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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Samarkand visit concludes with 54 deals worth $12 billion

19 October | 2026

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Samarkand visit concludes with 54 deals worth $12 billion

The U.S. delegation headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio has completed its visit to Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Accompanied by more than 100 American companies, the two nations secured 54 business deals worth $12 billion.

Speaking at the second meeting of the American-Uzbek Business and Investment Council, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev stressed the significance of Secretary Rubio’s first visit to Samarkand, a city historically renowned for its trade.

The President also highlighted areas for future cooperation. These include “development and deep processing of critical minerals to produce high-tech products, as well as the development of a modern and reliable energy system. Other priorities include the establishment of data centers, the introduction of artificial intelligence and digital solutions in industry, agriculture, education, and public administration, as well as education and personnel training.”

Reaffirming the American position, Secretary Rubio said in his remarks: “Let there be no doubt that the United States wants to be a partner of this region and wants to be a partner of this country. We already are, and we intend to build that and grow it.”

Council Co-Chair Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan, called on U.S. investors to build a strategic, sustainable, and long-term partnership:

“What we have learned is that business moves where rules are clear, doors are open and someone picks up the phone. So, we try to be the people who pick up the phone. And now the train runs both ways: Uzbek investment is creating jobs in America, and what we buy from America keeps the American factories busy. That is how partnership stays honest: both sides have to win,” said Ms. Mirziyoyeva.

Ambassador Sergio Gor, the other Co-Chair of the Council, also expressed his readiness to deepen ties between the two nations.

“President Donald Trump has made clear that America First diplomacy means putting commerce at the heart of our foreign policy. When American companies succeed abroad, Americans succeed at home. When other countries prosper through fair deals with American firms, they grow stronger and more resilient. Everyone in this room is proof that this approach works.

“To the business leaders here tonight, governments can open doors, but you are the ones who walk through them. You sign the contracts, hire the workers, and turn commitments into factories, farms, and networks. We’ll keep doing our part to cut the red tape, remove barriers, and stand behind American companies that invest here. I promise we will always take your call. I promise not only does this council want to work with you and elevate it to the next level, but that our entire administration stands behind you.”

In the near future, the Council will focus on delivering results in three areas identified by President Mirziyoyev: creating predictable conditions for doing business in Uzbekistan, exploring new and untapped areas for economic cooperation, and becoming a sustainable platform for partnership between the two countries.

The President also proposed a Trade, Investment and Technological Cooperation Program through 2035.

In Uzbekistan, Sergio Gor receives “Do’stlik” order

19 October | 2026

In Uzbekistan, Sergio Gor receives “Do’stlik” order

Ambassador Sergio Gor, Co-Chair of the American-Uzbek Business and Investment Council (AUBIC), has received the “Do’stlik” (“Friendship”) order for strengthening friendship and expanding the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev commended Gor’s efforts to intensify political dialogue, ensure the practical implementation of bilateral agreements, attract American investors, and advance joint projects. He also noted Gor’s contribution to fostering cooperation within the Council.

Secretary Rubio receives Uzbekistan’s “Buyuk xizmatlari uchun” order for strengthening U.S.-Uzbek ties

19 October | 2026

Secretary Rubio receives Uzbekistan’s “Buyuk xizmatlari uchun” order for strengthening U.S.-Uzbek ties

On October 19, 2026, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio with the “Buyuk xizmatlari uchun” (“For Great Services”) order.

The order is awarded to Uzbek and foreign partners who have made a significant contribution to advancing interstate cooperation and to implementing domestic and foreign policies aimed at elevating Uzbekistan’s international standing.

At the award ceremony, President Mirziyoyev recognized Secretary Rubio’s role in advancing the Uzbek-American strategic partnership and expanding political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

Saida Mirziyoyeva accompanies Jeanette Rubio on a tour of Samarkand

19 October | 2026

Saida Mirziyoyeva accompanies Jeanette Rubio on a tour of Samarkand

While in Samarkand, Jeanette Rubio, spouse of the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visited historic sites of the ancient city.

Among the destinations were the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Siyob Bazaar, and the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum.

“I wanted to show our guest the many sides of this ancient city, and introduce her to its rich history, vibrant traditions, and the craftsmanship of our artisans,” wrote Saida Mirziyoyeva, Co-Chair of the American-Uzbek Business and Investment Council, on her Telegram channel. “I hope this day leaves her with the fondest memories of Uzbekistan and our hospitality.”

Saida Mirziyoyeva and Marco Rubio visit Registan Square in Samarkand

19 October | 2026

Saida Mirziyoyeva and Marco Rubio visit Registan Square in Samarkand

Upon his arrival in the historic city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, his spouse Jeanette Rubio, and Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan, visited Registan Square.

Registan Square, a splendor of the Timurid era, remains one of the most celebrated architectural ensembles not only in Uzbekistan but throughout Central Asia. Samarkand historically served as a major crossroads of trade, linking East and West along the Silk Road.

Speaking to the press in Uzbekistan, Secretary Rubio said the United States aims to be a strong partner for the Central Asian country, to “ensure that in every part of the world that is opening its doors to American business and American commerce that we’re available, that we’re showing up, and that we’re there. And that’s what this is all about.”

Saida Mirziyoyeva meets with the U.S. President Donald Trump

02 October | 2026

Saida Mirziyoyeva meets with the U.S. President Donald Trump

On October 2, 2026, Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan and Co-Chair of the American-Uzbek Business and Investment Council, met with U.S. President Donald Trump.

She conveyed warm regards on behalf of Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Roundtable with BlackRock generates new ideas for cooperation and investment

25 September | 2026

Roundtable with BlackRock generates new ideas for cooperation and investment

On September 25, 2026, Saida Mirziyoyeva Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan held a meeting with the leadership of BlackRock, including Rob Kapito, President; Thomas E. Donilon, Vice Chairman; Adebayo Ogunlesi, Chairman and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners; and Charles Hatami, Global Head of the Financial & Strategic Investors Group and Head of Middle East.

Additionally, BlackRock’s headquarters in New York City hosted an exchange of ideas on partnership projects in Uzbekistan. At a joint roundtable, members of the American business community discussed the prospects for Uzbekistan’s next decade.