Multidisciplinary Journal of Science and Technology

UZBEKISTAN AND AFGHANISTAN IN THE CONTEXT OF ENSURING REGIONAL SECURITY.

Akhmadaliev Azamjon

2nd year student of the Master's Degree in International Relations: European and Asian Studies

Abstract

The security dynamics between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan play a crucial role in maintaining stability in Central Asia. This essay explores Uzbekistan’s evolving foreign policy toward Afghanistan, particularly in the aftermath of the Taliban’s return to power. The analysis highlights Uzbekistan’s diplomatic initiatives, economic engagements, and security strategies aimed at fostering regional stability. Special attention is given to key infrastructure projects, such as the Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar railway, which strengthens economic ties while promoting peace. Additionally, the essay examines the security challenges posed by terrorism, drug trafficking, and border instability, emphasizing the need for multilateral cooperation among Central Asian states. By integrating economic and diplomatic efforts, Uzbekistan seeks to position itself as a mediator in Afghanistan’s stabilization process, underscoring the broader implications for regional and global security.

References

1. Dr Rashmini Koparkar. Commentary - Uzbekistan and Afghanistan Enhance Cooperation. VIF. 2018.

2. A. Yashlavsky, ISIL's Khorasan Project in Afghanistan: new challenges and threats. IMEMO, 2022

3. Shahrbanou Tadjbakhsh. Central Asia and Afghanistan: Insulation on the Silk Road, Between Eurasia and the Heart of Asia." prio.org. (2012).

4. Barnett R. Rubin, Ashraf Ghani, William Maley, Ahmed Rashid, and Olivier Roy. "Afghanistan: Reconstruction and Peacebuilding in a Regional Framework." gsdrc.org (2001).

5. Otabek Omonkulov. "Uzbekistan's Mediator Role in the Afghan Peace Process as a Neighboring and Small State." (2021).

6. Sergey A. Pritchin. "Transformation of Uzbekistan’s Approaches to Afghanistan after 2016." Vestnik RUDN. (2020).