At the invitation of the of President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on January 13 President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev departed to this country with an official visit. 

In accordance with the program negotiations at the highest level, as well as bilateral meetings with the heads of leading organizations, companies and banks of the UAE will be conducted in the Emirates’ capital of Abu Dhabi. 

President of Uzbekistan will also participate in the activities of the international summit “Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week”. 
In the framework of the visit, the Head of our state will visit Dubai, where he will hold a meeting with Vice President, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Emir of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Today, cooperation agenda between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan is gradually taking on a regional dimension. Tashkent and Baku are increasingly viewed not merely as two independent technology hubs, but as potential links connecting the innovation ecosystems of Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Additional institutional groundwork for long-term cooperation was laid by the outcomes of the Uzbek-Azerbaijani summit in August 2026, during which a Treaty on Eternal Friendship between the two states was signed.

From Interagency Dialogue to Practical Cooperation

One of the starting points for modern cooperation in technology and innovation was June 2022. During Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s state visit to Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan and the Ministry for Innovative Development of Uzbekistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

Practical implementation of these agreements began just a few months later. In September 2022, Uzbek specialists visited the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan and its affiliated organizations. The delegation familiarized itself with the activities of Azercosmos, including the management of telecommunications satellites and Earth observation technologies, and studied the work of Azerbaijan’s Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA) and its startup support mechanisms. One of the earliest areas of cooperation was therefore the exchange of practical experience in developing innovation and digital infrastructure.

The next important stage of cooperation came at the end of 2023, when a delegation from the Ministry of Digital Technologies and IT Park Uzbekistan visited Baku and took part in the INMerge Innovation Summit. As part of the visit, Uzbek representatives also held a meeting with PASHA Holding, which became an important point of contact for establishing business ties and discussing prospects for cooperation in innovation, digital technologies, and startup ecosystem development.

During talks with the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, the parties identified areas such as e-government, telecommunications, electronic document management, and digitalization. An interagency working group was formed to further develop these projects. At the same time, substantive dialogue began with IDDA on the development of startup and venture ecosystems and the organization of joint acceleration programs.

Thus, from 2022 onward, Uzbek-Azerbaijani digital cooperation gradually moved from studying experience and establishing institutional contacts toward practical cooperation between the technology ecosystems of the two countries.

IT Business Becomes a Distinct Area of Bilateral Relations

The development of intergovernmental engagement has been accompanied by an expansion of direct ties between IT companies from both countries.

By the end of the first half of 2026, the number of IT Park Uzbekistan resident companies with Azerbaijani capital reached 16.

The volume of export services provided by companies with Azerbaijani capital exceeded $2.5 million in the first half of 2026 alone, already surpassing the figure for the whole of 2025, which stood at more than $2.3 million. These companies have created 172 jobs.

Their main areas of activity are software development and implementation, technical support, and software licensing. Companies with Azerbaijani capital include, among others, Financial Chain Corporation and Robertson and Blums.

At the same time, exports of Uzbek digital services to the Azerbaijani market are also growing. In the first half of 2026, 21 IT Park Uzbekistan companies exported services to Azerbaijan. Export volume exceeded $1.2 million, nearly matching the figure for all of 2025, which reached $1.34 million.

Companies serving the Azerbaijani market employ approximately 700 specialists. Among the largest exporters are T4Data, which works with SAP solutions, and Transproekt and IT A-Plus Solutions Software, which specialize in software development.

Startups and Venture Capital: A Fast-Growing Area

One of the key elements of Uzbek-Azerbaijani technological engagement has been the development of the startup ecosystem.

The first practical bridges began forming as early as 2023. IT Park Uzbekistan served as an information partner for Azerbaijan’s SABAH.lab acceleration program, which prepared technology companies for investment and provided funding opportunities for selected projects.

During the 2023 INMerge Innovation Summit in Baku, Uzbek startups TASS Vision, Workly, Sug’urta Bozor, and Uysot had the opportunity to present their projects to international venture funds, including 500 Global, Caucasus Ventures, White Hill Capital, Seedstars, TA Ventures, and Plug and Play.

At the same time, discussions were held with SABAH.HUB on investment in Uzbek startups and the development of university incubation programs, as well as with Azerbaijan’s Innovation and Digital Development Agency on joint acceleration projects.

In November 2024, four Uzbek startup projects were presented under the “Central Asian Innovation Hubs” brand at the InMerge innovation summit in Baku, marking the beginning of more active bilateral engagement in the startup sphere. This partnership was further developed on May 6, 2026, when IT Park Uzbekistan and PASHA Holding jointly held the “InMerge Uzbekistan Innovation Summit” in Tashkent, bringing together more than 40 startups and around 20 international experts and speakers, along with investors, corporations, and government representatives, to discuss business partnerships and investment attraction.

A practical outcome of this cooperation was that Azerbaijani startups “Push30” and “Clopos” attracted a combined $500,000 in investment from local funds IT Park Ventures and Aloqa Ventures as part of their expansion into Uzbekistan. At the same time, Uzbek startup “Recepta” secured $150,000 in investment from IT Park Ventures under the “Digital Startup Awards” program. Reciprocal activity has also been demonstrated by Uzbek startups “Tass Vision,” “Promptlab,” and “Oson,” which are actively expanding into the Azerbaijani market, as well as by startup “Sino AI,” which has been integrated into a clinic in Azerbaijan and is undergoing testing with 50 users.

A particularly notable practical outcome was Azerbaijan’s participation in the Digital Startup Awards 2025, organized by the Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, IT Park Uzbekistan, and IT Park Ventures.

Azerbaijani projects took part in several tracks simultaneously, including incubation, acceleration, and the “Best Startup Project” category. Startups from Azerbaijan received a combined total of $70,000 through the program. Recepta received $50,000 under the acceleration program, Lingozy and SnackPack AZ received support through incubation, while StarkidStories and Tryverse represented Azerbaijan in the finals of the Best Startup Project category.

This marks an important qualitative shift: capital is beginning to flow between the two ecosystems in both directions, creating the foundations for a regional venture capital market.

From Acceleration to Joint Work on AI Projects

Artificial intelligence is gradually becoming a distinct area of technological cooperation.

In June 2026, IT Park Uzbekistan, IT Park Ventures, Azerbaijan’s SABAH.HUB, and Founders Hub organized a Startup Deep Dive practical session for technology entrepreneurs in Tashkent. Selected startups had the opportunity to present their products to a SABAH.HUB expert and receive an assessment of their business models, market potential, and readiness for investment and international scaling.

Particular emphasis in the program was placed on startups considering Azerbaijan as their next market for expansion.

Alongside startup cooperation, another strategically important area developing in parallel is training and the exchange of professional competencies.

A notable example was the 3rd International Training Camp in Competitive Programming, held in Baku from August 20 to 27, 2026. Uzbekistan was represented by four teams, including teams from Tashkent University of Information Technologies, New Uzbekistan University, and the Tashkent branch of Moscow State University.

