The President got acquainted with the construction of transportation infrastructure and engineering communications in New Tashkent.

As is known, the city under construction is designed for 1 million residents, which requires appropriate infrastructure with a view of long-term operation. In this regard, major underground engineering works are underway, laying the foundation for future grandiose constructions.

It is planned that infrastructure, daily life and ecology will harmoniously coexist in the new city. For instance, it is planned to create an environmentally friendly transportation system - metro and electric buses will be closely interconnected. For transportation 14 tunnels will be built, underground parking lots for 100 thousand cars will be equipped. In addition, all conditions will be created for barrier-free and safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists.

At one of the future intersections, foundation pouring for columns and waterproofing works are already underway. The President reviewed these processes. Recommendations were given on the use of high-quality and resistant materials.

Currently, the construction of one-section and two-section engineering collectors has begun, through which all centralized heating, water, electricity and telecommunications networks will pass underground.

The city will apply “smart” technologies in line with modern urbanization requirements. For the first time in the country, a “trigeneration” plant will be built here. Wastewater will be processed using modern technologies, and the resulting water will be used for irrigation and technical needs.

The President was also presented with the projects envisioned within the framework of the first stage of construction of New Tashkent. The winners of the auctions at which land plots were offered presented their investment initiatives.

Many local and foreign investors are interested in New Tashkent. Within the framework of the first phase, 11 mixed-use complexes, as well as hotels and restaurants have already been launched at a total cost of $490 million. Residential and commercial facilities as well as social institutions will make the neighborhood lively and attractive. Meanwhile, hotels and restaurants built in a unique architectural style will provide high-class service to guests and turn the city into a tourist center.

Next year, land plots for subsequent phases will be put up for bidding. Each phase will present new investment opportunities and projects. This will not only contribute to the further development of the city, but also create many new jobs and support local businesses.

In general, it is planned to create about 200 thousand high-income jobs in New Tashkent through the introduction of innovative technologies. Technoparks, IT-park, educational and medical clusters will be created for this purpose.

In the context of rapidly changing global economies, transport and logistics are becoming more than just infrastructure elements, but crucial instruments of economic and geopolitical influence. Against this backdrop, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is gradually emerging as one of the most promising platforms for regional cooperation in Eurasia. The development of transport and transit links, which are now becoming the foundation for the economic integration of the Turkic countries, holds a special place in the Organization's activities.

In this regard, the informal summit of the OTS, which will take place on May 14-15 this year in Turkestan (Republic of Kazakhstan), will be positive step in further strengthening the position of the Organization, deepening cooperation and uniting the efforts of all Turkic states.

Transport as the basis of a new Eurasian architecture

Today, the member states of the OTS interact in more than 40 areas – from economics and energy to digital technologies and artificial intelligence. However, transport sphere is gradually becoming the main driver of integration.

This is due to the unique geographical location of the Turkic countries. The region is located at the intersection of major international routes connecting Europe, Central Asia, China, the Middle East, and South Asia. A new Eurasian logistics system is effectively emerging, in which the OTS’s member states play a key link between East and West.

Amid the transformation of global supply chains and growing competition between international transport routes, the states of the region are striving not only to strengthen their own infrastructure but also to create a unified transit and logistics space.

Formation of a common transport policy

In recent years, a solid legal framework has been created within the OTS, which enshrines the strategic importance of this area in documents such as «Turkic Vision 2040» and «OTS Strategy for 2022–2026».

The 2022 Samarkand Summit was of particular significance, as it saw the signing of «Agreement on International Combined Freight Transport among the Governments of the Member States of the OTS» and «the Transport Connectivity Program». These documents ushered in a new era of cooperation among Turkic countries in the near future and established specific mechanisms for its implementation.

An important step was the introduction of the e-CMR system in 2026, which allows for the electronic transfer of transport documentation. This significantly simplifies transportation, reduces bureaucratic procedures, and expedites the passage of goods across state borders. At the same time, cooperation is developing in the digitalization of customs processes, the implementation of electronic permits, and the unification of transit procedures.

Institutional strengthening of cooperation

In recent years, the OTS has been consistently developing an institutional framework for transport integration, moving cooperation from a political and declarative level to a practical level. Regular meetings of the competent authorities of the Organization’s member states play a key role in this process.

Thus, at the meeting of OTS Transport ministers in April 2026 in Bishkek, the focus was on the development of transport corridors and the removal of border crossing barriers. Essentially, this is about creating a more coordinated regional transport system capable of increasing the competitiveness of OTS routes amid growing freight flows between Asia and Europe.

Meetings of heads of railway administration, held since 2022, serve a similar function. At the October 2025 meeting in Bishkek, issues of digitalization of transportation management and improving the efficiency of rail service were discussed. This demonstrates the desire of the OTS countries to unify transport procedures and reduce logistics costs within the region.

An additional step toward institutionalization was the creation of the Alliance of Logistics Centers and Cargo Carriers within the OTS in Tashkent in 2024. The establishment of this structure demonstrates a shift toward deeper business involvement in transport integration processes.

Transport corridors as a strategic basis for the integration of OTS countries

One of the key areas of the OTS's transport strategy is the creation of a unified space of transport connectivity, centered on the development of international corridors linking East and West, as well as North and South Eurasia.

The «Middle Corridor», connecting China and Europe via Central Asia and the South Caucasus, is particularly important in this system. Against the backdrop of the transformation of global logistics, geopolitical instability, and the desire of states to diversify trade routes, this corridor is becoming one of the most promising transport arteries in Eurasia.

While the volume of traffic along this route remained relatively limited in 2020, by 2025 it exceeded 5 million tons, an increase of almost sixfold. This demonstrates the gradual transformation of the «Middle Corridor» from an alternative route into an important element of the global transport system.

Moreover, the corridor's significance extends far beyond its purely transit function. For the OTS’s member states, its development means strengthening trade and economic ties, expanding access to external markets, attracting investment, and increasing the resilience of national economies to external challenges. In the long term, the «Middle Corridor» is seen as the foundation for the development of a new model of Eurasian connectivity.

A key element of this strategy is the implementation of the «China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan» railway project, which is already considered one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Central Asia. Construction of the highway, which includes 50 bridges and 29 tunnels with a total length of approximately 120 kilometers, is estimated to cost approximately $4.7 billion.

The project will significantly reduce freight delivery times between China and Europe, strengthen Central Asia’s transit potential, and enhance the integration of the OTS’s transport system. Essentially, this creates a new strategic route capable of transforming the region's logistics configuration.

Equally important is the development of the «Trans-Afghan Corridor», which opens OTS countries to the markets of South Asia, with a population of approximately 1,9 billion and a combined GDP of approximately $3,5 trillion. For Central Asian states, this creates opportunities to diversify foreign trade, expand export routes, and reduce transportation costs. At the same time, the Trans-Afghan route has the potential to become a factor in the economic stabilization of the region by boosting trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.

Uzbekistan as a Driver of Transport Integration in the OTS

Since the Republic of Uzbekistan joined the Organization of Turkic States in 2019, transport and logistics cooperation has become a key focus of the country's foreign economic strategy within the Organization. Against the backdrop of the transformation of global supply chains, the growing importance of alternative Eurasian routes, and increased competition among international transport corridors, Tashkent has consistently promoted initiatives aimed at creating a unified transport and transit space for the OTS.

