Malaysia Considered a Key Partner for Uzbekistan in Southeast Asia and the Wider Asian Region

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Malaysia have entered a “new chapter,” supported by joint projects valued at over US$5 billion and active high-level engagement, according to Bernama.

Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Dr. Karomiddin Gadoev, recalled that Malaysia was among the first countries to recognize Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991, with diplomatic relations officially established on 21 January 1992.

“Since then, relations have developed on the basis of friendship, mutual understanding, and respect,” he stated during a reception marking the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence, held Tuesday evening.

Gadoev emphasized that high-level dialogue between the leaders of the two countries and inter-parliamentary exchanges have gained significant momentum.

In May 2024, after a 16-year hiatus, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited Uzbekistan. This was followed by a visit from Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Malaysia in February 2025 — the first visit by an Uzbek president in two decades.

“These historic visits and the agreements reached have opened a new chapter in our relations,” the ambassador noted.

Highlighting the steady growth in trade and investment, Gadoev reported that more than 40 projects involving Malaysian partners are currently underway in Uzbekistan, with a total value exceeding US$5 billion.

He also emphasized Uzbekistan’s domestic achievements under the “New Uzbekistan” concept, noting strengthened citizen rights and freedoms, as well as sustained economic growth despite global challenges.

“Over the past eight years, GDP has doubled — from US$57 billion to US$115 billion. This year alone, 9,000 new enterprises and service complexes have been established. The number of small and medium-sized enterprises has doubled, now employing over 10 million people,” the ambassador said.

He reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s commitment to an active and open foreign policy aimed at strengthening ties with neighboring countries and global partners.

Uzbekistan celebrates its Independence Day annually on 1 September, commemorating the proclamation of sovereignty in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The reception was attended by Perak’s Crown Prince Raja Jaafar ibni Almarhum Raja Muda Musa, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Minister of Higher Education Dato’ Seri Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir, and other members of the diplomatic corps.