Three of these teams were winners of the IT Park Code Cup, and their participation was supported by IT Park Uzbekistan. Over the course of seven days, students worked on problems from one of the world’s most rigorous international competitive programming training programs and exchanged knowledge with foreign teams and coaches.

What the Next Stage of Cooperation Will Look Like

The experience accumulated so far points to the gradual formation of a new direction in Uzbek-Azerbaijani relations in the field of digital technologies.

While the first stage was centered on familiarization visits and the exchange of government experience, and the second on participation in joint events and startup programs, the next stage will involve establishing permanent infrastructure for technological cooperation.

ICT Week Uzbekistan 2026 will serve as an important platform for continuing this dialogue. As part of the week, a technology forum of the Organization of Turkic States is also planned to be held in Uzbekistan, with representatives of Azerbaijan’s technology ecosystem participating.

Looking ahead, this interconnection between the two ecosystems could become one of the region’s key competitive advantages. It creates conditions for the emergence of new cross-border companies, joint investment mechanisms, and technological solutions capable of scaling across multiple markets simultaneously.

In this way, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are gradually forming an ecosystem that could become an independent hub for attracting entrepreneurs, capital, and technology professionals, strengthening the region’s role in the global innovation economy.

Labor force migration is a natural process worldwide. In Uzbekistan, purposeful work is being carried out to safely and orderly send such citizens abroad. The Agency for External Labor Migration has sent 70,000 people to developed countries for this purpose in the past two years.

We all know that those who want to work abroad also incur certain expenses. Therefore, migrants partially reimburse the costs of a work visa, travel ticket, foreign language, and qualification assessment. It is established that a citizen who has obtained international or equivalent certification in a foreign language is reimbursed 50% of the language learning costs.

Among all the positive work carried out in this area, there is a noted development of significant cooperation with the International Organization for Migration in protecting migrant rights, as well as with developed countries. Systematic work is underway to develop the Concept of the State Policy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the field of migration until 2030, envisaging the achievement of criteria for guaranteed equality in the social protection of labor migrants.

Emphasizing that the Ministry of Employment and Labor Relations has established contracts between the External Labor Migration Agency and 25 German companies, Uzbek citizens are being temporarily employed in various fields. Discussions are also underway with another five companies. In the past three years alone, 821 Uzbek citizens have been sent to Germany for temporary work, while 1,670 citizens are currently undergoing training to continue their work activities in this country.

In this way, cooperation in the field of labor migration between Uzbekistan and Germany is actively developing, ensuring the preparation of our citizens for work, providing professional training and language learning opportunities, and creating favorable conditions for employment.

The External Labor Migration Agency has been holding discussions on labor migration issues with several countries in 2024, such as Great Britain, Hungary, and Slovakia, highlighting the increasing importance of these efforts.

In addition to the above, under the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, each returning labor migrant is provided with a subsidy of 500,000 soums per month from the Labor Support Fund for one year. It is estimated that approximately 100 billion soums will be allocated to these measures for a year.

Assisting returning migrants in finding employment is also being considered as an important issue, and based on the Saykhunabad experience, financial support is provided for the production of goods and income generation, as well as other types of labor services. Medical facilities may also provide free medical checks for returning migrants and their family members. Additionally, starting from October 15, 2023, "Inson" Social Service Centers have been established in the Republic of Uzbekistan to provide social assistance to children whose parents work abroad, which is a significant step.

It is important to note that today, not only state organizations but also non-governmental organizations play a significant role in regulating and supporting labor migration. In this regard, it is relevant to mention educational courses and service organizations providing assistance in collaboration with the External Labor Migration Agency.

In short, a safe, orderly, and legal system for labor migration has been established in Uzbekistan, creating new mechanisms for citizens wishing to go abroad. It encompasses three main stages: The first stage involves organizing preparatory work for citizens intending to work abroad. Vocational and language training is conducted in 14 "Job Placement" service centers nationwide, 30 vocational training centers, 136 communities, 24 colleges, and 13 technical colleges.

Second stage: Providing legal and social assistance to labor migrants abroad. For this purpose, agencies dealing with labor migration issues have been established in several countries to provide services to Uzbek citizens working abroad. Labor Migration Affairs Attachés have been appointed at Uzbekistan's Embassies.

Third stage: Assisting in the reintegration of labor migrants returning to Uzbekistan. Inspectors at the Labor Support Centers are engaged in activities aimed at the reintegration of labor migrants returning to the country.

In conclusion, it is essential to emphasize that appropriate measures are being taken to ensure suitable working conditions and social protection for Uzbek citizens engaged in labor activities abroad. Collaboration with our foreign partners continues on all relevant migration issues. Systematic efforts are being made to further develop initiatives related to the professional orientation and language proficiency of labor migrants.

Bobomurod Yarashev,

teacherof the University of

Public Safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The declaration of independence and the commitment of the Government of Uzbekistan to the ideals of democracy, the choice of a secular path of development of society have gradually made it possible to create equal legal conditions for the existence of religions in general and religious groups in particular.

In the religious sphere, this large-scale work is carried out by the relevant state bodies and civil society institutions and is aimed at ensuring citizens' constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of conscience; strengthening religious pluralism, tolerance and interfaith dialogue.

One of the significant results of joint work is the adoption in December 2018 by the UN General Assembly of a special resolution "Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance".

The adoption of the resolution was a practical implementation of the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, put forward at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly. The main goal of the proposed resolution is "to ensure universal access to education, the elimination of illiteracy and ignorance."

It is noteworthy that the resolution was not only unanimously supported by all UN member states, but also adopted with the co-authorship of over 50 countries. This testifies to the high recognition by the international community of the relevance and timeliness of the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan.

In recent years, significant changes have taken place in Uzbekistan and large-scale reforms have been implemented in many areas, including in the religious and educational sphere.

A number of legislative acts have been adopted aimed at further improving activities in the religious sphere.

In order to deepen the study of Islam and teach its scientific foundations, the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan was created. The Academy specializes in teaching secular and religious knowledge, training qualified personnel in the interpretation of the Koran, Islamic law, religious dogmas and hadiths.

In Uzbekistan, unique mechanisms are used to revive national and religious values, study and promote the rich scientific and spiritual heritage of great ancestors, and strengthen religious tolerance in society. The activities of the Center for Islamic Civilization, international research centers of Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, Imam Maturidi, Bahauddin Naqshbandi have been established.

As a result of large-scale reforms and transformations carried out in the religious sphere, the Higher Madrasah Mir Arab in Bukhara, the School of Hadith Studies in Samarkand, the Madrasah of Imam Termizi and the Islamic Institute named after Imam Termizi in Termez began their activities.

In addition, the Charitable Public Fund "Vakf" was established under the Office of Muslims of Uzbekistan, whose tasks include financing work on the reconstruction of mosques, holy places of pilgrimage and visits, other objects, providing material and technical support and providing material support to employees in this field. The Fund received the opportunity to dispose of funds coming to 3 accounts: charitable, vakf and zakat (ushr, fidya, fitr).

