China and Uzbekistan have upgraded their diplomatic ties to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership, signaling closer cooperation across a range of projects. The two countries have agreed to expand their cooperation in the new energy vehicle industry chain, as well as in major projects such as photovoltaics, wind power, and hydropower. One of the key areas of cooperation is the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which would open up a new trade route as shippers look to bypass the existing overland link via Russia.

This railway project has gained new importance after the invasion of Ukraine prompted sanctions on Russia, leading shippers between China and Europe to seek alternative routes. The Central Asia railway could potentially help cut freight transport times between China and Europe, but financing and technical details for the project remain unclear. Additionally, the actual route across the three countries and how goods would reach Europe from the western terminus of the proposed railway are also unknown.

China's official news agency Xinhua reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping met with his Uzbek counterpart Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Beijing to discuss and seal the closer ties between the two countries. This move further solidifies China's diplomatic strategy in Central Asia and its efforts to enhance trade and connectivity in the region.