Theoretical Aspects of the Study of Relations Between Uzbekistan

and Japan

Durdona A. Toshboyeva

Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Keywords: Uzbekistan, Japan, Diplomatic Relations, Soft Power, Strategic Cooperation, Official Visit, Theoretical

Aspects, Historical Background, Economic Cooperation, Cultural Exchanges, Grants, Central Asia + Japan

Dialogue Program.

Abstract: This article critically examines the theoretical foundations and practical dimensions of diplomatic relations

between Japan and Uzbekistan, focusing on their historical, political, economic, and cultural dimensions.

Emphasizing the importance of trust and shared interests, both nations prioritize strengthening collaboration.

Uzbekistan emerges as a significant ally of Japan in Central Asia, evidenced by key diplomatic visits,

educational initiatives, and high-level exchanges. The sustained efforts in this regard underscore a

commitment to strategic cooperation. Future prospects include enhancing interregional connections,

facilitating labour migration, improving education and healthcare, and fostering cultural exchanges.

Leveraging investments and drawing from the expertise of professionals will bolster Uzbekistan's economic

prowess and workforce productivity. This comprehensive analysis highlights the potential for fostering

enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Japan and Uzbekistan, shaping a promising future

characterised by mutual benefit and cooperation.

1 INTRODUCTION

The diplomatic relationship between Uzbekistan and

Japan holds substantial diplomatic and strategic

importance within the realm of international relations.

This article aims to dissect the nuanced dynamics

characterising their engagement by undertaking a

theoretical analysis of the factors shaping their

bilateral ties. The focus is on examining the historical

context, current diplomatic landscape, key areas of

collaboration, and recommendations for enhancing

mutual relations. Japan's prominent global position in

terms of economic prowess and technological

advancement presents valuable lessons for

Uzbekistan, with which it maintains strong

collaborative ties. The establishment of formal

diplomatic relations between the two nations in 1992,

subsequent high-level visits, and the solidification of

a strategic partnership in 2002-mark significant

milestones in their relationship. Notable exchanges,

including President Sh. M. Mirziyoyev's official visit

to Japan in 2019, underscore the enduring

commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.

https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9457-2363

2 LITERATURE REVIEW &

METHODOLOGY

This study adopts a qualitative approach, employing

document analysis and a critical review of scholarly

literature, to investigate the diplomatic relations

between Uzbekistan and Japan. Utilizing primary

sources, official documents, academic publications,

and reports from international organizations, the

research gathers relevant data (Len C., Uyama T., &

Hirose T. (Eds), 2008). Employing methods such as

comparative analysis, historical review, and content

analysis, it aims to comprehend the multifaceted

aspects of their relationship data (Len C., Uyama T.,

& Hirose T. (Eds), 2008).

The literature review delves into existing research

on diplomatic ties between the two nations,

referencing works by scholars such as Murashkin N.,

Takeshi Y., and Iwashita A. Notably, the collective

monograph "Japan's Silk Road Diplomacy: Paving

the Road Ahead" by Len, Uyama, and Hirose stands

out for its exploration of various dimensions of the

1408

Toshboyeva, D.

Theoretical Aspects of the Study of Relations Between Uzbekistan and Japan.

DOI: 10.5220/0012971400003882

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 2nd Pamir Transboundary Conference for Sustainable Societies (PAMIR-2 2023), pages 1408-1413

ISBN: 978-989-758-723-8

relationship between Central Asia and data (Len C.,

Uyama T., & Hirose T. (Eds), 2008). Additionally,

studies by Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis, M

Shamilov, Z.G. Kasimova, B.B. Jahongirov, B.S.