In accordance with the adopted legislative acts, in order to further improve the activities of the Committee on Religious Affairs, a new composition of the Council for Religious Affairs has been approved, which is a public advisory body under the Committee.

The activities of the Council are inextricably linked with ensuring freedom of religion in the country, respecting the rights of religious organizations and believers. The initiatives of the members of the Council are fully implemented within the framework of measures taken by the country's leadership in the field of protecting and further strengthening the rights and freedoms of religious movements.

The significance and timeliness of the measures taken by the country's leadership served as the basis for holding the international forum "Dialogue of Declarations" in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara on May 16-20, 2022. This event was part of the systematic and consistent efforts of Uzbekistan to practically implement the principles and provisions enshrined in the Special Resolution of the UN General Assembly "Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance", adopted in 2018 on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

It is especially worth noting that at the past 76th session of the UN General Assembly, the "Bukhara Declaration" adopted following the results of this forum was recognized as an official UN document. As an official UN document, the document has been translated into 6 languages and distributed among the UN member states, as well as specialized agencies of the organization.

The second round of the international forum will be held on September 10-13, 2025 with the assistance of several NGOs from the USA. The participants of the event also visited Samarkand, where they got acquainted with the activities of the reconstructed complex of Imam Bukhari.

Uzbekistan has special dates that are closely related to the religious life of believers: these are "Day of Friendship of Peoples", celebrated on July 30, and "International Day of Tolerance", celebrated on November 16. Both of these dates are marked not only by holding events, but also by awarding the corresponding badges - the badge "Khalklar dustligi" ("Friendship of Peoples") has been awarded since 2021, and the badge "Diniy bagrikenklik" ("Religious Tolerance") began to be awarded to distinguished citizens since 2023. Among the awardees are representatives of various religious denominations of Uzbekistan.

At the same time, Uzbekistan attaches great importance to the preservation of religious and spiritual heritage, the enrichment of existing funds, the creation of necessary conditions for local and foreign researchers to work with historical sources, and the comprehensive study of historical and cultural heritage.

Today, in the country, in order to ensure interethnic and interfaith harmony in society, a legislative framework has been created that provides for the observance of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens.

The Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan enshrines the norm on freedom of religion for every person. Attention is also paid to improving and liberalizing national legislation in the field of religion. The procedures for obtaining permission for the production, import and distribution of religious literature have been simplified. The procedure for state registration of religious organizations has been further optimized.

Currently, the new Law "On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations" is in force, which contributes to ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens of the country to freedom of conscience and religion.

Noting the fundamental innovations in the Law as a consistent continuation of large-scale reforms in the religious and educational sphere, special attention should be paid, first of all, to the creation of favorable conditions for ensuring freedom of conscience for every person, and clarifying law enforcement practice.

Currently, 2373 religious organizations of 16 religious denominations operate in Uzbekistan. Of these, Muslim organizations - 2174, which is 92 percent of the total number.

There are also 181 Christian organizations, 8 Jewish communities, 7 Baha'i communities, one Krishna society and one Buddhist temple, as well as the interfaith Biblical Society of Uzbekistan operating in Uzbekistan.

Recently, 134 religious organizations have been registered in Uzbekistan, including 3 higher and one secondary specialized Islamic educational institutions in Bukhara, Samarkand and Termez, 105 mosques and 25 non-Islamic organizations of 7 different religious denominations.

At the same time, the national legislation of Uzbekistan does not provide for any restrictions on the number of religious organizations or the terms of their registration.

Religious organizations operating in the republic, along with other public organizations, actively participate in spiritual and educational work, make a significant contribution to improving the spirituality of society, and forming strong beliefs in young people based on patriotism, as well as interfaith and interethnic tolerance.

It should be noted that religious policy in Uzbekistan is based on the principles of the secular nature of the state, religious tolerance and equal treatment of all religions. In the republic, representatives of various nations and ethnic groups professing Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism and other religions carry out their activities on equal terms.

All conditions have been created for adherents of each denomination, allowing them to freely and unhindered practice their religion.

Believers freely pray in mosques, churches, synagogues, observe fasting, and also make pilgrimages. Religious organizations have the right to own territory, publish literature, train their religious ministers, and organize pilgrimages to holy places.

The freedom of religion guaranteed by the national legislation of Uzbekistan has created all the necessary conditions for meeting the religious needs of all citizens - representatives of 136 national and ethnic groups.

Representatives of different faiths freely celebrate all religious holidays. Thus, from year to year, Kurban-Hayit and Ramadan-Hayit are celebrated on an increasingly large scale among Muslims, Easter and Christmas - among Christians, Pesach, Purim and Hanukkah - among Jews, Navruz - among Baha'is, as well as celebrations dedicated to Buddha and Krishna and other major events.

Believers make pilgrimages to holy places: Muslims to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj and Umrah rituals, Christians - to Russia, Greece and Israel, Jews - to Israel.

Over the years of independence, more than 484 thousand Muslims have made pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia, including 188 thousand - Hajj and 296 thousand - Umrah, more than 3.2 thousand Christians and Jews have visited religious shrines in Israel, Russia, Turkey, Italy, Georgia, Greece.

To meet the spiritual needs of society, a large number of religious literature of various orientations is published annually. To fully cover the religious life of Uzbekistan, a number of newspapers and magazines are published, including the newspapers "Islom nuri", "Slovo zhizni", the magazines "Khidoyat", "Vostok svyshe".

Today, in Uzbekistan, on a systematic basis, a set of measures is being carried out to protect the population from the negative influence of destructive ideas that reflect radical extremist ideology and religious fanaticism.

An important step in this direction was the application of acts of pardon. In particular, since 2017, 29 decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan have been adopted on pardoning persons who have committed crimes.

It should be noted that in recent years, within the framework of the consistent policy pursued in Uzbekistan in the field of protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens, special attention is paid to measures aimed at protecting the rights, freedoms, honor and dignity not only of citizens residing in the republic, but also of our compatriots who find themselves in difficult life situations in foreign countries.

Unfortunately, some of our citizens, who have fallen under the influence of alien ideas, believing false promises, in different years joined the ranks of international terrorist organizations in armed conflict zones abroad. Spouses, fathers of some women returned as part of humanitarian operations, died in the course of armed clashes.

Given this circumstance, on the instructions of the President of Uzbekistan, five humanitarian actions "Mehr" were successfully carried out in 2019-2021, within the framework of which more than 500 citizens of the republic, mainly women and children, were returned to their homeland from the zones of armed conflicts in the Middle East and in Afghanistan.

In order to further assist in their speedy reintegration and rehabilitation, a set of measures has been implemented at the state level to provide timely medical, psychological, material and moral assistance. To date, all returnees have been provided with the necessary conditions for their adaptation to peaceful life and integration into society, access to educational and other social programs has been provided, including through the provision of housing and employment.