The initiatives of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, play a key role in advancing this agenda. He views transport connectivity as a key factor in regional integration and economic development. At the OTS summit in Turkey in 2021, the head of state emphasized the need for systemic cooperation in transport and transit, effectively marking a shift to a more comprehensive approach within the Organization. This agenda received significant impetus at the 2022 Samarkand Summit, where Uzbekistan advocated for the development of multimodal routes and the implementation of the e-TIR, e-Permit, and e-CMR electronic systems.

Uzbek logistics centers Universal Logistics Services (Tashkent), Akhtachy (Andijan), and Termez Cargo Center (Surkhandarya) joined the «Sister Ports» initiative, marking a practical step toward integrating Uzbekistan’s transport infrastructure into the regional logistics network.

At the summit in Astana in 2023, Uzbekistan again emphasized the diversification of transport routes and the development of the «Middle Corridor», which, in the current geo-economic environment, is acquiring strategic significance as an perspective route between Asia and Europe. At the same time, Tashkent promoted for the expansion of transport routes connecting OTS countries with the markets of China, South Asia, and Europe.

A logical continuation of this line of action was the initiatives announced at the OTS summit in Bishkek in November 2024. The focus was on optimizing transit tariffs, simplifying border procedures, creating joint logistics mechanisms, and transitioning to electronic document management.

In May 2025, at the informal OTS summit in Hungary, Uzbekistan supported for the accelerated implementation of «single-window» systems and «green corridors» along the Trans-Caspian route. At the summit in Gabala in November 2025, special attention was paid to enhancing the competitiveness of the «Middle Corridor», modernizing infrastructure, and other areas. Particular importance was placed on linking this route with the «China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan» railway project and the «Trans-Afghan Corridor», which effectively creates a new system of transport connectivity across a vast region.

The International Forum on Multimodal Transportation held in Tashkent on November 12, 2025, was a practical confirmation of Uzbekistan's growing role in the OTS’s transport agenda.

Overall, the Turkic countries are already demonstrating a willingness to move beyond the idea of ​​partnership to the creation of a unified interconnected space. Joint infrastructure projects, the development of interregional corridors, the digitalization of logistics, and Uzbekistan’s active role in promoting these processes form the foundation of a new transport architecture within the OTS.

Sarvar Kamolov,

the Chief Research Fellow of
the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies
under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

This May, Baku will serve as the world's leading platform for discussions on the future of cities. From May 17 to 22, the capital of Azerbaijan will host the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum – the United Nations' leading global forum on sustainable urbanization. The forum's theme is "Housing for All: A Better Urban Future." Organizers indicate that the forum will address both the global housing crisis and the broader impact of housing on building inclusive, resilient, and climate-adapted urban environments.

According to UN-Habitat, nearly 3 billion people worldwide currently lack access to safe and affordable housing, more than 1.1 billion live in informal settlements or slums, and over 300 million are entirely without shelter.

For Uzbekistan, participation in this forum represents an opportunity to present its unique model of urban transformation to an international audience. Having moved beyond its image as a predominantly agrarian republic with ancient historic cities, the country today projects a new reality – expanding agglomerations, large-scale infrastructure modernization, and the growing significance of regional centers.

According to the National Committee on Statistics, as of January 1, 2026, the permanent population of the Republic of Uzbekistan exceeded 38 million, with the urbanization rate reaching 51 percent, representing nearly 20 million urban residents.

These figures mark a significant historical milestone. Uzbekistan has entered a stage in which national strength is measured not only by the throughput capacity of export corridors or the number of industrial zones, but also by the quality, connectivity, environmental sustainability, and economic productivity of its cities.

In contemporary Uzbekistan, a city is no longer merely an administrative unit. It is a place where young people receive education, entrepreneurs launch businesses, families seek affordable housing, and the state tests new approaches to infrastructure, transportation, and territorial governance. Rapid urbanization, however, is frequently perceived as a source of risk.

Indeed, when a city grows faster than its engineering networks, transportation arteries, and social infrastructure – schools, hospitals, parks –it begins to generate social tension rather than opportunity.

The Uzbek experience, however, is of particular interest precisely because urbanization is increasingly treated as a manageable resource for development. This process encompasses not only the construction of new districts, but also a transition toward a fundamentally higher quality of urban environment.

As the President of Uzbekistan has noted, each 1-percent point increase in the urbanization rate generates at least 1 percent of additional economic growth, with commensurate increases in investment flows, business and startup activity, and labor productivity. For this reason, Uzbekistan is developing a unified approach to the sustainable management of urbanization across the country.

To this end, the National Committee on Sustainable Urbanization and Housing Market Development has been established, tasked with implementing state policy in the areas of urbanization, housing construction, urban renewal, and mortgage lending. The Committee will also coordinate and advance programs across these domains.

The Future of Uzbekistan's Cities

According to World Bank projections, more than half of Uzbekistan's population currently resides in cities, and this share could exceed 60% by 2050. Such a trajectory means that urban planning, transportation, waste management, utility services, and public spaces are no longer merely matters of convenience –they are becoming a key determinant of national competitiveness.

This is where the core analytical insight lies: for Uzbekistan, urbanization is not a byproduct of demographic growth but a powerful lever of modernization whose economic rationale is abundantly clear. Quality infrastructure stimulates labor mobility, a livable urban environment attracts investment and talent, and the development of regional centers alleviates pressure on the capital.

While Tashkent naturally plays a pivotal role as the primary center of gravity, the country's sustainable development requires a deliberate shift of focus toward other cities.

Supported by the Asian Development Bank, cities such as Jizzakh, Khavast, Khiva, and Yangiyer are emerging as anchor points of this new geography, where projects for modern and inclusive infrastructure are being implemented. These cities exemplify the transformation of regional centers from peripheral locations into autonomous hubs of growth.

This approach fundamentally reframes the development philosophy. At its core lies not simply the decongestion of Tashkent, but a comprehensive strategy for creating genuine alternatives in the regions –with new employment opportunities, public spaces, transportation connectivity, a business-enabling environment, and high-quality municipal services.

To give powerful impetus to entrepreneurship in the regions, establish production of high value-added goods, and introduce urban living standards and conditions in rural mahallas, a program has been approved for the creation of 33 model districts and cities embodying the "New Uzbekistan" vision. The strategic objectives set by the President of Uzbekistan in this domain are ultimately aimed at transforming the architectural character of New Uzbekistan, while ensuring a dignified standard of living for the population and confidence in the future.

All of these measures are critically important for a country with a predominantly young population, since relocation to the capital must not be perceived by young people as the only viable path to self-fulfillment. In this sense, second-tier cities offer a new life scenario –education, employment, business, and a dignified existence without having to leave one's hometown.

