Paris's big ambitions: What does France want in Uzbekistan?

Central Asia is becoming one of the centers of attention in France's foreign policy, and Uzbekistan is recognized as the most important partner in the region. Previously, Paris's influence in the region was limited, but now it is rapidly developing political, economic and cultural ties with Tashkent. This interest is not accidental - Uzbekistan is seen as a strategically, economically and diplomatically important country.

Why is France paying attention to Tashkent?

There are four main factors underlying Paris' interest in Uzbekistan:

The first factor is energy security.
France is one of the world's largest users of nuclear energy, with 70% of its electricity generated in nuclear power plants. Therefore, ensuring a secure supply of uranium is a matter of national security. Uzbekistan is among the world's leading uranium exporters, and the French company Orano is developing uranium mining projects here.

The second factor is economic opportunities.
France sees Uzbekistan as a rapidly developing market. The average economic growth of 5-6% creates favorable conditions for French companies. Today, such large companies as Total Eren, EDF, Suez, Veolia, Airbus operate in Uzbekistan. The volume of bilateral trade reached $ 1.13 billion in 2024, which indicates a 5-fold increase in the last seven years.

The third factor is strengthening political influence in Central Asia.
As Russia's influence in the region is declining due to the conflict in Ukraine, and China's geopolitical activity is increasing, France is trying to become an alternative political player in the region. Uzbekistan's neutral and pragmatic foreign policy makes it an ideal partner for Paris.

The fourth factor is cultural diplomacy and "soft power."
France is well-versed in using cultural ties as a tool of influence. The "Treasures of the Oases of Uzbekistan" exhibition at the Louvre, the teaching of French in 700 schools, and the cooperation between Uzbek universities and the Panthéon-Sorbonne University are all part of France's long-term strategy.

How does Uzbekistan benefit from this cooperation?

Thanks to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's foreign policy strategy, Uzbekistan has managed to leverage French interests to serve the country's internal development. Tashkent is not limited to accepting French proposals, but is channeling them towards its own economic and technological modernization:

1. Attracting large amounts of investment.
   France has invested more than €6 billion in Uzbekistan since 2018. Veolia and Suez are upgrading water and heat infrastructure, while EDF is building a 1,600 MW thermal power plant on the Syrdarya River.

2. Entering the European market.
   With the support of France, Uzbekistan received the European Union's GSP+ status, which helped double the volume of exports to the European market.

3. The development of "green energy".
   Total Eren built a large solar power plant in Samarkand, and the French Development Agency ( AFD ) allocated 1 billion euros.

4. Strengthening the international image.
   France has recognized Uzbekistan's regional leadership and sees it as an important player in EU-Central Asia relations.

Future strategy: What should Uzbekistan focus on?

To maximize the benefits of France's interest in Uzbekistan, Tashkent should focus on the following areas:

1. Expanding cooperation with French industrial companies - attracting new production capacities;
2. Developing political cooperation with the European Union – using France as a bridge of communication with the European Union;
3. Deepening energy cooperation - expanding "green energy" projects with French companies;
4. Strengthening educational and cultural ties - sending more Uzbek students to study in France, developing joint programs between universities.

In general, France's interest in Uzbekistan is not limited to diplomatic relations - it is part of a deeper geopolitical and economic strategy. Thanks to President Mirziyoyev's skillful approach to foreign policy, Uzbekistan has been able to extract results from this process that are in line with its national interests. However, the main challenge is not to become completely dependent on foreign interests, but to conduct a balanced foreign policy and ensure that cooperation with France serves the long-term strategic development of Uzbekistan. If it is carried out in the right direction, this cooperation can become an important basis for national development and modernization.

V. Bazarova, independent analyst