Kazakhstan is the northern neighbor of Uzbekistan and shares a long border with it. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have historical, cultural, and linguistic ties, as both are part of the Turkic world. Kazakhstan is also the largest and richest country in Central Asia, and an important trade and security partner for Uzbekistan.
Kyrgyzstan is the northeastern neighbor of Uzbekistan and shares a mountainous border with it. Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have a complex and sometimes strained relationship, due to historical disputes over territory, water resources, and ethnic minorities. However, they also have cultural and linguistic similarities, as both are predominantly Muslim and Turkic-speaking countries.
Tajikistan is the southeastern neighbor of Uzbekistan and shares a long and porous border with it. Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have a close and interdependent relationship, as they share a common history, culture, and religion. Tajikistan is the only Persian-speaking country in Central Asia, and has a significant Uzbek minority. Uzbekistan is the largest trade and energy partner for Tajikistan.
Turkmenistan is the southwestern neighbor of Uzbekistan and shares a desert border with it. Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan have a cordial and cooperative relationship, as they share a common culture, language, and religion. Turkmenistan is a gas-rich and isolated country, with a distinctive political and social system. Uzbekistan is one of the main export markets and transit routes for Turkmen gas.
Mongolia is not a direct neighbor of Uzbekistan, but it is a close and friendly country in Central Asia. Mongolia and Uzbekistan share a common heritage, as they are both descendants of the Mongol Empire. Mongolia is also a Turkic-speaking and predominantly Buddhist country, with a unique culture and landscape. Mongolia and Uzbekistan have established diplomatic and economic relations, as well as cultural and educational exchanges.