To mark Defenders of the Homeland Day and the 34th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan, a number of significant state events were held. Key events included an expanded meeting of the Security Council chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a tour of the defense industry's production facilities, and the head of state's address to military personnel and compatriots.

In this regard, a correspondent of Dunyo IA approached Akramjon Nematov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, with a request to comment on the key outcomes of these events and the tasks outlined by the country’s leader:

- It's no exaggeration to say that today, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Uzbekistan laid the foundation for a new stage in the modernization of the national army—its high-tech transformation. I would even say that Shavkat Miromonovich's congratulations this year were not simply a tribute to tradition, but a kind of manifesto for the "New Look Army," where intelligence and technology must finally supplant outdated approaches to warfare. In the President's vision, security is not an isolated military task, but a multidimensional foundation for the sustainable development of the state in the digital age.

By analyzing the key messages of the head of state, one can trace a clear and consistent logic for the transformation of all elements of the public administration system.

The key innovation of the current stage of reforms lies in the recognition of the profound transformation of the very nature of modern warfare, in which technological superiority, rather than personnel numbers, is decisive. This is why the President of Uzbekistan has set the task of a large-scale doctrinal update: the development of a new version of the Defense Doctrine and the National Security Concept has been initiated. This is dictated by the need to adapt strategic documents to the conditions of hybrid threats while simultaneously maintaining Uzbekistan's non-aligned status and reliance on multilateral diplomacy. This sends a clear signal to the country about the predictability and sovereignty of the republic's course.

The central element of the updated strategy is the transition to a “proactive mode of operation,” in which the security system must not only respond to emerging threats, but also be capable of predicting risks in advance and neutralizing them at an early stage.

This intellectualization of security naturally requires a review of the Armed Forces' technical makeup. In this regard, the head of state initiated a thorough re-equipment of the army, prioritizing the implementation of artificial intelligence, robotic systems, and modern cybersecurity systems. It was emphasized that in modern conflicts, victory is achieved not by the number of bayonets, but by technological superiority and the speed of information processing. In this context, the digital transformation of the army becomes an undisputed priority. In other words, in modern warfare, intelligence is more important than mass, and victory is determined by the quality of technology and management.

At the same time, high technology demands a fundamentally new level of competence. Therefore, a true personnel transformation has been initiated: the army is being positioned not as a closed institution, but as a modern educational and technological platform. It is becoming a school of life and professional growth, as well as a driver of economic development. Every year, 5,000 conscripts will undergo training under the "One Million Programmers" and "Five Million AI Leaders" programs. This strategic move allows us to simultaneously address two objectives: increasing the army's cyber resilience and creating a pool of in-demand specialists for the country's economy.

Furthermore, the program provides for training soldiers in civilian professions, with the issuance of state-issued certificates upon completion of their service. For military personnel opening a business after demobilization, the state will reimburse 6% of the loan interest rate. Educational incentives are also being introduced: the opportunity to take university entrance exams directly at military units, interest-free student loans for those entering universities after service, and reimbursement of the costs of obtaining international language certificates. This approach reflects the current trend of developing "smart forces," in which the country's defenders are also qualified specialists in demand in the civilian sector.

In this way, the army is organically integrated into the civil society system, providing young people with real tools for personal and professional success.

For this model to function effectively, a solid social foundation is essential. Therefore, an unprecedented strengthening of social protection for military personnel has become a logical continuation of the reforms. The decisions to double officers' length-of-service bonuses and pay veterans pensions equal to 100% of their pay are, in my view, a strategic investment in the prestige of military service. Additionally, a 10% increase in pay for privates and contract sergeants is envisaged, as well as a 20% increase in the salaries of civilian defense personnel this year and a further 50% increase next year.

The President clearly demonstrates that the state takes full responsibility for the well-being of those who defend the Motherland, thereby raising the prestige of military service and strengthening the principle of unity between the people and the army.

The final element of this comprehensive strategy is achieving profound technological self-sufficiency. The modernization of the national defense-industrial complex, the creation of domestic military technology parks, and the development of unmanned systems production are aimed at minimizing external dependence. A visit to the Chirchik Aircraft Plant and defense technology parks clearly demonstrates that Uzbekistan is focusing on localization, a service economy, and the development of its own industrial base. The creation of a regional hub for Airbus equipment maintenance is not only a matter of prestige but also a practical step toward technological independence and integration into global production chains.

All this strengthens state sovereignty, enabling the effective protection of national interests by relying on its own innovative potential and competencies. At the same time, the military is becoming a driver of innovative development: technologies developed for defense purposes inevitably find application in civilian sectors.

In conclusion, it should be emphasized that the announced initiatives mark a definitive departure from outdated models. Essentially, we are witnessing the emergence of a new model of statehood, one in which high-tech sovereignty, intellectual capital, and social justice are integrated into a single strategy.

A highly mobile, technologically advanced army is being created, capable of effectively countering hybrid threats in the changing nature of warfare. The army serves not only as a shield for the state but also as a driver of education, the economy, and social mobility—a modern, pragmatic, and deeply national approach to development and security in the new global reality.

Dunyo IA

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

The history of the partnership between Uzbekistan and Georgia provides a compelling example of how two countries, bound neither by alliance commitments nor by historical dependency, have come to recognize each other as genuine strategic partners.

One of the key priorities of Uzbekistan's contemporary foreign policy is the expansion of cooperation with the countries of the South Caucasus. This approach reflects Tashkent's consistent policy of diversifying its external economic relations while strengthening regional connectivity. Within this framework, the South Caucasus is regarded as an important partner capable of contributing to Uzbekistan's sustainable economic growth, expanding the country's transport and logistics opportunities, and enhancing its overall foreign economic potential.

The growing importance of the South Caucasus stems from its role as a natural bridge between Central Asia and Europe. Amid the ongoing transformation of global logistics and the emergence of new transport and economic corridors, this role has become increasingly significant, reinforcing Uzbekistan's interest in practical cooperation with the countries of the region.

Georgia occupies a special place in this strategy due to its considerable transit potential, well-developed transport infrastructure, and favorable conditions for expanding trade, investment, and humanitarian cooperation.

Although diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Georgia were established in the early years of independence, they remained overshadowed for many years by other pressing national priorities in both countries. For nearly two decades, bilateral relations developed largely by inertia: annual trade turnover fluctuated between US$30 million and US$50 million, high-level contacts were infrequent, and joint projects remained limited in number.

A turning point came after 2017, when Uzbekistan, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, embarked on a policy of openness and active integration into regional and global economic processes. Within this broader strategy, the South Caucasus emerged as one of Tashkent's important foreign policy priorities. Georgia was among those partners whose bilateral relations required comprehensive reassessment and renewed political attention.

The first high-level dialogue after a fifteen-year hiatus took place in September 2017, when, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the President of Uzbekistan met with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili. The meeting sent a strong political signal of both countries' commitment to revitalizing bilateral cooperation and laid the groundwork for expanding contacts across multiple levels of government.

In the years that followed, political dialogue steadily intensified. Parliamentary relations were established, regular contacts were launched between the heads of government and the foreign ministries, and annual official meetings between the Prime Ministers of Uzbekistan and Georgia became an established practice.

In 2023, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov paid an official visit to Georgia. In 2025, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze made a reciprocal official visit to Uzbekistan, during which he held talks with the President of Uzbekistan, as well as meetings with the Prime Minister and the leadership of both chambers of the Oliy Majlis.

The steady strengthening of political dialogue has created a solid institutional foundation for the progressive development of Uzbek–Georgian relations. A central role in this process is played by the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, whose work focuses on implementing bilateral agreements, eliminating existing barriers, and identifying new avenues for cooperation.

The effectiveness of these institutional mechanisms is reflected in the consistently positive performance of bilateral economic relations, particularly in trade. Over the past nine years, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Georgia has tripled, exceeding US$267 million in 2025. By comparison, bilateral trade amounted to only US$89.1 million in 2017.

The highest level of bilateral trade was recorded in 2024, when trade increased by nearly 50 percent compared to the previous year, reaching a record US$326 million.

Equally noteworthy is that this growth has been driven not only by increasing trade volumes but also by the diversification of its structure. Whereas bilateral trade once consisted of a relatively limited range of commodities, today its product composition has become considerably broader.

Uzbekistan exports industrial goods, including non-ferrous metals, copper wire, rolled metal products, and electrical equipment, alongside food products such as legumes, fruit, and tobacco, as well as chemical products, including polymers. Georgia, in turn, exports food products, beverages, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, and metal products to Uzbekistan.

An important indicator of the expanding trade and economic cooperation has been the growing investment activity of the business communities of the two countries, reflected in the establishment of joint ventures. Today, around 100 enterprises with Georgian capital operate in Uzbekistan, while more than 140 Uzbek companies are active in Georgia. This demonstrates the growing level of mutual trust between business circles, as well as their interest in maintaining a long-term presence in each other’s markets.

The continued positive dynamics of economic cooperation suggest that the two countries have the necessary prerequisites to move beyond a trade-based model toward deeper industrial and investment cooperation. The most promising areas include the textile industry, agriculture and food production, pharmaceuticals, construction, and services, where the economies of both countries possess complementary advantages.

One of the key dimensions of Uzbek–Georgian relations is the expansion of transport and logistics links between Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Europe. It is in this area that the interests of the two countries align most naturally.

