The Fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum will take place on June 16–19, 2026. This year’s theme – “Investment Resilience: New Frontiers, New Partnerships” – frames the agenda around a set of pressing questions: how to protect capital amid global uncertainty, what institutional mechanisms enhance investment resilience in frontier markets, and where the new partnership routes lie.

The forum’s context is set by macroeconomic results. According to the National Statistics Committee, Uzbekistan’s GDP grew by 7.7% in 2025 and exceeded $147 billion – the fastest pace since 2021 and among the highest in the Europe and Central Asia region. Fitch Ratings and S&P Global upgraded the country’s sovereign rating from BB– to BB for the first time, while Moody’s revised its outlook to “positive.” International reserves, per the Central Bank, surpass $77 billion. Exports rose 24% to $33.8 billion. Foreign direct investment increased by 46.9%, with FDI accounting for 40.5% of total capital investment. For an economy that attracted only $4 billion in annual foreign investment in 2017, the surge to $42 billion by 2025 represents a fundamentally different scale of growth. This tenfold increase over eight years underscores a profound transformation in the nation's investment landscape.

The forum is scaling alongside the economy. Last year’s TIIF drew over 8,000 participants, including some 3,000 international delegates from 97 countries. Guests included Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, heads of government from all Central Asian states, EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso, and New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff. The aggregate value of signed investment contracts and trade agreements reached $30.5 billion. Yet what best speaks to the platform’s maturity is not the number of signings but the conversion rate – the share of agreements that translate into operating assets is increasingly the metric that matters to returning investors.

The centrepiece of this year’s forum will be the Tashkent International Financial Centre (TIFC), established by presidential decree in March 2026. Behind the headline sits a specific institutional architecture: a special legal regime based on common-law principles, a dedicated financial services regulator, an arbitration centre (TIAC), and tax exemptions through 2076. TIFC is part of a global trend toward specialised financial hubs that offer international market participants a familiar legal environment and regulatory predictability. Its defining feature is integration within the country’s legal framework: the centre operates under a special legal regime rather than creating a separate jurisdiction, reducing regulatory fragmentation and simplifying engagement with the domestic economy. A panel session featuring leaders of major global financial centres and international investors operating in Uzbekistan will address the central question: what are the practical conditions under which TIFC can attract international market participants.

The TIIF 2026 programme is structured around four thematic pillars: investment resilience and capital protection mechanisms, financial infrastructure and capital market development, trade connectivity and logistics corridors, and energy transition and climate finance. Key sessions include a discussion of the regulatory framework for alternative investment funds (a legal basis for private equity and venture capital being adopted for the first time), a panel on the Middle Corridor and trans-Caspian logistics, a session on sovereign ratings across Central Asia, and a practitioner-led workshop on blended finance instruments in frontier markets. A dedicated arbitration and dispute resolution track features two panel sessions co-organised with the Tashkent International Arbitration Centre (TIAC), the British-Uzbek Legal Association (BrULA), and the British Embassy. Topics range from the institutional design of Uzbekistan’s arbitration ecosystem – including the innovative Dispute Avoidance Protocol (DAP) – to the country’s positioning within the global investment protection architecture: ISDS frameworks, bilateral investment treaty reform, and New York Convention enforcement.

The energy agenda warrants particular attention. Uzbekistan has set an ambitious target of raising the share of renewables in electricity generation to 54% by 2030. Currently, the country operates solar and wind facilities with a combined installed capacity exceeding 4 GW, with a project pipeline envisaging an additional 19 GW of green capacity. Alongside this, the public-private partnership mechanism continues to develop: as of early 2025, PPP agreements worth approximately $28 billion had been signed in the country. For investors, this represents a large, structured market with standardised PPA contracts and a clear entry mechanism – a subject that will be examined in detail during the forum’s energy panel.

TIIF 2026 retains its bilateral business forum format, reflecting the expanding geography of Uzbekistan’s economic partnerships. Confirmed platforms include business forums with the Republic of Korea, the United States, Croatia, Hungary, Turkey, and Albania, as well as a China–SCO countries investment dialogue; the lineup continues to grow as the event approaches. The plenary session featuring heads of state and government will set the tone for the business programme. Running in parallel is an exhibition of industrial and investment potential spanning approximately 6,000 sq m – in 2025, a comparable facility facilitated over 500 B2B and B2G meetings for 100 participating companies.

At the same time, the forum agenda implicitly flags unresolved challenges. The corporate governance session raises the question of transitioning from concentrated to dispersed ownership – a process without which the stock market will remain illiquid. The discussion of privatisation and state asset IPOs calls for a candid conversation about pacing and institutional quality. The responsible business conduct panel, anchored in OECD standards, recognises that tax incentives alone are insufficient for accessing institutional capital – what is needed is verifiable supply chain transparency and functioning National Contact Point mechanisms.

The business programme is complemented by networking formats: an FIC and EY business breakfast on digitalisation and AI, the annual SQB Investor Day, an ESG Award ceremony, and the European Business Evening. The informal component – an invitational tennis tournament, TIIF Open, and an evening run – is designed for delegates who prefer to build relationships beyond the conference hall. The anniversary evening concludes with a collaboration with the Stihia electronic music festival – a detail that captures the tone in which Uzbekistan presents itself to an international audience.

