Bilateral Cooperation - The Times Of Central Asia

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Trade

Mirziyoyev and Berdymuhamedov Agree on New Projects as Trade Tops $1 Billion

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan have agreed to deepen political, economic, and humanitarian cooperation following President Serdar Berdymuhamedov’s state visit to Tashkent, where he held talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on November 17. The summit began in a narrow format at the Kuksaroy Residence, where both leaders emphasized the significance of the visit in strengthening the growing strategic partnership. They noted the increasing dialogue across various sectors and highlighted recent cultural initiatives, including the Days of Turkmen Culture and Cinema held in Urgench and Tashkent. Bilateral trade continues to grow, having surpassed $1 billion last year, supported by rising freight flows through the Turkmenbashi port. The presidents explored new opportunities to boost mutual trade and deepen cooperation in industry, energy, transport, mechanical engineering, agriculture, and water management. They also agreed to expand interregional collaboration and to convene the next Forum of Regions in Khiva. Talks then continued in an expanded format with the participation of both delegations. Mirziyoyev stated that the visit reflects the “centuries-old ties of friendship and good neighborliness,” and he praised Turkmenistan’s progress under the leadership of Gurbanguly Berdymuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty. The two sides agreed to work toward increasing trade to $2 billion by expanding the range of goods and more effectively utilizing the free trade regime. They noted that the newly launched Shavat-Dashoguz cross-border trade zone would play a key role in achieving this target and agreed to replicate the model in other regions, starting with the Alat-Farab corridor. Industrial cooperation is set to expand, with both sides encouraging businesses to launch joint projects in sectors such as building materials, pharmaceuticals, and food production. In the energy sector, the two countries plan to embark on larger-scale cooperative projects, including the development of promising natural resource deposits. Transport cooperation will also deepen through joint development of the Turkmenbashi port and the resumption of direct flights between Tashkent and Ashgabat. The presidents instructed their governments to ensure timely implementation of all agreements by holding regular meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission and the Business Council. They also committed to intensifying collaboration in culture, education, youth exchanges, filmmaking, healthcare, and medical science. Following the talks, the leaders jointly inaugurated the Shavat-Dashoguz trade zone, which includes customs, quarantine, and veterinary services, as well as warehouse facilities, a trade pavilion, and public services operating under a single-window system. The zone is expected to significantly boost economic ties between Uzbekistan’s Khorezm region and Turkmenistan’s Dashoguz region, which together are home to more than 3.5 million people. At a ceremony held at Kuksaroy, Berdymuhamedov was awarded the “Oliy Darajali Dustlik” Order, Uzbekistan’s highest state honor. Mirziyoyev said the award reflects Turkmenistan’s contributions to strengthening friendship, trust, and strategic partnership. Berdymuhamedov expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. The two sides signed a Joint Statement and oversaw the exchange of intergovernmental and interagency agreements covering trade, healthcare, agriculture, transport, biological safety, justice, forestry, and regional cooperation. The Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan summit concluded the same day. As part of his visit, Berdymuhamedov also...

State Visit

Tokayev in Moscow: Balancing Friendship and Strategy

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev begins a state visit to Russia in Moscow today, accompanied by a carefully calibrated message of diplomatic continuity. Ahead of his arrival, Tokayev published an article in Rossiyskaya Gazeta affirming Kazakhstan’s “eternal friendship” with Russia, a phrase that has become standard in bilateral rhetoric. While much of the piece reiterates familiar themes of cooperation in energy, trade, and culture, a few notable elements suggest deeper strategic positioning. From the outset, Tokayev appeared intent on striking a personal chord with Vladimir Putin. Mirroring the Russian president’s preference for historical framing, he wrote: “Our peoples have lived side by side for centuries, sharing joys and trials, and together creating a single cultural space in Eurasia. We are united by a common perception of traditional values, similar views on current issues of modern life, and joint work to ensure the well-being of our brotherly peoples.” The Kazakh leader also offered high praise for Putin’s leadership, describing bilateral ties as “mature and stable” and built on “deep trust, respect, and equality.” “All achievements in bilateral cooperation are inextricably linked to the energetic and productive efforts of President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin,” Tokayev wrote. “In Kazakhstan, he enjoys unwavering respect as a statesman of global stature, and his name is on the lips of politicians and ordinary people in virtually every country in the world.” The visit’s key moment will be the signing of a Declaration elevating Kazakhstan-Russia ties to a “comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance”, a step Tokayev described as ushering in “a new era in bilateral relations.” More intriguing, however, was Tokayev’s commentary on Russia’s global standing, wherein Tokayev referenced recent high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, U.S. President Donald Trump, and leaders across Europe, Asia, and Africa. “Although many of them are at opposite ends of the geopolitical spectrum, they all recognize the exceptional role of Russia and its leader in resolving key issues in international relations. In other words, it is impossible to overcome the contradictions of the modern world without Moscow's participation,” he stated. While Tokayev has previously dismissed the idea of Kazakhstan acting as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, his recent statements suggest Astana may be prepared to play a supporting role in future dialogue. “Kazakhstan is not a mediator in the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and does not see itself as such,” he said last month. “In my opinion, both sides are capable of conducting dialogue on all contentious issues on a bilateral basis and at different levels. I have always believed and publicly stated that the ‘Ukrainian crisis’ is extremely complex and cannot be simplified.” Nonetheless, Tokayev offered practical insights into what a negotiation process would require, stressing the importance of expert-level preparation and dismissing the idea of hastily organized summits without a ceasefire or clear agenda as “unrealistic.” “If the leaders of Russia and Ukraine are willing to come to Kazakhstan, we will provide all the necessary services to ensure the success of the negotiations,” Tokayev added. He reaffirmed...

