China moves to cement ties with Uzbekistan amid tussle with US in Central Asia

China moves to cement ties with Uzbekistan amid tussle with US for Central Asian influence

Premier Li Qiang said the two countries should ‘strengthen solidarity and cooperation’ during a visit to Tashkent

Li told President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on Saturday that Beijing was ready to strengthen strategic communication and expand mutually beneficial cooperation with Uzbekistan.

He urged the two countries to step up cooperation in energy, minerals, finance and connectivity, and deepen collaboration in fields such as artificial intelligence and aerospace, according to state news agency Xinhua.