Uzbekistan and China advance railway deal, discuss visa easing

Uzbekistan and China are set to deepen their cooperation by simplifying visa requirements and expediting progress on the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project.

On November 24, representatives of Uzbekistan’s embassy met with the Consular Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing, the Dunyo IA reported.

Discussions focused on visa regime liberalization, protecting citizens' rights, and fostering growth in tourism, business, and investments. The Uzbek side emphasized that easing visa restrictions is a state policy priority, while Chinese officials lauded Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms and reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration.

The following day, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov held talks with Yu Jun, the Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan. The centerpiece of their discussions was the acceleration of a tripartite concession agreement for the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. The meeting also addressed increasing cargo transport quotas, expediting container clearance at Chinese ports, and boosting the frequency of flights by Uzbek airlines.

Progress on the mountain rail line

The China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project, spanning 454 kilometers, was finalized in June 2023 after years of negotiations. Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan each hold a 24.5% stake in the joint project company, while China owns the remaining 51%.

The railway, which traverses mountainous terrain, is valued at $4.7 billion. Participating countries will fund half of the project proportional to their shares, with China providing $2.35 billion through a non-commercial loan. Uzbekistan has committed $255 million, with an initial $14 million to be allocated by the end of this year.

Broader bilateral cooperation

Both countries have agreed to intensify collaboration on large-scale infrastructure initiatives and enhance mobility for their citizens. China praised the project as a key initiative for regional connectivity and pledged continued support for its implementation.

By streamlining visas and advancing joint infrastructure efforts, Uzbekistan and China aim to strengthen ties and drive regional development.