Large-scale investment is being mobilized to realize this potential. In December 2025, the World Bank approved a financial package for Uzbekistan totaling $250 million. The funds will be directed toward improving municipal infrastructure and urban services in 16 districts and cities. The program covers territories with a combined population of approximately 3.6 million people and is expected to directly improve living conditions for roughly 1 million people by 2030. Among the anticipated outcomes are improved transportation access for 300,000 residents, the development of parks and public spaces for 400,000 residents, and the creation of approximately 10,000 temporary jobs in the construction sector.

Uzbekistan's Positive Achievements in Urban Development and Urbanization

Those figures matter not merely as investment statistics. They demonstrate that urban infrastructure is a form of social policy.

A compelling illustration of this principle is the experience of the Aral Sea region, which can be presented as a practical case study in implementing new approaches to territorial adaptation, water resource management, community support, and climate risk mitigation.

It is here that questions of urbanization acquire particular depth. How does one develop settlements in an ecologically vulnerable zone? How does one create employment where the natural environment has suffered severe degradation? How does one integrate afforestation, water security, public health, infrastructure, and the local economy into a coherent whole?

The answers to these questions are relevant not only for Uzbekistan. They hold lessons for many regions of the world where climate change, land degradation, and water scarcity are already affecting urban quality of life. Indeed, the story of Uzbek urbanization is significant not only as a national case study, but as a reflection of a broader strategic shift underway across Central Asia.

This shift marks a move beyond the traditional perception of the region through the prism of geopolitics, energy, raw materials, and transportation corridors. Today, the relevant question is framed differently: what will the cities of Central Asia look like?

Will they simply expand, consuming land and overstretching infrastructure? Or will they evolve into spaces where economic growth is reconciled with environmental responsibility, affordable housing, public transportation, green zones, and meaningful civic participation?

Uzbekistan stands precisely at this crossroads. Its advantages lie in its scale, demographics, and growing attention to regional development. Its challenge is to ensure that the quality of urban planning keeps pace with rapid urban growth.

In this sense, Baku –as host of the World Urban Forum –becomes a symbolic platform for the entire region. For Uzbekistan, it is an opportunity to demonstrate that its urbanization agenda carries both national and international significance. The country has the potential to offer the world a pragmatic yet human-centered approach –one in which the region functions not only as an economic node, but also as a mechanism of social resilience.

Altogether, Uzbekistan today stands on the threshold of the most ambitious urbanization reforms in its history. The new strategic plan envisions decisive measures aimed at supporting demographic growth and improving the welfare of the population. This is the central meaning of Uzbekistan's new urbanization.

Tursunboy Zikirov and Alisher Nizamov,

Heads of Departments,

The Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies

under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The Central Election Commission held a meeting and a series of events today, July 26th. The primary agenda item was the preparation and high-level accomplishment of the upcoming elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies in full compliance with the Constitution and laws.

According to Article 128 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies are scheduled to take place on the first Sunday of the third ten-day period of October in the year their term expires. Considering that the term of the deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies ends in 2024, the elections will be held on October 27th of this year, and the election campaign will begin on July 26th, as decided by the Central Election Commission.

These elections mark a significant departure from the past, taking place in a new socio-political environment as stipulated by our Constitution. The meeting underscored the unique features of these elections, which include:

1. For the first time in Uzbekistan's history, the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis elections will be conducted using a mixed electoral system, combining majoritarian and proportional systems. This significant change will see seventy-five deputies elected directly through the majoritarian system, where voters vote for specific candidates. The remaining seventy-five deputies will be elected based on votes cast for political parties under the proportional system.
2. One of the most significant advancements is the full digitization of election commissions' activities at all levels and their interactions with participants in the election process. This development significantly reduces bureaucracy, time, and document handling in election procedures, ushering in a new era of efficiency in our electoral system.
3. Our election legislation has been fundamentally improved to align with advanced democratic standards. These improvements include introducing a new system for election bodies led by the Central Election Commission and requiring political parties to ensure that at least 40% of their candidates for deputy positions are women. Additionally, a candidate must receive a relative majority of votes to be elected. If a candidate gets more votes than other candidates in their respective electoral district, they will be elected without needing a repeat vote.
4. The elections are taking place in conditions of significantly strengthened parliamentarianism and the powers of representative bodies at the local level, as established by the Updated Constitution. Specifically, the absolute powers of the Legislative Chamber have increased from 5 to 12, and those of the Senate from 12 to 18. The parliament's oversight functions over the activities of executive, judicial, law enforcement agencies, and special services have been expanded. The institution of hokims leading local Councils of People's Deputies is being abolished. To enhance the role of representative bodies in resolving important state issues, 33 powers previously held by hokims have been transferred to local Councils.

The meeting underscored the significance of these elections as a vivid example of democratic state-building in our country and an essential means for citizens to exercise their constitutional rights to vote and be elected to democratic state bodies. The elections will involve the election of 150 deputies to the Legislative Chamber, 65 members to the Senate, 65 deputies to the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, deputies to 208 district (city) Councils in the regions and Tashkent city, with around 30,000 candidates and nearly 90,000 trusted representatives actively participating. Over 120,000 election commission members and more than 70,000 citizens and international observers are expected to participate in the election process.

Considering the important role of elections in state life and with the aim of widely engaging citizens in this process, the Central Election Commission announced that the elections will be held on October 27th under the slogan “My Choice—My Prosperous Homeland.”

The 'E-Saylov' information system is a key tool in making the election process more transparent and accessible. It facilitates around 60 interactions between election commissions, political party candidates, observers, and the media entirely electronically. Integrated with other electronic platforms, the system automates many procedures in the election process without human intervention. This system forms an extensive database of nearly 400,000 participants in the election process, including election commission members, candidates, and observers. Around 32,000 participants will professionally use the information system, which includes communication through 40 types of SMS notifications.

For citizens, the "E-Saylov" information system introduces several conveniences in obtaining election-related information. Specifically, it provides statistical data on voters and polling stations, information on candidates for various elections, and interactive maps to learn about candidates and their biographies.

The meeting emphasized that the "E-Saylov" information system represents a new level of technological advancement and transparency in elections.

It was also noted that according to Article 37 of the Election Code, political parties have the right to nominate candidates for deputies to the Legislative Chamber and local Councils.

To participate in the elections, political parties must have been registered by the Ministry of Justice at least four months before the announcement of the election campaign and collect at least 40,000 signatures supporting their participation.

Additionally, the meeting approved a calendar plan to ensure that the activities related to conducting the elections are carried out step-by-step within the timelines specified by election legislation. The Central Election Commission, as an impartial and independent constitutional body, will take all necessary measures to prepare for and conduct the upcoming elections in full compliance with national legislation and international election standards, ensuring the process is open and transparent.

A Press Center has also been established under the Central Election Commission.

Central Election Commission

of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The 26th International Textile and Garment Industry Exhibition TextileExpo Uzbekistan 2026 will be held from May 13 to 15, 2026 at the Uzexpocentre National Exhibition Complex in Tashkent

TextileExpo Uzbekistan is the largest B2B platform for the textile and garment industry in Central Asia, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and professional buyers. Here, the buyers find reliable partners, current trends, and favourable terms of cooperation, while industry representatives find comprehensive solutions for production development and optimization. Visitors can compare offers, evaluate product quality, and negotiate directly with manufacturers.