In general, it is worth noting that an important distinguishing feature of the religious life of modern Uzbekistan is the inadmissibility of establishing advantages or restrictions for one religion in relation to other denominations.

One of the main priorities of reforming society in order to ensure interethnic harmony and religious tolerance is to ensure and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens, their equality before the law regardless of race, gender, nationality, language, social origin, beliefs, religion, personal and social status, which are enshrined in the Constitution of Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan consistently and steadily fulfills its international obligations in the field of ensuring religious freedoms within the framework of international human rights treaties.

As is known, Uzbekistan has acceded to more than 70 major international human rights instruments. Accession to these documents contributed to the creation of an effective human rights protection system in Uzbekistan.

It is important that Uzbekistan's policy in the field of religion, aimed at strengthening interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance in society, is an important factor of stability and security.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the large-scale reforms being carried out in the country are a clear confirmation of the consistent continuation by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of the implementation of the principle "Everything in the name of man, in the name of his future."

Committee on Religious Affairs

An expert from the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, commented to Dunyo IA on the outcomes of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s working visit to the United States, which took place from February 17 to 19:

- The visit of the President of Uzbekistan to the United States, which took place as part of his participation in the first meeting of the Board of Peace, was not just another diplomatic event, but a logical continuation of the strategy of pragmatic and mutually beneficial dialogue with Washington built over recent years. It demonstrated a shift from symbolic political interaction to systemic coordination in security, economics, trade, and humanitarian exchanges.

This visit marked the culmination of an intensive partnership over the past six months. Meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the C5+1 summit, participation in events in Davos, and the signing of the Charter of the Board of Peace, as well as personal contacts between the two leaders, have fostered a stable dynamic of political dialogue. This fifth summit in six months demonstrates that relations have entered a phase of regular strategic communication, with each meeting reinforced by concrete agreements.

The visit’s busy business program confirmed its practical nature. During his stay in the United States, the head of state held talks with representatives of the American administration, financial institutions, and business circles, including the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the International Development Finance Corporation, the American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce, as well as the heads of major companies such as Traxys, Valmont Industries, Gulf Oil, Aviagen, John Deere, BlackRock Financial Markets Advisory, Oppenheimer, and others. Following the signing of bilateral documents, the parties solidified agreements in priority areas such as the agro-industrial complex, critical minerals, financial market development, improving the investment climate, and the creation of an investment platform.

Discussions with the US Trade Representative and the Secretary of Commerce deserve special attention. During these talks, the need to intensify work within the framework of the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement between the countries of Central Asia and the United States was emphasized. This gave cooperation not only a bilateral but also a regional dimension, strengthening Uzbekistan’s position as a coordinator of economic processes in the region.

Viewed historically, the current stage’s foundation was laid back in 2018 during Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s first official visit to Washington, when agreements worth over $4.8 billion were signed. This package signaled Uzbekistan’s systemic openness to international businesses. In 2021, the Strategic Partnership Dialogue was established, and its subsequent expansion testifies to the institutionalization of bilateral relations. The invitation of the Uzbek leader to the G20 summit in Miami, personally initiated by US President Donald Trump, further confirmed the country’s strengthening international status and recognition of its growing role on the global agenda.

The economic dimension of cooperation is demonstrating steady growth. While trade turnover stood at $408 million in 2018, it consistently exceeded $1 billion by the end of 2024-2025. The current three-year Economic Cooperation Program, worth $35 billion, reflects the long-term nature of the parties' intentions. At the same time, the structure of interaction is undergoing a qualitative change: the emphasis is shifting from trade operations to the implementation of investment and production projects.

Today, flagship American companies such as Air Products, General Electric, General Motors, Boeing, Honeywell, and John Deere are actively operating in Uzbekistan. The $8.7 billion package of agreements signed at the C5+1 summit, including a contract for 22 Boeing aircraft, investments in the critical minerals sector, and projects in the agro-industrial sector, confirms the practical focus of the dialogue.

The transformation of the export structure is particularly revealing: services now account for approximately 86% of Uzbek exports to the US, with the IT sector remaining the key driver. Of the 800 active digital services exporters, 448 target the US market, accounting for 45% of all industry exports. This demonstrates that the partnership is gradually becoming more high-tech, moving beyond traditional commodity-based models.

The humanitarian dimension of cooperation is no less important. Academic exchange is expanding, the number of joint research projects is growing, and the integration of Uzbek specialists into international educational networks is strengthening. Currently, 40 Uzbek universities are implementing partnership programs with more than 25 US universities. Webster University’s Tashkent branch and the American University of Technology, established jointly with Arizona State University, are successfully operating. Thus, a long-term intellectual infrastructure for strategic partnership is being formed.

Overall, the current stage of relations between Uzbekistan and the United States is characterized by a transition from symbolic declarations to systemic coordination on issues of regional security, sustainable development, investment policy, and technological modernization. These achievements confirm that Uzbekistan is steadily establishing itself as a key US partner in Central Asia.

Dunyo IA

On August 14-15, 2025, the VIII Central Asian Expert Forum (CAEF) will be held in Tashkent under the title “Central Asia – a common space of trust, security and sustainable development”.

Established in 2018, the CAEF is held annually in the country chairing the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia. The forum serves as an important platform for discussing the current state and prospects of regional cooperation, as well as developing recommendations for the further development of cooperation in Central Asia.

The Forum is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ISRS). Event partners include the Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, the European Union Delegation to Uzbekistan and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

The Forum will traditionally bring together heads and specialists of strategic institutes, research centers, and academic institutions from across the region. For the first time, prominent experts from the EU, ASEAN, the Nordic Council, as well as researchers from the Russian Federation, the USA, Great Britain, Switzerland and Azerbaijan have been invited to participate in its work in order to exchange experience in regional studies.

The Forum’s program will focus on prospects for deepening regional cooperation and explore specific measures to promote multifaceted collaboration.

In addition, the Forum will feature separate events: a scientific-practical conference on shaping regional identity and a roundtable discussing prospects for partnership between Central Asia and Northern Europe.

The upcoming expert dialogue is expected to identify common interests and outline priorities for Central Asia’s future development. The resulting recommendations will enrich the agenda of the forthcoming Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, scheduled to take place this year in Uzbekistan.

The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly marked a new stage in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. The ideas and initiatives advanced in New York demonstrated an increasingly strong connection between the country’s domestic reforms, the new environment of cooperation emerging in Central Asia, and the search for solutions to global challenges. Most importantly, Uzbekistan is no longer limiting itself to responding to the international agenda; it is putting forward proposals aimed at helping shape its future direction.

The international system is undergoing serious tests. Armed conflicts persist, geopolitical tensions are intensifying, and trust between states is weakening. Climate change, demographic shifts, water and food security, technological inequality and the rapid development of artificial intelligence have become challenges that no country can address alone.

Against this backdrop, Uzbekistan placed human dignity, peace and cooperation at the heart of the position it presented at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.