For Uzbekistan, the use of Georgia’s transport infrastructure to access European markets is of particular importance. The ports of Poti and Batumi are key elements of this logistics chain. For Georgia, in turn, increased cargo flows from Uzbekistan and other countries of the region create opportunities to expand trade ties with Asian states.

According to experts from the Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan, positive dynamics are also observed in bilateral freight transportation. By the end of 2025, the total volume of cargo transportation between Uzbekistan and Georgia reached 146.8 thousand tons. Export shipments increased by 27 percent to 53.4 thousand tons, while import shipments rose by 26 percent to 71.5 thousand tons.

In this context, the development of the Middle Corridor is gaining particular importance. Today, it is regarded as one of Eurasia’s most promising transport arteries, opening new opportunities for route diversification and the growth of international trade. Over the past five years alone, Uzbekistan’s foreign trade cargo transportation along this route has doubled, reaching 1.2 million tons by the end of 2025.

At the same time, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Georgia in this field is moving beyond the basic use of existing transport infrastructure toward the creation of a dedicated logistics base. A vivid example is Uzbekistan’s construction of a multifunctional logistics terminal in the Poti Free Industrial Zone. The project provides for the creation of a modern warehouse complex covering around 30 hectares and designed to handle various categories of cargo, including containerized, general, bulk, and perishable goods.

The implementation of this project will create an important logistics hub for ensuring the supply of Uzbek products to European markets. At the same time, the terminal will be used to organize reverse cargo flows, thereby contributing to increased trade not only between Uzbekistan and Georgia, but also with other Central Asian states.

It is transport and logistics partnership that has the greatest potential to become the main driver of Uzbek–Georgian relations in the coming years. While at this stage the parties are focused on trade and infrastructure modernization, in the long term the goal is to create a full-fledged economic corridor linking Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and European markets.

In parallel with the development of these large-scale routes, people-to-people ties are also strengthening. In recent years, mutual interest among citizens of the two countries in tourist travel has grown noticeably. Thanks to direct flights from Tashkent to Tbilisi and Batumi, operated 13 times per week, the number of Uzbek tourists visiting Georgia has been steadily increasing, exceeding 21.5 thousand people in 2025.

For its part, Uzbekistan is attracting growing interest among Georgian travelers wishing to discover the country’s unique cultural heritage, including Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and other ancient cities. Over the past seven years, the tourist flow from Georgia to Uzbekistan has increased more than 2.5 times — from 3 thousand people in 2019 to 6.8 thousand people in 2025.

Thus, relations between Uzbekistan and Georgia are currently at a stage of steady and progressive development. Whereas ten years ago bilateral interaction was based mainly on diplomatic contacts and limited trade ties, today, as we can see, a new format of partnership is taking shape, covering the political, economic, transport, and humanitarian spheres.

Of particular importance is the fact that this expansion of cooperation is taking place against the backdrop of major changes in the international economy and global logistics. As new transport routes between Asia and Europe are being formed, Uzbekistan and Georgia are objectively becoming important elements of a single space of connectivity.

The realization of this potential in the medium term will depend on the readiness of both sides to support political will with genuine economic interest. Such an approach will give new practical substance to the partnership between Uzbekistan and Georgia and will make it possible to build a sustainable model of cooperation based on pragmatism, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to sustainable development.

Miraziz Mirumarov
Leading Research Fellow
Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies
under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Comment from the First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies (ISRS) under the President of Uzbekistan to Dunyo Information Agency

The focal points of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan as well as the signals conveyed to both domestic and international audiences, were highlighted in a commentary by Akramjon Ne’matov, the First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies (ISRS) under the President of Uzbekistan, in an interview with Dunyo IA correspondent.

The expert highlighted that the primary focus of the Address was on the country’s socio-economic development, the improvement of citizens’ well-being and the enhancement of the national economy’s competitiveness. According to him, the President of Uzbekistan clearly emphasized that it is the economy, the sustainability of development, and the quality of growth that today define Uzbekistan’s opportunities both domestically and in its external engagements.

Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized that despite a challenging and fragmented global environment, Uzbekistan’s economy continues to demonstrate steady growth. For the first time in the country’s history, its GDP surpassed $145 billion this year, whereas just nine years ago, reaching the $100 billion mark was considered an ambitious milestone. Even amid disruptions in global supply chains, exports grew by 23% to $33.4 billion, electricity production in 2025 reached 85 billion kilowatt-hours, and foreign exchange reserves exceeded $60 billion. Over $43.1 billion in investments were attracted to the national economy this year, raising the investment-to-GDP ratio to 31.9%, a clear indicator of the country’s rising investment appeal.

In this context, the expert noted, maintaining high economic growth rates remains an absolute priority. However, what is particularly significant is the shift in focus from quantitative expansion toward a technological and innovative development model. This entails building a knowledge- and technology-based economy, modernizing industry, advancing the digital economy, promoting scientific research and fostering technology transfer. As Akramjon Ne’matov stressed, “An innovative economy ensures long-term competitiveness and reduces dependency on raw materials, which is critically important amid global instability”.

Another strategic priority highlighted by the President of Uzbekistan is the stimulation of domestic demand. According to the expert, the development of the domestic market is seen as a key driver of sustainable growth, encompassing higher household incomes, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and broader access to financial instruments. Domestic demand, he emphasized, provides stable sources of development and helps shield the economy from external shocks.

Special attention, Akramjon Ne’matov noted, was also given to workforce development and the creation of a new labor market architecture. The President outlined objectives for modernizing vocational education, fostering new competencies, and shaping a flexible and adaptive labor market capable of meeting the needs of a modern economy. He stressed that the labor market and professional development determine the quality of human capital – the key resource of the 21st century.

At the same time, an important focus is placed on ensuring ecological balance, developing “green energy” and the rational use of water resources. The transition to sustainable development, the adoption of renewable energy sources, improving energy and water efficiency, and adapting to climate change are regarded as strategic objectives. Ecology and “green” energy are now considered key factors for national security and sustainable development, Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized.

Among the President of Uzbekistan’s key priorities is also the formation of modern state governance and a fair judicial system. Central to this agenda are enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of public administration, strengthening the rule of law, digitizing public services and reforming the judiciary. The expert stressed that effective governance and a fair judicial system build trust, enhance investment appeal, and ensure long-term stability.

Overall, he noted, these priorities reflect Uzbekistan’s shift from quantitative growth toward a qualitative model of modernization focused on long-term outcomes.

Based on these strategic directions, Uzbekistan is shaping a framework of key cooperation priorities with international partners, aimed at deepening engagement through high-quality collaboration.

The first priority is technological and industrial partnership. This includes establishing joint high value-added production, localizing advanced technologies, and implementing collaborative research and development projects. The strategic goal is to move beyond simple technology adoption toward co-creation and practical implementation of innovations.

The second priority is the development of human capital. This encompasses joint programs for training and retraining personnel, sustained collaboration between universities, research centers, and industry, and the cultivation of new competencies demanded by the modern economy. The objective is to ensure the sustainability of reforms and enhance the quality of the workforce.

The third priority is “green” energy and resource efficiency. The focus is on joint initiatives in renewable energy, water-saving technologies, and environmentally sustainable solutions. These efforts are viewed as key instruments for reducing ecological risks and enhancing the long-term resilience of the economy.

The fourth priority is infrastructure and multi-level connectivity. The development of transport, logistics, and digital infrastructure aims not only to deepen Uzbekistan’s integration into regional and global supply chains but also to strengthen internal connectivity across the country’s regions, reduce territorial disparities, and improve access to markets, services, and economic opportunities. Taken together, these initiatives reinforce Uzbekistan’s role as a stable regional hub for cooperation and transit.

The fifth priority is institutional development and the quality of public governance. This includes promoting principles of transparent and efficient governance, establishing a fair and independent judicial system, enhancing the effectiveness and professionalism of the civil service, and fostering experience-sharing in the digitalization of public services. These measures create a predictable institutional environment, strengthen trust among investors and partners, and serve as a solid foundation for sustainable, long-term international cooperation.

In conclusion, Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized that Uzbekistan views collaboration with foreign partners as a strategic priority. The country aims to transition from broad but largely quantitative engagement toward high-quality partnerships, centered on technology, human capital, and sustainable growth that align with the long-term interests of all parties.

Dunyo IA

It is not an exaggeration to say that in the historical conditions where humanity is going through a difficult period, where contradictions and conflicts are intensifying and seriously undermining stability, in the multi-ethnic New Uzbekistan, human dignity and the interests of the people are recognized as the highest values, and in this regard, it is becoming an example and model for many countries of the world.

Because sustainable development can be achieved first of all by valuing and honoring people, creating conditions for the population to live well today, and realizing the high trust and responsibility of the population for the future.

Abdulla Awlani, the famous modern enlightener, defined man in such a way: “...the purpose of the creation of the universe is man. Man is the glory and honor of all existence. All creation must serve man: man is its master. Because man has a mind. He acquires knowledge with the help of this mind, and rules the world thanks to his knowledge”.

Therefore, measures aimed at the development of citizen's activity and participation in state management are being systematically implemented in Uzbekistan today, with comprehensive support for human rights and interests.

In recent years, the reforms implemented in Uzbekistan and the active participation and involvement of citizens in the state administration have been observed, which is especially important in the adoption of documents that will be the criteria for the future fate of our country.

