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Address by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the “SCO Plus” meeting
Address by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the “SCO Plus” meeting

Esteemed Heads of Delegations!

Once again, I would like to express my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, esteemed Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, for the warm welcome and excellent organization of the Summit in Astana.

We are highly estimate Kazakhstan’s effective chairmanship of the SCO, which has facilitated the expansion of multifaceted cooperation within the Organization.

It is a great honor to have with us the heads of observer-states and dialogue partners, esteemed guests.

Dear Participants of the Meeting!

I believe that a meeting in the broad format of SCO Plus is timely and necessary.

The world needs to restore trust, justice and solidarity more than ever.

The current global political and economic landscape is characterized by fractures, wars, and conflicts that are undermining the foundations and key principles of the system of international relations.

The contradictions and protectionism that have emerged are creating fragmentation of the world economy and supply chain disruptions, which are in turn creating new dividing lines that prevent countries from cooperating effectively in trade, finance and investment, technology transfer and innovation.

The only viable solution to these challenges is to consolidate efforts in the interest of global security, development, and prosperity.

The SCO has always advocated for and has been committed to a just world order based on the universally recognized principles of international law and multilateralism, with the UN playing a central coordinating role.

In this regard, our Organization continues to serve as a focal point for many countries seeking to build broad cooperation without political and ideological biases.

Concurrently, the evolving circumstances necessitate the implementation of new strategic approaches to enhance the efficacy of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Today, as it stands on the threshold of its 25th anniversary, it is imperative to develop a new agenda that aligns with the Organization’s immense potential and growing role in world politics and economy.

Building on the “Shanghai Spirit” and the founding principles of the Charter, unity and cohesion within the Organization should be preserved. I propose to intensify joint efforts with the objective of strengthening the atmosphere of trust and friendship within the SCO and to remove barriers to deeper cooperation.

First of all, it is necessary to undertake a comprehensive reevaluation of the conceptual foundation underpinning the SCO’s security-related activities.

The nature and scope of contemporary challenges have undergone a significant transformation since the establishment of the Organization.

Environmental and natural disasters, water and food shortages, cyberattacks, new methods of undermining sovereignty and economic stability pose an increasing threat.

All of this should also be taken into account when considering the strengthening of the SCO's potential, including the establishment of the Universal Center for Countering Security Threats and Challenges.

In this context, I propose to hold annually SCO Plus Dialogue on Security Issues with the participation of the heads of the competent bodies and experts of all our countries.

Uzbekistan proposes to consistently “reload” trade and economic cooperation in the SCO area, which continues to be fragmented.

So far, we could not manage to create a solid foundation for multilateral trade and inter-sectoral partnership.

For a long time, no consensus has been reached on the establishment of the SCO Development Fund and the SCO Development Bank.

Today at the summit we agreed to take comprehensive measures to simplify trade procedures and develop e-commerce, stimulate technological cooperation, including in the industries of the future.

In order to create an effective platform for business dialogue with the participation of all partners, we propose the annual holding of the SCO EXPO International Industrial Exhibition in our countries.

It is also important to actively promote economic interaction and seek opportunities for linking joint initiatives with the Economic Cooperation Organization, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Eurasian Economic Union, ASEAN and others.

The new geopolitical realities convince us of the need to build an inclusive and integrated transport and transit system to strengthen interregional connectivity.

The global problems such as climate change and environmental disasters cannot be ignored by the Organization. Our countries are increasingly facing natural disasters, land degradation, reduced agricultural yields, air pollution and water shortages.

I believe that climate cooperation should become a key element of the new SCO agenda.

We advocate for developing an Agreement on cooperation in combating climate change, with concrete measures to achieve common goals and objectives in the area of green development.

We are also proposing the establishment of the SCO Center for Innovative Climate Solutions in Tashkent. It will conduct research on environmental sustainability and “green” growth.

Improving livelihoods and social protection should be given a central place on the Organization’s agenda.

We intend to hold a Global Conference on Sustainable Social Protection in Samarkand next year, under the auspices of the United Nations, as a contribution to achieving the goals Summit of the Future.

Finally, we need to strengthen and promote together a unique model of inter-civilizational dialogue.

The rich cultural, historical and spiritual heritage, traditions, customs and ways of life of our peoples are a powerful and resilient force for building bridges of mutual trust, good-neighborliness and lasting friendship.

This is the message contained in the recent UN General Assembly resolution on the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations, adopted at our joint initiative.

In this context, the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative for Common Security and Prosperity, which we have put forward, aimed at overcoming the trust deficit through constructive dialogue and multilateral partnership, is more relevant than ever.

The practical implementation of this initiative will contribute to strengthening inter-civilizational dialogue to overcome contradictions on the path to sustainable development.

I am confident that together we can make the Organization even more creative through the implementation of programs in the area of cultural, educational, youth and tourist exchanges.

To this end, we propose to develop a Unified Bank of SCO Humanitarian Initiatives and Programs, which will enable projects in these areas to be systematized and jointly implemented.

I am convinced that the outcomes of this meeting will give a strong impetus to the development of a multifaceted partnership within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Thank you for your attention.

New Year greetings to the people of Uzbekistan
New Year greetings to the people of Uzbekistan

Dear compatriots!

I cordially congratulate you, the multinational people of Uzbekistan on the coming New Year 2025.

Despite the difficult situation in the world, the outgoing year has been prosperous for our country.

Thanks to the selfless labor, socio-political activity of our people, the idea of New Uzbekistan is becoming a reality.

The past elections to the Oliy Majlis and local councils have reaffirmed that we have entered a new stage of democratic reforms.

New high-tech industrial complexes, infrastructure and logistics networks, roads and railroads have been built in the country, business, IT and tourism spheres are developing. The incomes and quality of life of the population are increasing.

Our skillful dehkans and farmers, clusters have harvested rich crops. The whole country is being improved.

Kindergartens and schools, universities, cultural and sports facilities are being built. Thousands of our compatriots are welcoming the New Year in new homes.

Our energetic, enterprising young people are achieving success in all spheres. Their record achievements at the Olympic and Paralympic Games have opened a new page in the history of national sport.

