Uzbekistan opens doors to US investment in critical minerals

Uzbekistan and the United States have taken a major step in strengthening their bilateral ties, with Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formalize cooperation in the extraction and processing of critical minerals and rare-earth elements.

As Caliber.Az reports, citing Uzbek media, Saidov highlighted that Uzbekistan regards the rare metals sector not merely as a source of revenue but as a foundation for “responsible partnership and long-term sustainable development.” The MoU is expected to open avenues for US technologies and investment in the country’s mining industry.

Following the signing, the two officials held discussions on broader strategic cooperation, focusing on expanding trade and economic relations, bolstering energy security, and launching joint projects designed to bring mutual benefits to both nations.

The United States also emphasized its commitment to deepen collaboration with Uzbekistan on combating illegal migration and enhancing engagement within the C5+1 diplomatic framework, which unites the US with five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The sides underlined the importance of the timely implementation of agreements reached at the highest diplomatic levels, signaling a forward-looking agenda for sustained strategic partnership.

By Vafa Guliyeva