In particular, in 2023, the "people's constitution" adopted for the first time in the history of Uzbekistan on the basis of the will of the people is a program for creating the foundation of the country's future destiny and happy future. More than 220,000 proposals have been received from different layers of the population, and this is also an example of the people's interest in state management and fate.

For this reason, first of all, the proposals received from the population, as well as the experiences and norms of constitution – making of 190 countries were thoroughly studied, and the articles of the updated constitution increased from 128 to 155, and the number of norms increased from 275 to 434.

In a situation where modern threats and problems are becoming increasingly rooted, the issues of ensuring a stable economy, effective governance, a safe state and social guarantees in Uzbekistan in the future have been deeply analyzed, 65% of the basic law has been updated based on people's proposals, and new norms based on national and universal values ​​and modern opportunities have been introduced.

In the words of the President of Uzbekistan, "Our Basic Law, which is literally a public dictionary, serves as a strong legal guarantee that our large-scale reforms aimed at establishing New Uzbekistan will not go back."

Another proof of the active participation of citizens in the sphere of public administration in Uzbekistan is the launch of the portal for the discussion of projects of regulatory legal documents (https://regulation.gov.uz/) to receive proposals from citizens for drafts of state programs, laws and legal documents. During the year, 77,731 proposals were received from the population for 25,283 draft documents.

Another important point is that in recent years, the share of women in state management in Uzbekistan has increased from 27% to 35%. In particular, 32% of the deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the country's parliament (Supreme Assembly) and 25% of the members of the Senate are women. The number of businesswomen doubled, and the number of women who started their own business exceeded 205,000.

It is of particular importance that Uzbekistan is listed among the 5 fastest developing countries in the world in the field of gender equality in the World Bank index, and is among the top 20 countries in the open gender data index.

First of all, the conceptual basis of the reforms was created in Uzbekistan, and a number of strategic decisions were made for its systematic operation.

In order to further increase the effectiveness of the ongoing reforms, create conditions for comprehensive and rapid development of the state and society, implement priority directions for modernization of our country and liberalization of all spheres of life, the Strategy of Actions on five priority directions for the development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021 is consistently implemented increased.

Strategy 5 – Improvement of the system of state and community building, ensuring the rule of law and further reforming the judicial system, developing and liberalizing the economy, developing the social sphere and ensuring security, inter-ethnic harmony and religious tolerance, as well as a well-thought-out, mutually beneficial and practical foreign policy reforms worthy of universal recognition took place in the field of priority directions.

The economic growth in the country alone was ensured to grow by 4.4% in 2017, 5.4% in 2018, and 5.7% in 2019.

On September 11, 2023, the "Uzbekistan-2030" strategy was adopted based on the experience gained during the implementation of the development strategy of New Uzbekistan and the discussions of the general public, and the strategic tasks that we must achieve in the next 7 years were defined. The importance of this strategy, consisting of 100 points, is that in this document, specific goals and targets are set, which are expected to be achieved in all areas, and the reforms continue consistently.

The important thing is that this document sets the future priority goals, in particular, to use all the possibilities to increase the size of the country's gross domestic product from the current 80 billion dollars to 160 billion dollars, thereby doubling the size of the economy by 2030 and "countries with an income above the average". Bold steps are being taken to enter the ranks.
          In Uzbekistan, great attention is being paid to this area, which is directly related to the quality of life. In the last 7 years, the amount of funds allocated to the healthcare system has increased from 5.9 trillion soums to 33.5 trillion soums, that is, it has increased 6 times. Hospitals are equipped with modern equipment and new ones are being built.

In Uzbekistan, systematic measures are being taken to provide social support to the population, to identify the root causes of the problems of each of its strata, and to provide targeted assistance, especially to reduce poverty.

"Temir daftar" (Iron book), "Ayollar daftari" (Women`s book), "Yoshlar Daftar" (Youth book), "Mahallababay" (Neighbourhood) and "Khonadonbay" (House work) work methods are being introduced for this purpose. On this basis, not abstract indicators of the problem, but the problems of every family and citizen, women, and youth who need help and support are clearly studied on the spot, and they are solved in a timely and effective manner.

Today, the noble traditions of supporting the elderly, disabled people, people in a difficult situation, and showing them love and kindness are being enriched and improved with new meaning and practical actions. In this regard, programs such as "Prosperous village", "Prosperous neighborhood", "Five important initiatives", "Every family is an entrepreneur", and "Youth are our future" are giving positive results.

At this point, it should be noted that since 2017 Virtual and Public receptions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan have been established. In 2017-2021, the President's virtual lobby and People's lobby received 5 million. More than 780,000 appeals were considered, of which 3 mln. More than 288 thousand were satisfied. As a result of complete, timely and legal investigation of appeals, the level of their satisfaction is also increasing year by year. In particular, this indicator was 47.5 percent in 2017, 53.9 percent in 2018, 60.9 percent in 2019, 60.4 percent in 2020, and 86.7 percent in 2021.

Another consideration is that in recent years, the intensity and scope of the globalization process has increased in the intellectual world in the complex conditions where the struggle for the hearts and minds of the young generation is intensifying, the role and importance of education in the spirit of patriotism is increasing more and more, and the need to educate our youth as true patriots is growing stronger than ever. In the world, the number and scale of ideological struggles and conflicts are increasing, and new threats are emerging that cannot be predicted in advance.

In such a situation, education of young people in the spirit of loyalty to the Motherland, national identity and values, and concern for national interests is gaining urgent importance.

When one of the scholars said that "the happiness of every nation, the peace and happiness of the states depends on the good education of the youth", there are many real truths.

Based on the opinion of the head of Uzbekistan in his speech at the extended session of the Council of Spirituality and Enlightenment of the Republic that "it is natural that the legacy of our enlightened ancestors serves as a foundation for the legal democratic state and civil society that we are building today", it is clear as day that the development of national spirituality should be one step ahead.

In this regard, specific measures have been defined in 9 directions in the country, in particular, spirituality should be ten steps ahead of other fields, popularization of the heritage of the ancients, addition of an additional "Spiritual sector" to 4 sectors, enrichment of the activities and contents of theaters, cultural centers, priority issues such as the development of Uzbek cultural diplomacy, film, visual and applied arts in the international arena are among these.

The concept of the President of Uzbekistan, "If the economy is the body of society's life, then its soul is spirituality" has already become a vital principle for all of us. Strong spirituality based on the rich heritage of our ancestors and national values ​​serves as a strong pillar for the country that decided to build the new Uzbekistan.

In recent years, "Man-Society-State" has become an irrevocable strategic principle in Uzbekistan, fundamental reforms have been carried out to pay attention to people and protect their rights and interests.

         It is necessary to recognize one fact: reforms in accordance with international standards are being implemented in all areas related to people and their activities. At the same time, the critical analysis of our activities by the head of the country, using the existing freedom of speech, encourages us to constantly examine ourselves and improve our measures regularly in order to reach new goals in the future.

For example, more than 2,200,000 families are in need of social assistance, among them there are many young people. In this regard, specific measures have been determined this year, and in the updated Constitution, the state's social obligations have been tripled, and an additional 30-40 trillion soums will be allocated annually from the state budget.

The principle of "man-society-state" is of particular importance for the future development of our country, and constitutional guarantees have been strengthened in this regard.

The international community of Uzbekistan is paying special attention to strengthening friendly relations with neighboring countries on the basis of cooperation, mutual support, peace and harmony, and the legal basis for further deepening of the reforms implemented in foreign policy in recent years is also being strengthened.

For example, due to the resolution of the 30-year-old border problem with neighboring Kyrgyzstan, more than 2 million inhabitants of the valley were able to move freely with their relatives and friends.

The directions of strengthening peace and stability of Uzbekistan in our region, expanding the potential of our country in the international arena and developing comprehensive and mutually beneficial relations with foreign countries are confirmed in the "Concept of Foreign Political Activities" approved by law.

Today, Uzbekistan has established diplomatic relations with 131 countries of the world, we have 37 embassies in 38 countries, consulates in 17 cities, permanent representative offices in the UN and other international organizations.

In a word, as the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, said, "From now on, we will focus on strengthening multifaceted and mutually beneficial cooperation with all the neighboring countries in Central Asia and the countries and international organizations that are our strategic partners in the world."

Ensuring decent life of citizens in Uzbekistan, inter-ethnic and inter-confessional harmony, well-being and prosperity of our multi-ethnic country of Uzbekistan is also one of the most important directions.

In order to support our compatriots in many countries of the world and further strengthen our relations with them, the "Compatriots" fund was established.

Our work aimed at strengthening the environment of inter-ethnic harmony and tolerance in our society is reaching a new level in terms of quality. July 30, which is widely celebrated as the International Friendship Day, has been announced as the "International Friendship Day" in Uzbekistan. This year, this holiday was widely celebrated for the first time in our country. It can also be considered as a common phenomenon where internal and external political factors converge.

It will be necessary to mobilize all our strength and capabilities to further strengthen the atmosphere of inter-civilian harmony, inter-ethnic friendship and tolerance.

The future strategic tasks in the foreign policy have already been defined, which will serve as a consistent continuation of the actions in the field of foreign policy and economic diplomacy.

In this regard, first of all, it is necessary to further strengthen close friendship, good neighborliness and strategic partnership relations with the countries of the region, to expand mutually beneficial and multilateral relations with the countries of the far and near countries of the world, especially to continue providing assistance to the Afghan people to restore a peaceful and peaceful life in neighboring Afghanistan. It is appropriate to carry out priority tasks such as the implementation of large transport and communication projects together with the country at a qualitative level. In this regard, it is time to raise multilateral relations with international regional organizations and financial institutions to a new level.