The role and influence of civil society institutions, including the mahalla, are being strengthened. The sphere of spirituality and enlightenment is developing. Our country's initiatives of global significance are receiving broad support.

Uzbekistan's authority in the international arena as a competitive country and a reliable partner is growing.

All this has become possible thanks to sustainable development, the atmosphere of friendship and harmony in our society.

On this festive evening, I express my sincere gratitude to you, my dear ones, to all our people-creators for your conscientious labor and service to the Motherland.

Dear friends!

We have declared 2025 the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy.

Our main goal is to create a sustainable balance between the economic system and our environment. We will create even greater business opportunities.

We will resolutely continue to work to ensure the inviolability of private property and actively attract foreign investment.

The focus will be on the social sphere, increasing wages, pensions, scholarships and benefits.

We will mobilize all forces and opportunities to bring up our children harmoniously developed, with modern knowledge and professions.

We will increase attention to the development of science, education, health care, culture, art and sports.

We will continue to prioritize the care of veterans, women and youth, as well as improving the effectiveness of social protection.

We will raise to a new level the work on strengthening the potential of our Armed Forces, support for servicemen and their families.

In a word, all together, united, we will act to realize the main principle - “In the name of man, in the name of his happiness!”.

Dear friends!

Once again, I sincerely congratulate you - our compatriots abroad, as well as partners and friends of Uzbekistan around the world - on this wonderful holiday.

I wish you health, happiness, prosperity and well-being to every family, to our beloved Motherland!

May all our good dreams and hopes come true!

May our native Uzbekistan prosper!

Happy New Year to you, my dear ones!



Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Information on plans in automotive industry presented
Information on plans in automotive industry presented

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was reported the current work and plans for 2025 in automotive industry.

The share of automotive industry in the country's industry is 10 percent. Over the past ten months, 338 thousand passenger cars were produced. Components of 1.4 thousand types were localized. Thanks to economic measures, the cost price in the industry decreased by 4 percent. Exports amounted to $455 million.

The chairman of “Uzautosanoat” JSC presented information on plans and future tasks.

Next year it’s planned to manufacture 450 thousand cars and elevate exports to $700 million. It’s planned to strengthen cooperation with regional enterprises and boost localization. In particular, 63 projects worth $325 million on developing production of 700 components will be implemented. 

As is known, together with “BYD” company an automotive plant was built in Jizzakh. Currently such automobiles as Chazor and Song Plus Champion are produced there. In the upcoming years the model range is planned to be expanded. At the second stage worth $300 million it’s planned to expand the share of electric cars’ production to 200 thousand per year, at the third – to 500 thousand.

The Head of our state instructed to consistently master the production of components and spare parts for electric cars in agreement with the Chinese partners. 

The task was set to form orders for local enterprises based on cooperation.

The Fergana Valley — A Space of Shared Values and Cultural Convergence
The Fergana Valley — A Space of Shared Values and Cultural Convergence

On October 15–16, 2025, the city of Fergana will host the inaugural session of the Fergana Peace Forum under the theme: “The Fergana Valley: Uniting Efforts for Peace and Progress.”

Organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies (ISRS) under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in partnership with colleagues from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and supported by national and international organizations, this unique large-scale event will bring together leading experts, researchers, public figures, and representatives of international organizations. Their goal is to discuss the prospects for the development of one of Central Asia’s most densely populated and culturally rich regions — the Fergana Valley.

Experts from prominent think tanks across the CIS, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, alongside academics, business leaders, civil society representatives, and youth leaders from the region, will convene in one place. High-level delegates from international bodies such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the European Union, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) are also expected to participate. Renowned peacebuilding organizations including the Berghof Foundation (Germany), the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation (Finland), PeaceNexus (Switzerland), and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) will be among the invited guests.

More than 300 participants will attend the Forum, including around 150 from Central Asia and over 50 from the CIS, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Experts believe the Forum will reinforce the vision expressed by Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly — the transformation of Central Asia into a space of peace, good neighborliness, and partnership.

         As President Mirziyoyev has noted, the region is entering the era of New Central Asia. The days of closed borders, unresolved disputes, and conflicts are becoming a thing of the past. Thanks to growing cohesion, stability, and an emerging shared identity, Central Asia is increasingly recognized as an independent and influential actor on the global stage.

         The choice of the Fergana Valley as the Forum’s venue is symbolic. This unique region is where the lifelines of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan intersect. The established atmosphere of trust, dialogue, and cooperation between these countries exemplifies the good-neighborly policy championed by President Mirziyoyev.

Historical records mention the ancient Fergana state of Davan, especially the cities of Aksikent and Mingtepa, which were famed for their fertile lands, strong defenses, and prized horses. These are documented in Chinese chronicles from the late 2nd century BCE. By medieval times, the valley was one of the leading regions of Mawarannahr (Transoxiana). Archaeological remains from the Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, and medieval periods testify to the valley’s role as a cradle of multiple civilizations.

The Han dynasty historian Sima Qian wrote: “The people live on the land, tilling fields and growing rice and wheat. They live in houses and fortified cities; there are about seventy or more cities of various sizes in this region.” Medieval Arab geographers described Fergana as a land dotted with many cities and villages, surrounded by steppes and mountains, where both urban life and pastoralism thrived.

Cities such as Kokand, Khujand, Osh, and Margilan were centuries-old centers of craftsmanship, trade, and learning. Caravans of the Great Silk Road passed through here; some of the earliest madrasahs were established in the valley. The region became a crossroads for ideas from Persia, China, India, and the Arab world.

         Situated at the intersection of Hellenistic, Bactrian, Parthian, Chinese, and Islamic civilizations, the Fergana Valley is a unique hub of cultural exchange — a legacy evident today in its languages, traditions, cuisine, and architecture.

Experts agree that the peoples of the Fergana Valley form a unified historical and civilizational community — a reality forged over centuries of political, economic, and humanitarian interaction.