For Uzbekistan, TIIF has long ceased to be a showcase. It is a working instrument of investment policy, whose effectiveness is measured not by the number of signing ceremonies but by the volume of capital that actually enters the economy between forums. The fifth, anniversary edition takes place at a moment when the country is simultaneously launching an international financial centre, adopting an alternative investment funds law, and receiving a sovereign rating upgrade – a convergence that creates a window of opportunity for investors prepared to operate in frontier markets with a growing institutional base.

Modern Central Asia is becoming a space of sustainable growth and mutual trust. The countries of the region demonstrate a strong commitment to building balanced relations with global partners, prioritizing practical initiatives in trade, energy, transport, and innovation. One of the key formats shaping this new architecture is the “C5+1” platform, which unites the Central Asian states and the United States.

Regional Consolidation: Dialogue Based on Equality and Pragmatism

In recent years, the “C5+1” format has evolved from a diplomatic mechanism into an effective platform for coordination and implementation of joint projects. The latest ministerial meeting in Samarkand, attended by the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, demonstrated a high level of trust and a shared focus on tangible results.

Key topics on the Samarkand agenda included food security, climate resilience, development of green and digital economies, diversification of transport corridors, and deepening industrial cooperation.

Following the meeting, memorandums were signed on decarbonization and digitalization of customs procedures - a step that paves the way for harmonized trade rules, easier exports, and increased investment inflows into the region.

Central Asia: From Fragmentation to an Integrated Economic Space

The figures speak for themselves: the total foreign trade turnover of Central Asian countries has reached $220 billion, almost doubling since 2017, while mutual investments have grown 5.6 times. The region’s combined GDP increased by 40% over the past five years to exceed $406 billion.

These indicators reflect not only growth but also a qualitative shift - from isolated initiatives to a coordinated regional development strategy.

Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan: Industrial and Logistics Core

The Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan partnership exemplifies a new model of integration. Between January and August 2025, mutual trade reached $3.03 billion, up by 15%. Projects exceeding $7 billion are under implementation across engineering, agriculture, construction, and energy sectors. Over 1,100 enterprises with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan, creating jobs and new export niches.

Uzbekistan - Tajikistan: Transport and Energy Bridge

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are rapidly strengthening railway and energy cooperation. In 2024, cargo traffic between the two countries reached 10 million tons, while regular passenger flights and a joint investment company with a $100 million capital were launched. These are not just numbers - they represent an architecture of trust that enables joint industrial and agricultural clusters.

Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan: Corridors of Growth

Cooperation with Turkmenistan is expanding in energy, logistics, and industry. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.14 billion, and the Shavat - Dashoguz border zone is evolving into a hub of trade and joint manufacturing. A localization project for repairing Turkmen wagons in Andijan is a vivid example of practical industrial integration.

Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan: A “Roadmap” for the Future

The interstate program until 2030 and the Border Regions Council ensure steady progress. From January to August 2025, trade turnover approached $600 million, while Uzbekistan’s exports grew by nearly 80%. New logistics routes are being developed to reduce transport costs and enhance business competitiveness.

“C5+1” as a Catalyst for Development

Participation in the “C5+1” framework gives regional integration new depth - aligning national interests with global sustainability trends.

The United States and regional partners are building long-term cooperation in green energy, resilient supply chains, infrastructure modernization, and human-capital development.

Special attention is given to unified standards for digital trade, environmental management, and logistics technologies, making Central Asia a vital link in Eurasian value chains.

Benefits for the Region and Uzbekistan

For Central Asia, the “C5+1” format provides:

• Investment and technology: opportunities to attract foreign partners for renewable energy, raw-material processing, and digital transformation;
• New markets: expanded export opportunities through unified customs and trade standards;
• Energy security: development of interconnected grids and energy-storage infrastructure;
• Human capital: education, internships, and exchanges with leading global companies.

For Uzbekistan, the advantages are clear:

• Expanded export potential through access to new transport routes;
• Technology localization and industrial partnerships with neighbors;
• Institutional stability and strengthened position as a regional integrator;
• Inflow of direct investment supported by uniform rules and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Conclusion: From Geography to the Economy of the Future

Central Asia is steadily transforming from a “crossroads of geography” into a region of synergy. The “C5+1” format has become a framework connecting the efforts of regional and global partners into a unified development strategy - based on trust, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth.

The upcoming official visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Republic of Türkiye reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries. One of the most dynamic areas of this cooperation is labor migration, built on mutual trust and a shared human-centered vision.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has fundamentally transformed its migration policy, placing human dignity, legal employment, and social protection at the core of its reforms. This approach aims to ensure that citizens working abroad do so safely, legally, and with full respect for their rights.

Cooperation with Türkiye exemplifies this new philosophy. The entry into force of the bilateral agreement on the protection of the rights of labor migrants and their family members marked a significant milestone in strengthening legal and institutional guarantees for migrants.

Regular dialogue between migration and labor authorities, joint forums, and practical coordination mechanisms have contributed to more orderly and transparent labor mobility. Notably, agreements reached to legalize the status of Uzbek citizens without administrative penalties, particularly in sectors with high labor demand, demonstrate a shared commitment to humane and pragmatic solutions.

Another key dimension of cooperation is skills recognition and certification. Collaboration with Türkiye’s professional qualification institutions enables Uzbek citizens to obtain internationally recognized certificates, enhancing their employability both in Türkiye and beyond.

Partnerships with leading Turkish companies further expand legal employment opportunities, including participation in large-scale construction and infrastructure projects. These initiatives are complemented by the active role of Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency representation in Türkiye, which provides legal, social, and advisory assistance to citizens and safeguards their rights.

