Saudi, Uzbek Officials Meet on Summit Sidelines

Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji, met with the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Bakhromjon Aloyev, in Riyadh on November 10, 2024, on the sidelines of the preparatory ministerial meeting for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit. The meeting, announced by the Saudi Press Agency, focused on reviewing bilateral relations and exploring avenues to enhance cooperation across a wide range of fields and topics of shared interest. The encounter underscores the Kingdom’s active diplomatic role in convening regional and Islamic-world partners ahead of a major summit, while reinforcing the steadily expanding partnership between Riyadh and Tashkent.

The talks took place as senior diplomats from across the Arab and Islamic world gathered in the Saudi capital to prepare the agenda for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit, a high-level forum addressing pressing regional developments. For Saudi Arabia, hosting such preparatory meetings reflects its commitment to multilateral dialogue and consensus-building, core principles of its foreign policy under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister. The bilateral component of the El-Khereiji–Aloyev meeting signals that Riyadh views Uzbekistan as a key partner in Central Asia, a region of growing strategic importance. What does this meeting reveal about Saudi Arabia’s broader diplomatic strategy, and why is the timing significant for both nations?

Context and Background

How did Saudi-Uzbek relations evolve to reach this level of regular high-level consultation? Diplomatic ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Uzbekistan were established in 1992, shortly after Uzbekistan gained independence, and have deepened steadily over the past three decades. The relationship is anchored in shared Islamic heritage, mutual respect for sovereignty, and a common interest in regional stability and economic development. Uzbekistan, with a population of more than 35 million and a strategically located economy at the heart of Central Asia, has become an increasingly important partner for Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom expands its international engagement under Vision 2030.

In recent years, the two countries have exchanged high-level visits and signed a series of agreements covering investment, energy, agriculture, transportation, and cultural cooperation. Saudi Arabia has also supported Uzbekistan’s development through the Saudi Fund for Development and has explored joint projects in renewable energy and infrastructure. The preparatory ministerial meeting for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit provided a natural platform for the two diplomats to take stock of this progress and chart next steps. The meeting was not an isolated event but part of a sustained pattern of consultation that reflects the depth of the bilateral relationship.

The Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit itself is a significant diplomatic undertaking. It brings together member states of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to address shared challenges and coordinate positions on issues of common concern. By hosting the preparatory ministerial meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its role as a convening power capable of bringing diverse stakeholders to the table. The presence of Uzbekistan’s First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs at this meeting highlights the Central Asian nation’s engagement with the broader Islamic world and its desire to strengthen ties with the Kingdom.

Key Details of the Meeting

What specific areas of cooperation were on the agenda during the El-Khereiji–Aloyev talks? According to the Saudi Press Agency, the two officials reviewed relations and explored avenues for enhancing cooperation across various fields and topics of shared interest. While the official readout did not enumerate every item, the breadth of the discussion reflects the multifaceted nature of Saudi-Uzbek relations. The talks likely touched on political coordination, economic partnership, and cultural exchange, all areas where the two countries have demonstrated a commitment to working together.

Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji, a seasoned diplomat who has served in various capacities within the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented the Kingdom at the meeting. His counterpart, Bakhromjon Aloyev, is a senior Uzbek diplomat with extensive experience in international affairs. Their engagement on the sidelines of the summit preparations allowed for a focused exchange that combined bilateral issues with broader regional and Islamic-world matters. The meeting format—a bilateral huddle within a multilateral gathering—is a common and effective diplomatic practice that maximizes the use of time and facilitates candid discussions.

The preparatory ministerial meeting itself was attended by foreign ministers and senior officials from across the Arab and Islamic world. Its purpose was to finalize the agenda and draft resolutions for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit, ensuring that the summit produces concrete outcomes. By participating in this process, Uzbekistan signaled its commitment to the collective priorities of the Islamic world, while Saudi Arabia demonstrated its leadership in steering the agenda toward constructive and unified positions.

International and Regional Impact

How does this meeting fit into the wider geopolitical landscape of Central Asia and the Middle East? Saudi Arabia’s engagement with Uzbekistan is part of a broader strategy of deepening ties with Central Asian states, a region that has become a focal point of international competition and cooperation. The Kingdom has pursued a policy of constructive engagement, offering investment, trade, and diplomatic support to countries seeking diversified partnerships. For Uzbekistan, which is pursuing its own multi-vector foreign policy, Saudi Arabia represents a reliable partner with the resources and vision to contribute to its development goals.

