BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 19. U.S. President
Donald Trump could visit Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, in the
coming year, although no dates have been set, U.S. Secretary of
State Marco Rubio said during his visit to Samarkand on October
19.
“We would love to see that happen, and we’ve got to work on that
in the year to come and see what dates are possible, because I
think he would like to come if he can,” Rubio said, adding that he
could not comment on the president’s future travel plans.
Rubio made the remarks in response to a question about the main
issues discussed during his talks with Uzbek officials and the
timing of a potential presidential visit.
The secretary of state said the discussions covered bilateral
issues as well as broader global economic developments and their
impact on Uzbekistan and other countries.
He described the U.S.-Uzbekistan relationship as one defined by
economic opportunities rather than challenges or conflicts,
highlighting Uzbekistan’s economic growth and its potential to
attract American investment.
“This is a place that is growing dramatically and economically.
It’s providing incredible opportunities for prosperity for its
people. And we have American companies that are interested in being
a part of it, and we’re here to explore how we can do more of it,”
Rubio said.
He added that shared economic prosperity could strengthen ties
between the two countries.
“There is nothing that strengthens relationships more than
shared prosperity, and that’s what we’re looking to build on, and
that’s why we’re here,” Rubio said.
Rubio’s visit to Samarkand included the launch of the
Uzbekistan-U.S. Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue and
discussions on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy,
critical minerals and advanced technologies.
