Russia and Uzbekistan Formalize Military Strategic Partnership Through 2030
Russia and Uzbekistan have initiated a military strategic partnership through 2030, featuring 50 joint military activities. Signed by Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, this agreement enhances military ties despite Uzbekistan’s hesitance towards Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Additionally, Uzbekistan keeps economic relations with Russia while avoiding participation in certain alliances.
On Wednesday, Russia and Uzbekistan formalized a military strategic partnership program that will extend through 2030. This initiative, as reported by Russia’s Defense Ministry, aims to strengthen relations between the two nations, especially amid Russia’s increasing isolation from Western powers. The arrangement includes 50 unspecified joint military activities scheduled to commence in 2025, with broader initiatives anticipated from 2026 to 2030.
The agreement was solidified by Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov during his visit to Tashkent. Despite Uzbekistan’s strong ties with Russia, it has distanced itself from endorsing Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine. The Uzbek government has also issued warnings to its citizens about potential legal repercussions for participating in the conflict as mercenaries.
While Uzbekistan remains largely economically aligned with Russia, it has chosen not to participate in specific Moscow-led organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Previously, the two nations had established a defense cooperation treaty in 2017 focusing on arms transactions, military support, and collaborative research and development initiatives.
The newly established military strategic partnership plan between Russia and Uzbekistan signifies a commitment to deepening military cooperation in response to geopolitical tensions. While Uzbekistan has maintained its economic relationships with Russia, it simultaneously distances itself from Moscow’s aggressive foreign policies, indicating a complex balancing act in its foreign relations. Overall, this partnership could impact regional stability and security dynamics through 2030.
Original Source: www.themoscowtimes.com
