The Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced plans to open an embassy in Uzbekistan as part of the country's expanding diplomatic presence in Central Asia.
The world is changing – and at an incredible pace. Geopolitical shifts are accelerating, with diplomacy becoming increasingly transactional, the Ministry said.
“Central Asia presents major strategic opportunities, particularly through the development of the Trans-Caspian corridor (“new Silk Road”). It is a rapidly expanding region in which Belgium must assert itself more strongly. It is also a high-potential region situated in a crucial geopolitical environment, bordered by China, Russia, Pakistan, India, Iran and Afghanistan. It represents a strategic investment in the future of a region that will experience a major development boom in the decade ahead. Several foreign powers have already understood this and are investing heavily there.
This is why we will open an embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan”, it added.
In total, Belgium plans to open five new missions, close eight, and strengthen approximately 20 existing missions in Europe, Africa, South America, and the Middle East. The changes will be implemented in phases in 2026–2027.
“By equipping itself with a strong, sustainable diplomatic network built around clear strategic priorities, Belgium will be better positioned on the international stage and able to defend its interests and security more effectively. The new architecture of our network will enable us to meet today’s challenges–and tomorrow’s–with greater efficiency”, the Ministry concluded.