In a word, the so-called New Uzbekistan is boldly marching towards sustainable development with systematic reforms, hard work and the will of the creative people. Systematic reforms implemented today in our country, which realizes its high responsibility to present and future generations to build a humane democratic state, an open and fair society, where human life, freedom, honor and dignity are considered the highest value, are a thing of the ages.

Khudoyberdi Khaknazarov

Doctor of History

In an era characterized by growing disunity among global powers, the strategies employed by so-called “middle” states in forging stable regional relations present promising solutions for achieving international peace and cooperation. Uzbekistan, a Central Asian nation situated at the heart of the historic Silk Road, and Finland, a Nordic state with a unique experience as a neutral border state during the Cold War, exemplify how a consistent commitment to dialogue can contribute to regional stability amidst the complexities of global relations.

Geographically separated, these countries have developed strikingly similar approaches to ensuring sustainable development, peace, and stability in their regions. They address key regional security challenges by strengthening multifaceted and mutually beneficial good-neighborly relations with their neighbors. Additionally, they engage in multilateral, long-term partnerships with interested countries and organizations.

While Uzbekistan and Finland have been shaped by different historical contexts, these experiences have contributed to the development of a shared diplomatic philosophy centered around stability, cooperation, sovereign equality, mutual respect, and multilateral interaction.

Central Asia, a region steeped in ancient history, has long been a cultural and historical hub. Centuries ago, it was a unified space where politics, economics, and culture intertwined seamlessly. As one of the cradles of human civilization, Central Asia boasts a rich tapestry of history and a vibrant cultural heritage that has shaped universal values. These values emphasize cooperation over confrontation, tolerance over imposition, and the belief that the well-being of neighbors is intrinsically linked to one’s own.

Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has consistently championed a policy of regional interaction. This policy, which gained prominence under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2016, became a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. Tashkent’s “diplomatic offensive” to enhance intra-regional cooperation became one of the most significant policy changes that transformed relations in modern Central Asia.

Tashkent’s unprecedented focus on dialogue and building trust with neighboring states has transformed Uzbekistan into the primary organizer of cooperation in the region. It has advocated for the development of multilateral interaction mechanisms, spanning various domains such as water resource management, transport corridor expansion, industrial cooperation, border demarcation, and regional security.

The positive impact of these policy changes has reverberated throughout the entire region. After 2016, economic cooperation witnessed a remarkable surge, leading to a nearly doubling of the total GDP of Central Asian states from $273 billion to $520 billion. Trust and strengthened ties between countries have facilitated a 4.5-fold increase in intra-regional trade, soaring from $2.4 billion to $11 billion. Moreover, the number of tourists visiting the region has doubled, further boosting its appeal.

The collective openness and enhanced stability have become attractive factors for third countries, resulting in a significant increase in the region’s foreign trade. This growth has seen a remarkable rise of over 200 percent, from $112 billion to $253 billion.

Finland’s diplomatic traditions were shaped by its unique position at the crossroads of Eastern and Western “spheres of influence.” Its vulnerable geographical location drove its pursuit of interaction and stability.

Finland consistently advocates for strengthening friendly relations with all countries, particularly its neighbors, and fostering ties within Nordic cooperation structures like the Nordic Council, the Council of Ministers of the Nordic Countries, and the Nordic Investment Bank.

This approach is reflected in Finland’s active involvement in the OSCE with aims to enhance dialogue and trust.

Finland’s 2025 OSCE chairmanship, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, holds symbolic significance. It exemplifies Finland’s commitment to building bridges, fostering dialogue, and cultivating trust, aligning with its dialogue-based foreign policy. Finnish diplomacy consistently emphasizes the importance of strengthening common positions and approaches among states, reflecting Finland’s consensus-oriented diplomatic style, which Uzbekistan shares as well.

It’s worth noting that both countries adhere to the same fundamental principles of international law. Respect for national sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and the inviolability of borders serve as practical guidelines shaping Uzbekistan and Finland’s foreign policy, regional behavior, and international positioning.

Tashkent’s approaches to regional interaction resonate with Helsinki’s priorities for cooperation with the Nordic and Baltic countries. Uzbekistan’s efforts in resolving border disputes and collaborating on water resources in the region mirror Finland’s approach to peacebuilding and fostering cooperation.

Furthermore, both countries have established themselves as advocates of results-oriented cooperation. They are pragmatic architects of projects that create mutual benefits and strengthen regional stability and interregional connectivity.

Under the leadership of President Sh. Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan is actively promoting the development of transport infrastructure within Central Asia and with neighboring regions, including the West, East, and South. For instance, the development of the “Middle Corridor” (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) has led to a remarkable six-fold increase in cargo shipments along it over four years, from 2020 to 2024, reaching a substantial volume of 4.5 million tons. Tashkent is also actively involved in the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and is promoting connectivity between Central and South Asia.

Economic cooperation and environmental protection are additional pillars of Uzbekistan’s regional strategy. These aspects play a crucial role in Uzbekistan’s environmental programs, particularly in mitigating the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster.

Finland, following a similar pattern of project-oriented cooperation, has been an active participant in initiatives of the Nordic Council and the Barents Euro-Arctic Council. These initiatives encompass cross-border cooperation in environmental protection, innovation, and people-to-people contacts. Finland also promotes initiatives of the Trans-European Transport Network and Arctic connectivity.

Known for its leadership in environmental protection, Finland actively participates in cross-border economic projects with partners from the Nordic and Baltic countries.

Alongside their close cooperation with countries in their respective regions, Uzbekistan and Finland pursue a policy of strategic multilateralism. Both countries actively participate in various regional and global institutions, reflecting their shared views that modern challenges require collective responses. They believe that “middle powers” can exert effective influence through institutional engagement.

Since 2016, Uzbekistan has significantly increased its involvement in regional organizations, primarily the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), and various United Nations bodies.

Additionally, the “Central Asia +” (C5+1) platform, now comprising over 10 partner countries and organizations, actively promotes interregional cooperation. Notably, the inaugural “Central Asia – European Union” summit held in April 2025 resulted in an agreement on “deep and comprehensive cooperation” between the two regions.

Finland’s international engagement, while having a longer history, also follows a similar pattern of active institutional participation. As a member of the European Union since 1995 and multiple international organizations, Finland maintains its traditional interactions with regional structures in Northern and Baltic Europe.

As the international landscape becomes increasingly intricate, Uzbekistan and Finland encounter similar challenges that test their historically established unique diplomatic approaches.

Uzbekistan faces the primary challenge of sustaining the momentum for deepening regional partnership and intensifying cooperation with external actors amidst escalating geopolitical tensions, environmental threats, and economic shocks.

From Uzbekistan’s perspective, responding to the changing geopolitical landscape and the economic transformation needs of Central Asia requires strengthened cooperation, both among Central Asian countries and between regions.

Finland’s challenge lies in finding a balance between its commitments within the EU and NATO and its traditional role as a mediator in building consensus and dialogue, particularly in organizations like the OSCE, where it continues to promote “strengthening dialogue and trust.”

Overall, Uzbekistan and Finland exemplify successful regional cooperation based on a consistent commitment to dialogue and interaction. Despite their distinct geographical and historical contexts, both countries have adopted similar foreign policy approaches focused on conflict prevention, institutional engagement, and pragmatic regionalism.

In an interconnected world characterized by great power rivalry, the diplomatic approaches of Uzbekistan and Finland serve as a reminder that sustainable security and prosperity are achieved through dialogue, cooperation, and practical collaboration, rather than diktat, isolation, or empty rhetoric.

And unsurprisingly, these foreign policy approaches positively impact the lives of their citizens. It’s not a coincidence that Finland consistently ranks as the “happiest country in the world” for the eighth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report. Similarly, Uzbekistan leads in the level of happiness among Central Asian countries in the same ranking.

Sharif Akhmedov,

Chief Researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

1. Introduction

Central and South Asia form one of Eurasia’s most significant geographic junctions. Central Asia connects the continent’s east–west and north–south routes, while South Asia contains one of the world’s largest population bases and consumer markets. Taken together, the countries of the two subregions have a population of more than 2 billion people; however, their direct economic interaction remains below its potential level.

The scale of the potential market is confirmed by the figures: in 2024, the population of South Asia was approximately 1.68 billion people, while the region’s combined GDP was about US$4.5 trillion. At the same time, the economy of the five Central Asian countries in 2024 amounted to approximately US$489 billion. However, the level of interregional integration remains low: even within South Asia, intraregional trade is estimated at around 5% of total trade turnover, which is significantly lower than the ASEAN figure^[1][2][3].

This is evident in trade statistics: Central Asia’s main trade flows continue to be oriented toward Russia, China, the European Union, Türkiye, and the Middle East, while trade with South Asia occupies a comparatively limited niche.

The underused potential is explained not by a lack of demand, but by structural constraints. Between the two subregions, there are mountain barriers, complex cross-border routes, differing levels of integration into international supply chains, non-uniform customs and technical procedures, as well as the Afghanistan factor, which is simultaneously the shortest connecting link and the most sensitive element of the regional architecture. Therefore, the issue of connectivity has not only commercial but also strategic significance.

