THE MODERN STAGE OF UZBEKISTAN-IRAN PARTNERSHIP RELATIONS: PRIORITY AREAS OF COOPERATION

Abstract

This article analyzes the qualitatively new stage in the development of
relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran during the 2021-
2023 period. The study focuses on the official visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Iran in June
2023 and the comprehensive package of documents adopted as its outcome. Drawing on primary
sources, the paper examines five priority areas of bilateral cooperation: political-diplomatic
dialogue, economic and trade ties, science and innovation, transport and transit potential, and the
security domain. The findings of the analysis indicate that during this period, bilateral cooperation
has been transitioning from an episodic nature to a strategic and institutional level. In particular,
the opening of the Iranian House of Innovation and Technology in Tashkent, as well as the Trans- 
Afghan Railway project, are assessed as tangible outcomes of this new stage