On 23 September, Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva addressed the General Debate of the General Assembly on behalf of Uzbekistan. In her official statement, the path chosen by the country was defined by three principles: openness, good-neighbourly relations and dialogue with the world.

This reflects, above all, the growing coherence between Uzbekistan’s domestic and foreign policies. Just as human dignity has become a central benchmark for reforms at home, peace, development and human dignity are increasingly treated as inseparable objectives in the country’s international engagement.

Human dignity as a measure of strength

One of the fundamental positions articulated by Uzbekistan from the UN rostrum concerned the very meaning of state strength.

It was emphasised that the true strength of a state should not be measured solely by its military or economic capabilities, but first and foremost by its ability to protect human dignity, rights and interests.

This approach also carries important implications for international relations. Economic growth or security alone is not sufficient when addressing global challenges. The impact of every decision on people’s lives and futures should be a central criterion.

From this perspective, Uzbekistan also set out its vision for the role of the United Nations: the world needs an organisation capable not merely of discussing conflicts after they erupt, but of preventing them; not merely of adopting decisions, but of ensuring their implementation; and an organisation in which the voice of every state can be heard.

Uzbekistan expressed support for the UN Secretary-General’s UN80 initiative, aimed at adapting the Organisation to contemporary realities. It also supported expanding the composition of the UN Security Council to better reflect today’s world.

These ideas are consistent with the broader discussions taking place within the United Nations itself. As the global balance of power evolves, questions of representation, effectiveness and implementation capacity within multilateral institutions are becoming increasingly urgent.

A new level of diplomatic responsibility

Two further positions announced in New York are particularly significant for the next stage of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy.

In 2027, Uzbekistan will chair the Non-Aligned Movement. The official statement described this role as a responsibility to create new platforms for dialogue at a time of growing international divisions.

Uzbekistan also announced its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2035–2036.

These initiatives indicate that the scope of Uzbekistan’s foreign-policy responsibilities is expanding. The objective is no longer limited to advancing national interests internationally. Uzbekistan is also signalling its readiness to help shape platforms for dialogue and assume greater responsibility within multilateral institutions.

Central Asia: a model of cooperation

Uzbekistan’s current position at the United Nations cannot be separated from the changes that have taken place in Central Asia in recent years.

Not long ago, the region was frequently associated with unresolved border issues, disagreements over water resources and other tensions. Speaking at the United Nations, Saida Mirziyoyeva noted that the initiatives of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the political will of Central Asian leaders had fundamentally changed the atmosphere in the region.

The most important shift has been the emergence of a principle under which neighbouring states are viewed not as sources of threat but as partners.

In this sense, Central Asia’s experience also matters as a practical model that Uzbekistan can bring to the wider global dialogue. Rebuilding trust, resolving complex issues through negotiations and placing shared interests above disagreements are approaches that are already producing results in the region.

Afghanistan: engagement rather than isolation

The issue of Afghanistan follows the same logic.

Uzbekistan stressed that viewing Afghanistan solely as a source of threats will not solve the problem. Nor is leaving the multinational Afghan people alone with their difficulties a viable solution. They need hope and confidence in the possibility of a peaceful future.

This approach is consistent with Uzbekistan’s longstanding position that Afghanistan should be integrated into regional economic processes and that transport and energy projects can help create an economic foundation for long-term stability.

Domestic reforms as the foundation of foreign policy

The General Assembly address also highlighted the transformation Uzbekistan has undergone over the past decade.

According to the official statement, the country’s economy has grown from $50 billion to $147 billion, more than $150 billion in foreign investment has been attracted, and exports have almost tripled. The poverty rate has fallen to 4 per cent, with nearly 10 million people lifted out of poverty.

Preschool enrolment has risen from 27 to 78 per cent, while higher-education coverage has increased from 9 per cent to almost 50 per cent. Average life expectancy has risen from 66 to more than 75 years, while maternal and infant mortality has fallen fourfold.

The significance of these figures goes beyond the statistics themselves. They illustrate the domestic foundation of the ideas Uzbekistan is advancing internationally. Human capital, education, healthcare, poverty reduction and social protection are integral both to national development and to the global Sustainable Development Goals.

Demographic resilience: an emerging global agenda

One of the most important new themes advanced by Uzbekistan during the 81st session was demographic resilience.

In her General Assembly address, Saida Mirziyoyeva emphasised that a child represents the greatest responsibility of the state. Healthy births and quality education, she noted, determine not only an individual’s future but the future of society as a whole.

On 24 September, this idea received a practical follow-up in New York.

The Government of Uzbekistan, together with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), convened the high-level event “Demographic Resilience and Human Capital: Investing in People-Centred Reforms for a Sustainable Future.”

The conceptual significance of the dialogue lies in the proposed shift from “demographic anxiety” to “demographic resilience.”

Changes in population size, age structure and geographic distribution have direct implications for economic growth, social protection, healthcare, labour markets, infrastructure and public finances. Integrating reliable demographic data into long-term planning is therefore becoming an essential element of effective public policy.

Another fundamental principle is that human rights and individual choice must remain at the centre of population policies. Concerns over population decline or ageing should not lead to coercive measures or policies focused exclusively on numerical targets.

Reducing gender inequalities, expanding opportunities to combine family responsibilities with employment, and improving access to childcare are also important components of demographic resilience.

The event provided a platform for exchanging policy solutions on adapting to demographic change and strengthening financial cooperation and partnerships among governments, international financial institutions and the United Nations system.

For Uzbekistan, this is also a strategic issue. A young and growing population represents a major opportunity, but it does not automatically translate into an economic advantage. Quality education, modern skills, healthcare, decent employment, gender equality and an effective social protection system are required to realise that potential.

Bringing demographic resilience to the UN agenda therefore represents another way in which Uzbekistan is connecting its national development priorities with an emerging global discussion.

The Aral Sea region: from a symbol of tragedy to a testing ground for solutions

Uzbekistan also proposed a new way of looking at the Aral Sea challenge.

It was emphasised that the Aral Sea did not disappear because of a natural disaster, but as a result of decades of misguided decisions and irresponsible treatment of nature.

Today, green areas are being created on the dried seabed and modern water-saving technologies are being introduced. Uzbekistan aims to increase the share of renewable energy to 54 per cent by 2030.

Yet the most significant conceptual proposal made from the UN rostrum was that the Aral Sea should no longer remain merely a symbol of environmental tragedy, but should become a testing ground for environmental solutions.

At Uzbekistan’s initiative, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 2027–2036 the United Nations Decade of Afforestation and Reforestation. The next task is to translate this international decision into tangible results.

This reflects an important trend in Uzbekistan’s diplomacy: rather than merely internationalising a national or regional problem, the country seeks to transform it into a platform for testing global solutions and sharing experience.

Artificial intelligence and human dignity

Uzbekistan also used the General Assembly platform to address another major issue of technological development — artificial intelligence.

The fundamental question was framed clearly: will technology serve people, or will people be forced to adapt to technology?