Tourism

Insider’s View: Cooperation Between Uzbekistan and the United States in Tourism

In recent years, relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United States of America in the field of tourism have reached a qualitatively new level. The foundation of this cooperation lies in the systematic efforts of the Tourism Committee to implement the provisions of the “Road Maps” aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, expanding tourism exchanges, and attracting American investment into the sector. The period of 2018–2019 became a turning point in enhancing the tourism dialogue between the two countries. Uzbekistan welcomed experts from the International Association of Tourism Professionals, led by H. Luis Lorenzo Gutierrez, representatives of “PBS” and “ABC” television channels, as well as a delegation from the Congress of Bukharian Jews of the USA and Canada. During the same period, the Tourism Committee organized a series of visits by well-known American bloggers Mark Wiens and Sonny Side, thanks to which millions of viewers around the world were introduced to Uzbekistan’s gastronomic and cultural richness. An important step was the introduction of American online booking services — Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Tripadvisor. By the end of 2018, 886 hotels across the country had been connected to these platforms, significantly improving Uzbekistan’s accessibility for American travelers. Since 2019, special attention has been paid to promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential through U.S. media and digital platforms. Within the framework of the “World Influencers Congress 2019” forum, more than 20 leading American bloggers arrived in Tashkent, including the “Devin Super Tramp” team, which filmed a short movie titled “Aladdin” in Bukhara and Khiva. These projects not only enhanced Uzbekistan’s visibility on global social media but also helped build its image as a safe and welcoming destination. Cooperation in professional training also developed in parallel. Edward Castley, Vice President of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), conducted master classes for university and college instructors, sharing U.S. best practices in training tourism industry professionals. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, an online conference was held with the assistance of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C., bringing together leading American travel companies — ASTA, Intrepid Travel, G Adventures, and others. The participants discussed measures to restore tourist flows and improve traveler safety. In subsequent years, American media outlets such as The New York Times, National Geographic, and Foreign Policy became increasingly active in covering the country’s tourism potential. Joint media collaborations, including Mystery Box’s 2021 production and CNN’s 2023 documentary The Spirit of Samarkand, have been instrumental in highlighting the cultural heritage and contemporary life of Uzbekistan’s historic cities. In recent years, Uzbekistan–U.S. cooperation in tourism has acquired strategic importance. In 2024, Chairman of the Tourism Committee Umid Shadiev met with U.S. Ambassador Jonathan Henick to discuss prospects for developing green tourism and workforce training. The participation of the Uzbek delegation in prestigious exhibitions — Miami World Travel Expo 2024 and New York Travel and Adventure Show 2025 — opened new opportunities for promoting the country’s tourism brand. Notably, Uzbekistan was recognized as the “Best New Exhibitor” at the New York event. The...

Hydropower

Tajikistan Upgrades Nurek Dam to Boost Power Supply Ahead of Winter Crunch

Tajikistan’s massive Nurek hydroelectric dam – the world’s second-tallest – is undergoing a sweeping modernization to shore up the nation’s electricity supply ahead of the demanding winter season. The 300-meter-high dam, completed in 1980 on the Vakhsh River near the Afghan border, has long been a strategic asset, supplying approximately 70% of Tajikistan’s power. As winter approaches and energy demand peaks, crews at the 3,015 MW hydropower plant are racing to upgrade aging turbines and infrastructure to ensure reliable electricity across the country. The overhaul, which began several years ago, promises not only to keep the lights on through harsh weather but also to boost Nurek’s capacity and extend the life of a facility that has defined Tajikistan’s energy landscape for five decades. A Soviet-Era Marvel at the Heart of Tajikistan’s Power Grid When it was completed in 1980, Nurek was the tallest dam in the world, a record it held for years as a feat of Soviet engineering, with the earth-fill embankment forming a vast reservoir of 98 km² that stores some 10.5 billion cubic meters of water. Between 1972 and 1979, nine giant hydro turbines were installed, giving Nurek an original design capacity of approximately 2,700 MW. Over time, improvements brought its output to just over 3,000 MW. In addition to producing power, the reservoir also supports major irrigation across the Amu Darya basin with one scheme alone - via the Dangara tunnel - irrigating roughly 70,000 hectares, underscoring its dual importance for energy and agriculture. For Tajikistan, a mountainous country of roughly 10.8 million people, Nurek has been nothing short of an economic lifeline. Hydropower accounts for roughly 98% of Tajikistan’s electricity generation, one of the highest shares of renewable energy in the world. This green energy dominance is largely thanks to Nurek and a network of smaller dams. However, the infrastructure is aging, and after 50 years of service, Nurek’s machinery had begun to falter. By the mid-2010s, winter electricity shortages had become common. During the cold months from late September to April, the hydrological cycle leaves Tajikistan with reduced river flow, just as heating needs spike. In those winters, rural areas often faced power rationing and outages, while the capital Dushanbe and other major cities narrowly avoided blackouts. Modernizing Nurek became essential to prevent a return to the severe energy crises of the past and to meet the country’s development goals. Upgrading and Expanding a Giant A comprehensive rehabilitation of Nurek began in earnest in recent years, backed by international financing, including the World Bank. The overhaul is split into phases: Phase I of the modernization — covering four of Nurek’s nine generating units along with major dam-safety works — is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026. Phase II will then refurbish the remaining six units. The upgrades are substantial - new high-efficiency Francis turbines will raise each unit’s capacity from 335 MW to 375 MW. In October 2022, the first upgraded unit came online, producing about 10% more power than before. By August...

