By Vazira Bazarova (Journalism and Mass Communications University of Uzbekistan)
In a landmark achievement for Uzbekistan’s proactive diplomacy, citizens of Uzbekistan and China will soon enjoy visa-free travel for up to 30 days starting June 1, 2025. This historic agreement, signed in Chengdu on December 1, 2024, reflects the tireless efforts of Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry to deepen ties with one of the world’s leading powers. The visa-free regime marks a significant milestone in strengthening people-to-people connections and unlocking new opportunities for economic, cultural, and geopolitical collaboration.
A Triumph of Uzbek Diplomacy
The agreement is a testament to Uzbekistan’s dynamic foreign policy under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, which prioritizes openness, mutual respect, and strategic partnerships. By securing this deal with China, Uzbekistan has positioned itself as a key player in Central Asia, capable of fostering high-level agreements with global giants. The completion of all internal procedures ahead of schedule underscores the efficiency and dedication of Uzbekistan’s diplomatic corps, which worked closely with Chinese counterparts to bring this vision to life.
This breakthrough is not just a bureaucratic achievement but a reflection of Uzbekistan’s growing international influence. By opening doors to visa-free travel, Uzbekistan is signaling its readiness to engage with the world while reinforcing its role as a bridge between East and West.
What Uzbekistan Gains
The visa-free regime offers Uzbekistan a host of benefits, both immediate and long-term, that will enhance its global standing and domestic prosperity:
Boost to Tourism and Cultural Exchange: With easier access to China, Uzbek citizens can explore its rich history, modern cities, and cultural landmarks. Likewise, Chinese tourists, drawn to Uzbekistan’s Silk Road heritage, will flock to Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent, boosting local economies and promoting cultural understanding. In 2024 alone, 57,700 Chinese citizens visited Uzbekistan from January to October, a figure set to grow with visa-free access, further enriching cultural ties and local tourism revenue.
Economic Opportunities: The agreement paves the way for stronger trade and investment ties. In 2024, Uzbekistan imported $10.4 billion worth of goods from China while exporting $2 billion, reflecting a robust trade relationship. Both nations have set an ambitious goal to increase bilateral trade to $20 billion, signaling vast potential for Uzbek entrepreneurs to connect with Chinese markets in sectors like agriculture, textiles, and technology. This aligns with Uzbekistan’s ambitious economic reforms aimed at diversifying its economy.
Geopolitical Leverage: By deepening ties with China, Uzbekistan strengthens its position in Central Asia’s geopolitical landscape. Uzbekistan, in turn, gains a new tool for balancing interests among major power centers—West, China, Russia, and Turkey. Tashkent’s stance remains consistent: maximum diversification of foreign policy without aligning with a single pole. The agreement enhances Uzbekistan’s ability to maintain strategic autonomy while attracting investment and infrastructure projects under initiatives like the Belt and Road.
People-to-People Diplomacy: Visa-free travel fosters grassroots connections, allowing Uzbeks and Chinese to build friendships, share ideas, and collaborate. This soft power strengthens Uzbekistan’s global image as an open and welcoming nation.
China’s Strategic Outreach
From a geopolitical perspective, Beijing’s decision to open its doors to Uzbek citizens signals a broader strategy to win hearts and minds in Central Asia. China, recognizing Uzbekistan’s growing influence and strategic location, is actively investing in cultural and economic ties to build lasting goodwill. The visa-free regime is a bold move to make China more accessible, encouraging Uzbeks to engage with its language, culture, and opportunities. By lowering barriers, Beijing is fostering a generation of Uzbek professionals, students, and travelers who view China as a partner and ally.
This outreach aligns with China’s broader ambitions to strengthen its influence in Central Asia, a region critical to its Belt and Road Initiative. By prioritizing Uzbekistan, China is not only deepening bilateral ties but also positioning itself as a trusted partner in the region’s development.
To sum up, the visa-free agreement between Uzbekistan and China is more than a travel policy—it’s a symbol of mutual trust and shared aspirations. For Uzbekistan, it’s a shining example of how strategic diplomacy can yield tangible results, from economic growth to cultural enrichment. As the June 2025 launch approaches, both nations are poised to embark on a new chapter of friendship, with Uzbekistan leading the way as a confident and forward-looking global player.