Uzbekistan’s position is that people and their future must remain at the centre of technological progress. Artificial intelligence cannot be separated from the principles of human rights, security, equal opportunity and accountability.

Uzbekistan therefore called for stronger international dialogue in this area.

AI governance today extends far beyond technology itself. It directly affects human rights, education, labour markets, security and global equality. This field may therefore become an important area for Uzbekistan’s future initiatives within the United Nations.

Rule of law and equal opportunities

The address also placed particular emphasis on the rule of law, public trust in the judiciary, and the empowerment of women.

It noted that Uzbekistan has eliminated child labour and systemic forced labour, strengthened accountability for domestic violence, and established a dedicated system to support women’s entrepreneurship. Women now account for 39 per cent of members of parliament.

Economic development, the rule of law and human rights were thus presented as mutually reinforcing and inseparable processes.

Enlightenment and tolerance

Modern information technologies bring societies closer together, but they can also spread hatred and stereotypes at unprecedented speed.

Against this background, the Center of Islamic Civilization established in Tashkent at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was presented not merely as a place for displaying historical heritage, but as a centre of knowledge, thought and enlightenment.

Uzbekistan expressed its intention to continue international cooperation aimed at strengthening intercultural and interfaith dialogue, enlightenment and tolerance.

This approach also reflects an expanding understanding of security. In the modern world, security is ensured not only through military means but also through education, culture, mutual respect and societies’ resilience to destructive ideas.

Uzbekistan and the UN: from dialogue to systemic partnership

The meetings held by the Uzbek delegation on the margins of the 81st session of the General Assembly provided a practical continuation of the country’s multilateral engagement.

Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The sides discussed key areas of cooperation being jointly developed by Uzbekistan and the United Nations.

The significance of such dialogue is that Uzbekistan–UN relations are no longer confined to individual resolutions or events. Sustainable development, human capital, the environment, human rights, regional security and technological progress are increasingly being brought together within a single framework of cooperation.

The meetings in New York, the initiatives announced from the General Assembly rostrum, and the 24 September high-level dialogue on demographic resilience should therefore not be viewed as separate events. They are elements of a coherent approach taking shape in Uzbekistan’s multilateral diplomacy.

From initiative to impact

The central task now is not simply to increase the number of international initiatives, but to translate them into practical results.

Political dialogue in Central Asia should lead to deeper cooperation in trade, transport, water and energy. Decisions concerning the Aral Sea region should be reflected in improved quality of life and greater environmental resilience. New approaches to demographic resilience should contribute to long-term planning in education, healthcare, employment and social protection.

The principles advanced on artificial intelligence should, in turn, evolve into practical mechanisms capable of maintaining a balance between technological progress and human rights.

It is precisely at this point that the formula “from national initiatives to the global agenda” acquires its full meaning.

National experience should evolve into international initiatives; initiatives into multilateral decisions; and decisions into practical outcomes that improve people’s lives.

This is the essence of the position Uzbekistan presented at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Today, no country can find effective solutions to global challenges on its own. Multilateral cooperation is therefore becoming for Uzbekistan not simply one dimension of foreign policy, but a mechanism connecting national development, regional stability and global responsibility.

Uzbekistan’s chosen path is one of openness, good-neighbourliness and dialogue.

At the heart of that path is human dignity.

Jakhongir ISAEV,
Head of Department, NGO “Center for Sustainable Development”

The text of the article is in Uzbek language!

Despite the 6,000-kilometer distance between Tashkent and Tokyo, the official visit of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan on December 18-20 elevated Uzbek-Japanese relations to a qualitatively new level of expanded strategic partnership for future generations.

Uzbekistan’s relations with Japan have deep historical roots. For centuries, Samarkand served as one of the key centers of the Great Silk Road, while Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, was its eastern gateway. Trade and the exchange of knowledge along the Great Silk Road, including between Uzbekistan and Japan, played a significant role in the development of international commerce and cultural interaction, forming lasting cultural bridges between civilizations. Today, Samarkand and Nara are twin cities.

Since Uzbekistan gained independence, reliable and stable relations of mutually beneficial cooperation have developed between Uzbekistan and Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Japan has been one of Uzbekistan’s key technological and investment partners.

Economic cooperation dynamics

The most dynamic growth in economic cooperation has taken place in recent years, following the launch of comprehensive economic reforms in Uzbekistan. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) play an important role in advancing Uzbek-Japanese economic cooperation.

Cooperation with JICA has, in recent years, reached the level of strategic partnership. The value of the project portfolio has exceeded $8 billion, and additional initiatives worth more than $3 billion are under consideration in areas such as healthcare, energy, transport, education, industry, and other sectors. During the visit, new agreements were signed with JICA concerning the development of economic zones, agriculture, supply of medical equipment, and support for entrepreneurship, as well as the launch of a special economic zone for Japanese investors, to be developed in line with Japanese models and standards.

Cooperation with JBIC is also developing dynamically. Today, the total project portfolio with the bank exceeds $5 billion in sectors such as petrochemicals, energy, telecommunications, infrastructure, and light industry. During the visit, discussions focused on preparing new projects and improving the effectiveness of existing initiatives worth over $10 billion.

Trade relations are also growing dynamically. Between 2017 and 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with Japan more than doubled, increasing from $166.2 million to $388.5 million. In 2024, growth accelerated, rising by 64.1% compared with 2023, from $236.8 million to $388.6 million. More than 90% of imports from Japan consist of machinery and equipment, while Uzbekistan’s exports to Japan are dominated by services and chemical fertilizers, as well as fruit and vegetable products, textiles, radioactive elements, and jet fuel.

Investment cooperation is expanding as well. Over the past eight years, the number of Japanese enterprises operating in Uzbekistan has increased tenfold, while the combined project portfolio has exceeded $20 billion. Leading Japanese companies such as Sojitz, Toyota Tsusho, Sumitomo, Itochu, Kyoto Plaza, Balcom, and Shikoku Electric are actively operating in Uzbekistan, implementing major projects in energy, geology, tourism, infrastructure development, IT, and other sectors.

For example, Sojitz Corporation is implementing projects including the construction of a combined-cycle power plant in Syrdarya region, a multidisciplinary hospital, a new international airport in Tashkent, and a wind power plant. During the visit, support was expressed for the company’s plans to modernize medical clinics and educational facilities, create a transboundary “green” energy corridor, upgrade gas compressor stations, and participate in establishing a special economic zone for Japanese investors.

Sumitomo Corporation is constructing two solar power plants and energy storage systems in Samarkand region, with a similar wind-power-based project also planned in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. During the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed adopting a Cooperation Program with the corporation through 2030.

Uzbekistan has longstanding cooperation with ITOCHU Corporation in mechanical engineering, geology, and infrastructure. Long-term agreements have been reached on the export of critical minerals to Japan. During the visit, new areas of cooperation were discussed, including water purification, automotive manufacturing, modernization of air traffic control systems, as well as implementation of public-private partnership projects in the social sphere.