Over 150 verified suppliers from 7 countries will participate, with strong representation from companies from China.

The exhibition will traditionally cover all production cycle phases from raw materials to finished products and accessories. Visitors will find yarn, fabrics, knitwear, fittings and accessories, finished garments, technical and home textiles, hosiery, as well as chemicals and dyes for the textile industry.

According to the organizers, the traditional Buyers’ Program is planned as a unique component of the TextileExpo Uzbekistan. It is a platform focused on achieving concrete business outcomes, including targeted B2B meetings, the establishment of long-term partnerships, and the conclusion of commercial contracts. For domestic companies, the program serves as an effective channel for entering international markets and scaling export deliveries. For buyers, exclusive participation conditions are provided, allowing them to make the most efficient use of their time at the exhibition and gain priority access to key suppliers.

Dunyo IA

Amir Temur occupies a place in world history not only as a great commander and statesman who built a powerful and prosperous state. The great ruler turned his capital, Samarkand, into one of the cultural, architectural, scientific and spiritual centers of the world.

Therefore, the study of Amir Temur's exemplary life and statecraft, the history of his reign, the study of science and culture in it, as one of the major scientific directions of historiography, has always been and remains the focus of attention of world scientists, heads of state, and politicians. Also, sources on the history of the Timurids have been translated into various languages and scientific research has been carried out worldwide.

The number of publications on the study of the era of Amir Temur is increasing day by day in world historiography. Ultimately, an independent scientific direction of "Temur studies" has been formed in world social science.

Today, no one doubts the immeasurable contribution of Amir Temur and the Temurid dynasty to the development of world civilization, to the sharp rise in the scientific, political-legal, spiritual-ideal, cultural and intellectual level of humanity. It should be noted that the Timurid Renaissance was recognized by the whole world. The fact that the French scientist Vincent Fournier was the first to use the phrase "Temurid Renaissance" is evidence of this.

The world community recognizes the Timurid era as an era that was reflected in the development of science, culture, art and literature, as well as great discoveries and inventions, and our people as a people who have founded the Renaissance twice so far. That is, it is commendable that our people rightfully belong to the small number of "peoples who were able to create a Renaissance" in the full sense of the word.

In this sense, it is considered that there is every reason to believe that the efforts of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to create a new Renaissance in New Uzbekistan, that is, the foundation of the Third Renaissance, through large-scale democratic changes in our country, including reforms in the fields of science and education, will yield the expected results.

One of the greatest services of the Leader of the Nation to our people is the restoration of the dignity and broken national pride of our people, who have lost hope in their own country, who have lost hope in a prosperous and good life, and who have lost faith in the future, the formation of a consciousness specific to New Uzbekistan, the subsequent elevation of their spirits, and the return of respect for spiritual and educational values ​​and historical figures.

At a new stage of the development of the Republic of Uzbekistan, along with radical renewal and improvement in every sphere of the state and society, comprehensive measures are being implemented to strengthen national statehood, establish a stable track and develop the political, legal, economic and social life of our country.

In particular, in historiography, a wide path has been opened for studying the history of our ancestors, giving them a correct and objective scientific assessment, and on this basis restoring our national values. Because, as the President of Uzbekistan emphasized: “We have a great history that is worth admiring. We have great ancestors that are worth admiring.”

Amir Temur: "I declare peace and tranquility!"

At the current stage of the development of new Uzbekistan, it is very important that the period of Uzbek diplomacy from ancient times to the present day - the formation and development of independent Uzbek diplomacy - is comprehensively and systematically studied. In particular, the book "History of Uzbek diplomacy", published in 2022, is the VII volume of the "History of Uzbekistan" multi-volume work. The book is a practical response to the proposals made by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at a meeting with Uzbek diplomats in January 2018.

The publication of a book on the history of Uzbek diplomacy is a major political event. As the head of our state noted, "our national statehood has a history of several thousand years and a rich culture. Therefore, diplomatic relations also go back to the deepest layers of our history. This fact is widely recognized not only by our country, but also by scientists from around the world."

One of the most striking qualities of our great ancestor, Sahibkiran Amir Temur, is that six centuries ago he deeply understood that the development of mutually beneficial cooperation between states, the strengthening of friendship and solidarity between distant and close peoples was an important factor in ensuring the prospects of his empire. Therefore, he carried out great works that served to connect Europe and Asia. On the one hand, he established contacts with China, India, on the other hand, France, Spain, England and other countries and sought to strengthen these relations.

As recognized on a scientific basis by our country's scientists and foreign experts, Amir Temur also left a deep mark in history as the most skillful diplomat of his time. As a great statesman, Sahibkiran skillfully combined the peaceful path of diplomacy and military measures in achieving his goals.

The great empire built by Amir Temur since that time has attracted not only neighboring countries and their kings, but also rulers of distant lands. Historical documents indicate that from the 70s of the 14th century, representatives of European countries came to Transoxiana and were seriously interested in the power and potential of the new, independent state here.

Sahibkiran, in turn, especially after the formation of a powerful empire, established active diplomatic relations with almost all major states of that time and their rulers. He sent his ambassadors to various countries, as well as received foreign ambassadors sent to him.

Amir Temur sent ambassadors to the court of Don Enrique III of Castile and Leon (in some sources - King Henry III of Spain), the ruler of France Charles VI (in some sources - Charles VI), and the king of England Henry IV, who, in turn, received ambassadors from Spain, France, England, China and a number of others - a total of more than 20 foreign states - in his capital Samarkand, which clearly confirms this idea.

According to historical sources, on July 28, 1402, the Ambassadors of King Don Enrique III of Castile and Leon, who were present at the presence of Amir Temur, included Payo de Soto Mayor and Hernan Sanchez de Palazuelos. When the time came for the ambassadors to return, Sahibkiran sent one of the capable beys, Muhammad Keshi, with letters and gifts to Castile as an Ambassador with them, in order to further strengthen relations between the two states. Muhammad Keshi arrived there safely and handed over the letters and gifts to Don Enrique III.

It is known that Amir Temur recruited Nasaf and Kesh scholars, capable individuals knowledgeable in religious and secular sciences, and proficient in foreign languages ​​to his palace. They performed various duties, including the duties of Ambassador. For example, Muhammad Keshi lived in Spain for some time as Sahibqiran's ambassador, while Maulana Abdullah Keshi was sent by Amir Temur as an ambassador to Faraj, the Sultan of Egypt.

Amir Temur usually sent Christian leaders to European countries as ambassadors. Of the Muslim diplomats, only Muhammad Keshi managed to go to Europe. This also indicates his ability, knowledge of several languages, probably one of the European languages.

At that time, the fame of Amir Temur had spread throughout Europe. Therefore, Muhammad Keshi was received with great respect by the King of Castile, Don Enrique III. He attended receptions at the Royal Palace and in the palaces of the great nobles. The King accompanied him to Samarkand with his ambassadors, led by Rui Gonzalez de Clavijo, and respectfully escorted him.

