project, which is an ambitious initiative aimed at strengthening economic and transport links between these regions. The corridor has not only transport but also strategic importance, helping to strengthen economic integration between the participating countries, create new jobs and develop infrastructure.   However, for the successful implementation of the project, a number of barriers need to be overcome, including political differences between Middle Eastern countries, as well as ensuring stability and security along the route. Dr Gafarov noted that the US and India play a key role in driving the initiative forward as both countries are interested in creating sustainable economic ties and reducing dependence on traditional routes.   The countries are actively developing partnerships in defense, high technology and education. Indian students account for 21 per cent of the total number of international students in American universities, which underlines the importance of educational and cultural ties between the two countries.   In addition, the expert emphasized that the US-India strategic partnership continues to grow stronger, covering more areas, and has great potential for further development, which will contribute to stability and prosperity both in the region and the world at large.   Dr Gafarov concluded his analysis by noting that Narendra Modi’s visit to the US underscores the importance of the strategic partnership between the world’s two largest democracies. Despite some differences, both countries have demonstrated a willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation in key areas, which could have long-term positive implications for both the South Asian region and global politics in general.   * 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 latest episode of the “International View” program on the Uzbekistan 24 TV channel, Fazliddin Djamalov conducted a detailed analysis of Donald Trump’s decree on increasing tariffs against Washington’s three largest trading partners – China, Canada, and Mexico. He examined the economic motivation behind this move, its consequences for global markets, and the reaction of the affected countries.   He paid special attention to the trade and economic relations between the US and China, analyzing their dynamics, the impact of Trump’s tariff policy on bilateral trade turnover, as well as the consequences for the world economy, especially for developing countries. He noted that Washington’s protectionist policy could have a significant impact on supply chains, investment flows, and the competitiveness of American companies in the international market.   Furthermore, the expert assessed the broader implications of Trump’s statements and economic policies, examining their influence on US foreign policy strategy, the transformation of global trade architecture, and changes in approaches to economic diplomacy. According to the expert, the actions of the Trump administration will become an important factor determining the further development of the global trade system and economic competition between the leading powers.   * 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.

Fazliddin Djamalov, a leading researcher at the IAIS Centre for American Studies, took part in the next edition of the analytical programme “International View” on Uzbekistan 24 TV channel. The expert presented his vision of the key accents of the inaugural speech of the 47th US President Donald Trump, emphasising its strategic directions in both domestic and foreign policy.   He drew attention to the presence of leaders of the largest US technology companies at the inauguration, which, according to him, emphasises the importance of the technology sector in the political and economic agenda of the country. In addition, he noted Trump’s emphasis on the “industrial renaissance” in the energy sector, which indicates the president’s intention to strengthen the US position in the field of energy independence. The expert also highlighted other key aspects of domestic policy, including strengthening control over illegal migration and strengthening border security.   In the foreign policy part of Trump’s speech, according to Djamalov, special attention was paid to the intention to resolve international conflicts, as well as to the advancement of US claims to strategically important territories within the American continent.   Speaking about the president’s plans for the first 100 days, the expert emphasised that Trump’s main task will be to form a strong and capable cabinet, as well as measures to preserve the dominant position of the US as a leader in the technological sphere.   Fazliddin Djamalov paid special attention to the impact of Donald Trump’s arrival on the development of relations between the US and Uzbekistan, as well as Central Asian countries. He noted that strategic cooperation, business partnership and further development of the C5+1 platform can help strengthen ties between the countries, opening new opportunities for bilateral and multilateral interaction.   * 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.