The Fergana Valley is living proof that the coexistence of diverse cultures is not only possible but also fruitful. Here, traditions are preserved while new forms of cooperation continuously emerge, from joint celebrations to cross-border initiatives. The region has effectively become a laboratory for cultural convergence, where the ideals of inter-civilizational dialogue are actively realized.

With its rich heritage, dense population, and vast economic potential, the Fergana Valley requires special attention to sustainable development, environmental security, and cross-border cooperation.

Coordinated action and open dialogue are essential here — to foster peace, mutual trust, and progress. The Forum’s agenda addresses a wide range of issues:

  • Strengthening regional dialogue and trust;
  • Jointly ensuring stability and sustainable development;
  • Unlocking the valley’s economic and investment potential;
  • Promoting cultural and humanitarian ties;
  • Increasing the involvement of civil society, youth, and the private sector in transformation processes.

Special focus will be placed on turning challenges into opportunities and establishing regional cooperation as a firm foundation for peace and prosperity.

The maturity of the Fergana Valley is reflected in its shared historical and cultural foundation, which allows the countries in the region to build dialogue on existing trust rather than starting from zero.

Today, the Fergana Valley is more than a historical symbol — it is a strategic region for sustainable development and economic cooperation. Joint transport and energy projects, cross-border markets, and digital initiatives are driving dynamic growth.

The Fergana Peace Forum is poised to become not just a discussion platform but an ongoing mechanism for generating ideas, uniting efforts, and advancing projects for the benefit of the entire region.

Organizers highlight that the example of the Fergana Valley could serve as a model for post-conflict regions worldwide, where political stabilization must be accompanied by deep cultural and humanitarian work. Real mechanisms of cooperation are being forged here, grounded in a shared historical and cultural legacy that supports peace and development.

Among the anticipated outcomes of the Forum is the adoption of a Communiqué calling for the establishment of a unified space of friendship, good neighborliness, and sustainable development in the Fergana Valley.

Preparatory discussions have already confirmed that the Fergana Valley is a place where the past inspires, the present unites, and the future is built on values of peace and cooperation.

In a world where conflict has become commonplace and the international community searches for new models of sustainable coexistence, the Fergana Peace Forum offers one clear answer: peace begins with trust, and trust begins with open dialogue.

Fergana is not just a point on the map — it is a space where respect becomes the language of communication, friendship forms the foundation of neighborliness, and cultural diversity is a source of unity.

 

Dr. Alisher Sabirov, Doctor of Historical Sciences,
Professor, Nizami National Pedagogical University, Uzbekistan;
Adjunct Associate Professor, Shaanxi Normal University, People’s Republic of China

New Uzbekistan strategy – a new way of supporting the young generation
New Uzbekistan strategy – a new way of supporting the young generation

18.9 million of the population of Uzbekistan or 54 percent are young people and children under 30 years of age. 9.5 million of young people are male and 9.4 million are female.

More than 50 laws and regulations were adopted in 2017-2021 in order to strengthen the legal basis of state policy regarding youth in the republic, and June 30 was declared as "Youth Day ".

As a result of the socio-political and economic reforms implemented in our country in recent years, a step has been taken to a completely new level of development. Youth , culture and sports issues was established in the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan , a "Youth Parliament" consisting of 100 active and enterprising young people under the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and 250 active and initiative young people under the Legislative Chamber, a commission on youth issues was established in the Legislative Chamber. 22.9 percent of business entities operating in the republic or 106 thousand 574 of them belong to young people under the age of 30 will come 21.5% of individual entrepreneurs are young people under 30 years old. Also, more than 3.5 thousand young farmers and about 7.8 thousand young craftsmen are working in the country.

In the 2019 elections to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 9 (6%) young people were elected as deputies, and 10% of local council deputies are young people.

The "Brave Boy" state award and the "Builder of the Future" medal were established to reward young people between the ages of 14 and under 30, who set an example for their peers with their activity and initiative in the social and political life of the country, as well as who have achieved great achievements in their studies and work. At the core of these practical results are consistent and effective reforms carried out on the basis of the renewed strategy of reforms and the strong will of the head of state regarding youth policy.

The strategic goal of the state youth policy implemented in the republic is to create conditions for every young person to get a free education, to carry out productive work, to realize themselves and to develop creatively, and to raise the level of social life in all aspects , which made it possible to accumulate valuable experience in our country. At this point, it should be emphasized that, along with state organizations, non-governmental organizations operating in our country are actively involved in the search for talented young people and their support. For example, it is important that one of the main directions of the state policy regarding youth is aimed at supporting the talents and abilities of young people. At the same time, in 2019, by a special decree of the President, the "Hope of the Country" fund under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan was established. Thousands of talented young people through educational grants awarded by this foundation

Our country has the opportunity to study in prestigious universities of developed foreign countries and learn advanced foreign experience. In particular, for the 2022-2023 academic year, 420 students and masters received scholarships and grants for studying abroad from the "Hope of the Country" fund. We can see that these practical works are being carried out in accordance with the goals of the development strategy of New Uzbekistan. Because, according to the 50th goal of the development strategy for 2022-2026, through the "Hope of the Country" fund, to double the scope of sending free and creative thinking young people to study at prestigious foreign universities, in which fifty percent of young people are trained in technical, exact sciences and IT fields and conducting open selection contests for bachelor's, master's and doctoral studies in the most prestigious universities of foreign countries, bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs of foreign higher education institutions important goals such as announcing and conducting an open competition were set by the Foundation for the purpose of participation in educational programs. As a result of the practical work carried out by the Foundation, a number of young people have mastered the knowledge and skills required by the times and are applying them to a number of areas of reforms in our country.

One of the urgent tasks of this organization in the fields of education, science, technology, information technology, culture, art, sports, and entrepreneurship, and the tasks of encouraging and supporting their various initiatives.

         As the President of Uzbekistan stated at the Youth Forum of Uzbekistan, "No matter what reforms we try in our country, we will first of all rely on young people like you, on your energy and determination. As you all know, today we have set ourselves huge goals. We have begun to create the foundations of the Third Renaissance in our Motherland. We consider the family, pre-school education, school and higher education as well as scientific and cultural centers to be the most important links of the Renaissance. For this reason, we are implementing fundamental reforms in these areas. I believe that in creating a new foundation for the development of our country, you, our devoted and patriotic youth, will actively participate and make a worthy contribution."

