Chinese company eyes role in Tashkent metro expansion project

Makhkamov told Uzbekiston 24 TV channel that Tianjin Rail Transit Group had put forward proposals to take part in both the modernization of existing metro stations and the construction of new ones in Tashkent. Talks on potential cooperation are ongoing.

The minister also pointed to progress on major regional infrastructure initiatives. At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in September, member states discussed easing border congestion, streamlining customs procedures, and advancing digitalization. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev urged greater use of transit opportunities within the SCO.

Among the key projects is the long-anticipated China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan railway, where practical implementation has begun. Makhkamov described the planned Trans-Afghan railway as a “natural continuation” of this trilateral route, which could eventually link up to form a unified SCO transport network.

Discussions between Uzbekistan and China have also touched on developing multimodal transport and boosting freight volumes. In August, Deputy Transport Minister Jasurbek Choriev met with Tianjin Rail Transit Group executives, who expressed interest not only in Tashkent’s metro but also in the Tashkent – Samarkand high-speed rail project. The company is expected to present detailed proposals after further study.

According to Choriev, Beijing has shown “strong interest” in supporting financing, advanced technologies, and innovative solutions for these large-scale infrastructure plans.