KYRGYZ-UZBEK RELATIONS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE SOKH ENCLAVE: NEW CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The article is dedicated to analyzing the new challenges in Kyrgyz-Uzbek relations in the context of the Sokh enclave, which is a unique territorial unit of Uzbekistan, surrounded by the territory of Kyrgyzstan. The work examines the historical, political, economic, and social aspects influencing the bilateral relations of the two countries in light of the existing territorial and border issues, as well as water resource problems. Special attention is paid to the consequences of the geographical isolation of the enclave, which hinders its integration into the economy and social space of the region. The article also analyzes the prospects for the development of cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to address the key issues of the Sokh enclave, such as infrastructure development, improving border control, optimizing the use of water resources, and supporting the local population. The author emphasizes that successfully overcoming the challenges in the context of the Sokh enclave could be an important step towards strengthening bilateral relations and contributing to the stability and development of Central Asia as a whole.