In the "New Development Strategy of Uzbekistan", which serves as a unique road map of the renewed reforms aimed at realizing the potential of such determined young people.

One of the priority directions of the state policy regarding youth in our country is the issue of ensuring youth employment, providing them with education, and training them in the profession. During the meeting with young people within the framework of the 2021 Youth Forum, the head of state asked for new and very relevant proposals in this regard. In particular, from now on, governors of regions, districts and cities, ministers and responsible leaders should hold regular meetings with young people, governors should develop and implement "road maps " aimed at solving the problems of young people, and report to local councils on this issue every six months. it was decided to give and determine the plans for the next six months.

An important initiative was put forward at the forum, such as the organization of vocational and entrepreneurship training for unemployed and unorganized youth within the framework of the "Youth: 1+1" program. Based on the principle "Each entrepreneur helps young people", the initiative to connect one unemployed youth to one entrepreneur was actively supported by many of our entrepreneurs. The head of state approved this noble action, which can provide employment to at least 500,000 young people.

         Within the framework of this initiative, during the past period, a number of activities have been carried out to train young people, provide them with jobs, and direct them to entrepreneurship, so that the level of unemployment among young people is significantly decreasing.

In this place, in the following years, in order to further accelerate youth reforms, including reducing unemployment, further expanding the scope of vocational training, and providing comprehensive support to talented young people, with the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated January 18, 2021 "A youth-oriented state in Uzbekistan Policy Development until 2025" Concept was approved. According to it, as a result of the statements of the state policy on youth, opportunities will be created to further strengthen the economic potential of the country and to widely apply advanced practices.

And also it is expected that by 2030, Uzbekistan will be among the first 30 advanced countries of the world according to the PISA (The Program for International Student Assessment) rating .

At the same time, adaptation of educational programs to international standards (PISA, STEAM), coverage of children in pre-school educational institutions, youth comprehensive schools and higher educational institutions will be gradually increased due to the expansion of opportunities for non-state educational institutions. In particular, 80 percent of children under 3-7 years of age in the republic are enrolled in pre-school education organizations.

To increase the cultural level of young people, the number of libraries, theaters, cinemas, museums, parks and other cultural institutions will be gradually increased, and the capacity of sports facilities will be increased by 30% by creating conditions for young people to engage in mass sports.

Conditions will be created for youth to engage in public sports in neighborhoods; IT-parks will be established in all regions, Digital technology training centers will be established in districts (cities), about 200,000 young people will be trained on the basis of the "One million Uzbek programmers" project.

Conditions will be created for young people to use high-quality, fast and cheap Internet services, provision of double growth of communication and information services will be the most important results of the "Youth of Uzbekistan - 2025" concept.

         In conclusion, it can be said that by 2030, our country will become one of the "countries with an income above the average", the country's gross domestic product will exceed four thousand dollars per capita, and our economy will double from its current state. The effective implementation of the concept "Youth of Uzbekistan - 2025", which is an important legal basis, is of great importance. The fact that young people of any country have intellectual potential, knowledge and modern profession remains an important factor of the country's development.

 

Asrorjon Sattorov,

                                 The University of Public Safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan Associate professor

Gender equality as one of the principles of building a New Uzbekistan
Gender equality as one of the principles of building a New Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan — is a country of irreversible, rapid reforms. One of the priorities of the development strategy of the New Uzbekistan is the policy of achieving gender equality in the country.

Under the "Uzbekistan-2030" development strategy, large-scale measures are being implemented to increase women's political, social and economic activity, protect mothers and children, promote gender equality and safeguard women's rights and interests.

Thanks to the political will of the leadership of Uzbekistan, the Gender Strategy of Uzbekistan until 2030 was developed, the laws “On guarantees of equal rights and opportunities for women and men”, “On protection from oppression and violence” were adopted, as well as legislative norms on mandatory gender expertise of all regulations and introduction of gender audit. Thus, a mechanism has been introduced to study the state of the gender approach in all government organizations and to develop measures to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women and men by the Federation of Trade Unions as public control. Liability for domestic violence has been strengthened. Over the past 5 years, more than 40 Presidential decrees and Resolutions have been adopted aimed at ensuring gender equality. Meanwhile, legislation for women is being improved and opportunities are expanding. In 2023, the Electoral Code of Uzbekistan established provisions that the number of women when nominated from political parties to representative bodies of power should be at least 40% of the total number of nominated candidates for deputies and in the proportional election system, nominate at least two women out of each five candidates for parliament. Since 2019, a Gender Commission on increasing the role of women in society, gender equality and family has been created in the Senate. The Committee for Women and Family Affairs was newly created, more than 9 thousand positions were established, up to mahallas, specifically dealing with issues of women and family throughout the country and at all levels, rehabilitation centers began to operate to provide assistance to women victims of violence.

Systemic measures taken at the initiative of the head of state, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in order to reduce poverty, establish “women’s notebooks”, reduce unemployment among women and support women’s entrepreneurship, preferential loans for women have yielded tangible results throughout the country. A number of restrictions on women’s occupation and choice of professions were lifted. Advisory councils on gender issues were created in all ministries and departments. As a result, the number of women in parliament reached 33%, in business their number doubled and reached 25%, in political parties 44%, in higher education 40%. In 2023 alone, more than 13,3 billion soums of loans were allocated for the implementation of over 279 thousand women’s business projects, and about 300 billion soums of subsidies were provided to almost 57 thousand women. Based on the “Women's Notebooks” system, the problems of 994 thousand women were solved, the state allocated 1 trillion 234 million soums for these purposes.

As a result of studying the situation of women in mahallas, targeted assistance was provided to more than 690 thousand families in need of social protection.

In 2024, it is planned to provide 8 thousand women and girls included in the “Youth Notebook” with subsidies to start their own business and purchase equipment, and 10 thousand with preferential loans. It is planned to launch a “Business Marathon” project for 50 thousand young women with the participation of qualified specialists to provide practical assistance in setting up a business.

