'Warmth of Uzbek people leaves me with lasting impression'

Editor's note: Zheng Junfeng is a TV anchor working with CGTN. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

As Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoev visits China to strengthen bilateral ties from January 23 to January 25, I reflect on my 2023 visit to Uzbekistan.

During my attendance at the 2023 United National World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, I was pleasantly surprised by several aspects of the country of 35 million people.

Firstly, the local people's warmth and welcoming attitude towards foreign guests, especially those from China, left a lasting impression. Passersby even waved to us as we traveled by car. While middle-aged locals were somewhat reserved, likely due to limited English proficiency, the younger generation was open, friendly and eager to engage with us. They displayed a keen interest in Chinese culture, economy and technology. A university student interning at the UNWTO event told me that visiting China is a "dream" for him, despite having limited knowledge about Beijing and Shanghai.

Secondly, I discovered the opportunities perceived by local Chinese businesspeople. A conversation with a Chinese hotel manager revealed that the Uzbek government's commitment to openness since 2018 had been well-received by its citizens. The social and business environment in Uzbekistan is conducive to foreign investment, including from China. The country's opening-up and reform efforts have generated substantial demand for various goods and services, such as equipment, manufacturing, technology and infrastructure. 

Additionally, Uzbekistan serves as a gateway to neighboring Central Asian countries, collectively boasting a population of over 72 million and experiencing robust economic growth in recent years. People can travel freely in the region. The Uzbek government hired lots of helpers from other Central Asian countries during the UNWTO event.

Thirdly, I recognized the potential in infrastructure development. Despite Uzbekistan's proximity to China, my journey to Samarkand, the country's second-largest city and cultural hub, required a flight via Urumqi. My return trip started with a train from Samarkand to Tashkent and another flight to a third country (Almaty of Kazakhstan) before reaching Beijing. Direct flights from major Chinese cities to Uzbekistan's capital, Tashkent, and cultural city Samarkand remain limited. Enhanced air connectivity would significantly facilitate tourism, communication, and business exchanges between the two nations. 

Furthermore, while the fast train between Samarkand and Tashkent was impressive, the limited daily trips posed challenges for travelers. I had to get up very early to catch the only morning train. Improvements in infrastructure, supported by China's expertise, could benefit both international and domestic travelers.

Fourthly, I observed a proliferation of Chinese electric vehicle brands, such as BYD, XPeng, Beijing, and Trumpchi, on the streets of Tashkent. Local residents attributed this surge to the rise in income and living standards following Uzbekistan's opening-up and reform in 2018.

The rapid increase in private vehicles has led to traffic congestion and parking issues, signaling substantial potential for cooperation in urban planning. I also learned that BYD has committed to establishing a factory in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan has the opportunity to transition directly from combustion engine cars to pure electric vehicles, aligning with environmentally friendly and sustainable practices. This could be a perfect "leapfrog" moment just like when China leapfrogged from internet on computers to mobile internet.

Before departing for the airport, I visited the Uzbekistan National Museum in Tashkent and delved into the country's rich history. I firmly believe that following decades of isolation until 2018, the Uzbek people are poised to embrace the global economy, fostering rapid economic and social development just like what China had experienced. This trajectory will create great investment opportunities for the world, including China. A win-win cooperation is imminent.

(Pics via CGTN's Zheng Junfeng; Cover via CFP)