One of the distinctive features of Amir Temur's diplomacy was that in all his addresses, even in letters written in the form of strict demands, he adhered to the etiquette of Eastern diplomacy. It is not difficult to learn from historical letters that have survived from those times that Sahibkiran always responded to the letters of the rulers of some countries, written in a rude manner, sometimes with anger and ignorance, expressing his opinion clearly, with culture and decency. The fact that Amir Temur's letter to the French King Charles VI contains the words "I declare peace and tranquility!" clearly confirms this.

Diplomatic correspondence of Amir Temur

The correspondence that has survived from that time to the present clearly testifies to the skillful diplomatic activity of Amir Temur and the Temurids. Currently, 4 letters are kept in the National Archives of France:

the first is the original copy of Amir Temur's letter to the French King Charles IV in Persian;

the second is a copy of this letter translated into Latin by Archbishop John himself or one of his contemporaries;

the third, a copy of a letter written in Latin by the French King Charles IV to Amir Temur;

the fourth, a Latin translation of a letter sent by Mironshah Mirzo to three European kings. The original copy was kept by John and later shown to the King of England.

When it comes to the study of relations between Amir Temur and Europe during the former Soviet era, it is worth noting that I. Umnyakov's article "International relations of Central Asia at the beginning of the 15th century. Amir Temur's relations with Byzantium and France" and other works are quite informative.

Amir Temur also conducted diplomatic correspondence with distant states of Western Europe, in particular, with the representative of the Valois dynasty - King Charles VI of France (1380-1422) and King Henry IV of England (1399-1413). The first brief information about the correspondence between Amir Temur and Charles VI in 1402-1403 was provided by the French historian Flossant, who lived at the beginning of the 19th century, in his research published in 1811.

Amir Temur's letter to Charles VI was written in Persian, in an unusual style, not similar to the style of the rulers of the East. The letter mentions that "the preacher Francis" brought letters to Amir Temur from the French king.

As far as we know, there was no official exchange of ambassadors between Amir Temur and Charles VI, as there was between King Henry III of Castile. At the same time, the text of the letter suggests that Amir Temur had previously received letters from France. However, these letters have not reached us.

There is no doubt that this letter is an original. This is clearly confirmed by the fact that Amir Temur's miraculous seal is stamped on two places on the letter. The fact that the seal on the letter actually belongs to Sahibkiran has been proven by most historians, including Ambassador Clavijo and historian Ibn Arabshah.

An important point is that Clavijo is one of the few, that is, one of four people who saw Amir Temur and wrote memoirs based on direct conversations with him. This fact further increases the authenticity of the diaries of the Spanish Ambassador, as well as the memoirs created by Ibn Arabshah, Ibn Khaldun, and Archbishop John. Therefore, honesty is the path to truth and justice.

The National Library in Paris preserves the second letter of Amir Temur to Charles VI. The Latin translation of this letter has come down to us, first published by Sylvester de Sacy.

At the same time, there is also a Latin translation of the letter sent by Charles VI to Amir Temur. This is a unique document of particular value as the only letter from the French king to Sahibkiran that has survived to this day. While both letters of Amir Temur are dated August 1, 1402, the letter of Charles VI is dated June 15, 1403.

The foreign policy and diplomatic correspondence of His Majesty Amir Temur have been and are being studied in detail by scholars around the world, including specialists from our country. Some time ago, when I met with Jean-Louis Bacquet-Grammon, a well-known French orientalist and orientalist, in Paris, he presented me with a rare copy of the book "Amir Temur's Campaign in Anatolia (1402)" written by the Romanian historian and Turkologist Maria-Matilda Alexandrescu-Dersca, published in 1942.

Despite the fact that Amir Temur's letters were written almost seven centuries ago, some of their aspects resonate as an extremely important call for our day: it is understood that the prosperity of the world with merchants, the glory of the empire is determined primarily by recognizing the glory of other empires, respecting the dignity of citizens, regardless of official and unofficial differences, and firmly adhering to human rights and freedoms.

In addition, as material evidence of the diplomatic correspondence of the Timurids, one can cite the letters between Amir Timur and his third son, the ruler of Western Iran, Iraq and Azerbaijan, Miranshah Mirza, and the kings of France, England, Castile and other countries. Some of these letters are kept in the French National Archives, the British Museum and the Spanish archives.

The diplomatic correspondence of Amir Timur and the Timurids clearly shows, firstly, that Europe has always reached out to the East, which awakened long before it, and secondly, that the East also sought to establish contacts with these countries, cooperate, establish trade and commerce, and, despite religious differences, honor merchants and protect their rights.

Akmal SAIDOV,

academician

May 13. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan has nominated its candidacy for the Chair of the UN Tourism Comission for Europe (CEU) for the 2025–2027 term.

This marks the first time in its history that Uzbekistan has put forward a candidate for this prestigious position, underscoring the country’s growing engagement in global tourism affairs and the high level of trust it has earned within international tourism bodies.

The UN Tourism Comission for Europe consists of 41 member countries from Europe as well as Central and Western Asia. It plays a pivotal role in shaping tourism policy across the region, promoting regional cooperation, and advancing sustainable and inclusive tourism development.

The 71st meeting of the Commission will be held on June 4–6, 2025, in Baku, Azerbaijan. During this session, elections are scheduled to take place for the Chair of the CEU for the 2025–2027 term.

Uzbekistan’s nomination for this position is viewed as recognition of the country’s consistent reforms in the tourism sector, its practical efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, and its contribution to the development of sustainable and inclusive tourism.

If elected, Uzbekistan intends to promote new initiatives aimed at positioning Central Asia as a unified tourism destination, developing cross-border routes, widely implementing digital solutions, and enhancing regional dialogue within the framework of the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

On 23 January, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, a videoconference meeting was held on the key tasks of poverty reduction and employment provision for 2026. In terms of both substance and the framing of issues, the meeting marked a turning point in the evolution of the country’s social policy.

The relevance of transitioning to a new model

The results of the reforms demonstrate a transition to the next stage of social policy. For the first time, poverty reduction has been placed in direct dependence on outcomes at the level of individual mahallas.

This shift is a consequence of the socio-economic results achieved. By the end of 2025, the national economy grew by 7.7%, significantly above the forecast level of 6.5%. GDP exceeded $147 bn, reaching approximately $3,900 per capita. Growth rates in all sectors surpassed those of 2024. Foreign investment reached $43 bn, while exports amounted to $33.8 bn. Inflation declined from 9.8% to 7.3% in 2025.

Sustained economic growth ensured a significant increase in budget revenues, which were consistently directed toward addressing social issues, reducing poverty, and developing mahallas. As a result, in 2025 income sources were provided for 5.4 mn people, and 330,000 families were lifted out of poverty. Unemployment declined to 4.8%, while the poverty rate fell to 5.8%.

As overall poverty indicators decline, its geography is changing. Poverty is becoming localized, concentrated, and heterogeneous. Nearly one-third of low-income households and around one-fifth of the unemployed are concentrated in a limited number of mahallas, which necessitates a transition to a new model.

Against this backdrop, the primary indicator becomes the outcome achieved at the level of each mahalla. The persistence of poverty or unemployment indicates that measures require further calibration.