Today, negotiations have begun between the two countries on developing a “Social Protection” agreement. Through this agreement, Uzbek citizens working in Türkiye and Turkish citizens working in Uzbekistan will be able to reclaim their social insurance contributions. This will allow workers to formalize their employment and secure legal protections.

Uzbekistan and Türkiye view labor migration not as a challenge, but as a driver of development, stability, and human well-being. The forthcoming presidential visit is expected to elevate this cooperation to a new level, reinforcing a model of migration governance rooted in humanity and mutual benefit.

According to estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), there is potential to increase mutual trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan by 30–40%. Additional opportunities for expanding economic cooperation are primarily linked to the development of industrial cooperation between the two countries.

Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan has demonstrated steady positive dynamics; however, the potential of bilateral relations remains only partially realized. This was stated today by Khurshed Asadov, Deputy Director of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), during the international scientific and practical conference “Uzbekistan – Tajikistan: New Prospects for Alliance and Regional Cooperation”, held in Tashkent.

According to the expert, relations between the two countries have reached a qualitatively new level in recent years. Cooperation, reinforced by agreements on strategic partnership and allied relations, has created an institutional foundation for the active development of economic ties.

According to CERR estimates, mutual trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan increased 3.8 times during 2017–2025, rising from $238 mln to $912 mln. During the same period, Uzbekistan’s exports grew 3.7 times, while imports from Tajikistan increased more than fourfold.

Today, Tajikistan ranks among Uzbekistan’s key regional partners, occupying ninth place among the countries importing Uzbek products.

At the same time, current indicators reflect only part of the possible potential of economic interaction. According to CERR estimates, mutual trade could increase by an additional 30–40% solely through the substitution of Tajikistan’s imports from third countries with products manufactured by Uzbek producers.

The expert emphasized that geographical proximity, a shared border, and well-developed transport connections create favorable conditions for deepening trade relations. In particular, significant prospects remain for expanding Uzbekistan’s industrial exports, including automobiles, household appliances, textile products, and chemical goods.

At the same time, considerable potential also exists in the sphere of industrial cooperation. According to the expert, one of the most promising cooperation models could involve the establishment of joint processing facilities in border regions, particularly focused on the processing of agricultural raw materials and the development of agrologistics centers.

Asadov also noted that further development of transport infrastructure and the expansion of transit opportunities in Central Asia could serve as an additional driver of economic integration.

As emphasized by the Deputy Director of CERR, the current level of allied relations between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan creates the foundation for transitioning to a deeper model of economic cooperation, focused on joint investments, industrial cooperation, and the development of regional infrastructure, which could become an important factor in strengthening economic connectivity and promoting the development of Central Asia.

For reference: The international scientific and practical conference “Uzbekistan – Tajikistan: New Prospects for Alliance and Regional Cooperation” was organized by the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA). The event brought together representatives of government institutions, the diplomatic corps, and expert and academic communities from both countries. Participants discussed the current state and prospects for developing trade-economic, investment, and humanitarian cooperation between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

CERR Public Relations Sector

In recent years, fundamental changes in global trade routes and disruptions in supply chains have sharply increased the need for reliable and alternative transport corridors. Under these conditions, cooperation in the transport and logistics sector among the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), located in a strategic region at the junction of Europe and Asia, is becoming one of the main drivers of regional integration.

The economic foundation of this cooperation is strengthening year by year. In 2025, the total economic potential of the organization's member states exceeded $2.4 trillion, and its growth rate (6.8%) was twice as high as the global average. During this period, Uzbekistan's trade turnover with OTS countries increased by 14 percent, reaching $11 billion.

Transport indicators also confirm this trend. According to the results of the first six months of 2026, our country's export-import cargo transportation with OTS countries amounted to 8.5 million tons, accounting for about 29% of total international transportation. Of the total volume of transportation with OTS countries, 66% was carried out with Kazakhstan, 21% with Kyrgyzstan, 7% with Turkey, 5% with Turkmenistan, and 1% with Azerbaijan.

It is worth noting that on October 7, 2025, the 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States was held in Gabala, Azerbaijan, under the motto "Regional Peace and Security" to further accelerate multifaceted cooperation within the Organization and strengthen the strategic partnership among member states.

Following the summit, the parties adopted the Gabala Declaration, which is aimed at expanding cooperation in the political, economic, transport and communication, energy, and security spheres. At the same time, the development of the Middle Corridor was consolidated as a strategic priority of the organization, and the "OTS+" format was introduced to expand cooperation with external partners.

In addition, a number of important events were held within the framework of the OTS in 2026. Specifically, on April 2, 2026, the second meeting of the heads of government of the organization's member states took place in Baku. During the meeting, priority attention was paid to expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation, implementing joint projects, and improving the business environment. The importance of developing industrial cooperation and transport connectivity, including the implementation of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway projects, was also noted.

On April 23, 2026, the 9th meeting of the OTS transport ministers was held in Bishkek. The successful ongoing implementation of the e-Permit project was noted at the meeting. Following the meeting, a Memorandum was signed on the introduction of the e-CMR electronic waybill system. This system enables the electronic transmission of transport documents and significantly reduces processing times at the borders.