In the field of education, great attention is also paid to gender equality. The country has taken a number of effective measures to protect women and girls; a gender approach is being introduced into curricula and teaching methods, as well as in STEM education, especially in rural areas. Currently, more than half of the 1 million 300 thousand students, i.e. 653 thousand, are girls. In the master's program, the share of girls is 60% of master's students. The state encourages and fully pays for the contracts of women and girls studying for a master's degree from the state budget. In 2023-24 1,914 girls from needy families were accepted to study at universities using additional government grants. 181,500 girls received preferential educational loans. At the expense of local budgets, the contract amount of more than 2 thousand students from families in need of social protection, orphans or students deprived of parental care was covered for 14 billion soums.

Improving the opportunities and conditions for the education of women and girls in the country gave impetus to an increase in interest in mastering modern knowledge and professions, for example, within the framework of the educational project “One Million Programmers”, 47% were girls. Creating favorable conditions for women in education gives real results in unlocking their potential. Over the past seven years, more than 5 thousand women have been awarded the academic titles of Doctors of Philosophy and Doctors of Science. More than 14 thousand women are conducting their research at universities in Uzbekistan.

Achieving gender equality — is a global task on the agenda of universal international organizations such as the UN and other regional structures. Uzbekistan is actively developing international cooperation in this area. As a party to the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the 1995 Beijing Declaration of the Platform for Action, the country regularly submits national reports to the Committee and develops national action plans.

In recent years, great importance has been attached to cooperation in the field of gender equality with the countries of Central Asia. The Forums of Women Leaders of Central Asia and the Asian Women's Forum in 2024 were successfully held, where representatives of more than 40 countries and international organizations participated.

Lola Saidova, Doctor of Law, Professor,

Chief Researcher of the ISRS under the

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Surkhandarya the cradle of ancient civilizations
Surkhandarya the cradle of ancient civilizations

Surkhandarya region the cradle of ancient civilizations

Surkhandarya region is the southernmost region of Uzbekistan. It occupies the Gissar ridge in the north, Babatag in the east, the Kugitangtau and Baysuntau spurs in the west, and the Amu Darya in the south.

5 reasons to visit Surkhandarya:

  1. Explore mountain and ecotourism in the region
Surkhandarya region is notable for mountain and ecotourism. In the region you can see an incredibly beautiful natural landscape: caves (Teshik-Tash cave, where scientists discovered the remains of a Neanderthal child in 1938-1939), massifs, gorges. These places attract a lot of attention from travelers and adventure seekers.

  1. Explore monuments of the distant past
The region's territory is rich in historical attractions, including architectural monuments, open-air museums, ruins of ancient settlements, and ancient fortresses. Not far from the city of Termez, on the territory of the ancient settlement of Dalverzintepa, various ivory items, objects made of precious stones, coins, elegant ceramics dating back to the Greco-Bactrian era were discovered; a special place is occupied by the oldest chess pieces in the world (1st-2nd centuries AD). e.).
Additionally, visitors can explore the defensive fortress of Hanaka Kyrk-Kyz, associated with the legend of Princess Gulaim and her forty maidens bravely defending against invading nomads.

  1. Learn About Religious Monuments
In the administrative center of the region – Termez and in its surroundings, many historical attractions associated with various religions, such as Zoroastrianism, Nestorianism, Buddhism and Islam, are still preserved. The architectural complex of Hakim at-Termeziy, the memorial 
and cult complex of Sultan Saodat, the Buddhist cult center of Karatepa, the Buddhist temple complex of Fayaztepa, the Jarkurgan minaret, and the Buddhist stupa of Zurmala are the oldest religious monuments of the Surkhandarya region.

  1. Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region
The cultural heritage of the city of Boysun in the Surkhandarya region and the Uzbek “shashmaqom” (musical genre) are included in the UNESCO list of intangible masterpieces of world cultural heritage.
The folklore festival “Boysun Bahori” (“Boysun Spring”) is held here annually, which reflects the unique rituals, traditions and special culture of the people.

  1. Taste the national cuisine of the region
The diversity of the nationalities of this region has made the cuisine of Surkhandarya unique, unlike any other cuisine in the world.
Here meat is included in almost all dishes. One of the most delicious dishes of this region is Tandoor Gusht.
Also popular is the dish Chuponcha - shepherd's meat, which is prepared from fresh dairy lamb.



The history of the Surkhandarya region has ancient roots dating back to the beginning of great civilizations. This unique place in Uzbekistan is known for its historical monuments and beautiful nature. The region is located in the foothills of Hissar, Bobotaga, Cohitang, which are famous for their beautiful
landscapes and unique natural formations. The rich reserves of mineral water found in the region are an important source of recreation and have healing properties. A trip to Surkhandarya, will be a fascinating experience, during which you can get acquainted with the unusual landscapes of Uzbekistan, see colorful architecture, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of this region.

Canyon Kyzyl
The Canyon Kyzyl, is located in the Surkhandarya region near the village of Baysun and is translated as “Red Canyon”. The length is 30 kilometers, and the highest point is Mount Buritakht, 1218 meters high. Here, nature has created breathtaking labyrinths, stretching for several tens of kilometers, and every turn of the relief, reveals amazing landscapes. In the spring season, the appearance of the canyon differs from the usual harsh stone appearance, since the surface is completely covered with different vegetation, among which rare medicinal herbs can be found. This place is truly amazing and deserves the status of one of the wonders of Uzbekistan.

Cave Boy-Bulok
In the Chul-Bair Mountain range, located in the Surkhandarya region, there is an amazing cave, called Boy-Bulok. It is considered the deepest in the entire Asian continent and reaches a depth of an impressive 1415 meters. Boy-Bulok is located 60 kilometers from the regional center of Baysun, and is a technically complex facility classified as the fifth complexity category.
In 1985, the first study of this unique place was carried out. Various obstacles were found inside the cave, including vertical bends, narrow vertical shafts up to 180 meters deep, and water-filled passages called half-siphons and siphons. Boy-Bulok has an impressive size that extends both down to a depth of minus 1158 meters, where the impenetrable siphon is located, and up to 359 meters. The very impressive amplitude – is 1517 meters.
Boy-Bulok, located at a depth of 1283 meters, is connected with Vishnevsky Cave. These two caves have a potential connection that is 2033 meters deep and extends for about 30 kilometers. This makes Boy-Bulok the third deepest cave in the world.