Accordingly, for the first time at the national level, a systematic classification of all territories by poverty level was conducted. Based on 20 criteria, 37 “difficult” districts and 903 “difficult” mahallas were identified, home to around 120,000 poor families and approximately 155,000 unemployed citizens. At the same time, work to shape the image of a “New Uzbekistan” has also begun in an additional 33 districts and 330 “difficult” mahallas.

A distinctive feature of the new approach is that “difficult” territories are viewed as points of structural transformation. For each mahalla and district, comparative advantages are assessed, including economic, agricultural, industrial, logistics, or service-related strengths.

Individual development programmes for mahallas are being formulated. Practice shows that even in the most vulnerable areas, ensuring stable access to water and electricity, basic infrastructure, and integration with markets can multiply household incomes.

In the current year, territorially targeted development becomes the main instrument for achieving the stated goals, as clearly articulated by the President.

Infrastructure as an economic asset

A particular emphasis in the new model is placed on revising regional policy priorities. As noted by the President, residents and entrepreneurs in “difficult” districts and mahallas primarily expect improvements in roads, water supply, and electricity provision, rather than an expansion of tax incentives.

Concentrating resources on a limited number of problem territories allows infrastructure investment to be transformed from general budget spending into an instrument of targeted socio-economic impact. In 2026, $1.6 bn will be allocated for regional infrastructure development, of which $990 mn will be directed to “difficult” districts and mahallas.

At the same time, transfers from the republican budget to local budgets will double.

Additionally, allocations of $4.1 mn to each “difficult” district and $165 ths to each “difficult” mahalla are envisaged.

In total, district hokimiyats (district executive administrations) and local kengashes (local representative councils) will receive an additional approximately $330 mn exclusively to support problem territories.

A key element of this model is ensuring stable energy supply for “difficult” districts and mahallas.

In 2026, each of the 903 “difficult” mahallas is expected to host the construction of a small solar power plant with a capacity of 300 kW, with a total investment of around $110 mn. These plants will be transferred to the mahallas free of charge, creating a local energy asset. Through the generation of “green” electricity, each mahalla will gain a sustainable additional income source of $33-41 ths per year.

The proceeds are intended to be used for energy-efficient renovation of housing stock, reducing utility costs, and improving quality of life. Operation of the solar plants will involve members of low-income households, simultaneously addressing employment and infrastructure sustainability objectives.

A separate emphasis is placed on supporting the most vulnerable households. An instruction has been issued to conduct targeted assessments of 6,700 families with a member having a first-degree disability and no able-bodied household members, followed by identification of needs for energy-efficient housing upgrades and the launch of “green” renovation.

Taken together, these measures form a model of territorial and energy resilience. The effectiveness of local authorities’ performance will be subject to public evaluation, reinforcing the transition to results-oriented governance.

Comparative advantages of mahallas

The President clearly defined key socio-economic targets for 2026, including the provision of permanent employment for around 1 mn people, lifting 181,000 families out of poverty, increasing the number of poverty-free mahallas by 2.5 times to 3,500, and reducing the unemployment rate to 4.5%.

Achievement of these targets is expected to be based on the comparative advantages of specific districts and mahallas in industry, agriculture, and services. This approach allows resources to be concentrated where they generate the greatest multiplier effects for employment and household incomes.

As an example of leveraging comparative advantages based on location and specialization of mahallas, the President cited Furqat District. Its advantages include, first, cooperation with neighboring economically active centers; second, deepening specialization among nearby mahallas and combining competencies; and third, increasing value added through the launch of processing activities.

Further measures were outlined within the framework of a differentiated approach to developing problem territories.

Deepening mahalla specialization

Primary attention will be focused on deepening mahalla specialization, as welfare levels are significantly higher in mahallas with deep specialization. Practice shows that in such mahallas, welfare levels are noticeably higher, while the number of recipients of social assistance is half as large, at around 7 people per 10,000 population.

Currently, the 903 “difficult” mahallas encompass around 90,000 hectares of household and leased land. To transform this resource into a source of sustainable income, a new mechanism of a “social contract” between the state and the mahalla has been proposed. Mahallas that, by leveraging residents’ skills and rational land use, manage to increase household incomes by three to four times will receive additional financing of $165 ths for the development of road, water, and irrigation infrastructure. Implementation of this model is planned to begin with “difficult” mahallas.

To support deeper specialization, banks will allocate a total of $1.4 bn in loans. For production projects, 4% of the loan will be compensated, while for processing projects the compensation will amount to 6%.

Comparative advantages of mahallas

In 2026, $11.5 bn in credit resources are earmarked for the development of small and medium-sized businesses in mahallas, compared to $10.7 bn a year earlier. At the same time, banks have been tasked with strengthening entrepreneurship financing: alongside a planned $6 bn from external sources, the total volume of funds directed to mahalla-level projects should reach $8 bn.

Not only the scale but also the principle of credit allocation is changing. The model under which loans within the “Family Entrepreneurship” programme were issued on uniform terms at a 17.5% rate across all districts and cities is giving way to territorial differentiation. In particular, for the 37 “difficult” districts, the rate is reduced to 12%. This step transforms lending into an instrument for accelerating the development of problem territories.

In parallel, programme limits and target areas are being expanded. In all districts, the maximum size of concessional loans is increased by 1.5 times, from $2.7 ths to $4.1 ths. To support this decision, an additional $165 mn is added to the planned $297 mn.

Overall, the 2026 credit policy is shaped as a targeted development mechanism, a managed conversion of credit into employment, income, and local growth.

Institutional changes in system governance

A number of institutional changes are also envisaged to enhance the effectiveness of all governance levels involved in mahalla development.

Work in mahallas is moving away from an administrative-intermediary model and is being structured around specific projects. In this framework, the hokim’s assistant acts as a territorial development manager responsible for implementing project solutions.

To ensure integrated project governance, multi-level coordination is being introduced. Initiatives proposed by hokims’ assistants are paired with regional bankers; the first deputy hokim of the region provides operational oversight; and the “Reform Headquarters” supervises issues requiring inter-agency solutions. From February, a system of training hokims’ assistants in project management will be launched, starting with “difficult” mahallas. Each district will form a project portfolio followed by a transition to practical implementation.

One hundred “difficult” mahallas that demonstrate the best performance in job creation, income growth, and poverty reduction will receive an additional $82.5 ths each. Hokims’ assistants from these mahallas will be able to upgrade their qualifications in China, Turkiye, South Korea, and Malaysia.

In this context, work on developing mahalla master plans is being intensified. International experts are being engaged, alongside the potential of domestic universities. Final-year students in architecture programmes will be able to participate in the development of “difficult” mahallas, with the best projects being supported by state grants.

Overall, the institutional changes formalize a shift from a universal approach to a differentiated territorial policy.

Resource redistribution is justified by the structure of the economy: 62% of industrial production and 57% of services are concentrated in 50 districts and cities with high entrepreneurial potential. Growth in their budget revenues creates an opportunity to concentrate state efforts on problem territories.

This is evident from revenue dynamics: three years ago, additional local budget revenues in these 50 territories amounted to $72.2 mn, while in the current year they are expected to increase 8.5 times, to $610.5 mn.

As a result, greater attention can be directed to “difficult” districts and mahallas, where poverty and unemployment are territorially concentrated.