On May 15, 2026, an informal OTS summit titled "Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development" was held in Turkistan, Kazakhstan. The Turkistan Declaration, adopted at the conclusion of the summit, outlined a number of practical tasks in the field of transport. In particular, the introduction of the e-CMR system, the full launch of the e-Permit system, the integration of national "single window" systems to simplify document flow along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), the introduction of the eTIR procedure, as well as the promotion of a unified support system among the competent authorities of member states, border services, and transport operators to resolve cargo transportation issues, were approved.

Speaking at the Turkistan Summit, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that, given the strategic location of the Middle Corridor, special attention will be paid to connecting it with the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, the construction of which is rapidly progressing. At the summit, initiatives were put forward to develop the concept of the "Digital Turkic Corridor," which will connect data centers in the region via high-speed communication channels, as well as to establish a Turkic Alliance for Cybersecurity and the Protection of Digital Infrastructure.

At this point, it is worth highlighting the results achieved by our country in the field of digitalization. In 2021, for the first time in the world, the e-Permit system for the electronic exchange of permit forms was launched between Uzbekistan and Turkey, while in December 2022, the world's first pilot transport operation based on the eTIR system was carried out with Azerbaijan. Today, the e-Permit system has been fully implemented with all OTS member states, and as a next step, the practical introduction of the electronic waybill (e-CMR) system used in international road transport is on the agenda.

The "China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan" and "Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan" railway projects play a special role in the integration of the region. While one forms the shortest corridor from China to European and Middle Eastern countries, the other connects the South Asian railway system with the Central Asian and Eurasian railway systems.

In recent years, attention to the Trans-Caspian Corridor has also been growing. Over the past 5 years, the transit of Uzbekistan's cargo through the port of Baku has doubled, reaching 1.2 million tons in 2025. According to the results of January-June 2026, this figure amounted to 0.5 million tons, an increase of 2 percent compared to the same period last year.

According to forecasts, the intensive cooperation being carried out within the Organization is expected to become an important milestone towards the formation of a unified transport space among the Turkic states. Joint reforms to eliminate operational and infrastructural shortcomings, as well as agreements to connect the Middle Corridor with the "China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan" railway and the Trans-Afghan corridor, will serve to further strengthen the role of the OTS countries in the Eurasian transport system.

Leading Specialist of the Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems Under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of  Uzbekistan

 Sh. Akhmedov

Uzbekistan is undergoing a large-scale transformation of its social protection system, aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens and enhancing the effectiveness of social services. A key driver of this process is the national development strategy “Uzbekistan – 2030”, which focuses on the comprehensive and high-quality modernization of the country’s social policy.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has introduced innovative approaches to supporting vulnerable groups, including low-income families, the elderly, persons with disabilities, victims of violence, women in difficult situations, and children deprived of parental care.

Reforms are being implemented both at the legislative level and through specific programs and projects. A significant milestone was the establishment in 2023 of the National Agency for Social Protection (NASP) under the President of Uzbekistan – the only consolidated, ministerial-level body of its kind in the region, responsible for coordinating the implementation of a new generation of social policy.

Unlike neighboring countries, where social functions are divided among several institutions, Uzbekistan has integrated all components of social protection into a single digital system managed by NASP. This has improved coordination, efficiency, accountability, and has led to real improvements in the lives of vulnerable population groups.

In 2021, Uzbekistan ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The country offers a range of benefits to companies and organizations that employ individuals with disabilities. Many institutions, streets, and bus stops across the country are gradually being adapted to accommodate people with disabilities.

A key focus of the reforms is the development of “Inson” Social Services Centers, established in 208 districts and cities across the country. These centers operate on a one-stop-shop model and provide over 100 types of social assistance, including psychological and legal counseling, food assistance, and targeted aid for 12 categories of citizens, such as persons with disabilities, low-income families, and the elderly.

All centers are fully digitized, integrated with state systems, and operate on an individualized support model. Each citizen undergoes a needs assessment and receives a personalized support plan with ongoing guidance through the recovery or reintegration process.

In every makhalla (community unit), social workers are assigned based on a tiered “region–district–makhalla” structure, according to the number of families and individuals in need.

In the second quarter of the year 2025, 1.787 million applications were submitted to “Inson” Centers. Of these, 1.204 million were processed, while 496,200 are under review. The most in-demand services include compensation for gas and electricity costs, child benefits, support for low-income families, and access to health resorts for seniors and persons with disabilities.

The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, enacted by Presidential Decree on September 23, 2024, addresses issues of social orphanhood and care for children deprived of parental care. It focuses on the creation of conditions as close as possible to a family environment and on an individual approach to each child. Accordingly, measures have been developed to place such children in foster care and provide them with social services. In particular, priority is given to preserving the family setting when placing a child in foster care. The main forms of placement are guardianship, custody, or adoption. Placement in a specialized institution is considered only as a measure of last resort.

Children with difficult life situations are temporarily placed in family orphanages within “Inson” Centers before being placed in foster care. Each child is assigned an individualized development plan, with records managed through the “Social Protection” system, which tracks both identified orphans and families willing to foster.

In this way, “Inson” Centers serve as legal representatives for such children, safeguarding their interests, monitoring living conditions, the use of support provided, and ensuring caretakers fulfill their obligations.

During his visit to the “Inson” Social Services Center in Tashkent’s Shaykhantahur district, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized: “This is a place where every persons concerns are taken care of and where they strive to make people happy. Through such a system, social justice and human dignity are established in our society”.

