Media Appearances

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Media Appearances

14 March, 2025

Uzbekistan continues to make friends: France is next in line

A commentary-interview by IAIS leading research fellow Fazliddin Djamalov for the Qalampir.uz is devoted to the dynamics of relations between Uzbekistan and France in the context of the signed agreement on strategic partnership. The expert discusses in detail the evolution of diplomatic ties between the two countries, starting with the recognition of Uzbekistan’s independence by France in 1992 and the establishment of diplomatic relations, and ending with the current stage, at which the cooperation acquires a strategic character. Mr. Djamalov stressed that the strategic partnership with France opens up opportunities for Uzbekistan to strengthen ties with the European Union, and the signing of this agreement on the eve of the EU-Central Asia summit symbolizes Uzbekistan’s aspiration to a multi-vector foreign policy.   In addition, he emphasized the economic component of cooperation, noting that France, being one of the leading European economies, is interested in Uzbekistan’s resource base, especially in uranium supplies. Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Paris was accompanied by the signing of agreements worth 6.5 billion euros, which demonstrates the seriousness of both sides in the development of economic and investment projects. The expert also notes that France views Uzbekistan as a promising partner for reducing energy dependence on Russia, which makes cooperation beneficial for both countries. In this context, a special role is played by French companies, which can make a significant contribution to the modernization of Uzbekistan’s energy sector, especially in the field of renewable energy. Thus, in Fazliddin Djamalov’s opinion, the deepening of Uzbek-French partnership is not only economic, but also strategic in nature, defining a new configuration of Uzbekistan’s interaction with Europe.   Read on Qalampir.uz   * 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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Media Appearances

12 March, 2025

Hard Power vs. Soft: China’s Evolving Role in Central Asia

The virtual discussion hosted by the Carnegie Endowment delved into the complexities of China’s evolving role in Central Asia, challenging the conventional Western perspective that Beijing imposes its influence indiscriminately. Odil Gafarov, non-resident associate research fellow, was among the speakers, who emphasized that while China undoubtedly wields considerable economic and strategic power in the region, its engagement is often more adaptive than coercive. They highlighted that local actors — whether governments, businesses, or societal groups — actively shape the terms of their cooperation with China, leveraging Beijing’s interests to secure benefits tailored to their own developmental and political needs. This process, as the experts noted, underscores a dynamic interaction rather than unilateral imposition, where Central Asian states skillfully navigate their relations with China to maintain a degree of autonomy while maximizing economic opportunities.   The panelists also explored the nuanced strategies employed by both China and its Central Asian partners to manage this relationship. They pointed out that while Beijing prioritizes stability and economic expansion through initiatives such as the Belt and Road, it often accommodates local preferences, whether in investment structuring, infrastructure projects, or diplomatic engagements. The speakers noted that Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan each approach China differently, balancing economic reliance with strategic diversification. They argued that rather than being passive recipients of Chinese influence, these nations actively negotiate and recalibrate their engagements, demonstrating a level of agency that is often overlooked in Western analyses.   * 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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Media Appearances

12 March, 2025

Fazliddin Djamalov on Donald Trump’s speech to Congress

In the latest edition of the program International View on Uzbekistan 24 TV channel, a leading research fellow at IAIS, Fazliddin Djamalov, presented a detailed analysis of Donald Trump’s first address to the US Congress after his re-election. The expert noted several key aspects of the US leader’s speech, reflecting the main policy directions of his administration.   In particular, he noted that the US President continues his course of economic protectionism, which is confirmed by the announced tariff measures against China, Canada and other countries. According to Mr Djamalov, such steps may aggravate trade contradictions and lead to new conflicts in the international arena. He also drew attention to Trump’s statements about fighting unelected bureaucracy and large-scale cuts in government structures.   Trump’s policy on government spending took a special place in the analysis. Djamalov noted that the American president tried to portray himself as a fighter against corruption, citing examples of fraudulent schemes, including the financing of program abroad, which Trump called inappropriate. However, the expert pointed out that such statements have a pronounced populist character and are criticized even by the Republicans themselves.   The migration issue took center stage in his speech. Trump strongly announced the resumption of the construction of a wall on the border with Mexico, as well as tougher measures against illegal migration to the United States.   * 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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Media Appearances

19 February, 2025

Who, What, Why: Alexander Schrier on Uzbekistan’s role in a new world order

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