JOGMEC, together with ITOCHU Corporation, is developing uranium deposits in Navoi and Kashkadarya regions. During the visit, plans by these companies to develop precious-metal deposits at promising sites in Uzbekistan were also reviewed and approved.

Negotiations and outcomes of the visit

During the negotiations, the sides discussed further deepening of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan, covering all areas of interstate cooperation. The importance of strengthening existing cooperation formats, including parliamentary friendship groups, economic cooperation committees, and sectoral mechanisms in priority areas, was emphasized.

During the talks between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a number of priority areas for advancing strategic partnership were identified, including green energy and industrial decarbonization, information technology, critical minerals, cooperation in mechanical engineering, modernization of healthcare, and tourism infrastructure.

To implement more than $12 billion worth of new cooperation projects prepared for the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed establishing a joint investment platform. Plans were also announced to create a special economic zone in Samarkand region based on Japanese standards and practices, as well as to scale up the “One Village – One Product” program implemented jointly with Japanese partners. It was proposed to hold the first Uzbekistan-Japan Regional Forum in Samarkand next year.

At the meeting between the President of Uzbekistan and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ryosei Akazawa, an agreement was reached to develop an action plan to further strengthen business cooperation with the active involvement of JETRO and the Japan Association for Trade with Russia and NIS (ROTOBO).

A key element of the visit was the President’s meeting with leading representatives of Japanese business. The President emphasized that in recent years cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan has acquired a qualitatively new character. Whereas Japanese companies previously mainly participated as contractors, today they are actively investing in Uzbekistan’s economy, establishing joint ventures, participating in management, transferring technologies, and contributing to human capital development. “As a result of these qualitative shifts, Japan has become one of Uzbekistan’s key economic and technological partners,” the President stressed.

Based on these assessments, priority areas for further cooperation with Japanese business were outlined. These include ensuring energy resilience and advancing the green transition, development of renewable energy sources and storage systems, and reducing the carbon intensity of Uzbekistan’s economy. Particular emphasis was placed on deep processing of critical minerals and establishing full value chains.

Promising areas also include the development of mechanical engineering and industrial equipment to build a modern high-tech industrial economy. Special focus was placed on advancing information technologies, including the implementation of artificial intelligence and digitalization programs.

Another important direction is the creation of modern special economic zones designed to become centers for high-tech, export-oriented industries and platforms for industrial cooperation through automation and digital control systems.

Concluding his speech to the business community, President Mirziyoyev emphasized that Uzbekistan regards Japan not only as an investor, but as a strategic partner in building the industry of the future.

The main outcome of the visit was the signing by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of the Joint Statement on Expanded Strategic Partnership for Future Generations, which elevates Uzbek-Japanese relations to a fundamentally new level. A wide package of agreements was also adopted in education, healthcare, environmental protection, water management, transport, urban development, tourism, agriculture, and disaster-risk reduction.

Expanding cooperation potential

Against the backdrop of Uzbekistan’s ongoing technological transformation and innovative development, there is substantial potential to further expand economic cooperation with Japan in trade, investment, and scientific-technical exchange. The agreements reached during the visit form a solid foundation for advancing cooperation to a qualitatively new level.

According to the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, Uzbekistan has significant untapped export potential with respect to Japan. Promising export categories include copper and copper products, textile and apparel goods including home textiles, aluminum and aluminum products, fruits and nuts, as well as electrical equipment and devices.

Japan’s experience in developing innovation clusters may serve as a valuable model for Uzbekistan. In this context, promising areas include the creation of joint venture funds and startup accelerators, support for technology transfer, and commercialization of scientific developments.

Japan’s experience in smart agriculture and agricultural education is also highly relevant for Uzbekistan. Cooperation in this area offers opportunities to modernize agriculture, increase water efficiency, boost productivity, and implement sustainable farming practices.

Thus, the President’s visit to Japan has already become an important driver in deepening and expanding economic cooperation between our two countries, contributing to fuller realization of partnership potential, modernization of Uzbekistan’s economy, and strengthening the presence of Japanese business in Uzbekistan. The strengthened strategic partnership will improve quality of life and broaden opportunities for future generations.

Nozimjon Ortikov,

A meeting of the Organizing Committee for the Second Asian Women’s Forum was held at the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.

The meeting was chaired by the Chairperson of the Senate, Tanzila Narbaeva.

The meeting was attended by members of the Organizing Committee, senators, heads of relevant ministries and agencies, as well as representatives of non-governmental non-profit organizations.

It should be noted that the Head of state, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly held on September 23–29, 2025, proposed transforming the Asian Women’s Forum into a permanent platform.

To this end, it was decided to hold the forum jointly with UN Women and the United Nations Population Fund on May 13–15 this year in the city of Bukhara.

The forum will address issues related to empowering women in the region in areas such as politics, economy, healthcare, education, social protection, climate, environment, and governance. It is expected to enhance both global and regional cooperation, with active exchange of experience.

The event will also serve as a platform to present to international participants the reforms implemented in Uzbekistan under the leadership of the Head of State, including measures to support women, socio-economic opportunities, and conditions created in employment, entrepreneurship, education, and social protection, as well as achievements in community development and tourism potential.

Particular attention will be given to the implementation of key international frameworks, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

During the meeting, participants discussed organizational aspects related to the forum, including its agenda, content, and arrangements for bilateral meetings with foreign delegations.

Following the meeting, relevant ministries and agencies were assigned specific tasks to ensure the forum is held at a high level.

Dunyo IA,

Tashkent

On November 29, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev convened a meeting dedicated to identifying additional opportunities, increasing investments and jobs in Bukhara region.

Previously, the economy of this region was mainly linked to agriculture. However, over the past seven years, the region has attracted more than $4 billion investments, enabling development of such industries as energy, electrical engineering, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles and leather. In the past period of the current year, 1.5 million foreign tourists visited Bukhara.

The visit of the Head of State to the region on May 31-June 1 gave a new impetus to its development. All the tasks outlined during the visit will be fully accomplished by the end of the year.

At the same time, it is important to ensure further growth of economic indicators in 2025, increase employment and well-being of the population. To this end, the working group studied additional opportunities of the region and factors hindering entrepreneurship development.

The critical meeting emphasized that the region's economic performance does not correspond to its potential. Work on investment absorption, poverty and unemployment reduction was recognized as unsatisfactory.

In this regard, the hokims, their deputies and sector heads will be put on emergency duty for a period of six months. The entire focus will be on improving these three areas. Special attention will be paid to implementing 70 driver projects based on the experience of Saikhunobad, Uychi, Zarbdar and Gijduvan. They will provide income to 150 thousand people and lift 40 thousand people out of poverty.

As it was mentioned, each district of the region can be specialized for a certain industry. For example, Peshku and Shafirkan - for production of construction materials and textiles, Kagan city, Alat and Jondor districts - for food industry, Gijduvan and Romitan - for chemical industry. This will make it possible to implement projects of entrepreneurs worth $150 million, create 411 small enterprises and provide 12 thousand jobs.

