The ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand became a modern crossroads of diplomacy this week as Uzbekistan hosted the second Regional Cooperation Forum with China. CGTN's Xu Xinchen and Uzbekistan National News Agency reporter Utkir Alimov documented how bilateral collaboration now spans technology transfer, cultural preservation, and renewable energy projects.
"What began as trade routes centuries ago has evolved into knowledge highways," Alimov observed, noting Uzbekistan's adoption of Chinese smart agriculture solutions to combat desertification. Xu highlighted joint archaeological initiatives preserving Silk Road heritage sites as symbols of mutual respect.
With bilateral trade reaching $9.7 billion in 2023, forum discussions emphasized Uzbekistan's role in China's Belt and Road Initiative. New agreements emerged in rare earth mineral development and vocational training programs, while tourism partnerships aim to triple direct flights between the nations.
The event concluded with plans for a China-Central Asia digital trade platform, positioning Uzbekistan as a regional hub for e-commerce. As evening fell over Samarkand's Registan Square, traditional music performances by artists from both countries underscored the partnership's cultural dimensions.