Massif Khoja Gur Gur ota
In translation, Khoja Gur Gur ota means “Father of all caves”. At an altitude of 3700 meters above sea level, there is a remote region of harsh and very wild nature. The gigantic, sloping peak of the mountain range ends with an impressive 500-meter-high cliff on one side, and deep canyons with cracks tearing the plateau on the other. Here can be seen fossilized traces of dinosaurs, fragments of basalt and crushed stone of the most bizarre shapes, as well as the burial place of the holy righteous man Khumajoy-ota. The slope of Khoja Gur Gur ota extends vertically and has entrances to many caves, many of which have not yet been explored. In addition, upon reaching the highest point of the massif, you will feel like you are standing on a huge wall separating one world from another.

Machay Cave
Machay Cave is another settlement of primitive people, which is located in the Baysun district of the Surkhandarya region. It is located near Mount Cohitang, on the right bank of the Machay River. The cave is 3.4 to 4 meters high, about 8 meters long and about 10 meters wide. It consists of two cultural layers: the upper layer belongs to the Mesolithic, and the lower layer belongs to the late Mesolithic and early Neolithic. Inside the cave, bones of a man and a woman were discovered that date back to the Mesolithic period. It is of great interest to the scientific community is the availability of material evidence of how people lived in the Stone Age. As a result of research, an abundance of artifacts was discovered in Machay Cave, which indicates the way of life of those times. The finds included 87 different stones, hundreds of weapons made from the bones of 15 different animal species, as well as stone knives, axes, handles, sawtooth weapons, arrowheads, bows and spears. The inhabitants of Machay Cave used these various weapons to skin domestic and wild animals and then use them to make clothing for themselves. These findings are of great value to the scientific community, as they allow us to better understand the lifestyle of people of that time. Surkhandarya – the cradle of ancient civilizations.

Sangardak Waterfall
The Sangardak Waterfall is located among the gorges of the Surkhandarya Mountains, being one of the wonders of the country's natural world. The waterfall is situated in the Sariasi region, 205 kilometers from Termez and 30 kilometers from Denau. Sangardak Waterfall is formed from karst waters flowing inside caves, rather than from a mountain river. As a result, people have created various legends about the waterfall and believe that it has healing properties. Moreover, it is worth noting that even ancient Arabs, Greeks, rulers of Transoxiana, and other peoples came to admire the waterfall.

The Teshik-Tash Cave 
The Teshik-Tash Cave is located on the slopes of the Baysuntau mountains. In 1938, during excavations, archaeologists discovered an ancient burial there. Scientists discovered five cultural layers 1.5 meters thick. Clay layers and crushed stones separated the layers. The remains of a Neanderthal child are the most famous finding in the cave, which became famous throughout the world and made the site well-known. Soviet archaeologist A.P. Okladnikov, who discovered these remains, subsequently received the Stalin Prize.

Zarautsay Gorge
The gorge is located in the Kugitang mountains in the Surkhandarya region. These are the southwestern spurs of the Hissar ridge. The discovered cave paintings are rare examples of primitive art. All rock paintings in Zarautsay are written in red ocher, unlike other petroglyphs in Uzbekistan. Impressive hunting scenes with running bulls, goitered gazelles, saigas, arrows, chasing dogs and people with bows and axes, as well as mysterious hooded figures who clearly carry out rituals associated with hunting, can arouse interest and surprise among viewers of this unique ancient art person. Of the 200 images found in 1940, only 40 have now survived in the Zarautsay grottoes.

Dinosaur tracks
Traces of hoofed dinosaurs were discovered in the limestones of the Cretaceous period in the village of Gumatak. The footprints are on a stone slab, which is easily accessible from a car after walking only 300 meters.
Speleologists have also discovered traces of other large dinosaurs in Surkhandarya, but to see them you will need to make a separate trip.

Karyshoto Gorges
In the Surkhandarya region, there is another unusual place, the Karyshoto Gorges. The gorges have karst waterfalls along their walls despite the fact that they are located in hot and dry areas.
As a result, you feel as if you have entered a picturesque oasis. The gorge in several places prevents passage due to the rather high waterfalls. However, when you overcome them, you can see how the gorge continues in two directions.

Canyon Kaptarhona
Several thousand doves have been nesting in this canyon for a long time, which is why this place received the name Kaptarhona, which is translated from Uzbek as “dovecote”.
Once upon a time, the canyon was completely deserted, and its only inhabitants were doves, which were so numerous that one could safely call this place the kingdom of these birds.
Kaptarhona is a winding road along a narrow gorge. Various boulders are scattered along the path. Many attractive and exciting turns hide amazing views.

Khojaikon Salt Cave
In 1989, the Khojaikon Salt Cave was opened, which since then, thanks to the concentration of salt and light negative air ions in the air, has helped people cope with various ailments, such as asthma, respiratory diseases, chronic bronchitis, complications of pneumonia, as well as various skin problems.
The cave is 155 meters long and is a salt monolith inside of which there are treatment room chambers, each of which differs in temperature, humidity, pressure and trace element content. The healing procedure takes only 2-2.5 hours a day.

Meteor Lake Kanbeshbulak
Lake Kanbeshbulak is located in the Khaman tract in the west of Surkhandarya region. The lake is an exceptional natural monument.
According to scientists, this lake was formed as a result of a meteorite fall. In their opinion, it was a meteorite crater that filled with water and became known as Kanbeshbulak. The explosive red sandstones that make up the slopes of the lake indicate the origin of the bowl.

