Uzbekistan–China Interregional Cooperation Forum Held in Xi’an

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The third Uzbekistan–China Interregional Forum was held in Xi’an, China, on 21–22 May 2026, becoming one of the key platforms for developing practical cooperation between regions of the two countries, business communities, and development institutions.

The event brought together around 2,000 representatives of government bodies, regional administrations, academic institutions, business associations, and companies from both countries. Within the framework of the forum, the national pavilion “Made in Uzbekistan” continued its work at the Xi’an International Exhibition Center.

The delegation of Uzbekistan was led by Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev during the extended working visit.

The program included participation in the 10th “Silk Road” International Exhibition, the Global Conference on the China–Europe Railway Express Economic Corridor, as well as bilateral meetings with Chinese government institutions and companies.

At the opening ceremony of the forum and exhibition, the Deputy Prime Minister stated that the platform is becoming an important tool for expanding interregional cooperation and forming new joint projects.

He noted that China remains Uzbekistan’s largest trade, economic, and technological partner. Over the past five years, bilateral trade has tripled and reached approximately US$18 billion last year. Chinese direct investment in Uzbekistan reached US$17 billion in 2023.

More than 5,600 joint ventures with Chinese capital are currently operating in Uzbekistan. The need to expand cooperation in electrical engineering, automotive production, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, construction, textiles, and food industries was emphasized.

The forum included thematic sessions on trade, investment, green economy, digital technologies, innovation, agriculture, and tourism. As a result, agreements were reached on a number of joint projects.

A key highlight was the opening of the Uzbekistan pavilion covering 2,000 square meters and the launch of the “100 Alibaba Accelerators” program. The initiative aims to integrate Uzbek manufacturers into the Alibaba.com global platform and expand their access to international markets.

During the visit, meetings were also held with representatives of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, as well as Chinese companies in technology, industry, logistics, and e-commerce.

Special attention was given to the development of transport corridors, including the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project, considered an important component of strengthening logistical connectivity between Asia and Europe.

The Xi’an visit formed part of Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to deepen economic and investment cooperation with China, enhance industrial collaboration, and expand interregional ties.