Conclusion

The decisions and instruments for 2026 demonstrate that Uzbekistan’s social policy is moving beyond traditional resource redistribution toward a model of managed territorial development. The new model rests on three interlinked pillars.

First, the concentration of infrastructure resources in “difficult” districts and mahallas, with the creation of long-term local assets, reduced household costs, and enhanced energy resilience.

Second, the expansion of employment based on comparative advantages and deeper territorial specialization, supported by financial incentives, access to credit, and solutions along value chains.

Third, institutional recalibration of governance, where a project-based approach and multi-level coordination align resources, responsibility, and measurable outcomes.

The essence of the current phase is that targeting becomes a technology focused on “difficult” territories. Exiting poverty is understood as an individual household trajectory, in which local conditions, skills, and infrastructure are decisive. The “Mahalla Seven” and the institution of hokims’ assistants serve as the connecting link, ensuring coordination and feedback until results are achieved.

Khurshed Asadov,
Deputy Director of Center for Economic Research and Reforms

In the modern history of New Uzbekistan, protecting the rights, freedoms, and legitimate interests of its citizens – wherever in the world they may be – has become not merely a constitutional obligation, but the highest expression of the state's humanity and responsibility. One of the most challenging yet strategically significant tests of this commitment has been the repatriation of compatriots from conflict zones in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

Uzbekistan was among the first countries in the world to shift from a policy of "estrangement" to one of "return and compassion," developing a distinctive rehabilitation model in the process.

The first such humanitarian operation was launched exactly seven years ago – on May 30, 2019 – on the personal directive of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. During that mission, 156 Uzbek nationals – predominantly women and children – were brought home from war-ravaged Syria. It was a defining moment: for the first time, the state openly declared its readiness to embrace citizens who had gone astray.

That operation marked the beginning of a series of missions conducted under the collective name "Mehr" (meaning compassion in Uzbek). The core philosophy behind President Mirziyoyev's initiative is that Uzbek citizens who found themselves in conflict zones through misguided choices retain the right to state protection and the opportunity for a new life.

Each mission was unique in its logistics, risk profile, and the circumstances of those being brought home. The second operation, Mehr-2, carried out in October 2019, was notable for the evacuation of 64 children from Baghdad, Iraq – children whose mothers remained imprisoned abroad and for whom Uzbekistan assumed full guardianship.

In December 2020, despite the sweeping restrictions of the global pandemic, Mehr-3 rescued 98 women and children from the Al-Hol and Roj camps in Syria, where they had been living in dire sanitary conditions. Many of the children bore shrapnel wounds and suffered from serious chronic illnesses. The operation was conducted with technical support from the United States and international organizations.

Mehr-4, carried out in February 2021, focused on Afghanistan, securing the return of 24 citizens caught in the crossfire of that country's protracted war.

The final stage, Mehr-5, was completed in April 2021, bringing home 92 individuals from Syria – 24 women and 68 children, including 7 who were complete orphans. This operation also refined a rapid documentation protocol: birth certificates were issued to children directly at the airport, ensuring they received immediate legal status upon arrival.

In total, the Mehr operations have repatriated more than 530 individuals, approximately 75% of whom are children. The guiding principle throughout has been unequivocal: children cannot be held responsible for the choices of their parents.

Repatriation is far more than a logistical exercise – it is the complex process of transforming yesterday's outcasts into full members of society. The Uzbek model rests on five pillars:

1. Legal Restoration. One hundred percent of repatriates have been provided with official documentation. Every child born in a conflict zone has received a Republic of Uzbekistan birth certificate, granting access to healthcare and education.
2. Economic Empowerment. The state has ensured that no one is left to face hardship alone. Through subsidized credit schemes and vocational training programs, women have found employment and established small businesses within their local communities, achieving economic independence. Repatriates also receive assistance in recovering housing rights lost during their absence, or are provided with subsidized rental accommodation.
3. Inclusive Education. Repatriated children attend mainstream schools – not segregated facilities – and participate in academic competitions and sporting events alongside their peers. To date, approximately 10 repatriates, including women, are enrolled in higher education institutions, and 9 children have become winners or prize-winners in national and regional academic olympiads.
4. Spiritual Guidance. Representatives of the Committee on Religious Affairs, alongside respected theologians and imams of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, conduct preventive counseling sessions, introducing repatriates to the tenets of traditional Hanafi Islam as a counter-narrative to extremist interpretations. More than 90% of returnees have successfully adapted and lead secular lives.
5. Community Engagement Through the Mahalla. Neighbors and community activists within the mahalla (traditional neighborhood institution) play an essential role in helping families reintegrate, preventing stigmatization, and fostering an atmosphere of genuine support. Each family is assigned an experienced mahalla mentor who assists with everyday challenges and monitors the family's wellbeing.

The outcomes of Uzbekistan's repatriation program are recognized by the international community as one of the most successful humanitarian models in the world. The United Nations has officially recommended the "Uzbek model" as a roadmap for other governments. Former UN Under-Secretary-General Vladimir Voronkov has repeatedly highlighted it as an example of how a state can effectively combine justice with compassion.

Rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives have also been advanced at the regional level. At the high-level international conference "Regional Cooperation of Central Asian Countries within the Framework of the Joint Plan of Action for the Implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy," held in Tashkent on March 3–4, 2022, President Mirziyoyev proposed the establishment, under the auspices of the UN Counter-Terrorism Office, of a Regional Expert Council comprising leading specialists from Central Asian countries.

The Council was launched in May 2024, embodying broad support for the collaborative implementation of comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs for individuals returned from conflict zones. It comprises more than 40 highly qualified experts from across Central Asia, including representatives of law enforcement and judicial bodies, as well as psychologists, theologians, medical professionals, and social workers.

The project has gained further credibility through the participation of prominent international bodies, including the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ).

The Council's work has been presented at key UN platforms: in Geneva and New York on November 11 and December 10, 2024, respectively, and in Vienna on May 21, 2025.

Uzbekistan has demonstrated to the international community that repatriation is not a security risk – it is an instrument for strengthening security. International organizations are investing in Uzbekistan today not to remedy a problem, but to scale its success to other regions of the world.

The work with repatriates in Uzbekistan has now moved from a phase of emergency rescue to one of systemic integration. The country operates a well-functioning mechanism that combines state support with community oversight. The state ensures the full legal "erasure" of repatriates' past so that it does not obstruct their future. Where the early focus was on physical health, the emphasis has now shifted to mental wellbeing and civic identity. A repatriate in Uzbekistan in 2026 is a taxpayer, an active participant in mahalla life, and a parent whose children are building their futures within the country.

In contrast to those who chose to close their borders to their own citizens, Uzbekistan's leadership chose the path of responsibility. The country's experience affirms that when a state extends a hand, society grows stronger – and security becomes unshakeable.

Uzbekistan's motto in this sphere is clear: "Children cannot be terrorists" – and every Uzbek citizen will always remain under the protection of their homeland.

Timur Akhmedov,

Head of Department,

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

For decades, Afghanistan was perceived primarily as a source of instability, geopolitical rivalry and security threats. In recent years, however, the regional agenda surrounding Afghanistan has gradually been shifting. Increasingly, expert and diplomatic circles in the Central Asian states are discussing not only the question of security but also Afghanistan’s potential as a transport, energy and trade corridor capable of linking Central and South Asia.