Suyunova, and Mirzokhid Rakhimov contribute

valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of

Uzbekistan-Japan relations (Aleksandra Palkova,

Karlis Bukovskis, M Shamilov et al., 2020). These

studies examine historical occurrences, cross-cultural

interactions, and business alliances, shedding light on

the evolving nature of diplomatic ties between the

two nations (Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis,

M Shamilov et al., 2020)

The diplomatic relationship between Uzbekistan

and Japan holds significant strategic importance

within international relations. While Japan is globally

renowned for its economic prowess and technological

advancement, Uzbekistan boasts a rich cultural

heritage and strategic geopolitical position. Since

establishing formal diplomatic ties in 1992, the

partnership between the two nations has steadily

expanded, driven by mutual interests in education,

economic development, political reforms, and energy

resources [Speech by Mr. Taro Aso]. Noteworthy

high-level visits and initiatives such as the "Silk Road

Diplomacy" approach underscore Japan's

commitment to strengthening its engagement with

Central Asia (Mirzokhid Rakhimov, 2014). Despite

encountering challenges, the cooperative relations

between Uzbekistan and Japan continue to flourish,

encompassing political, economic, cultural, and

educational domains [Azizov S]. Initiatives such as

the establishment of parliamentary friendship leagues

and interregional representative offices further

promote bilateral cooperation and people-to-people

exchanges [Current archive of the Committee on

Interethnic Relations and Friendship with Foreign

Countries under the Cabinet of Ministers of the

Republic of Uzbekistan Political cooperation].

Through collaborative efforts in various sectors and

the establishment of direct flights, the relationship

between Uzbekistan and Japan has evolved into a

multifaceted partnership, poised for further growth

and development in the years to come [Uzbekistan-

Japan: Towards a new strategic partnership (book-

album)].

Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis, and M

Shamilov conducted research on the theme "Public

diplomacy of Japan in Central Asia: the examples of

Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan." The research

investigates the evolving dynamics of foreign policy

relations between Japan and Central Asia, with a

particular focus on Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

(Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis, M Shamilov,

2020). It explores areas of mutual cooperation and the

implementation of public diplomacy practices in

these two nations. Employing qualitative research

methods, such as document analysis and interviews,

the study seeks insights into how Japan identifies

itself with the Central Asian region and its countries,

as well as how public diplomacy serves as a tool of

social influence in this context, in line with a

constructivist perspective on international relations

(Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis, M Shamilov

et al., 2020). The analysis reveals Japan's keen

interest in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan across various

domains, including education, economic

development, political reforms, and energy resources

(Aleksandra Palkova, Karlis Bukovskis, M Shamilov

et al., 2020)

Uzbek researchers have also conducted several

studies on the relations between Japan and

Uzbekistan. Z.G. Kasimova's scientific article "New

Trends in the Development of Cooperation Relations

between Uzbekistan and Japan" shows the

development processes and new trends of diplomatic

relations between Uzbekistan and Japan (Kasimova

Zilola Gulomidin kizi). The results of the visits made

by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan and the

results of the armistice between the two countries are

discussed. The author believes that relations between

Uzbekistan and Japan have a bright future (Kasimova

Zilola Gulomidin kizi). B.B. Jahongirov's article

"Uzbekistan's scientific-technical relations with

Japan" briefly examines the issue of Uzbekistan's

scientific-technical relations with Japan (Burkhan

Boronovich Jahongirov, 2021). In the article, the

scientific and technical assistance of the two countries

to each other, relations between the two countries,

scientists, historians, and tourists in the years before

independence were researched and conclusions were

given. The author believes that Japan and Uzbekistan

are compatible with each other in terms of scientific

and technical cooperation, and this is proven by

history (Burkhan Boronovich Jahongirov, 2021]. B.S.

