A representative from the United States has embarked on a significant visit to Uzbekistan, aiming to enhance the US agenda regarding critical minerals. Paolo Zampolli, the White House’s Special Envoy for Global Partnerships, arrived in Tashkent on August 28, 2025. The visit is part of a broader effort to establish “enduring ties that sustain the strength and vitality of US diplomacy,” as outlined in a statement by the US Embassy in Tashkent.
This effort aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on strengthening trade relations and expanding access to Uzbekistan’s rich reserves of critical minerals. In a meeting earlier this year with Uzbek journalist, Jonathan Henick, the US envoy in Tashkent, highlighted what he characterized as an “unprecedented level” of diplomatic engagement between the United States and Uzbekistan during the early months of 2025.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
Upon his arrival, Zampolli met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The discussions centered on the expansion of the Uzbek-American strategic partnership and multifaceted cooperation across various sectors. According to the Uzbek president’s office, “a constructive political dialogue is developing,” noting the potential for collaboration in areas such as mineral resources, aviation, electrical engineering, agriculture, digital technologies, finance, innovation, and education.
The US Embassy’s statement emphasized Zampolli’s participation in a range of public diplomacy events designed to enhance the US image in Uzbekistan. These events include joining President Mirziyoyev in celebrating Uzbek Independence Day, meeting with players from the Uzbek national soccer team, which is set to compete in the World Cup tournament in the United States next year, and attending the opening of American Corner Tashkent. This venue aims to promote American values and foster cultural exchange.
Zampolli’s background as a long-time business associate of former President Donald Trump and his previous role as the ambassador for the Caribbean island nation of Dominica to the United Nations underscore his connections within diplomatic circles.
The ongoing engagement between the United States and Uzbekistan is expected to bolster trade relations and enhance cooperation on critical resource management, reflecting the growing importance of these minerals in global markets. This visit not only signifies a diplomatic effort but also highlights the strategic interests of the United States in Central Asia’s resource-rich landscape.