State Visit

Aliyev, Tokayev Pledge Deeper Cooperation as Azerbaijan Lifts Armenia Transit Ban

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev began a state visit to Kazakhstan on Monday with a series of high-level meetings and a significant policy shift: Baku is lifting all restrictions on the transit of goods to Armenia. The move, announced during joint talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, is one of the most concrete regional gestures since the end of the Second Karabakh War. The visit began with an official welcoming ceremony at Akorda Presidential Palace in Astana, where Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Ilham Aliyev reviewed an honor guard before holding bilateral talks and chairing the second meeting of the Kazakhstan–Azerbaijan Supreme Intergovernmental Council. Speaking at a joint press briefing after the meeting, Aliyev confirmed that, “All restrictions on the transit of goods from Azerbaijan to Armenia and from third countries to Armenia through Azerbaijan have been lifted.” While no formal agreement was signed on Monday, the announcement is being viewed as a confidence-building measure at a moment of cautious diplomacy in the South Caucasus. Tokayev welcomed the development and stressed the importance of expanding cooperation between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan in key sectors such as transport and energy. Ties on a Strategic Track Aliyev’s visit comes as Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are expanding cooperation in multiple areas, including rail, ports, digital infrastructure, and energy. Monday’s talks produced several new accords and project announcements, including commitments to expand freight flows along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) - a logistics network connecting China to Europe via Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, and the South Caucasus. Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine upended established overland trade routes, the corridor’s importance has surged, with Astana and Baku positioning themselves as key actors in a reconfigured Eurasian logistics network that bypasses Russian territory. In his welcoming address, Tokayev framed Aliyev’s state visit as of “critically important significance for the further development of our strategic partnership.” Tokayev described the relationship as “allied in nature,” calling Azerbaijan “a regional power that has strengthened its authority on the international stage.” He emphasized that developing multifaceted cooperation “remains a priority” and highlighted trade, economic, and political partnership as key goals. “Azerbaijan is a special country for Kazakhstan, a fraternal state,” Tokayev stated. “We are united by common historical roots, a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, and, ultimately, a shared mentality and outlook on developments. On this unshakable foundation, we are successfully developing our multifaceted cooperation.” Aliyev, in turn, praised Kazakhstan’s ongoing political and economic reforms, saying his country “fully supports [Tokayev’s] course of modernization” and is aiming to “strengthen cooperation in all areas” In a related development, Azerbaijan’s state energy firm SOCAR and Kazakhstan’s sovereign wealth fund Samruk-Kazyna are expected to deepen their collaboration in upstream energy projects and petrochemical exports, though no new energy deals were signed on Monday. Transit Opening to Armenia: Why Now? Aliyev’s announcement on transit restrictions - made in Astana, not Baku - was notable not just for its content, but its timing and setting. Since the end of the 2020 Second Karabakh...

Water Management

Kazakhstan and Germany Partner on Sustainable Water Management

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and the German Water Partnership (GWP) signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement on October 8 aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in sustainable water management. The agreement will allow Kazakhstan to adopt international best practices and advanced water-saving technologies, strengthen climate resilience in the water sector, improve flood and drought response, and expand training for water-sector professionals. GWP is Germany’s leading water-sector network with a strong international focus. It brings together around 300 companies, trade associations, and institutions from business, science, and research. German expertise is already contributing to Kazakhstan’s digital projects in water resource forecasting, modeling, and accounting. German technologies are also being used in the construction of hydraulic infrastructure across the country. Following the signing, Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev and GWP Managing Director Boris Greifeneder discussed plans to deepen cooperation. One key proposal was the establishment of a Kazakh-German Water Innovation Hub, to be housed at the Information and Analytical Center of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, with GWP’s support. In a related initiative, the Kazakh-German University (DKU), the National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan, and the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, supported by Germany’s Hanns Seidel Foundation, recently launched a new scientific and educational hub: the Kazakh-German Nexus Institute. Headquartered in Almaty, the Nexus Institute will focus on developing evidence-based policies for sustainable land and water use in Central Asia. Water resource management remains a critical priority for Kazakhstan, particularly in the country’s arid southern regions where agriculture depends heavily on efficient irrigation systems.