Evolving Sino-Uzbek relations: a constructivist analysis of the belt and road initiative and recent reforms (2015-2023)

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was launched by the People’s Republic of China in 2013. After a while, it has been regarded as one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects throughout modern history due to its trillion-dollar expenditures and the involvement of multiple states. It aims to connect the Eurasian and African continents into one network of transport and trade routes. This initiative from a certain angle revives the ancient Silk Road and promotes economic integration across regions. Uzbekistan is, from its geographical position, located in a double-landlocked place in Central Asia. Hence, it has been experiencing difficulties in foreign trade and political connectivity since its establishment. The Chinese project, the BRI, provides an opportunity to expand its global presence and modernize its economy. Despite its significance, the academic space has not fully captured the evolving dynamics of Sino-Uzbek relations under the BRI. Existing literature often addresses the broader scope of the BRI or China’s influence in Central Asia but fails to adequately explore Uzbekistan’s unique position within the initiative. As a critical intersection in the China-Central Asia-West Asia Economic Corridor, Uzbekistan represents a case of successful alignment between a national development strategy and a global connectivity project. This underexplored aspect makes the study of Sino-Uzbek relations particularly relevant.