The restoration of economic ties between Central and South Asia should not be viewed as a romanticized return to historical routes. In modern conditions, it is a matter of competitiveness, supply-chain security, energy resilience, and diversification of foreign economic directions. For the countries of Central Asia, the southern route opens shorter access to the ports of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. For the countries of South Asia, it creates an opportunity to gain access to energy resources, food products, industrial goods, and new markets in Eurasia.

Uzbekistan occupies a special place in this logic. It is located in the central part of the region, borders all Central Asian states and Afghanistan, and therefore is capable of forming a link between the internal markets of Central Asia and the southern direction. At the same time, the role of a connector state means more than the transit of goods. It includes the coordination of infrastructure projects, the development of logistics services, the improvement of institutional quality, the creation of an analytical basis for decision-making, and the involvement of the private sector in interregional projects.

2. Historical and geographical preconditions for connectivity

The historical connection between Central and South Asia was formed long before the emergence of modern state borders. The cities of Transoxiana, Khorasan, Bactria, and northern India were part of a network of caravan routes and exchanges of artisanal goods, knowledge, religious traditions, and financial practices. Samarkand, Bukhara, Balkh, Merv, Kabul, Peshawar, and Lahore, in different periods, served as trade and cultural hubs linking the Eurasian space.

However, historical connectedness does not automatically translate into economic integration today. Modern supply chains depend on railways, highways, ports, energy networks, digital cargo-tracking systems, insurance, banking settlements, and predictable rules. Where even one of these elements is absent, transit becomes expensive, slow, and risky.

The geography of the region creates both incentives and constraints. On the one hand, the distance from Uzbekistan’s southern borders to northern Afghanistan is relatively short, and the route through Afghanistan is potentially the shortest overland path from Central Asia to Pakistan and onward to the ports of the Indian Ocean. On the other hand, mountain ranges, differences in railway gauge, the limited capacity of border infrastructure, security issues, and insufficient standardization of procedures increase the cost of projects.

Uzbekistan’s geographical role has not only qualitative but also measurable significance: the country is one of only two double-landlocked states in the world and, at the same time, the only state bordering all four other Central Asian countries as well as Afghanistan. In this context, the Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar railway project, with a length of approximately 573 km, acquires systemic importance, since it could reduce the time and cost of transportation toward Pakistan’s ports by roughly 30%^[4].

Therefore, connectivity should be understood more broadly than the physical connection of two points on a map. In the modern economy, it includes four dimensions. The first is infrastructural: roads, railways, terminals, ports, and energy networks. The second is institutional: customs, tariffs, standards, sanitary and phytosanitary rules, permits, and transit guarantees. The third is commercial: demand, purchasing power, contracts, logistics companies, insurance, and banking channels. The fourth is social and humanitarian: education, labor skills, tourism, medical ties, and research cooperation.

This approach helps avoid oversimplification. Even the shortest road will not become a sustainable corridor unless it is supported by a reliable legal environment, competitive tariffs, financial guarantees, and coordination among states.

3. Current state of trade and economic cooperation

Trade and economic ties between Central and South Asia are developing, but their scale still does not correspond to the size of the markets. Trade between Central Asian countries and India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan remains relatively modest compared with their trade with China, Russia, the European Union, Türkiye, and countries of the Middle East.

Central Asia supplies, or could potentially expand supplies to South Asia, in such areas as agricultural products, grain, fruit and vegetable products, textiles, fertilizers, energy goods, certain types of metals, and industrial raw materials. South Asia, primarily India and Pakistan, holds competitive positions in pharmaceuticals, medical goods, IT services, equipment, textile products, processed food products, and consumer goods.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has been strengthening the southern direction of its foreign economic policy. Trade ties with India and Pakistan are developing through pharmaceuticals, textiles, food products, services, logistics, and investment projects. Uzbekistan’s foreign trade in the southern direction is already growing, but it still occupies a limited place in the overall structure of foreign trade. The largest trade flows with South Asian countries are with Afghanistan and India. However, the very fact that certain bilateral flows are growing does not solve the main problem: interregional trade remains fragmented. In order to turn it into a sustainable market, it is necessary to reduce transaction costs, ensure the predictability of transit, make standards comparable, and develop business services.

The issue of trade data is especially important. Mutual trade is often assessed using different sources, while the statistics of exporting countries and importing countries may diverge. To develop effective policy, a regularly updated data panel is needed, broken down by corridors, types of cargo, border-crossing times, transportation costs, return loads, the number of permits, and the actual use of preferential regimes. Without such a database, regional initiatives risk remaining merely declaratory.

4. Transport and logistics infrastructure as the basis of connectivity

Transport infrastructure is the material foundation for the rapprochement of Central and South Asia. At the same time, it is more accurate to speak not of a single route, but of a portfolio of corridors. Relying on only one route increases the vulnerability of the entire system. A diversified network of routes through Afghanistan, Iran, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus, and existing Eurasian directions creates redundancy, reduces risks, and strengthens the negotiating position of shippers.

The key project in the southern direction remains the trans-Afghan railway corridor Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar. Its strategic value lies in its potential to connect Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries with Pakistan’s ports, including Karachi, Qasim, and Gwadar. If implemented, such a corridor could reduce the distance and delivery time for certain types of cargo. However, the project requires the resolution of several complex issues: financing, security, technical parameters, railway gauge compatibility, the operating model, tariffs, and the distribution of risks among participants.

The Termez–Hairatan hub in Uzbekistan has particular significance. It is the closest entry point from Uzbekistan into Afghanistan and is already used as a logistics, humanitarian, and trade channel. The development of terminals, warehouses, customs capacities, multimodal transport services, and digital cargo-control systems could turn this hub into a stable anchor point for interregional trade.

Alongside the trans-Afghan route, the route through Iran is also important. For India, Central Asia, and Afghanistan, the Chabahar port is of particular significance, as are its links with the International North–South Transport Corridor and the Ashgabat Agreement. This option does not replace the trans-Afghan route, but it increases the resilience of the trade system. Events of recent years have shown that the closure or restriction of individual routes quickly increases the importance of alternative pathways through Iran and the countries of Central Asia.

Road corridors remain a necessary complement to railways. They are especially important for perishable products, small consignments, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and high-value-added goods. In this area, the key factors are not only roads, but also border procedures, the permit system for carriers, weight control, insurance, the safety of parking areas, and access to backhaul cargo.

The development of air connectivity plays a separate role. Direct flights between Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, Astana, Delhi, Mumbai, Lahore, and other cities do not create mass freight logistics, but they reduce barriers to business travel, tourism, education, medical services, and managerial oversight of investment projects. For modern business, such mobility is not a secondary factor, but a systemic one.

5. Energy partnership: from project-based logic to a regional market

Energy is one of the most obvious areas of complementarity between Central and South Asia. The Central Asian countries possess significant resources in natural gas, hydropower, solar power, and wind generation. South Asia, primarily Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, faces high energy demand, seasonal consumption peaks, and the need for a more reliable supply structure.

The most advanced interregional project in the electricity sector is CASA-1000. According to World Bank materials, the project is intended to ensure the transmission of up to 1,300 MW of surplus summer electricity from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The project also provides for high-voltage transmission infrastructure, including power transmission lines and converter stations. Its significance goes beyond the energy sector: it demonstrates the possibility of contract-based electricity trade between the subregions with the participation of international financial institutions.

In the gas sector, the best-known project is TAPI: Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India. Its planned logic is straightforward: Turkmen gas is expected to flow through Afghanistan to the energy-deficient markets of South Asia. Published descriptions of the project usually indicate a length of approximately 1,800 km and a designed capacity of up to 33 billion cubic meters of gas per year. However, TAPI remains a complex project with a high dependence on security, financing, long-term contracts, payment guarantees, and political coordination among the participants.

CASA-1000 has not only political but also measurable infrastructural significance: the project cost is estimated at approximately US$1.2 billion, while the designed transmission capacity is 1,300 MW. The Kyrgyz component provides for around 456 km of 500 kV power transmission lines. This makes it possible to view CASA-1000 as the first major example of contract-based interregional electricity trade between Central and South Asia^[5][6].

The new energy agenda includes not only the export of fuel and electricity, but also the development of low-carbon solutions. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan are expanding projects in solar, wind, and hydropower, while also modernizing their grids. In the long term, South Asia could become a market for seasonal electricity and energy services from Central Asia. However, this requires rules for cross-border trade, compatible dispatch mechanisms, commercial guarantees, transparent tariffs, and investment in grid resilience.

Energy cooperation must take into account climate and water-related factors. In Central Asia, hydropower is closely linked to irrigation and water resource management. In South Asia, electricity demand depends on temperature peaks, urbanization, and industrial growth. Therefore, energy projects should be accompanied by mechanisms for climate adaptation, forecasting water availability, improving energy efficiency, and developing energy storage systems.

6. Investment cooperation and business ties

Investment cooperation between Central and South Asia is still developing on a case-by-case basis, but it has significant potential. Unlike trade in raw materials, investment requires a higher level of trust, legal certainty, protection of property rights, clear tax regimes, access to foreign-exchange settlements, and high-quality business information.

The most promising areas include pharmaceuticals, medical services, agro-processing, textiles, logistics, warehouse infrastructure, IT services, education, tourism, financial technologies, renewable energy, and the production of components for infrastructure projects. South Asian companies have strong competencies in IT, pharmaceuticals, and services, while Central Asia offers access to raw materials, industrial sites, growing domestic markets, and transit opportunities.