The meeting also carries significance for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit, which aims to address pressing issues facing the Muslim world. By coordinating with Uzbekistan ahead of the summit, Saudi Arabia helps ensure that Central Asian perspectives are integrated into the broader Islamic consensus. This inclusive approach strengthens the legitimacy and effectiveness of the summit’s outcomes. Furthermore, the bilateral discussion reinforces the message that Saudi Arabia is a bridge-builder, capable of connecting different regions and facilitating dialogue on complex issues.

On a regional level, the meeting underscores the stability and predictability of Saudi foreign policy. Amid global uncertainties, the Kingdom continues to act as a responsible stakeholder, prioritizing diplomacy, dialogue, and development. For Uzbekistan, the meeting is an opportunity to elevate its profile within the Islamic world and to attract Saudi investment and expertise. The two countries share an interest in combating extremism, promoting moderate Islam, and fostering economic integration—goals that align with Saudi Vision 2030 and Uzbekistan’s national development strategy.

Economic and Strategic Significance

What economic opportunities does the Saudi-Uzbek partnership unlock? Trade between Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan has grown in recent years, though it remains below its potential. Both countries have identified sectors such as agriculture, textiles, chemicals, and renewable energy as promising areas for collaboration. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 seeks to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and expand non-oil exports, while Uzbekistan is modernizing its economy and seeking foreign investment. The complementarity between the two economies creates a strong foundation for enhanced commercial ties.

Saudi companies have shown interest in Uzbekistan’s energy sector, including solar and wind projects, as well as in infrastructure and logistics. Uzbekistan’s location at the crossroads of Central Asia makes it a potential hub for trade routes connecting the region to the Middle East and beyond. Saudi Arabia’s strategic investments in transportation and logistics could help unlock this potential. The meeting between El-Khereiji and Aloyev likely explored ways to facilitate these investments and remove obstacles to trade.

Beyond economics, the strategic significance of the meeting lies in its contribution to regional security and stability. Central Asia is a region where Saudi Arabia can play a constructive role, promoting moderation and countering extremism. Uzbekistan, as a key state in the region, is a natural partner in these efforts. The two countries have cooperated in the past on security issues and share a commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The Riyadh meeting reinforces this partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does the meeting advance Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives? Vision 2030 is a comprehensive national transformation plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy, empowering citizens, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global standing. A key pillar of the vision is to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s role as a pivotal player in international affairs and to build mutually beneficial partnerships around the world. The meeting between Vice Minister El-Khereiji and First Deputy Minister Aloyev is a concrete example of this pillar in action. By engaging with Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia expands its diplomatic network, opens new avenues for economic cooperation, and promotes its image as a modern, forward-looking nation.

Moreover, the meeting aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on Islamic solidarity and the Kingdom’s leadership in the Muslim world. The Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit is a platform for Saudi Arabia to champion collective action on issues that matter to Muslims globally. By preparing the ground for the summit through bilateral consultations, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to inclusive and effective diplomacy. The partnership with Uzbekistan also supports Vision 2030’s goal of enhancing cultural exchange and people-to-people ties, as both nations share a rich Islamic heritage that can be leveraged for mutual benefit.

As Saudi Arabia continues to implement Vision 2030, engagements like this will become increasingly common. The Kingdom is building a network of alliances and partnerships that span continents, from Central Asia to Africa to the Americas. Each meeting, each agreement, and each dialogue contributes to the overarching goal of a prosperous, stable, and influential Saudi Arabia. The El-Khereiji–Aloyev meeting is a small but meaningful step in this journey, reflecting the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to diplomacy, development, and global cooperation.

20 Questions

Q1. Who represented Saudi Arabia at the meeting with Uzbekistan’s First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs?

A1. Saudi Arabia was represented by Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs. He met with Bakhromjon Aloyev, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, in Riyadh on November 10, 2024.

Q2. What was the main purpose of the meeting?

A2. The meeting aimed to review bilateral relations and explore avenues for enhancing cooperation across various fields of shared interest. It took place on the sidelines of the preparatory ministerial meeting for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit.