Suyunova wrote a scientific article entitled "Features

of the Development and Formation of diplomatic

relations between Uzbekistan and Japan" (Suyunova

Barno Safarali). It talks about the work done with the

help of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and

Japan, opened organizations, and projects, in

addition, it analyses the work done in education,

migration, health care, cultural exchange, and other

areas (Suyunova Barno Safarali). The author believes

that it is necessary to further strengthen the relations

between Japan and Uzbekistan (Suyunova Barno

Safarali). Mirzokhid Rakhimov conducted theoretical

research on the relations between Japan and Central

Theoretical Aspects of the Study of Relations Between Uzbekistan and Japan

1409

Asia in his article on the theme "Central Asia and

Japan: Bilateral and Multilateral Relations"

[Mirzokhid Rakhimov]. Following the dissolution of

the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, Central Asian

nations and Japan established diplomatic ties, leading

to a growing partnership evident in increased official

interactions (Mirzokhid Rakhimov, 2014). In 1997,

Japan introduced the "Silk Road Diplomacy"

approach as part of its engagement with Central Asia

(Mirzokhid Rakhimov, 2014).. As the 21st century

unfolded, new players such as India, Korea, and Japan

became more active in Central Asia, receiving a warm

reception in the region (Mirzokhid Rakhimov, 2014).

Japan, recognizing Central Asia's rising strategic

significance in global security, aimed to enhance its

role in Eurasia as an Asian nation (Mirzokhid

Rakhimov, 2014)..

Over the past two decades, the partnership

between Central Asian countries and Japan has

steadily expanded. Japan has been a significant

contributor to Central Asia's structural reforms, with

investments in the region's economy and

transportation networks reaching billions (Mirzokhid

Rakhimov, 2014). Key areas of interest for Japan in

its engagement with Central Asia include

collaborations in education, economic development,

political reforms, and energy resources (Mirzokhid

Rakhimov, 2014). Japan's initiation of the "Central

Asia plus Japan" dialogue reflects its commitment to

multilateral diplomacy within the region (Mirzokhid

Rakhimov, 2014). Despite encountering some

challenges in their relationship, Central Asia and

Japan hold promising prospects for future bilateral

and multilateral cooperation (Mirzokhid Rakhimov,

2014). Similar to Korea, India, and other nations,

Japan enjoys a highly positive reputation in Central

Asia, which serves as an additional factor

strengthening partnerships between Central and East

Asia and fostering interregional ties across the

expansive Asian continent and beyond (Mirzokhid

Rakhimov, 2014).

In addition, many Uzbek scientists have

theoretically studied the relationship between Japan

and Uzbekistan, and this continues. After Japan

recognized the independence of Uzbekistan on

December 28, 1991, diplomatic relations were

established between the two countries from January

26, 1992 (Joraev S., Akhmedov O., Rahimova M,

2008). In 1993, the embassy of Japan was established

in Tashkent, and three years later the embassy of

Uzbekistan was established in Tokyo as structures

serving to ensure the development of relations [Joraev

S., Akhmedov O., Rahimova M; p.244]. Also in

Osaka since 2004 The Honorary Consulate of the

Republic of Uzbekistan has started to operate (Joraev

S., Akhmedov O., Rahimova M, 2008). Magasoki

Ukeru, the first ambassador to Uzbekistan of Japan,

said that the USSR was disintegrating and new

countries were emerging (Joraev S., Akhmedov O.,

Rahimova M, 2008). The first visit of Japan to Central

Asia after its establishment was by the former

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Finance of Japan,

Chino Tadao, to Uzbekistan in February 1992 (Joraev

S., Akhmedov O., Rahimova M, 2008). According to

Japanese experts, the International Monetary Fund is

in Uzbekistan after this analysis that Japan is facing

difficulties in economic policy For the

implementation of macroeconomic policy and

development of other areas in Uzbekistan started to

help [Takeshi Y.]. Since 1995, the Japanese

government has been promoting education and health

in our country to small-scale social projects covering

conservation, agriculture and other fields has been

implementing a non-profit aid program [

Prospects of trade and economic cooperation].