Panjob Gorge
The Panjob Gorge is located in the foothills of the Kugitang Tau ridge in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan, 125 km northwest of Termez. This is a very beautiful gorge in which the small river Gazak, in the Karyshoto mountain range, cuts its way through limestone, gypsum and rock salt, creating a powerful picturesque canyon with vertical cliffs more than 200 meters high.
In some places the width of the gorges can be no more than two meters. In the narrow passages of the gorge, the most beautiful place is a 30-meter section on the right side of the canyon. In this place, water is knocked out of a rock covered with bright green moss, either as a curtain of water or in separate streams, forming a multiple rainbow under the sun's rays.

Surkhan State Reserve

The Surkhan State Nature Reserve is located in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan, just 60 kilometers from the city of Termez. The reserve was created in 1986 by combining the Kugitang and Aral-Paigambar reserves. The purpose of its creation was the preservation and restoration of rare species of plants and animals.
The reserve consists of two separate parts, located in the Sherabad and Termez districts of the Surkhandarya region. The reserve occupies 24,554 hectares and is located in the southwestern spurs of the Hissar ridge at an altitude of up to 3,157 meters above sea level. The Surkhan Reserve currently has more than 130 species of birds, as well as more than 25 species of mammals, 27 species of reptiles, and 2 species of amphibians and fish.

Kampyrtepa Fortress
Kampyrtepa is an ancient archaeological site on the territory of Uzbekistan, which is an ancient port city located on the banks of the Amu Darya River (formerly known as the Oxus). It was founded at the end of the 4th century BC and existed until the beginning of the 1st century AD. The main purpose of this settlement was to serve the crossing of the Burdaguy River, as well as to serve as a hotel and customs office. Kampyrtepa served as a transit point for traders traveling along the Silk Road, where they could rest, reload their goods, pray and continue their journey.
After decades of excavations and studying written sources, it was decided that the site of Kampyrtepa is the mysterious Alexandria Oxiana, a port city that Alexander the Great built on the Amu Darya. 

Topalang Reservoir

Uzbekistan is famous for the presence of two significant rivers - the Amudarya and the Syr Darya, which flow through its territory and flow into neighboring countries. The Hissar mountain ranges serve as a source for the Topalang River, which originates on the southern slope. It should be noted that the most abundant right tributary of the Surkhandarya has a length of 117 kilometers. The main source of water replenishment in the Topalang River is seasonal snow and glacial water. It is thanks to this that the river supplies water to the Denaus, Shurchin and Kumkurgan districts of the Surkhandarya region.

Hospital “Khojaipok”

Khojaipok Hospital specializes in the treatment of various diseases, including gynecological problems, cardiovascular disorders, general therapy and neurological disorders. To achieve a positive result, various methods are used, such as hydrotherapy (including mineral baths and circular showers), heat therapy, mud therapy, physiotherapy, electrotherapy and ozone therapy.
Upon completion of the procedures, visitors can visit the natural beauty, swim in the resort's pool, play tennis or engage in other outdoor activities in the sports club.

Sanatorium “Omonkhona”

The Omonkhona Balneological Sanatorium, located in the mountains near the city of Baysun, and the Khojaipok Hospital, located at the foot of Mount Kenagi, are the most famous health complexes in the Surkhandarya region.
The thermal water in the Omonkhona sanatorium has healing properties and is part of the health programs of the sanatorium. Using magnetic therapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, water procedures, massages, liver cirrhosis, hepatitis and other diseases are treated.

Hissar Mountains

The Hissar Mountains are a mountain range that stretches 200 kilometers from east to west across the Hissar region of Tajikistan. It is the western part of the Pamir-Alai system. The highest point in Uzbekistan, Khazret-Sultan, is 4643 meters, located on the border of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The ridge is a place of unique geological outcrops in Eurasia. The structure consists of sandstones and crystalline rocks interspersed with granite intrusions. In addition, all ecosystems and climates of the Pamir-Alai are represented here. At the highest places there are glaciers and rocky wastelands. A famous natural attraction of the Hissar Ridge, located in the southern part of the mountains, is the cave of Amir Temur. This natural formation, stretching for 860 meters, is considered the largest underground lake in Uzbekistan. It is important to note that the cave was inhabited back in the Greco-Bactrian period (IV-III centuries BC).

Archaeological Museum of Termez

To celebrate the 2500th anniversary of the city of Termez in 2002, the Termez Archaeological Museum was built and opened. Today it is the only archaeological museum in Central Asia, and many of its unique exhibits date back more than 100 thousand years BC. These include 624 museum relics of global significance, displayed using the latest information and communication technologies.

Karatepa Complex

Located in the northwestern part of old Termez, Karatepa is a place of worship associated with Buddhism. On the three hills of this place there are various temples and monasteries that were built in the 2nd century AD. The architecture of Karatepa is remarkable for its unique combination of caves carved into sandstone and buildings made of pakhsa and adobe.

Zurmala Stupa

Northeast of the ruins of the ancient settlement of Termez is Zurmala, a 12-meter-tall Buddhist stupa. It was built during the Kushan period, around the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, while Buddhism was spreading in Central Asia. The modern city of Termez is located 10 kilometers west of the ancient settlement of Termez. On its outskirts one can see the remains of entire complexes of ancient Buddhist buildings, which in the Middle Ages covered agricultural fields. Over time, the Buddhist stupa turned into a clay mound, which was difficult to recognize as a ritual structure.

Mausoleum of Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi

Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi is a sacred place of worship for Muslims and an architectural monument. The mausoleum is one of the holy places of the Surkhandarya regional center. The architectural monument is located approximately 60 kilometers from the current center, northwest of old Termez. Abu Abdulloh ibn Hassan ibn Bashir Al-Hakim At-Tirmizi is an outstanding Islamic figure, author of various philosophical and religious works and founder of the order of Dervishes. About 80 works were written by the eminent At-Tirmizi who received the name Al-Hakim, which means the wise one, due to his deep knowledge and broad vision.

Mausoleum of Ak-Astana-baba

In the village of Telpek-Chinar, Sariasi district, Surkhandarya region, there is the Mausoleum of Ak-Astana-baba. Scientists believe that the mausoleum was built on the grave of the companion of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Saint Abu Hurair. The mausoleum has four rooms called “Chorsi Khona,” in which bricks are laid in batches, and the north-eastern part of the complex can be accessed through the roof. At the entrance to the mausoleum, there are two complex signs, about half a meter in diameter. It is still not possible to correctly interpret the semantics of these signs.