Four textile factories are planned to be built in Vabkent, Karakul, Jondor and Alat at a total cost of $320 million. This will double the volume of finished knitwear and textile products and create 5,000 jobs.

Next year, the number of foreign tourists is expected to reach 2.2 million and tourism exports are expected to reach $600 million. This will be supported by opening 69 new hotels and 2 thousand handicraft stores.

It is planned to develop additional 20 thousand hectares of land, which will allow to grow additional 100 thousand tons of agricultural products and provide employment for 2 thousand people. Trees and food crops will be planted on vacant homestead land, along canals and field edges.

Another opportunity is pastures. In Bukhara region their area exceeds 2 million hectares. As part of the decisions made at a recent meeting on horticultural development, it is planned to grow pistachios on unused pastures.

Hokim of Bukhara region presented plans to utilize these opportunities. In general, next year 106 projects will be implemented, 105 thousand permanent jobs will be created, exports will be increased by $350 million due to foreign investments worth $2 billion.

The Head of State pointed out the insufficiency of these plans and instructed to intensify efforts and improve results. He tasked to revise the proposals again and draft a relevant resolution.
 

Experts often use the Latin phrase “si vis pacem, para bellum”, which translates as “if you want peace, prepare for war”. They emphasis that only force can guarantee peace.

The processes observed in Central Asia in recent years suggest the opposite. Against the backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, countries in the region regularly pursue policies based primarily on the principles of dialogue and good neighborliness.

In a short period of time, the face of the region has changed dramatically, common points of growth are forming, and mutual trust is becoming an important condition for stability. Common triggers for development are being identified: the formation of a common economic space, active attraction of investment, and the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian ties. A spirit of unity and solidarity has formed in the region.

As Uzbekistan's leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, “Today, Central Asia is different - it is united and strong, open to dialogue and full-scale partnership”.

The political transformation of the region is underpinned by steady economic growth, demonstrating the region's growing power. In particular, over the last 10  years, Central Asia's GDP has grown by more than 6% annually — twice as fast as the global average.

Due to political will and joint efforts of the leaders of the states, significant results have been achieved in resolving border issues. An important milestone on this path was the trilateral meeting of the presidents of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, held on 31 March 2025 in Khujand.

As a result, an agreement was signed on the junction point of the state borders of the three countries, which is clear evidence that the governments of our states place peace and harmony above all else.

All this confirms the idea that peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding, support and cooperation, which are the basis of friendly relations. We are guided by the principle: “If you want peace, be friends with your neighbors” This approach reflects the essence of the integration processes taking place in the region and certainly deserves the attention of the international community as a “exemplary model” for resolving even the most complex conflicts of our time.

How has humanity understood the world over the centuries?

Throughout human history, peace has been regarded as one of the highest spiritual and social values. Even in ancient times, thinkers in Ancient Greece sought to understand the phenomenon of Eirene – a state of harmony, the cessation of hostility and stable order in society.

In Eastern philosophical thought, the concept of peace also occupied a special place. It was understood, first and foremost, as the inner harmony of a person with themselves and the surrounding world, as a path to spiritual balance and moral perfection.

The great thinkers of Central Asia continued to develop the idea of peace, giving it philosophical and humanistic content. Thus, Abu Nasr Farabi regarded peace and harmony as an indispensable condition for the existence of a “Virtuous City”, where justice, reason, and mutual understanding between people become the basis of social well-being. Alisher Navoi, in his poetic works, presented peace as the highest form of spiritual and moral perfection of man, the basis of creation and mutual respect between peoples.

Thus, over the centuries, the idea of peace has evolved from an understanding of it as the absence of war to an awareness of spiritual and moral harmony between people and nations.

Why was Fergana chosen as the venue for the Forum?

The choice of Fergana as the venue for the forum is no coincidence.

The Fergana Valley is a unique geographical area where peoples speaking different languages and practicing different religions have coexisted peacefully for centuries. The Great Silk Road passed through the valley, and its inhabitants were engaged in crafts, trade and science, always striving for mutual understanding and dialogue. Conflict is a foreign concept to the region.

Today, the Fergana Valley unites the territories of three independent states, whose relations are based on the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Fergana Valley is the most populous region in Central Asia. According to data, the Andijan, Namangan and Fergana regions of Uzbekistan alone are home to about 11 million people, which is almost a third of the country's population. If we take into account the population of the territories of neighboring states that are geographically part of the region, the total figure is about 17 million.

With this in mind, the countries of Central Asia are striving to deepen regional integration, viewing it as an important condition for sustainable development. Strengthening mutual trust and partnership is becoming one of the key areas of their foreign policy. To discuss specific steps and exchange experiences, platforms are needed that promote open dialogue and coordination of positions.

One such platform will be the Fergana Peace Forum, which will be held on 15–16 October at Fergana State University. It will be attended by representatives of government agencies and business circles of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, experts from scientific, analytical and research centers, as well as delegates from the CIS, SCO, OSCE, UNDP, EU and other international organizations.

In addition, the Fergana Valley is a multinational region where representatives of all peoples and ethnic groups live in peace and harmony.

In this regard, the attention that the government pays to strengthening interethnic friendship and creating conditions for all citizens to receive education in their native language and study their national culture is of great importance.

Today, there are more than 250 schools in the Fergana, Namangan and Andijan regions where instruction is conducted in Kyrgyz, Russian and Tajik.

It is important to emphasize the important role of regional branches of national cultural centers, which are involved in ensuring inter-ethnic harmony, developing intercultural dialogue and tolerance, and strengthening good-neighborly relations with neighboring states.

Various activities are carried out in this area by 17 national cultural centers (8 in Fergana, 5 in Andijan and 4 in Namangan regions), including Russian, Slavic, Korean, Jewish, German, Tatar, Kyrgyz, Uyghur, Tajik and Turkish.

Special mention should be made of the activities of public associations, foundations and NGOs implementing socially significant projects, both with funding from domestic donors and with the support of international organizations and foreign partners such as the World Bank, UNDP, the United Nations Population Fund, the UN Women, the European Union, the International Organization for Migration, Saferworld, DVV International, Fair and Sustainable Development Solutions, DIA International and others.

The implementation of such projects contributes to ensuring access to social protection, developing entrepreneurial skills, increasing the participation of women and young people in public affairs, and strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between residents of border areas.

Overall, the first Fergana Peace Forum opens a new page in the development of good neighborly relations and partnership between the countries of the region.

In this case, the choice of the Fergana Valley as the venue reflects its historical role as a space for mutual understanding and harmony. Undoubtedly, this forum will provide an additional stimulus for further strengthening stability and expanding cooperation in Central Asia.

Abror Yusupov,

PhD in Political Science,

Associate Professor,

Deputy Director of the

Center for Analysis of Democratic Processes