The second visit of the First President of our country

to Japan in July 2002 visit and Japanese Prime

Minister Junichiro Koizumi to Uzbekistan in August

2006, the official visit organized by him were further

developing the cooperation between Uzbekistan and

Japan became important. Interactions are not only

political but also economic, cultural, science-

educational, covering investment aspects as well

[Speech by Mr. Taro Aso]. Also, cooperative

relations have been established between legislative

bodies, which are developing rapidly [Speech by Mr.

Taro Aso]. In particular, Japan "Democratic Party of

Japan - Uzbekistan" and "Liberal-Democratic Party

of Japan - Uzbekistan" friendship leagues were

established [Speech by Mr. Taro Aso]. Also, the

Parliament of Uzbekistan Interparliamentary

"Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan -

Parliament of Japan" in the Legislative Chamber

group is operating [Speech by Mr. Taro Aso].

Interregional representative offices of JICA and

JETRO in Tashkent during 1999-2001 and providing

impartial technical assistance, representatives of both

business and social circles projects on establishing

relations between them and developing cooperation

in the humanitarian sphere The Uzbekistan-Japan

Center serving the implementation was opened

[Speech by Mr. Taro Aso]. From April 2001 Starting

with the establishment of direct flights between

Uzbekistan and Japan, the rapprochement of our

peoples and the growth of the exchange of tourists

between our countries was one of the contributing

factors [Speech by Mr. Taro Aso].

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3 RESULTS & DISCUSSION

The discussion highlights the need for both countries

to further enhance their bilateral ties through

increased cooperation in various domains. It is

recommended that Uzbekistan and Japan focus on

expanding trade agreements, promoting cultural

exchange programs, and engaging in high-level

diplomatic dialogues to strengthen their relationship.

Both nations can benefit from mutual learning,

collaboration, and shared initiatives in areas such as

technology transfer, education, and tourism.

Picture 1. The relationship between Uzbekistan and Japan.

Academic Results and Contribution:

This study offers a comprehensive overview of the

theoretical underpinnings of Uzbekistan-Japan

relations, providing insights into historical context,

current challenges, and potential areas for

collaboration. The analysis presented in this article

distinguished by its in-depth examination of cultural

exchanges, economic partnerships, and political

dialogues between Uzbekistan and Japan, presenting

a nuanced understanding of the relationship that goes

beyond surface-level analysis.

The investigation uncovers a convoluted network of

historical occurrences and cross-cultural interactions

that have shaped Uzbekistan-Japan relations. Their

relationship has been greatly aided by economic

cooperation, especially in the fields of commerce and

investment.

Mutual understanding has also been greatly aided by

people-to-people contacts, educational partnerships,

and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Table 1: Important information on diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Japan(Source: The table was compiled based

on the author's analysis using data from the site).

Diplomatic relations

1 Diplomatic Relations established: in 26 January 1992.

2 Embassy of Japan opened in Tashkent in January 1993.

Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan

opened in Tok

in February 1996.

umber of Japanese Residents in

Uzbekistan:

152 (as of Oct.2022)

5 Number of Uzbek Residents in Japan: 5,513 (as of Dec. 2022)

Trade with Japan (2022):

6 Exports from Japan:

36.39 billion yen (machinery, motor

vehicles, electrical machines, etc.)

7 Imports to Japan:

7.00 billion yen (machinery, fertilizers,

fruits and ve

etables, etc.)

Japan's Official

Development Assistance:

8 Loans: 501.011billion yen (the total till FY2021)

9 Grants: 29.253billion yen (the total till FY2021)

Theoretical Aspects of the Study of Relations Between Uzbekistan and Japan

1411

10 Technical Cooperation: 20.604billion yen (the total till FY2021)

Cultural Grant (cumulative

total fiscal up to 2022):

11 Cultural Grant Aid: 14 projects (831 million yen)

12 Grassroots Grant Aid: 9 projects (68 million yen)

13 Total: 899 million yen

Japan holds a pivotal role as a dependable partner

for Uzbekistan, with historical ties dating back to the

ancient Great Silk Road era. Trade, economic, and

cultural connections have thrived between the two

nations, exemplified by renowned cities like

Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, listed in the

UNESCO World Heritage catalogue. Cultural and

humanitarian exchanges with ancient Japanese hubs

such as Nara and Kyoto further enriched these ties.