An important task is to move from one-off business contacts to a systematic investment pipeline. This requires project catalogues, clear requirements for investors, standardized public-private partnership models, dispute-resolution mechanisms, insurance against political and commercial risks, and joint workforce training programs.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are of particular importance. Large infrastructure projects create the foundation, but it is small and medium-sized businesses that fill corridors with real goods and services. For them, access to information, affordable logistics services, digital marketplaces, simplified payments, standardized documents, and support in entering a new market are critical.

Development institutions and international financial organizations can play a catalytic role. Their participation reduces risks, improves the quality of project preparation, and disciplines the participants. However, external financing does not replace national reforms. Without clear rules, transparent statistics, and effective courts, even concessional loans will not create a sustainable flow of investment.

7. The strategic role of Uzbekistan as a connector state

Uzbekistan possesses a unique set of preconditions for playing the role of a connector state. It is located at the center of Central Asia, borders all the countries of the region as well as Afghanistan, and is also a major demographic and industrial market. For a country without access to the sea, the development of external corridors is not an optional task, but a condition for long-term competitiveness.

Uzbekistan’s role is not limited to transit. A transit country earns revenue from the movement of goods, but a connector state shapes rules, services, trust, and the institutional environment. This means developing multimodal hubs, creating logistics centers, digitalizing customs procedures, expanding railway and road links, training personnel, attracting banks and insurance organizations, and providing analytical support for projects.

The southern direction strengthens Uzbekistan’s foreign economic diversification. It complements the country’s already existing links in the northern, eastern, and western directions. At the same time, the diversification of routes reduces dependence on individual markets and transit pathways, which is especially important amid instability in global trade, changes in tariff policy, and geopolitical restrictions.

Termez occupies a special place in this strategy. It can serve as a border logistics center, a platform for trade with Afghanistan, a hub of humanitarian and commercial infrastructure, and a symbolic space for discussing connectivity between Central and South Asia. To turn this role into a sustainable result, investment is needed in terminals, railway approaches, warehouse capacity, services for carriers, and a system for analyzing cargo flows.

Uzbekistan’s strength also lies in its ability to put forward multilateral initiatives. Interregional connectivity cannot be implemented through bilateral agreements alone. It requires the alignment of interests among the countries of Central Asia, the countries of South Asia, Afghanistan, international financial institutions, business, and the expert community. In this sphere, Uzbekistan can act as a coordinator of the agenda and a provider of analytical solutions.

8. Key barriers and ways to overcome them

The first barrier is incomplete infrastructure. Many corridors exist in the form of project concepts or partially functioning routes. To transform them into commercially sustainable directions, technical and economic feasibility studies, agreed tariffs, clear sources of financing, unified operational models, and transparent risk allocation are required.

The second barrier is security and the predictability of transit. For business, what matters is not only the length of the route, but also the likelihood of delays, losses, border closures, changes in rules, and additional payments. Therefore, transport policy should include insurance mechanisms, security standards, corridor monitoring, crisis protocols, and regular information exchange among government agencies.

The third barrier is administrative fragmentation. Different documents, uncoordinated customs procedures, weak advance declaration, the absence of mutual recognition of certain certificates, and limited digital interoperability increase the cost of trade. The solution lies in the transition to electronic transport documents, the expansion of the single-window principle, the introduction of risk-based control, and the coordination of technical standards.

The scale of the financial challenge can be assessed through the example of CAREC: in 2021–2024, transport investment under the program amounted to US$8.61 billion, with a significant share of financing provided by international partners. This shows that infrastructure corridors require not only a political decision, but also a sustainable financial architecture^[7][8].

Administrative barriers have a measurable expression. According to CAREC monitoring, in 2022, the average border-crossing time on road corridors was 9.9 hours, while on railway corridors it was 40.6 hours. This confirms that the digitalization of documents, advance declaration, and risk-based control can produce an effect even without the immediate construction of new arterial routes.

The fourth barrier is financial constraints. Infrastructure projects require large capital investments and have long payback periods. A combination of budget funds, loans from international financial organizations, public-private partnerships, guarantees, project financing, and blended-finance mechanisms is needed. At the same time, each project must undergo an assessment of commercial viability, not only political attractiveness.

The fifth barrier is the lack of market information. Companies often do not know potential partners, market requirements, logistics tariffs, certification rules, or available financial instruments. This barrier can be reduced through digital trade platforms, business missions, sectoral catalogues, regular exhibitions, analytical reviews, and consulting centers under chambers of commerce and industry.

The sixth barrier is climate and resource-related risks. Mountainous areas, droughts, floods, changes in glacial runoff, and extreme weather events affect roads, energy, and agriculture. New corridors should be designed with climate resilience in mind, while energy projects should take into account the water balance and the seasonality of demand.

Practical priorities through 2030

9. The Termez Dialogue as an institutional foundation for cooperation

The Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia can become an important institutional platform for coordinating the interregional agenda. In 2025, the first dialogue was held in Termez, dedicated to the formation of a shared space of peace, friendship, and prosperity. The very choice of Termez emphasizes the city’s practical role as Uzbekistan’s southern hub and as a symbolic point of connection with Afghanistan and South Asia.

The effectiveness of such a format will depend on whether it can move from general statements to the management of a project-based agenda. For this purpose, it would be advisable to structure the dialogue around four permanent tracks: transport and logistics, trade and standards, energy and climate, and investment and human capital. Each track should have a project map, progress indicators, responsible participants, and a mechanism for annual updates.

The participation of business is of particular importance. States can sign framework documents, but real demand for corridors is generated by exporters, importers, carriers, banks, insurance companies, terminal operators, and manufacturing enterprises. Therefore, within the framework of the Termez Dialogue, business sessions, B2B platforms, sectoral presentations, and discussions of specific barriers faced by companies are necessary.

The expert track should serve as an evidence base. It can prepare an annual report on the state of connectivity between Central and South Asia, a corridor-readiness index, monitoring of transportation time and costs, a review of regulatory barriers, analysis of investment projects, and recommendations for governments. In this area, Uzbekistan’s analytical institutions can play a leading role.

The Termez Dialogue is also important as an instrument for involving Afghanistan in economic processes on a pragmatic basis. This is not a matter of political legitimization, but of reducing economic isolation, developing transit procedures, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and creating incentives for stability. This logic corresponds to the interests of all participants, since Afghanistan’s economic predictability directly affects the cost and security of interregional routes.

10. Connectivity and the Sustainable Development Goals

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is directly linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The development of energy networks supports SDG 7, the expansion of trade and employment corresponds to SDG 8, the construction of resilient infrastructure is linked to SDG 9, the reduction of spatial isolation contributes to SDG 10, climate resilience relates to SDG 13, and regional coordination and partnerships correspond to SDG 16 and SDG 17.

However, the link with the SDGs does not arise automatically. Infrastructure can promote development, but it can also deepen inequality if benefits accrue only to major actors while local communities bear the costs. Therefore, projects should include environmental assessment, social safeguards, consultations with the population, management of land-related issues, occupational safety measures, and transparent compensation mechanisms.

Special attention should be paid to women, youth, and small enterprises. New corridors create demand for services in logistics, trade, catering, repair, digital support, education, and tourism. If access to these opportunities is opened to local entrepreneurs, infrastructure will become a source of inclusive growth, not merely transit rent.

Climate risk is already becoming an economic factor. According to World Bank estimates, by 2030, nearly 90% of South Asia’s population may be exposed to intense heat, while more than one fifth of the population may face the risk of severe flooding. For Central Asia, the key constraint is water: in Uzbekistan, the volume of water withdrawal significantly exceeds internal renewable resources, and the current water deficit may increase to 7 billion m³ by 2030 and to 15 billion m³ by 2050^[9][10][11].

The climate dimension of connectivity is becoming increasingly important. South Asia and Central Asia are exposed to the risks of extreme weather events, glacier melt, droughts, floods, and tensions around water. Therefore, new roads, railways, power transmission lines, and logistics centers should be designed with long-term climate scenarios in mind. For the energy sector, this means combining electricity trade, energy efficiency, renewable sources, and grid resilience.

From the standpoint of sustainable development, the most promising model is not one of raw-material transit, but one of value-added creation. This implies agro-processing, industrial cooperation, service chains, digital trade, the localization of selected industries, and workforce training. In this case, connectivity is transformed from the movement of goods into a mechanism of structural modernization.

11. Conclusion

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is one of the key conditions for the sustainable development of the macroregion. It is capable of expanding sales markets, reducing transport isolation, strengthening energy security, supporting employment, and creating new incentives for regional stability. At the same time, the expected effect depends not on a single project, but on a coordinated package of measures.

The main practical conclusion is the need for a portfolio approach. The trans-Afghan railway, the route through Iran, road corridors, air connectivity, the CASA-1000 and TAPI energy projects, trade digitalization, logistics hubs, and investment platforms should be viewed as mutually complementary elements. Each of them has different implementation timelines, risks, and economic logic; therefore, the regional strategy should ensure redundancy and flexibility.

Uzbekistan has objective advantages for the role of a connector state. Its geography, demographic potential, industrial base, southern hub in Termez, and active foreign economic agenda make it possible to bring together the interests of Central and South Asia.

The Termez Dialogue can become a platform where political will is translated into project-level discipline. For this to happen, it should generate not only declarations, but also a list of projects, indicators, road maps, evaluation mechanisms, and permanent channels of interaction among business, experts, and government agencies.

