Termez: Connecting Central and South Asia for Trade, Security, and Cultural Cooperation

The city also plays an essential role in resolving

border disputes, such as the recent meeting

between Uzbek and Tajik working groups

Asliddin Gulamov
PhD, associate professor

Central and South Asia have shared a deep historical and cultural connection, shaped by ancient trade routes and geographical proximity. Over time, this interconnectedness evolved into trade, cultural exchange, and political cooperation, creating a shared identity. Following their independence, Central Asian states began developing foreign policies and economic strategies toward South Asia, further strengthening this bond.

The strategic location, natural resources, and demographic potential of these regions have made them a subject of extensive research. Scholars view Central and South Asia as two distinct but closely linked regions within the global security complex. Afghanistan’s evolving role has been a crucial factor in linking these regions, enabling growing cooperation.

A key player in this process, Uzbekistan has emerged as a regional leader promoting peace, security, and cooperation. In July 2021, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev hosted the high-level conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity, Challenges, and Opportunities” in Tashkent. The conference resulted in a draft UN resolution to enhance connectivity between the two regions, which was unanimously approved in July 2022, showcasing Uzbekistan’s rising influence in international affairs.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of combating regional threats, expanding transportation and ICT infrastructure, and creating new international transport corridors. This will facilitate accessible, sustainable trade routes between the regions, strengthening long-term cooperation.

Termez, located at the crossroads of Central and South Asia, plays a vital role in regional cooperation. Historically, it served as a link in the Great Silk Road and continues to act as a hub for modern infrastructure projects like the “Termez – Mazari-Sharif – Kabul – Peshawar” railway and “Surkhan – Puli-Khumri” power lines.

The city holds significance for regional security. Termez was home to the “Termez Strategic Air Transport Point” between 2002-2015, ensuring logistical support for humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan. Additionally, Termez is pivotal in joint international efforts to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and cross-border crime, with the “Friendship Bridge” facilitating the monitoring of illicit activities.

The city also plays an essential role in resolving border disputes, such as the recent meeting between Uzbek and Tajik working groups to demarcate their shared border. Furthermore, Termez has become a key international logistics hub, with the “Termez Cargo Center terminal” gaining recognition as a multifunctional logistics facility that serves Afghanistan and South Asia. This hub supports the delivery of humanitarian aid, including shipments to flood victims in Pakistan and essential goods to Afghanistan.

Termez’s growing role as an economic center is evidenced by the opening of the Termez International Trade Center in August 2024, which aims to foster business and streamline logistics. The center has introduced a 15-day visa-free regime for visitors, enhancing the city’s economic attractiveness and boosting bilateral trade between Central and South Asia.

Moreover, Termez’s cultural and educational initiatives further strengthen its position as a regional center for cooperation. In 2018, an educational center was established to train Afghan citizens, offering specialized education and vocational training to over 700 Afghans, including 200 girls. This institution, supported by international organizations like the EU and UNDP, provides opportunities for skill development and empowerment in Afghanistan.

In conclusion, the dynamic development of Central and South Asia, supported by their shared resources and strategic location, offers immense potential for cooperation. Uzbekistan’s role as a bridge between the two regions is central to fostering peace, security, and sustainable development. The “Termez platform” stands as a vital tool for promoting trade, security, and cultural exchanges, with a focus on addressing common challenges such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and strengthening transportation, tourism, and education sectors.