On the eve of the 2025 China-Central Asia Summit, the air in Tashkent carried a familiar mix of history and high hopes. Returning for a second visit, this time at the Tashkent International Investment Forum, I witnessed a city that balances centuries-old cultural treasures with a drive for modern innovation.
At the heart of the forum, Uzbek officials and entrepreneurs openly ranked China among their top strategic partners. From the soaring domes of the old city to the gleaming new conference halls, the dialogue centered on harnessing eastern expertise to fuel Uzbekistan's next chapter of growth.
Sector by sector, the China wave is making its mark. Textile magnates are investing in automated looms that promise to streamline a storied industry, while solar developers are eyeing advanced photovoltaic technologies to power a greener future.
Beyond the boardrooms, the Chinese footprint extends into Tashkent's streets, from retail outlets showcasing electronics to infrastructure projects reshaping urban mobility. As Uzbekistan positions itself at the crossroads of East and West, its pivot toward the Chinese mainland signals a transformative wave redefining trade, technology, and the broader spirit of partnership.
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Tashkent's China wave: Uzbekistan fosters eastern partnerships
cgtn.com