In the long term, connectivity between Central and South Asia should be oriented not only toward increasing trade volumes, but also toward improving the quality of development. A sustainable macroregion will take shape where infrastructure is connected with institutions, energy with climate responsibility, trade with industrial cooperation, and diplomatic initiatives with evidence-based analysis and practical results.

Muhammad Babadjanov,

Head of Department

at The Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies

under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan

[1] https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/south-asia-regional-integration/trade

[2] https://data.worldbank.org/?locations=TJ-UZ-KZ-TM-KG

[3] https://data.worldbank.org/country/south-asia

[4] https://uzembassy.kz/en/article/the-mazar-i-sharif-kabul-peshawar-railway-will-open-up-broad-prospects-for-international-trade

[5] https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/afghanistan/brief/updated-q-a-on-casa-1000-resumption-in-afghanistan

[6] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/11/01/additional-financing-for-casa-1000-project-for-the-kyrgyz-republic

[7] https://www.carecprogram.org/uploads/03-CAREC-Transport-Strategy-2030-Midterm-Review-Draft-Report.pdf

[8] https://cpmm.carecprogram.org/2022-report/key-results/

[9] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2025/06/03/climate-resilience-in-south-asia-will-be-private-sector-led

[10] https://data.worldbank.org/country/uzbekistan

[11] https://www.adb.org/news/features/numbers-climate-change-central-asia

Today, Uzbekistan continues to steadily strengthen its cooperation with the international community in education, science, culture, and innovation. In this process, the country’s partnership with UNESCO holds a special place. Uzbekistan became a member of UNESCO in 1993 – a historic step that paved the way for integrating the national education system, scientific potential, and rich cultural heritage into the global intellectual space.
The opening of the UNESCO Office in Tashkent in 1996 marked a new milestone in bilateral relations. Moreover, the National Commission of the Republic of Uzbekistan for UNESCO was established to ensure sustainable cooperation, which has since become an active platform for dialogue and partnership.
Throughout this collaboration, Uzbekistan has consistently implemented international norms and principles in education, science, and sports. One of the important steps in this direction was the ratification, in 1997, of the 1960 Convention against Discrimination in Education, aimed at promoting equality and fairness in the education system. In the same year, Uzbekistan also acceded to the 1989 Convention on Technical and Vocational Education, which contributed to expanding opportunities for young people to acquire modern professions and practical skills, linking education closely with real life.
These measures have played a key role in strengthening Uzbekistan’s position in the global educational space and demonstrate the country’s firm commitment to promoting human capital development. By joining these conventions, Uzbekistan reaffirmed its dedication to equality and quality in education, youth health and well-being, and to aligning vocational education with international standards.
The Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education
At present, Uzbekistan is taking practical steps toward joining UNESCO’s Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education. This document aims to harmonize international education systems, ensure mutual recognition of diplomas and qualifications, and expand academic and scientific mobility. The initiative will help make Uzbekistan’s higher education system more open and competitive globally, enhance cooperation with foreign universities, and improve the international employability of Uzbek graduates.
On December 10, 2021, Tashkent hosted a High-Level Meeting of Experts on Strengthening Stakeholder Cooperation for the Adoption and Implementation of the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications. National and international experts, government representatives, and higher education institutions discussed the significance of Uzbekistan’s accession to the convention as a key step in integrating the national higher education system into the global academic space.
UNESCO Chairs in Uzbekistan
One of the most effective areas of cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO is the establishment and activity of UNESCO Chairs. Currently, there are nine UNESCO Chairs operating at higher education institutions across the country. Each of them contributes to strengthening international cooperation in education, science, culture, communication, and information, as well as to advancing research potential and promoting the principles of sustainable development.
UNESCO Chairs are established under the UNITWIN (University Twinning and Networking) Programme, launched in 1992 to encourage the exchange of experience and knowledge among universities and to expand global academic cooperation. Today, the network brings together over 700 chairs and research centers in 114 countries around the world.
In most cases, the activities of UNESCO Chairs are financed directly by the universities themselves — reflecting their aspiration to enhance academic prestige and to operate in close cooperation with the international scientific community.
A vivid example of such cooperation is the UNESCO Chair in Education for Sustainable Development at Urgench State University. The Chair has organized more than 20 events involving teachers, researchers, students, NGOs, and international experts. It has also held conferences, launched student exchange programmes, and published joint research papers. Such initiatives not only strengthen the capacity of the national education system but also promote Uzbekistan’s integration into the global scientific and intellectual community.
Rural Development and Human Potential: Supported by UNESCO and the European Union
Uzbekistan is steadily advancing international cooperation in promoting rural development, youth employment, and the enhancement of modern professional skills. A vivid example of this is the project “Development of Employment Skills in Rural Areas of Uzbekistan,” funded by the European Union and implemented by the UNESCO Office in Tashkent.
The six-year project (2020–2026), with a total budget of €9.6 million, is a clear reflection of the strong partnership between the European Union and UNESCO in supporting education reforms in Uzbekistan. The main goal of the initiative is to ensure sustainable economic growth by training specialists equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills that meet the needs of the rural labor market.
Within the project, Uzbekistan’s agricultural education system is undergoing major modernization. Specialists are being trained in such forward-looking fields as intensive horticulture, greenhouse management, agricultural product processing and storage, water management and land reclamation, and the operation of water-saving irrigation systems — all oriented toward practical skills demanded by the modern labor market.
A significant component of the project is the development of a National Vocational Education Strategy, new occupational standards, and educational programmes in agriculture and water management. In addition, pilot educational institutions are being equipped with modern laboratories, learning facilities, and teaching technologies.
Four pilot colleges — in Qorovulbozor, Qo‘shko‘pir, G‘ijduvon, and Qizirik — have been selected to implement the project. They have received modern tractors, technical equipment, computers, and refrigeration units for agricultural product storage. Moreover, four Advanced Vocational Training Centers are being renovated and equipped with up-to-date facilities.
During implementation, the rural labor market was analyzed to assess demand for mid-level specialists. Based on the results, six pilot specializations — including Automated Water Management Systems Technician, Animal Husbandry, Greenhouse Management, Irrigated Land Reclamation, Crop Science, and Farm Management — were introduced, and student admissions began in the 2023/2024 academic year.
In May 2024, an international conference titled “National Frameworks for Quality Assurance” was held within the project, focusing on aligning Uzbekistan’s vocational education system with international quality standards and strengthening human capital.
Additionally, under UNESCO’s “Delta Framework” programme, national ICT competencies are being developed, and special training courses for teachers of pilot institutions are planned.
This initiative serves not only to modernize the vocational education system but also to foster sustainable rural development, enhance youth employability, and improve the quality of life in local communities.
Science and Innovation for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future
In recent years, Uzbekistan has witnessed growing enthusiasm for new scientific ideas, research, and innovation. A shining example of this is the “InnoWeek.Uz” International Week of Innovative Ideas, held annually since 2018. Each year, the event provides a unique platform for bridging science and practice, engaging young researchers in innovation, and expanding global scientific cooperation.
“InnoWeek.Uz” has become a true celebration of creativity, discovery, and technological advancement — a space where scientific potential, imagination, and passion for progress converge. Creating the future through research and innovation, and opening new paths to development through knowledge, lies at the heart of this initiative.
The “InnoWeek.Uz–2024” edition marked a new milestone, featuring the “Science & Innovation for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future” Forum organized under the auspices of UNESCO. The forum brought together young scientists, researchers, and experts from around the world to exchange views on the role of science and innovation in promoting peace and sustainable development. The participants shared their research achievements and discussed new opportunities for global collaboration in science and technology.
Through their work, young scientists inspired others by seeking solutions to modern challenges, developing technologies that serve human welfare, and advancing harmony between nature and society. Discussions at the forum highlighted the role of innovation in economic and social progress, the contribution of science to peacebuilding, and the prospects for future scientific cooperation.
All these initiatives implemented in cooperation with UNESCO deepen Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms in education, science, and culture, while strengthening the country’s ties with the global community.
Today, knowledge and creativity, tradition and innovation, national values and modern approaches unite in Uzbekistan with one shared goal — progress and a sustainable future.
As UNESCO’s noble motto proclaims, “Building peace through education, science and culture” — this principle embodies both the moral and practical essence of Uzbekistan’s policy today. The nation continues to move forward with determination, fostering peace, development, and prosperity through enlightenment and science.

Kongratbay Sharipov,
Minister of higher education, science and innovationof the Republic of Uzbekistan

Libraries play a key role in education, culture, and community development, providing an invaluable resource for accessing knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting intellectual growth. In the modern information society, they remain an important institution that promotes the education and self-development of people of all ages.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasised during the opening ceremony of the People's Library under the President of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara: “Intellectual potential, high morale is what makes a nation strong. The source of this invincible power is books and libraries – the great invention of mankind”.  

At the present stage, education has become one of the most important areas of state policy. The government of the Republic of Uzbekistan pays special attention to the development of this sphere, recognizing its key role in the prosperity of the country. In recent years, the republic has achieved significant success in the educational domain. These achievements are aimed at modernizing the system, improving the quality of education and training, and expanding access to education for all citizens of the country.

