ABSTRACT
Germany's international roles were for the most part compatible with Uzbekistani self-reliance. Uzbekistani self-reliance prioritised the pursuit of joint ventures alongside technological companies with a view to making Uzbekistan more prosperous and 'equal' in the international arena. The degree of compatibility between Germany and Uzbekistan meant that the bilateral relationship fluctuated far less than Tashkent's other, more turbulent, relations. Tashkent's increasingly negative image abroad meant its political and economic shortcomings came to the fore, effectively open to widespread scrutiny. The 20th century ended with strong bilateral cooperation between the two countries. But signs of disagreement were to appear when Uzbekistan's exchange rate system gradually affected German business. Steinmeier introduced the principles of his EU strategy for Central Asia in January 2007, in which he disclosed that his main aim was to raise awareness of the region and to keep stability. Karimov was also satisfied with the direction of the relationship as he continued to espouse German investment and economic assistance.
