“One of the most interesting prospects, if you ask me, is at Navoi. At first glance, it appears as a small spot in the vast Central Asian plain. But the airfield there is being turned gradually into a trans-continental air hub connecting the Far East, Southeast Asia, South Asia and Europe,” US envoy said.

He added: “The Free Industrial Enterprise Zone next to the airport is starting to draw attention too. I’ve been there. Infrastructure is going up, plots are available for companies that want to set up high-tech, environmentally friendly manufacturing plants.”

“Of course, getting companies to go there is a different story, and much will depend on their perceptions of the investment climate. But I admire the vision of those who conceived this project, and those who have already begun to exploit it. I appreciate the symbolic importance of bringing modern transportation means and high technology to the heart of the Silk Road,” Norland said.