by Vazira Bazarova (Journalism and Mass Communications University of Uzbekistan)
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev is actively working to elevate the country’s global standing, aiming to position Uzbekistan as a significant force on the global stage. This transformation is part of a broader strategy to redefine Uzbekistan’s role in international relations, steering it toward prominence. This ambition, characteristic of so-called “middle powers,” allows nations with limited resources to assert influence disproportionate to their size. These countries, by transcending regional influence, often achieve recognition and respect on a global scale.
Historical examples of middle powers, such as Egypt and Iran, illustrate how smaller states can wield considerable influence. Egypt, with its long-standing diplomatic heritage and strategic importance in the Arab world, has consistently played a key role in global affairs. Similarly, Iran’s geographical position and resource wealth have ensured its centrality in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Following these examples, Uzbekistan is steadily charting its path toward a similar status. Under Mirziyoyev’s leadership, the nation is not just aspiring to regional significance but is also aiming to carve out a definitive position on the global stage.
Guided by Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s vision, Uzbekistan increasingly embodies the traits of a middle power. These include leveraging strategic diplomacy, building economic resilience, and assuming a leadership role in regional cooperation. Such efforts are instrumental in elevating Uzbekistan’s profile internationally, enabling it to transition from a regional player to a nation with broader global significance.
With a population exceeding 37 million, Uzbekistan holds nearly half of Central Asia’s population, making it a demographic powerhouse in the region. This advantage bolsters its potential as a regional leader, with significant influence in shaping multilateral initiatives and policies. Uzbekistan’s demographic weight is further amplified by its cultural and historical ties to the Turkic world, where it ranks second only to Turkey. Among post-Soviet states, Uzbekistan’s significance trails only Russia, solidifying its position as a key voice in Eurasian geopolitics.
Geographically, Uzbekistan’s central location at the crossroads of Eurasia enhances its strategic value. Acting as a natural hub for trade routes, energy corridors, and regional integration initiatives, the country has become indispensable to fostering connectivity across Asia. Coupled with its abundant natural resources, Uzbekistan’s commitment to regional collaboration has transformed it into a proactive advocate for multilateralism and conflict resolution. This unique position as a connector between diverse regions strengthens its role as a middle power and allows it to contribute significantly to regional stability and development.
A critical dimension of Uzbekistan’s ascent lies in its role in Afghanistan. The nation has emerged as a key actor in promoting peace and development in its southern neighbor. Tashkent has established itself as a trusted platform for dialogue, bringing together stakeholders to address Afghanistan’s complex challenges.
Over recent years, Uzbekistan has hosted several high-profile conferences dedicated to Afghanistan. Notable among these was the Tashkent International High-Level Conference on Afghanistan on March 27, 2018, under the theme “Peace Process, Security Cooperation, and Regional Connectivity.” This was followed by the International Conference on Afghanistan on July 25-26, 2022, where representatives from numerous nations convened to discuss strategies for economic recovery, enhanced connectivity, and humanitarian support for Afghanistan.
Beyond these multilateral engagements, Uzbekistan has demonstrated a proactive approach to direct diplomacy with Afghanistan. Between 2021 and 2024, the nation conducted approximately 20 official visits with Taliban representatives, a level of engagement unmatched by other major powers during this period. These diplomatic efforts were complemented by tangible humanitarian initiatives, including the delivery of 10 aid convoys addressing Afghanistan’s urgent needs.
Among these milestones, the visit of Prime Minister A. Aripov to Kabul on August 17, 2024, stands out as a powerful symbol of Uzbekistan’s consistent and active diplomacy. Through these initiatives, Uzbekistan has reinforced its commitment to fostering stability, supporting reconstruction efforts, and building sustainable partnerships with Afghanistan.
Uzbekistan’s journey toward becoming a middle power is underpinned by its demographic strengths, strategic geography, and dedication to multilateralism. The country’s proactive involvement in Afghanistan, characterized by sustained diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and regional cooperation, highlights its emergence as a stabilizing force in Eurasia. By embracing forward-looking policies and capitalizing on its unique strengths, Uzbekistan is steadily shaping its future as a recognized global actor. This trajectory underscores the country’s growing influence and its determination to contribute meaningfully to both regional and international dynamics.
