SAMARKAND — A PLATFORM FOR STRENGTHENING THE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN UZBEKISTAN AND THE UNITED STATES

On 19 October 2026, Samarkand is hosting a series of high-level international events aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States of America, expanding regional cooperation and developing trade, economic and investment ties.

On 18 October, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Samarkand on an official visit. The visit is aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic engagement with Central Asia and includes bilateral meetings with senior officials from all five Central Asian countries — Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and the Kyrgyz Republic.

The C5+1 framework aims to strengthen regional cooperation, promote political dialogue, expand economic ties and facilitate joint efforts to address issues of mutual interest. According to the United States, strategic cooperation within the C5+1 framework is intended to help build a stable and prosperous future for both the United States and the countries of Central Asia.

On 19 October, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov as part of his visit. The two sides held the inaugural meeting of the Uzbekistan–United States Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue, during which they discussed the implementation of agreements reached by the leaders of the two countries and prospects for further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Particular attention was paid to trade and investment cooperation, energy, critical minerals, advanced technologies, education, cultural and humanitarian ties, and security issues.

The visit programme also includes bilateral meetings between Marco Rubio and senior officials from all C5 countries.

One of the key priorities of the international events is to expand economic cooperation. The second meeting of the Uzbekistan–U.S. Business and Investment Council is scheduled to take place in Samarkand. The Council is co-chaired by Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and Sergio Gor, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia.

An important step in preparations for these events was the meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Sergio Gor on 16 October. The talks focused on key issues relating to the further strengthening of the strategic partnership, preparations for the US Secretary of State’s visit and the implementation of joint projects.

Exploring Uzbekistan’s historical and cultural heritage also formed an important part of the US delegation’s visit. On 19 October, Marco Rubio visited Samarkand’s renowned Registan Square, one of Central Asia’s most recognisable architectural ensembles and a symbol of the Uzbek people’s rich history and centuries-old cultural traditions. During his visit, the US Secretary of State also spoke to members of the media, highlighting Samarkand’s historic role as a crossroads of international trade and cultural exchange.

Social Significance of International Cooperation

Expanding the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States and strengthening cooperation within the C5+1 framework are important not only for bilateral relations but also for the region’s prospects for socio-economic development.

Attracting foreign investment, developing high-technology industries, implementing joint projects and expanding cooperation in education help create the conditions for new jobs, improved professional skills, human capital development and greater opportunities for young people.

Public opinion research can help identify which areas of international cooperation people consider most important and which changes they associate with improvements in their well-being.

Hosting international events in Samarkand reaffirms the city’s role as a venue for diplomatic, economic and cultural dialogue. The development of Uzbekistan’s cooperation with international partners creates further opportunities to implement joint initiatives, strengthen international ties and advance the country’s long-term sustainable development goals.

Sources: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan; Statement by the Presidential Press Secretary; US Department of State — Secretary Rubio’s Travel to Samarkand, Mumbai, and Jamnagar.