Even Mahmud Kashgari, a distinguished scholar from

nearly eight centuries ago, referenced Japan as

"Jabarqa," providing an early glimpse into the

relationship.

The interest from Japan in Central Asia began in

the late 19th century, as demonstrated by the journey

of Japanese diplomat Nishi Tokudziro across

Uzbekistan in 1880. His interactions with key figures

like Amir Muzaffar in Bukhara marked the initial

official contacts between Japanese representatives

and Muslim nations. Subsequent visits by Japanese

researchers highlighted the profound interest of the

Japanese populace in Uzbekistan. The extensive

collection of Japanese publications in the Scientific

Library of the National University of Uzbekistan

attests to the scholarly exchange between the nations,

while cooperation in sericulture and mulberry

farming during the 1930s further solidified their ties.

Former President I.A. Karimov's visits to Japan in

1994, 2002, and 2011, followed by President Sh.M.

Mirziyoyev's official visit in 2019, underscored the

importance of bilateral relations. These visits led to

intensified political dialogue and significant

cooperation, as evidenced by key documents like the

Joint Statements signed between the two nations.

President Mirziyoyev's 2019 visit resulted in

numerous agreements across various sectors, marking

a critical milestone in advancing their collaboration.

With over 160 agreements in place, a robust legal

framework now supports Uzbek-Japanese relations.

The partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan

has evolved into a strategic alliance over the past

three decades, supported by 177 bilateral agreements.

Trade and economic ties are progressing positively,

with Japanese investments benefiting 46 enterprises

in Uzbekistan. Various institutions like embassies,

cultural centres, JICA, and JETRO play pivotal roles

in enhancing cooperation. Human connections,

exemplified by figures like Ikuo Hirayama and

Japanese archaeologists, further strengthen ties.

Uzbekistan and Japan enjoy a friendly

relationship marked by cooperation in multiple areas,

with a focus on economic growth initiatives. People-

to-people contacts, educational initiatives, and

cultural exchanges contribute to strengthening ties.

However, political discussions remain crucial to align

strategic objectives. Looking ahead, both nations

have opportunities to expand cooperation in various

areas, including fostering stronger political bonds,

promoting cultural diplomacy, and enhancing

commercial partnerships. By leveraging their unique

advantages, Uzbekistan and Japan can build a more

solid and diversified alliance in the future.

4 CONCLUSION

In light of the findings, it is evident that fostering

multi-sectoral relations between Uzbekistan and

Japan requires concerted efforts across various

domains. Emphasizing cultural exchange programs,

promoting business partnerships, and engaging in

high-level diplomatic dialogues are paramount to

strengthening bilateral ties. Moreover, suggestions

such as expanding educational collaborations and

trade agreements, alongside fostering mutual

understanding platforms, hold promise in bridging

cultural gaps and enhancing people-to-people

interactions. Through these initiatives, both nations

can progress towards a more cohesive and mutually

beneficial relationship.

The theoretical analysis presented in this article

underscores the significance of understanding

historical contexts, economic partnerships, and

cultural exchanges in shaping Uzbekistan-Japan

relations. By acknowledging and analysing factual

information and scholarly opinions, a balanced

perspective is provided, offering insights into the

complexities of the relationship. Moving forward,

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prioritizing diversification of economic

collaboration, enhanced cultural exchanges, and

promotion of people-to-people diplomacy can pave

the way for sustainable development and prosperity.

Through collaborative efforts in science and

technology, education, infrastructure development,

and political dialogue, Uzbekistan and Japan can

foster a new era of friendship and strategic

partnership, advancing mutual prosperity and

development.

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