The latest episode of the SpecialEurasia Geopolitical Report Podcast examined the recent meeting between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, which took place on 15–16 September 2024 in the Central Asian republic.
This diplomatic visit highlighted Germany’s focus on strengthening ties with Uzbekistan and, more broadly, the Central Asian region. Scholz’s arrival in Uzbekistan underscored the importance of this visit in fostering deeper cooperation between the two nations, particularly in the areas of industrial and technological development.
During the two-day talks, both leaders formalised their countries’ commitment to advancing bilateral relations through a joint declaration and the signing of eight bilateral agreements. These included a technological partnership and industrial cooperation programme for the years 2024 to 2026, reflecting a strategic push towards long-term engagement.
Uzbekistan, keen on diversifying its external partnerships, appears to view Germany as a significant player in its economic development, particularly in terms of attracting Western investments and technological expertise. The agreements, therefore, signal Uzbekistan’s broader ambition to modernise its economy by leveraging partnerships with key European states.
Germany’s involvement in Uzbekistan is not just a bilateral matter but also part of a broader EU strategy in Central Asia. Scholz’s visit highlights Berlin’s intent to reinforce European engagement in a region historically dominated by Russian and Chinese influence.
European actors, including Germany, France, and Italy, have shown increased interest in forging closer ties with Central Asian republics, a move that signifies the shifting focus of European foreign policy towards securing a foothold in this strategically significant area. The strengthening of these ties can also be seen as part of the European Union’s aim to counterbalance the influence of Moscow and Beijing.
As the EU steps up its involvement in Central Asia, the reactions of Moscow and Beijing warrant careful attention. Russia, which has traditionally viewed Central Asia as part of its sphere of influence, is particularly sensitive to the growing presence of external actors. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s recent remarks about convening a second “Russia-Central Asia” summit reflect Moscow’s intent to maintain its influence in the region. Beijing, similarly, has cultivated extensive economic and infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative, and any shift in regional alliances could potentially disrupt Chinese interests.
The strategic significance of Uzbekistan’s outreach to Germany and, by extension, the EU is particularly relevant given the geopolitical pressures in Central Asia. For Uzbekistan, balancing relations with major global powers such as Russia and China while expanding its ties with the West is a delicate but necessary diplomatic manoeuvre. The agreements signed during this visit signal Tashkent’s intent to play a more active role in shaping its own economic future while maintaining its sovereignty in foreign relations, especially amid a changing geopolitical landscape.
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