Why is this important
The US aims to reduce its dependence on China for critical minerals needed for high technology and “green” energy. Uzbekistan possesses reserves of rare earth metals, uranium, and copper, making it a strategic partner. The high-ranking representatives’ visit underscores the priority of Central Asia in the Trump administration’s policy.
What happened
- Sergio Gor and Christopher Landau arrived in Tashkent on an official visit;
- Cooperation in critical minerals, energy, trade, and the C5+1 format was discussed;
- Met with business representatives to discuss joint growth;
- visited Samarkand with Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov;
- Gor was born in Tashkent during the Soviet era, his family emigrated to Israel and Malta.
Visit agenda
- Critical minerals: The US is interested in joint development of rare earth metals, uranium, and copper deposits;
- Energy: cooperation in “green” energy and energy transit;Energy: cooperation in “green” energy and energy transit;
- Trade and investment: expanding bilateral trade and attracting American companies;
- C5+1 format: strengthening regional cooperation between the US and five Central Asian countries.
Business meetings
Representatives of the American delegation met with Uzbek businessmen to discuss opportunities for joint growth and strengthening of strategic partnership.
Visit to Samarkand
As part of the trip, Gor and Landau visited Samarkand, where they toured historical sites together with Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. This underscores not only the economic but also the cultural dimension of the visit.
Biography of Sergio Gor
For Sergio Gour, his visit to Uzbekistan is of particular importance. He was born in Tashkent, when Uzbekistan was still part of the USSR. Later, his family emigrated to Israel and Malta. Personal contact with the region can strengthen its interest in developing bilateral relations.
Context
The US is actively competing with China for influence in Central Asia. Critical minerals are a key topic: rare earth elements are essential for the production of electric vehicles, solar panels, wind generators, and high-tech electronics. China controls approximately 60% of global extraction and 90% of processing of these minerals.
Uzbekistan possesses significant reserves: uranium (one of the world’s largest producers), copper, gold, rare earth metals. Joint development of deposits with American companies can diversify supply chains and reduce US dependence on China.
Energy: The US supports the development of “green” energy in Uzbekistan (solar and wind power plants) and is interested in the transit of energy carriers through Central Asia, bypassing Russia.
US trade turnover with Uzbekistan is relatively small compared to China and Russia, but it is growing. American companies are actively investing in mining, energy, and technology.
The C5+1 format is a diplomatic platform established in 2015 for cooperation between the US and five Central Asian countries. The format covers economics, energy, security, and the fight against terrorism.
Sergio Gor’s personal connection with Uzbekistan (born in Tashkent) can strengthen his motivation to deepen relations. This is a rare case where a high-ranking American diplomat has roots in the region.