Special attention in Uzbekistan is given to families raising children with disabilities. As part of a public-private partnership, a specialized center “Imkoniyatlar Olami” (“World of Opportunities”) was created to provide services to children from birth to three years of age. Previously, such infants were exclusively under the care of their parents, and were admitted to specialized institutions only from the age of three. Now, if a risk of disability is identified during pregnancy, expectant mothers can receive help and counseling here, which will strengthen the care of the child. Psychological support is also provided.

Starting March 1, 2025, a day care services for children with disabilities aged 3 to 18 began operating under a public-private partnership model. It offers a wide range of services – social, rehabilitative, educational, and more. The initiative by NASP aims to support children’s social adaptation and enables parents, previously unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities, to return to employment.

A pilot project in Tashkent – the private kindergarten “Wunderkind” in the Yashnabad district successfully operates such a day care service, offering pedagogical, social, and rehabilitative care for children with special needs.

Another example is Family-type home No. 1 in the Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It currently houses nine children – seven with various medical conditions (Down syndrome, dysplasia, anemia, heart defects), and two without. Education and care are customized: three attend specialized kindergartens, three go to general kindergartens, and three are home-schooled.

The home emphasizes individualized care, love, and a nurturing environment that replicates family life. Caregivers follow development plans and integration programs tailored to each child’s needs and capabilities.

“Children choose their meals and even help prepare them, fostering responsibility and independence”, one caregiver noted.

Currently, nine such homes operate across Uzbekistan – five in Tashkent, two in Kashkadarya, and two in Samarkand.

In accordance with the Presidential Decree “On measures to expand the scope of social services provided to individuals in need of care”, the “Step Towards an Active Life” program is being implemented. Under this initiative, adults with disabilities or those requiring constant care receive free social services through vouchers. These include home-based care, supervision, assistance with hygiene, meals, and psychological support.

An example of the program’s implementation is a center located in the Nodirabegim makhalla of Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It has capacity for nine people and currently serves seven. The center is staffed by five experienced professionals.

Iroda Khamidova, a primary school teacher at Wunderkind:

“Our special day care center for children with disabilities, designed for nine children, currently serves seven. Two caregivers and an assistant are assigned to them. The center operates five days a week for nine hours a day and includes a psychological service.

Educators focus on building essential skills such as holding a spoon or expressing creativity with a pencil. The center was established under a Presidential initiative to support children with special needs.

Here, we’ve created all necessary conditions, including a psychologist’s office where not only children but also parents receive consultations and moral support. Seeing their child in a safe and attentive environment reassures them”.

Farhod Kamilov, Chief Specialist of NASP’s Department for the Development of Medical and Social Services for Persons with Disabilities:

“From March 1, 2025, we launched a pilot day care service in seven regions of Uzbekistan, including Tashkent.

By October 1, we plan to expand the service nationwide. Agreements with entrepreneurs in all districts have already been signed as part of public-private partnerships.

Currently, the day care program covers 1,200 children. We believe it is essential to raise public awareness about their specific needs.

Territorial NASP offices operate psychological, medical, and pedagogical commissions. They conduct comprehensive assessments of children with special educational needs and recommend the most suitable path – inclusive, special, or day care service.

It is important to understand that day care is not an educational institution; it focuses solely on caregiving and development. The entrepreneur provides 9-hour daily care, allowing parents to work or do other things.

With mutual agreement, it may be extended up to 12 hours, but the child must always return home to their family.

Our main goal is to reduce, or ideally eliminate, the need for residential care institutions. That is why these day care services were created. Our main goal is to reduce or ideally prevent the placement of children in long-term institutional care. It is with this purpose that such day care services have been established”.

 Dunyo IA

Belarus and Uzbekistan actively cooperate in the transport and logistics sector within the framework of the Coordinating Transport Conference of the CIS Member States (CIS CTC), the Organization for Cooperation of Railways (OSJD), and the Commonwealth Railway Transport Council (CIS RTC).

An additional basis for the development of bilateral and multilateral cooperation is the participation of both countries in the CIS and SCO, where issues of developing international transport corridors and strengthening transport connectivity between states occupy an important place on the cooperation agenda.

A practical result of cooperation is the steady positive growth in freight traffic between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Belarus, which is one of the republic's key trade and transport partners.

In terms of export and import freight volumes, Belarus is among Uzbekistan's top ten trading partners. By the end of 2025, freight traffic between the two countries reached 850,000 tons, an increase of 30% compared to the previous year.

The structure of freight traffic is dominated by imports, primarily timber, timber products, and food products, while export volumes remain insignificant and consist primarily of agricultural products.

The current situation demonstrates significant potential for increasing mutual freight traffic, primarily through the expansion of Uzbek exports and the development of new logistics routes.

In the context of geopolitical conflicts and the diversification of global supply chains, the creation of new international transport corridors in Eurasia using mixed modes of transport in the East-West and North-South directions is acquiring strategic importance.

The following are promising cooperation projects:

1. Development of new, optimal alternative transport routes with access to seaports.

A promising area is the development of the international transport route "Belarus – Russia – Kazakhstan – Uzbekistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan – Indian Ocean ports," which utilizes the shortest railway section running through Kazakhstan between the Dina Nurpeisova and Karakalpakstan stations.

On November 1, 2023, in Tashkent, at the SCO Transport Forum, the transport ministers of Uzbekistan, Russia, and Kazakhstan signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the creation and development of this corridor. Belarus and Pakistan joined the Memorandum in 2024, and negotiations are currently underway to add Afghanistan.

