Turkey and Uzbekistan

Expectations for Turkey’s part in opening Uzbekistan to economic dynamism and Western values have yet to be realized. Both sides have been guilty of missteps in parenting the relationship, but it is probably Uzbekistan’s strong suspicions about Turkey’s intentions that have served as the most powerful brake. Further, a fear of Islamic radicalization, and Turkey’s potential contribution to it, color all other parts of the state-to-state relationship. It is hard to see how problems can be addressed without Turkey and Uzbekistan understanding the benefits of a strong strategic partnership.