INTEGRATION PROCESSES IN CENTRAL ASIA: A QUALITATIVELY NEW STAGE IN UZBEKISTAN–TAJIKISTAN RELATIONS

Abstract

This article examines the evolutionary process of bilateral relations between two leading states of the Central Asian region — the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Tajikistan. It analyses the period of tension in the early years of independence, the positive transformation following 2016, and in particular the legal-political significance of the Alliance Relations Treaty signed in 2024. The study employs statistical and comparative methods to examine the dynamics of mutual trade, cross-border management of water and energy resources, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation.