Uzbekistan’s Role and Future Prospects as CIS Approaches 35th Anniversary
As the Commonwealth of Independent States approaches its 35th anniversary in December 2026, the bloc’s evolving role has brought Tashkent’s foreign policy shift into sharp focus, UZA.uz reported in an interview with political science doctor and professor Saifiddin Jurayev.
The Evolution of the Commonwealth Since December 1991
The Commonwealth of Independent States was established in December 1991, marking its 35th anniversary in late 2026. Over the decades, the organization shifted its focus from the initial legal formalization of independence for former Soviet republics toward practical cooperation in economics, humanitarian affairs, transport, and security. Saifiddin Jurayev noted that the organization successfully maintained mechanisms for dialogue during complex geopolitical shifts, operating more than 80 organs and 67 sectoral structures. While political influence waned and activities occasionally intersected with other regional bodies, the bloc preserved essential frameworks for cross-border cooperation.
Shifting Engagement and Trade Volumes in Tashkent
Uzbekistan’s approach to the Commonwealth transformed significantly after 2017. Between 1991 and 2016, Tashkent participated only partially in the organization’s events, prioritizing bilateral ties instead. Since 2017, Uzbekistan has engaged fully across all 66 areas of activity, putting forward 90 practical initiatives, 80 of which have already been implemented.
Economic indicators reflect this integration. Between January and October 2025, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with Commonwealth member states reached $21.9 billion. In the first half of 2026, these nations accounted for 37.8 percent of the country’s total foreign trade turnover, with joint ventures exceeding 6,000.
Upcoming Chairmanship Priorities for 2027
Uzbekistan is set to chair the organization in 2027, taking on a coordinating role aimed at adapting the bloc to new economic and geopolitical realities. According to Jurayev, Tashkent’s agenda centers on four main pillars:
- Deepening economic cooperation by improving free trade zones, expanding services markets, and opening public procurement markets.
- Advancing technological collaboration through venture platforms, artificial intelligence, big data processing, digitalization, and green energy.
- Strengthening transport connectivity via the North-South and East-West international transport corridors.
- Developing human capital through academic mobility, mutual qualification recognition, and labor migrant protections.
Additional priorities include countering radicalization, ensuring cybersecurity, and protecting state borders.
Unresolved Questions Regarding Future Adaptation
Despite the operational expansion and upcoming chairmanship, the long-term trajectory of the organization depends on practical project delivery rather than political declarations.