Russian and Chinese goals regarding Uzbekistan are similar in many dimensions, but the two countries differ in how they prioritize and pursue these economic and security objectives. Russia wants Uzbekistan to integrate with Moscow-led regional institutions, deepen defense ties through expanded arms sales and military exercises, and serve as a foundation for Russian economic and energy aspirations throughout Eurasia. Meanwhile, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) initially focused on preventing Uzbekistan’s large ethnic Uyghur population from challenging Beijing’s policies toward Xinjiang. Economic objectives have become more important as Uzbekistan has evolved into a major supplier and transit state for China’s growing natural gas imports. Like their Russian counterparts, PRC policymakers perceive Uzbekistan as a potential linchpin for connecting China with the South Caucasus, the Middle East, and Europe. Neither Russia nor China wants Uzbekistan to have strong military relations with the West.