Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a landlocked, ex-Soviet republic in Central Asia. It is one of the region's two largest economies and is currently newsworthy due to its efforts to reduce dependence on Russia and Iran. Recent developments include Uzbekistan's participation in a plan to build railways through Afghanistan to access the Arabian Sea, bypassing traditional reliance on Russia and Iran for trade routes. Additionally, Uzbekistan is investing in "smart city" mega-projects with Chinese investment, further signaling a shift away from Russian economic influence. The country is also a source of emigration, with individuals and families seeking asylum and building lives in countries like Sweden, highlighting the impact of immigration policies on Uzbek citizens abroad. These developments underscore Uzbekistan's evolving geopolitical and economic position in Central Asia.