Uzbek President Calls for Constructive Dialogue with Afghanistan

During a ceremony celebrating the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev highlighted the importance of establishing practical cooperation with the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Highlighting Afghanistan’s role as an important factor in regional and global security, he said constructive and practical engagement with the Afghan government is essential, The Caspian Post reports citing foreign media.

Mirziyoyev added: "Considering that Afghanistan is a key factor in regional and global security, we believe it is necessary to have constructive and practical cooperation with the government of this country. We are paying special attention to developing transportation and logistics routes for mutually beneficial cooperation in new and promising directions with South Asian and Middle Eastern countries."

The Uzbek president had previously expressed concern over the international community’s declining attention to Afghanistan. At the second "China-Central Asia" summit held in Astana, Kazakhstan, he proposed the creation of a high-level group to address Afghanistan-related issues.

Hashim Alkozai, a political analyst, said: "Whether it is China, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, or any other country, we want good relations and neighborly ties with them. The authorities of the system should also treat them well and uphold the principles of good neighborliness. At the same time, they should understand that we, too, have needs just as they do, and when it comes to recognition, neighboring countries should take the first step."

Abdul Zohur Madbar, an economic analyst, also stated: "Uzbekistan can serve as a transit bridge for Afghanistan, and likewise, for certain goods heading to South Asia, Afghanistan can also act as a transit bridge for Uzbekistan."

Uzbekistan is among the countries that, over the past four years, has maintained active economic relations with the Islamic Emirate and has consistently emphasized sustainable engagement with Afghanistan’s current government as well as supporting its reintegration into the international community.