At the same time, special attention is paid to the promotion of reading and the fostering of the reading culture of the population. And in the Presidential Decree adopted on September 13, 2017, “On the program of comprehensive measures to develop the system of publishing and distributing book products, improving the culture of reading”, clear goals are outlined for the creation of an effective system of information and library services to the population, which served to move this area to a new stage of development and contributed to raising the level of social and information culture and the role of libraries, made it possible to develop and implement modern innovative and educational technologies that increase the competitiveness of Uzbekistan in the world market.

In addition, the Presidential Decree “On further improvement of information and library services for the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was adopted on June 7, 2019. The main goals of the decree are:

• improving the regulatory framework in order to ensure high-quality social guarantees to the population for information and library services;
• development of information and library institutions taking into account modern requirements;
• promoting the sustainable development of information and library services the for population in the regions;
• strengthening the material and technical base of information and library institutions;
• development of public-private partnerships in the library sector, a network of private and electronic libraries;
• expanding cooperation with Internet resources that specialize in distributing electronic books to improve the efficiency of libraries and the efficiency of servicing (including paid) users;
• ensuring the safety of information and library institutions and the safety of information and library collections as part of the national and world cultural heritage;
• formation and enhancement of the information culture of society, sustainable interest in national history and culture, enhancement and promotion of a reading culture;
• staffing information and library institutions with qualified specialists.

The adoption of this decree expands the range of services in the country, including access to electronic resources and holding cultural and educational events, as well as improving staff qualifications and introducing modern methods of user service. In addition, these changes not only contribute to the development of the information society and economic growth by attracting investment in education and culture, but also promote the formation of a literate and informed society, which is an important step in the development of the country.

The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated December 14, 2020 approved the National Program for the Development and Support of a Reading Culture for 2020-2025, which includes the publication of quality books that meet the spiritual, educational, artistic and aesthetic needs of the population; supporting the activities of publishers and artists, publishing children's literature; translation of the best examples of national and world literature; simplification of the organization of book sales; improving the delivery system for newly published books and distribution of information sources; expansion of international cooperation in the field of online ordering of foreign work, their delivery and distribution.

In turn, it should be noted that within the framework of the “Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy, special attention is paid to the popularization of masterpieces of Uzbek and world literature. The country's leadership strives to instil in citizens a love of reading and ensure access to libraries and information services for everyone.

The Strategy “Uzbekistan - 2030” puts forward such main goals as increasing the number of young book lovers to five million, the annual creation of 100 works of art and 50 books for children and adolescents, the publication of the multi-volume book “Uzbek adabiyoti khazinasidan” (“From the Treasury of Uzbek Literature”), the 100-volume book “Jakhon Bolalar Adabiyoti Durdonalari” (“Pearls of World Children’s Literature”) in Uzbek, as well as the digitalization of a book fund of almost 40 million books.

On November 28, 2023, there was signed the Presidential Decree “On measures to implement the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, aimed at creating a system for translating books popular in the world into Uzbek, that contribute to increasing the intellectual and scientific potential of the younger generation.

At the same time, within the framework of the “Olympiad of Five Initiatives”, the following 5 projects in the field of reading and intellectual games are annually implemented: “Young Reading Family”, “Poetry Competition”, “Young Reader”, the intellectual game “Zakovat” and the project “Example of Foreign Languages”. These projects increase the interest of young people in reading books and help expand logical thinking and knowledge through intellectual games.

The “Young Reader” and “Young Reading Family” competitions are important events held to promote reading, the spiritual enrichment of youth, and increase their intellectual potential. This competition serves to increase interest in books among young people and expand their knowledge and horizons.

Also, within the framework of the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, the Agency for Youth Affairs will have to work on acquiring rights to use works from authors, translating them into Uzbek, and preparing for printing and publishing books on the basis of a state order and at the expense of the State budget (with the exception of books, published for state higher educational institutions).

Two stages have been established for translation into Uzbek and the publication of popular books in the world. First: a preliminary list of books is formed annually by the Expert Council. Second: the preliminary list is posted in the information systems of the Agency for Youth Affairs for selection by the population by voting, and thus the final list is formed.

The list of books published annually must include at least 20 percent of popular science works. The rights to the works prepared for publication will belong to the Agency for Youth Affairs, which will provide them free of charge to publishing houses.

It is also planned to create and ensure the continuous operation of a special mobile application that accumulates literature in the Uzbek language and provides the population with free access to a wide range of information. On the recommendation of the Expert Council, the works will be distributed to information and library institutions (including libraries of public and administration authorities), and electronic versions will be donated free of charge to the Alisher Navoi National Library of Uzbekistan and the relevant institutions of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan for wide use by readers.

The necessary spiritual, legal, material, and technical basis has been created in the Republic to develop children's literature and improve the quality of textbooks and teaching aids. The country's publishing houses have increased the publication of works by authors of world and Uzbek children's literature. In accordance with a number of documents adopted to promote book reading, systematic measures are being taken in all regions to popularise literature among children and adolescents. Over the past four years, a number of presidential decrees and government resolutions have been adopted to guide the country's publishing, printing, and bibliographical information institutions.

Thus, bibliographical information services play a critical role in ensuring public well-being by providing citizens with easy access to information, knowledge, and culture. In addition, the development of digital services, collaboration with communities, and the use of new technologies strengthen the role of libraries as centres of learning, information, and communication. This helps to enhance the capabilities of people and stimulates their desire for education. The development of the potential of information and library services contributes to lifelong learning, self-improvement, cultural and spiritual enrichment of the population. This is of crucial importance for modern society.

Ramzidin Nuridinov

Expert of the Development Strategy Center.

Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic in the field of tourism has been developing actively in recent years and is gaining a stable and sustainable character.

Both countries view tourism not only as an economic sector but also as an important tool for cultural exchange, strengthening international relations, and fostering mutual understanding between peoples. Within the framework of bilateral cooperation, joint tourism forums and presentations of tourism potential are regularly organized, and collaboration is being developed between tourism companies and educational institutions. Participation in international exhibitions also plays a significant role, where Uzbekistan promotes its historical and cultural routes, while the Czech Republic presents European travel destinations.

One of the reasons for the growing interest of Czech citizens in Uzbekistan is its rich historical heritage. Cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva—important centers of the ancient Great Silk Road—attract tourists with their unique architecture and the atmosphere of Eastern civilization. For Czech travelers, these destinations are of particular value, as they offer an opportunity to experience history preserved in a living form, distinct from the familiar European cultural landscape.

Another important factor is the exotic and authentic character of Uzbekistan. Tourists from the Czech Republic highlight the unique atmosphere of oriental bazaars, the diversity of national cuisine, the richness of traditions, and the hospitality of local people. All of this creates a truly unique travel experience that is difficult to find in more mass tourism destinations.

A significant role in the growth of tourist flows is also played by the development of Uzbekistan’s tourism infrastructure. A visa-free regime has been introduced for citizens of the Czech Republic, hotels are being modernized, and the transport network is expanding, including domestic flights and high-speed rail connections between major cities. All this makes travel more comfortable and accessible for European tourists, including Czech citizens.

Cultural and educational exchange remains another important area of cooperation. Czechs show interest in Uzbek crafts such as carpet weaving, ceramics, and national embroidery, as well as traditional music and dance. In addition, academic and business exchanges are developing, including participation in conferences, educational programs, and business initiatives, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

A significant milestone in bilateral cooperation was the workshop “Beginning of the Czech Odyssey. Popular Spa Resorts of the Czech Republic,” held in Tashkent with the participation of representatives of government agencies, the diplomatic corps, leading Czech spa resorts and hotels, as well as Uzbek tour operators.

During the event, new tourism products of the Czech Republic were presented, and prospects for expanding cooperation in spa, medical, and wellness tourism were discussed. Special attention was paid to building long-term partnerships between tourism companies of both countries.

Additional momentum to cooperation was provided by the visit of a working group of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Prague, where negotiations were held with representatives of the Czech Ministry for Regional Development, relevant associations, and leading tourism companies. The meetings focused on expanding tourism exchange, developing institutional cooperation, and implementing joint tourism initiatives.

Despite positive dynamics, certain infrastructural limitations remain, in particular the absence of direct and more convenient air connections between cities of the two countries, which somewhat constrains further growth in tourist exchanges.

In the future, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Czech Republic in tourism is expected to expand further. Growth in tourist flows, development of new routes, improved transport accessibility, and implementation of joint cultural and sustainable tourism projects are anticipated. All of this will contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and make Uzbekistan an even more attractive destination for tourists from the Czech Republic.

OPEN CALL

The Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan invites you to participate

at the X Tashkent International Biennale

of Contemporary Art,

which will be held from 14 to 18 October 2024 in the city of Tashkent (Uzbekistan). Can take part in the Biennale artists of various areas of contemporary art and present your work on the topic

“Art and World”.

In addition to the main exhibition, the biennale will host a number of artistic and cultural events, such as exhibitions, lectures and master classes, an international conference, and a tour of the cities of Uzbekistan.

All expenses of foreign participants for their stay (meals, internal transportation, accommodation) in Tashkent, except for flights,

will be covered by the Organizing Committee.

Applications for participation in the Biennale are accepted until August 15, 2024 via Google form:

https://forms.gle/aUEMyfrsyQUsrp7b7

(detailed information is given in the attachment to this letter)

*Organizers have the right to make changes to the event program

*Application requirements

X International Biennale of Contemporary Art
(Tashkent, Uzbekistan, October 14-18, 2024)

Requirements for Art Works

*The organizers have the right to make amendments