The economic logic of the project is very clear. The corridor is approximately half the length of existing alternative routes and reduces delivery times by 2-3 times. It will directly connect the countries of the European Union and the CIS with Southeast and South Asia via a land-based rail and road route, increasing our countries' transit potential by transporting goods to the densely populated countries of South Asia – India and Pakistan – via the Uzbekistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan route.

In the future, joint work is planned to develop uniform standards for the operation of the international transport corridor, including the introduction of a single shipping document and the unification of technological and technical standards.

It should be noted that the new route through Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan will contribute to the diversification of the geography and structure of foreign trade and will lead to an increase in the region's transit potential.

This potential is already being demonstrated in practice. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, freight transit to the south through Uzbekistan increased by 23% compared to the same period last year, reaching 1.8 million tons, of which 1.3 million tons were transported by rail and 0.5 million tons by road.

1. Cooperation in Transport Personnel Training.

A significant element of the long-term partnership is cooperation in the training and advanced training of transport specialists.

Belarus has a recognized track record in transport training. For example, the Belarusian State University of Transport in Gomel is a leading specialized educational and research institution, which includes the Institute for Advanced Training and Retraining of Personnel and the Research Institute of Railway Transport.

Developing cooperation between the Belarusian State University of Transport and specialized organizations in Uzbekistan, particularly the Tashkent State Transport University, would enable the organization of internships and advanced training programs for specialists, the development of academic mobility for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students, and joint research in priority areas of rail transport development, multimodal transportation, and international transport logistics.

III. Digitalization of Permit Exchange for Road Transport.

A separate practical area is the transition to the electronic exchange of permit forms—the E-permit system. Uzbekistan currently fully implements this exchange with Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, and Turkey, and partially with Tajikistan. Work is underway to launch it with Turkmenistan.

Implementing this system in cooperation with Belarus will ensure transparency in permit distribution, eliminate human error, and strengthen oversight of their use, which is especially relevant given the growing volume of road transport between the countries.

Thus, cooperation between Belarus and Uzbekistan in transport and logistics goes beyond increasing mutual traffic and acquires a strategic dimension.

The implementation of these projects—from a multimodal corridor to Indian Ocean ports to the digitalization of permitting procedures—could transform our countries' geographical location into a real competitive advantage, making the Belarus-Uzbekistan-South Asia route convenient, fast, and predictable.

Joint and consistent work in these areas will strengthen economic ties between the two countries and make a significant contribution to the development of sustainable transport connectivity in the Eurasian space.

Head of Department, Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan Dildora Ibragimova

Since ancient times, Central and South Asia have been closely connected through trade, cultural exchange and political processes. Geographical proximity and ancient trade routes contributed to active dialogue between peoples and civilizations, the exchange of goods and culture as well as the formation of a shared historical and cultural identity in the region. Following the acquisition of independence, the Central Asian states began gradually developing their own foreign policy and economic strategies toward South Asia.

Given the significance of Central and South Asia, shaped by their strategic location, abundant natural resources, demographic potential and historical heritage, these regions have become the subject of extensive scientific research. Thus, from the perspective of the regional security complex, scholars consider Central and South Asia as two independent yet equal regions. In this context, it is important to emphasize the transformation of Afghanistan’s role as a key component of the regional security complex, facilitating interconnectedness and the gradual rapprochement between South and Central Asia.

It should be noted that Uzbekistan, located in the heart of Central Asia, plays a key role in ensuring regional security and stability. At the same time, the country, actively promoting constructive foreign policy initiatives aimed at strengthening peace and cooperation in the region, acts as the locomotive of economic interconnectedness between Central and South Asia. Recognizing the growing demand for mutual ties between the regions, in July 2021 in Tashkent a high-level international conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities” was held. There the proposal to develop and submit for consideration to the UN General Assembly a draft special resolution “On Strengthening the Connectivity between Central and South Asia” was put forward. As a result, in July 2022, the UN member states unanimously approved the adoption of this resolution, which became another vivid testament to the recognition of our country’s role and authority in deepening interconnectedness, establishing dialogue with the region and maintaining peace and stability.

It should be emphasized that the resolution calls on states to unite their efforts in combating common challenges and threats to stability and security in Central and South Asia, recommends continuing and deepening interregional cooperation by expanding transport infrastructure and information-communication technologies, as well as by developing new international transport corridors that provide convenient, sustainable, commercially viable, affordable, accessible, inclusive and safe routes to seaports.

In these processes, Termez has the potential to become a unique platform for connecting the two regions, both in terms of ensuring regional security and in terms of developing trade and economic relations. At the same time, the city of Termez, historically considered as one of the centers of dialogue between peoples and civilizations, the development of trade, humanitarian, and other ties, for many centuries occupied a strategically important position in the region. Thus, the era of the Kushan Empire, Termez served as a major cultural center where various civilizations actively interacted. The city was a significant hub for the transmission of Buddhist art and literature, which spread widely across Central and South Asia. Moreover, from a geographical point of view, Termez was a link between Central and South Asia. It was also one of the key points on the Great Silk Road connecting East and West.

At the present stage, Termez serves as a starting point for the implementation of a number of transport and infrastructure projects, such as the “Termez – Naibabad – Maydan Shahr – Logar – Kharlachi” railway, the “Surkhan – Puli-Khumri” power lines, and others. In general, the significance of the Termez platform lies in the following:

Firstly, in the context of ensuring regional security and stability, the city of Termez has consistently held a central position. Following the events of 11/9/2001 the “Termez Strategic Air Transport Point” was established here, which operated from 2002 to 2015 and ensured the logistics of humanitarian cargo for the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. This experience further reinforced the city’s significance as a secure transit and supply hub during times of military instability.