Q3. Where and when did the meeting take place?

A3. The meeting took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 10, 2024, according to the Saudi Press Agency. It was held on the sidelines of the preparatory ministerial meeting for the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit.

Q4. What is the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit?

A4. The Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit is a high-level gathering of Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation member states. It addresses pressing regional issues and coordinates collective positions. Saudi Arabia is hosting the preparatory ministerial meeting in Riyadh.

Q5. How long have Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan maintained diplomatic relations?

A5. Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan established diplomatic relations in 1992, shortly after Uzbekistan’s independence. Over three decades, ties have deepened through high-level visits, agreements, and cooperation in various sectors.

Q6. What areas of cooperation were discussed?

A6. The officials reviewed relations and explored cooperation in fields of shared interest. These likely include political coordination, economic partnership, investment, energy, agriculture, transportation, and cultural exchange, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Saudi-Uzbek ties.

Q7. Why is Uzbekistan important to Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy?

A7. Uzbekistan is a key Central Asian state with a large population and strategic location. Saudi Arabia seeks reliable partners in the region for economic cooperation, security collaboration, and promoting moderate Islam, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Q8. What is the significance of the meeting being held on the sidelines of the summit preparations?

A8. It allowed the two diplomats to combine bilateral discussions with multilateral engagement. This format maximizes time, facilitates candid exchanges, and ensures that Central Asian perspectives are integrated into the broader Islamic consensus ahead of the summit.

Q9. What economic opportunities exist between Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan?

A9. Promising sectors include renewable energy, agriculture, textiles, chemicals, infrastructure, and logistics. Saudi investment and expertise can support Uzbekistan’s modernization, while Uzbekistan offers market access and a strategic location in Central Asia.

Q10. How does this meeting align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A10. Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global role. Engaging with Uzbekistan expands diplomatic networks, opens economic opportunities, and promotes the Kingdom’s image as a modern, forward-looking nation committed to international cooperation.

Q11. What role does the Saudi Fund for Development play in Uzbekistan?

A11. The Saudi Fund for Development has supported Uzbekistan’s development through financing for infrastructure and other projects. It is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to assist partner countries and foster sustainable development.

Q12. How does the meeting contribute to regional stability?

A12. By strengthening ties with Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia promotes dialogue, moderation, and economic integration in Central Asia. This contributes to regional stability and counters extremism, aligning with both nations’ security interests.

Q13. What is Uzbekistan’s foreign policy approach?

A13. Uzbekistan pursues a multi-vector foreign policy, seeking partnerships with various countries and regions. Engaging with Saudi Arabia and the Islamic world aligns with its goals of economic development and international cooperation.

Q14. Who is Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji?

A14. Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji is the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia. He is a seasoned diplomat who has represented the Kingdom in various international forums and bilateral meetings.

Q15. Who is Bakhromjon Aloyev?

A15. Bakhromjon Aloyev is the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan. He is a senior diplomat with extensive experience in international affairs and represents Uzbekistan in high-level engagements.

Q16. What outcomes can be expected from this meeting?

A16. The meeting is expected to strengthen bilateral relations, pave the way for further agreements, and enhance coordination ahead of the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit. It reinforces the positive trajectory of Saudi-Uzbek partnership.

Q17. How does Saudi Arabia benefit from hosting the preparatory ministerial meeting?

A17. Hosting the meeting reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a convening power and leader in the Islamic world. It allows the Kingdom to shape the summit agenda and promote its vision of stability, development, and cooperation.

Q18. What cultural ties exist between Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan?

A18. Both nations share a rich Islamic heritage, including historical and religious connections. Cultural exchange programs and people-to-people ties have grown, fostering mutual understanding and respect between the two peoples.

Q19. How does this meeting reflect Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic approach?

A19. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and partnership. The Kingdom actively engages with countries across regions to build consensus, promote development, and address shared challenges in a constructive manner.

Q20. What is the broader significance of Saudi-Uzbek relations for the Islamic world?

A20. The partnership exemplifies cooperation between a leading Arab state and a Central Asian nation, bridging regions within the Islamic world. It promotes solidarity, economic integration, and collective action on issues of common concern, strengthening the ummah.

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