The Abraham Accords effect continues to ripple outward: another Muslim-majority nation is looking to strengthen relations with Israel. Between economic reforms and discoveries of natural resources, Uzbekistan—Central Asia’s most populous country—is opening its doors to Israeli technology, agriculture, and innovation.
Uzbekistan, Central Asia’s most populous nation with over 30 million residents, has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. After a long period of dictatorial rule following the Soviet Union’s collapse, the election of a new president marked the country’s opening to the West.
Uzbekistan’s population is overwhelmingly Muslim, with Islam accounting for more than 90 percent of religious adherence nationwide. Sunni Islam predominates among believers, and the Hanafi school shapes most religious practice across the country.
This process, accompanied by sweeping economic reforms and impressive discoveries of minerals, metals, and natural resources, has put Uzbekistan on the international investment map.
Now the country is seeking to expand its diplomatic, tourism, and commercial ties with Israel. Jerusalem has recognized the potential in Central Asian nations for years, and Uzbekistan is emerging as a central and important player in this arena.
Last month, Tashkent hosted the Fifth International Investment Forum, which revealed the country’s strong desire to learn from Israeli experience across multiple sectors: high-tech, agriculture and water, and textile and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
“Israeli Technology Changed the Face of the Factory”
Appreciation for Israeli technology is evident on the ground. At the GLOBALTEXTILE factory, which oversees the entire cotton production chain—from cultivation to finished garment—managers attest to the critical contribution of Israeli knowledge.
“Until recent years, we grew cotton with ‘dumb’ irrigation. Cooperation with Israeli companies brought advanced technologies here that changed the face of the factory,” managers told C14 in exclusive documentation, adding: “We thank the Israelis and seek to expand cooperation even further.”
In the field of technological innovation, Uzbekistan has also set Israel as a model. A new “high-tech village” has been established in the heart of Tashkent, designed to house international startup companies. “We see Israel as an example of global success,” officials there noted. “We invite Israeli companies to take part in the international competitions we hold here and look forward to seeing collaboration between us.”