In addition, Termez is actively used within the framework of Uzbekistan’s joint initiatives with international partners in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, and cross-border crime. In this context, the “Friendship Bridge” connecting Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, plays an important role in ensuring control not only over the movement of people and cargo, but also in monitoring the illegal trafficking of drugs (including synthetic drugs) coming from Afghanistan, which is important for maintaining regional security (for example, employees of the “Ayritom” border customs post in Surkhandarya region in March of this year prevented an attempt to illegally import a batch of narcotic drugs with a total weight of 70 kg and in May of this year – 600 kg).

At the same time, Termez is considered a platform for constructive resolution of border issues. Thus, on August 22-28, 2024, a regular meeting of the working groups of the joint Uzbek-Tajik demarcation Commission was held in Termez. During the meeting, joint work continued on coordinating the passage of the design demarcation line of the Uzbek-Tajik state border, following which a corresponding protocol was signed.

Secondly, the trade, economic, and logistical significance of the city of Termez, as a material foundation for long-term peace and security in Central and South Asia, is determined by its strategic location and modern logistical infrastructure.

In particular, in 2022, “The Termez Cargo Center terminal” received the status of an international multifunctional logistics hub serving cargo flows to Afghanistan and South Asian countries. This, in turn, has elevated its status in international humanitarian infrastructure (from 2025 it has been integrated into the UN High Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs warehouse network) and contributed to the expansion of humanitarian shipments’ geography (in 2022 humanitarian aid was delivered by air from Termez to flood victims in Pakistan, and in 2023, the UNHCR Regional Humanitarian Logistics Center in Termez sent 12 truckloads of over 48,000 blankets to Afghanistan). It is noteworthy that Termez’s infrastructure is being actively utilized by international organizations to deliver food and medicine to South Asia, which contributes to reducing social tension and preventing the escalation of conflicts caused by humanitarian crises.

Furthermore, the opening of the Termez International Trade Center in August 2024, designed to create a favorable business environment and logistics, simplify administrative procedures and create conditions for entrepreneurs, on the one hand, enhances the city’s economic attractiveness and, on the other hand, stimulates the growth of economic cooperation between Central and South Asia. In this context, it should be noted that on the territory of the Center (37 hectares, 500 meters from the border with Afghanistan), where 3 thousand retail outlets are located, a 15-day visa-free regime has been introduced for visitors.

In this regard, Termez is also considered a suitable platform for conducting bilateral economic relations. Thus, in March and April of 2024 year, representatives of the Afghan delegation, headed by the Minister of Trade N. Azizi and business circles of the Balkh province, visited the city of Termez, where they held a meeting with the Uzbek side to develop bilateral trade and economic cooperation and expand cooperation in such sectors as agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, food, and mining.

Thirdly, the cultural and humanitarian potential of Termez is considered to be of considerable importance. Thus, in 2018, at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, an educational center for Afghan citizens was created. This educational institution is the only one in the world that provides training exclusively for Afghans in 17 areas of higher and 16 areas of secondary specialized, vocational education. During his functioning, about 700 Afghan citizens underwent training, meanwhile 200 of them are girls.

The institution actively maintains international relations and cooperation with donor countries and foreign organizations such as UNDP, EU, GFR, Slovakia, India. Thus, in January 2023, the “EU Knowledge Center” was opened on the basis of this educational institution to train and educate Afghan citizens (this is a coworking space that provides a platform for joint work, self-learning, and establishing professional connections). Overall, the establishment of an educational center for Afghanistan in Termez will expand access to quality education for Afghan citizens, as well as provide an educational environment and technologies for vocational training.

Therefore, Central and South Asia, dynamically developing regions with stable economic growth and new development opportunities, have significant potential due to their rich resources, economic complementarity, demographic potential, common tasks, and geographical proximity. At the same time, Uzbekistan’s efforts are aimed at integrating the two regions within a single space of cooperation, security, and sustainable development.

In these processes, the “Termez platform” not only serves as a constructive mechanism for ensuring security and stability in Central and South Asia, but also has the potential to become an additional tool for developing trade, economic and transport links between the regions. At the same time, a promising area of cooperation for both regions is considered to be, first of all, security issues, including the fight against terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, as well as the development of interaction in the fields of transport, tourism, and education.

Gulamov Asliddin Gapparovich,

Researcher at the Higher School of Strategic Analysis and Prognosis of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Relations with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) have reached a qualitatively new stage of development by 2026. While Uzbekistan’s accession to the organization in 2019 was largely of a political and symbolic nature, today this cooperation has evolved into a comprehensive system enriched with tangible elements of economic, transport-logistical, and technological integration. In this context, the OTS is no longer merely a platform based on shared language and cultural ties, but rather functions as a significant geo-economic center influencing regional development.

The summits held between 2024 and 2026, along with the documents adopted within their framework, have significantly accelerated the institutional consolidation of the organization. In particular, initiatives such as the “Charter of the Turkic World”, as well as decisions related to digital cooperation and green development, have defined the long-term strategic priorities of the OTS. By 2026, the practical outcomes of these initiatives have begun to materialize: the volume of mutual trade has increased, the number of joint investment projects has expanded, and transport connectivity among member states has been substantially strengthened. All these developments indicate the steady strengthening of the organization both institutionally and in practical terms.

