The science and geographic position

Geographic position means the place of an area on the Earth and its location relative to other objects. It is divided into natural, economic and political position. Natural position is set by big natural objects such as seas, mountains and deserts; the many sunny days in Uzbekistan lower costs in farming and construction. Economic position depends on trade routes, large centres and access to natural resources, and it changes with time. In ancient times the Great Silk Road crossed Central Asia and helped cities and crafts to grow; when trade shifted to the seas, this advantage weakened. At the end of the 19th century railway building linked the region to a large network again. Uzbekistan is one of only two countries that must cross at least two other states to reach the world ocean (the other is Liechtenstein), so adding transport routes is important. Politically, Uzbekistan has diplomatic relations with many states and takes part in international organizations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.