In this context, the «Termez Dialogue»^[1] acquires particular significance as a platform symbolizing the transition from a policy of isolation to a pragmatic model of regional interaction. For Uzbekistan and its neighbors, the issue is no longer merely the stabilization of Afghanistan, but the formation of a new geoeconomic architecture for Eurasia.

From a Geopolitical Buffer to a Geoeconomic Bridge

Historically, Afghanistan lay at the crossroads of major trade routes connecting the East, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. In the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, however, the country became a space of geopolitical confrontation among world powers rather than a territory of cooperation.

Today the situation is gradually changing under the influence of several factors at once. Firstly, global logistics is undergoing a profound transformation. Geopolitical tension, sanctions restrictions and crises affecting traditional transport routes are forcing states to seek new paths for trade and transit. Secondly, the Central Asian states are increasingly striving to diversify their foreign economic ties and reduce their dependence on a limited number of transport directions.

Against this backdrop, Afghanistan is acquiring new significance as the shortest overland route capable of providing the Central Asian states with access to the ports of the Indian Ocean through the territory of Pakistan.        Whereas the Afghan factor was once viewed primarily through the lens of threats, today growing attention is being paid to its transit potential.

Of particular importance in this regard is the project of the Trans-Afghan Railway Corridor^[2]. Initially, the principal route was considered to be Termez – Mazar-i-Sharif – Kabul – Peshawar. However, by 2025 the states of the region moved^[3] to elaborating a new direction: Termez – Naibabad – Maidan Shahr – Logar – Kharlachi. This route implies access to the Pakistani railway network through the Kharlachi border crossing and is regarded as more realistic in terms of security, cost, and implementation timelines.

The realization of this project could substantially reshape^[4] the transport geography of the region. For the Central Asian states, this would mean: a reduction in cargo delivery times; a decrease in transport costs; access to the new markets of South Asia; an expansion of export opportunities; a strengthening of the region’s transit potential.

Especially important is the fact that this concerns access to the South Asian market, with a population of nearly two billion people. For the export-oriented economies of Central Asia, this opens up fundamentally new prospects.

Equally important are the energy projects passing through Afghanistan. Among them are CASA-1000 and the TAPI gas pipeline, both intended to facilitate electricity and natural gas supplies between Central and South Asia.

These processes reflect a broader transformation of regional politics: states increasingly view Afghanistan not only as a source of risk but also as an important element of the transport architecture of Eurasia. Priority is shifting more and more from politically symbolic objectives toward the pragmatic logic of transit, connectivity, and economic efficiency.

Termez — the Southern Gateway of Central Asia

A special role in shaping the new regional interaction is played by Termez - the southernmost city of Uzbekistan, which is gradually turning into an important logistical, diplomatic, and humanitarian center. Its significance is reinforced by its unique geographical position: the city lies in the immediate proximity of the Afghan border, connected to it by a bridge across the Amudarya river, across which hundreds of cargo trucks and substantial flows of humanitarian aid and commercial goods pass daily^[5].

In logistical terms, Termez relies on developed infrastructure, including an international transport and logistics hub and a rail connection with the Afghan city of Hairatan, through which millions of tons of cargo are transshipped each year. This corridor is considered one of the most stable and manageable routes of regional trade with Afghanistan.

An additional dimension of Termez’s role is formed by its humanitarian component: the city operates^[6] as a platform for coordinating international assistance to Afghanistan, where deliveries of food, medicine, and basic goods are regularly carried out with the participation of international organizations. In 2025, the hub was incorporated into the UNHCR Global Supply Network, through which humanitarian aid shipments worth more than $500 million are distributed annually^[7].

At the same time, through Termez, Uzbekistan is actively promoting the concept of regional connectivity, in which Afghanistan is viewed not as a peripheral zone of instability but as a transit bridge capable of linking the markets of Central and South Asia. In this context, Termez is becoming not merely a border town, but an infrastructural and politico-economic node of a new regional architecture founded on pragmatism, trade interdependence, and phased integration.

In this context, Uzbekistan has attempted to institutionalize this Forum. Thus, in 2025 the international forum “Termez Dialogue” was held in Termez, devoted to questions of peace, stability, and economic interaction with Afghanistan. It was attended by representatives of the Central and South Asian states, as well as international organizations, including UN structures. The forum became one of the first attempts to institutionalize the discussion of Afghanistan precisely as an economic partner of the region.

Earlier, in 2021, Uzbekistan initiated^[8] the international conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities,” held in Tashkent. One of the central themes of the event was the role of Afghanistan as a transit link between the two macro-regions. The conference was attended by representatives of more than 40 states and international organizations, which underscored the global interest in the Uzbek initiative.

The Termez Dialogue as a New Model of Regionalism

Under present-day conditions, the “Termez Dialogue” acquires significance not only as a diplomatic platform but also as a symbol of a new model of regional interaction.

What is at issue is the formation of an approach in which the states of the region strive to build mechanisms of cooperation independently, proceeding above all from common economic interests and mutual infrastructural interdependence.

In this sense, Afghanistan is gradually becoming not an object of external administration but a potential participant in a new system of regional connectivity.

For Central Asia, the development of the southern direction means an expansion of strategic autonomy, a diversification of foreign economic routes, and a strengthening of its own agency in international relations.

It is precisely for this reason that the future of Afghanistan is increasingly viewed not only as a question of security but also as a question of regional integration, logistics and geoeconomics.

Conclusion

Today Afghanistan stands at a historical crossroads. The country may either remain a space of chronic instability or gradually be transformed into a vital transport and economic bridge between Central and South Asia.

To a large extent, the outcome will depend on the ability of the regional states to construct a long-term strategy of cooperation founded not only on questions of security but also on the development of infrastructure, trade, and mutual economic interest.

In this process, Termez is already becoming one of the key centers of the new Eurasian interaction - a space in which the transition from geopolitical rivalry to geoeconomic partnership is taking shape.

Aziza Mukhammedova

Research Fellow

Center for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies at the

Institute for Advanced International Studies

[1]  https://www.euronews.com/2025/05/21/central-asian-countries-push-for-regional-development-at-termez-dialogue

[2] https://pakistan.mfa.uz/ru/news/trans-afghan-corridor-a-new-bridge-connecting-central-asia-with-the-world-1

[3] https://kun.uz/en/news/2025/07/18/uzbekistan-afghanistan-and-pakistan-agree-to-develop-new-railway-corridor

[4] https://thediplomat.com/2024/05/uzbekistan-and-the-new-realities-of-trans-afghan-trade/

[5] https://eurasianet.org/uzbekistan-offers-to-act-as-hub-for-afghanistan-aid

[6] https://unsdg.un.org/latest/stories/uzbekistan-steps-support-neighbor-afghanistan-critical-humanitarian-juncture

[7] https://iica.uz/ru/news/2025/02/13/termiz-logistik-habi-bmtning-global-yetkazib-berish-tarmogiga-qoshildi

[8] https://www.uzembassy.uk/news/990