A comparative analysis of development dynamics over the past seven years reveals several key trends. First, there has been a clear institutionalization of political dialogue, with meetings at the level of heads of state becoming systematic and mechanisms for implementing decisions being established. Second, the scope of economic cooperation has significantly expanded: whereas trade relations were previously limited, there is now active development of industrial cooperation, the establishment of investment funds, and the formation of joint production clusters. At the same time, cooperation in transport and logistics has intensified considerably, transforming the OTS into one of the key transit hubs of Eurasia. Particular importance by 2026 has been attached to the so-called “Middle Corridor” (the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route). Against the backdrop of global geopolitical shifts and disruptions in traditional supply chains, this corridor is increasingly viewed as a reliable and alternative route connecting Europe and Asia. Uzbekistan is actively participating in these processes by modernizing its railway and road infrastructure and developing logistics centers. As a result, the country is strengthening its position not only as a transit state but also as one of the key transport hubs in the region.

Economic cooperation within the OTS continues to demonstrate stable positive dynamics. By 2026, the volume of intra-organizational trade has grown significantly, driven by trade facilitation measures, harmonization of customs procedures, and the implementation of digital platforms. At the same time, new projects in industrial cooperation are being carried out, particularly in sectors such as textiles, automotive manufacturing, and agricultural processing.

In the energy sector, cooperation is acquiring new dimensions. While the primary focus was previously on traditional energy sources, priority is now increasingly given to green energy. Projects in solar and wind power, energy efficiency programs, and initiatives aimed at ensuring environmental sustainability are being actively promoted within the OTS framework. This contributes to strengthening the organization’s role in the global climate agenda.

Digital transformation has emerged as one of the most rapidly developing areas of cooperation. By 2026, collaboration in e-government systems, digital services, and IT startups has deepened significantly. These processes not only enhance economic efficiency but also contribute to the modernization of public administration.

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation continues to play a crucial role, serving as the foundation of the OTS’s “soft power.” Educational exchange programs, the establishment of joint universities, tourism development, and cultural initiatives contribute to strengthening mutual understanding among member states. This, in turn, creates a solid social foundation for further deepening economic and political cooperation.

From the perspective of future development, the further evolution of the OTS is associated with several strategic directions. In particular, the likelihood of forming elements of a common economic space is increasing. Further deepening of transport and logistics integration is expected, enabling the OTS to become an integral part of global trade chains. Significant potential is also linked to the development of the digital economy and innovation. At the same time, geopolitical factors will continue to play an important role, contributing to the transformation of the OTS into one of the key centers of power in Eurasia.

In conclusion, by 2026 the Organization of Turkic States has emerged as a dynamically developing integration structure steadily expanding its sphere of influence. Uzbekistan’s active and proactive participation in these processes plays an important role in ensuring its foreign policy and economic interests. The observed positive trends suggest that, in the future, the OTS is likely to secure a significant and stable position not only at the regional but also at the global level.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev familiarized himself with the proposals on improving the quality of pre-school and school education and the system of professional development of teachers.

Students' interest in subjects and their academic performance largely depend on the knowledge and skill of teachers. Therefore, necessary conditions are being created for teachers' professional development and the system of knowledge assessment is being improved.

The responsible persons reported on the developed proposals in this sphere.

It was noted that a new certification system based on advanced technologies has been introduced. More than 190 thousand teachers took part in it, 51 thousand teachers were promoted to the new category based on the results.

It was emphasized that it is necessary to constantly stimulate the increase in the number of professional and self-educated teachers in schools.

It was proposed to increase the salaries of teachers with the highest and first qualification category from September 2025.

It was instructed to develop and implement a separate professional development program for teachers who have not been certified and do not have sufficient experience.

In this process, it is necessary to make full use of the possibilities of professional development centers and teacher training colleges. To this end, based on the experience of the Presidential Schools, a system of professional development for the heads and teachers of kindergartens and schools will be organized at the Abdullah Avloni National Research Institute with a frequency of every 5 years.

A task has been set to transfer 11 pedagogical colleges in the regions under the authority of the Centers of Professional Development and attract trainers from abroad.

It was informed that kindergartens and schools, technical schools and "Barkamol Avlod" school will be established on the basis of teacher training colleges with low workload.

In order to disseminate best practices, the evaluation system of Presidential Schools was introduced in 500 schools last year. As a result, student achievement in these schools increased from 53 percent to 59 percent. A bonus of up to 40 percent has been set for school leaders and teachers of high-performing schools.

In this regard, starting from the new school year, this evaluation system will be applied in another 1,000 schools. They will be assigned to 182 specialized schools and 500 schools that have tested the system.

Also 270 schools will be equipped with interactive whiteboards, 365 schools will be provided with computer classes.

The presentation also considered a proposal to establish the National Institute of Pedagogy of Education on the basis of the Research Institute of Pedagogical Sciences of Uzbekistan named after Kary-Niyazi. The new institute will be entrusted with the tasks of strengthening makhalla-parents-school cooperation, creating educational literature for parents and children, and scientific research of didactic views of the Jadids. Activity of the Academic Council on 5 specialties will be organized, as well as training of personnel in master's and doctoral studies.

In addition, the issues of introducing international methods in the schools of sportsmanship of Bakhodir Jalolov and Oksana Chusovitina, improving the quality of education and training were touched upon.

The head of state gave instructions on improving the quality of teachers' training, organizing a fair system of evaluation and incentives.