Tashkent (TDI): Uzbekistan has emerged as the strongest military power in Central Asia, ranking 19th globally and leading the region in military capability.
The country holds its place as a global cotton powerhouse, ranking fifth in exports and seventh in production worldwide.
Kazakhstan, Central Asia’s largest economy, follows Uzbekistan closely in military rankings at 22nd, it revealed in a recent report by U.S. News.
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The U.S. News evaluation considered factors such as cultural influence, entrepreneurship, heritage, openness to business, quality of life, and social purpose, according to the Times of Central Asia.
Global Firepower Military Index
Meanwhile, the Global Firepower Military Index for 2024 presents a different picture, positioning Kazakhstan as Central Asia’s top military force at 58th globally, ahead of Uzbekistan, which saw a decline to 65th place.
Also Read: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan Deepen Regional Cooperation
These rankings reflect both the economic diversity and the shifting military landscape across Central Asia, with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are making major strides in defence sector.