Kirk Kiz Fortress
One of the most interesting ancient places is the Kirk Kiz Fortress. Although the fortress is almost completely destroyed at present, even the ruins allow us to see the former size of the structure and marvel at the skill of the ancient architects. The symmetry of Kirk Kiz makes it unique; each archway and corridor have a counterpart located on the opposite side.
Two passages cross the building crosswise and divide it into four equal parts. There are versions that it was a country aristocratic palace, a women's madrasah, a khanaka, or a caravanserai.

Dzharkurgan Minaret
The minaret is located 5 kilometers from the city of Jarkurgan and 40 kilometers from Termez, near the village of Minor. Thanks to the deciphered inscription on the building, it was established that this architectural monument dates back to the 12th century. The inscription states that construction took place from 1108 to 1109 AD, but some scholars believe the date reads differently and construction was completed in 1110.
This building is unique with its decorative elements. At that time, mosaics were often used to decorate minarets; in the case of this minaret, we see vertical decorative corrugations that were made using a specially baked brick masonry, which was cut in a herringbone pattern from top to bottom.

Dalverzintepe Settlement
Dalverzintepe, the main city of the powerful Kushan Empire, has so far been the subject of careful study by many historians and archaeologists. With its secrets and many valuable objects found, the site attracts attention. The largest treasure in history was found here; about 36 kilograms of gold were discovered in this place in 1972.
Archaeological excavations have revealed a lot of new things about the architecture, culture and fortifications of Northern Bactria. Finds such as sculptures, paintings and figurines show the high level of culture of the people of the Kushan Era. According to many researchers, Dalverzintepe is considered the most ancient Buddhist building.

Ensemble Sultan-Saodat
On the outskirts of the city of Termez in the center of the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan there is the architectural ensemble of Sultan-Saodat. The memorial complex consists of tombs of the Termez Seyyids, who were considered direct descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. The complex contains various memorial and religious buildings built from the 11th to the 17th centuries. All buildings have a common architectural concept despite the fact that they were built at different times.

Hanaka Kukildor-ota

Khanaka Kukildor-ota in Termez is a holy monastery that has become one of the most revered among Muslims. Khanaka Kukildor-ota was built in the mid-1100s. It stands out among other monasteries due to its unique architecture, history and significance in the Muslim world.
The building contains numerous tombstones, as well as the burial place of the Muslim Saint Kukildor-ota. This prominent religious figure was known for his great righteousness. The monastery was built in memory of him.
After the restoration of the Khanaka, Kukildor-ota acquired a unique appearance, which is characteristic of all architectural monuments of the Timurid era.

Fayaztepa Complex

Fayaztepa is located at a distance of 4 kilometers from modern Termez, Surkhandarya region. The monastery complex consists of 13 rooms and an inner courtyard with an ivan where a refectory was attached to the monastery on the left side. In some places of the complex there are cooking fires, as well as skulls with inscriptions in Bactrian and other ancient languages. Coins of Heliocles (the Greco-Bactrian king) and Kanishki (the ruler of the Kushan Empire) were also found there. According to archaeological excavations, monks used to live in the monastery, and they also provided housing for pilgrims.
In the IV century, Fayaztepa was captured by the Sassanid army (the dynasty of Persian rulers), due to which the complex stopped functioning. Previously, the complex was called Khaya-Vihara, which translates as "the monastery of horsemen". The current name of the complex was given in honor of the director of the Surkhandarya Museum of Local Lore R.F. Fayazov, who participated in the excavations of the Buddha complex.

Neighborhoods of Derbent

The Derbent mountain village is located on an important trade route along the Sherabad River, connecting the southern regions of modern Uzbekistan, Northern Afghanistan and Tajikistan with the central cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent, which were known at the time as Shash. The land around Derbent looks heavily damaged — high rocks either form a majestic gate, or almost merge overhead, reminding us of the bloodshed here while defending the borders of different empires.
Also, travelers can expect places that surprise with their power, strength and pristine beauty. Here you will find gorges including the famous Iron Gate, which was besieged by Alexander the Great.

The Church of Alexander Nevsky
In 1901, a temple was erected in the city of Termez in honor of the Holy Prince Alexander Nevsky. Currently, the temple is in excellent condition. The sanctuary is impressive in its scale: the bell tower and iconostasis occupy a significant space. Inside the temple there is a room measuring 24 by 16 meters. In addition, the temple is rich in icons and church objects.

Kurganzol Fortress
The Kurganzol Fortress is an impregnable structure built in 328 BC by Alexander the Great, located on a cliff near Baysun at an altitude of 900 meters. Archaeological excavations of Kurganzol began in 2003 and revealed that it belongs to the Hellenistic era. The fortress dates back to the 4th century BC and is believed to have housed about fifty soldiers, with six towers protecting the entrance. Construction took a long time to complete, as nomadic tribes frequently attacked and destroyed parts of the building during those years.
Inside the fortress, parts of residential and utility rooms, a water pool with a drain to prevent overflow, and defensive structures were discovered. Built of mud bricks, the fortress has an outstanding appearance, with walls averaging more than 2.5 meters thick.

Uzundara Fortress
Uzundara, the oldest fortress dating back to the 3rd–4th centuries BC, is located in the foothills of Baysun. The fortress featured powerful defensive structures, including double walls reinforced with 13 towers, and outer walls stretching nearly 1 kilometer in length. The fortress walls, lined with clay bricks, have almost retained their original appearance and rise up to 5 meters high.
Among the main finds discovered during the expedition are unique coins from the Hellenistic period depicting Alexander the Great, Antiochus I (king of the Seleucid state), and all rulers of the Greco-Bactrian kingdom from Diodotus to Heliocles. The fortress existed for about 150 years before being destroyed by the nomadic tribes of the Saks and Yuejs during the reign of one of the last Greco-Bactrian kings between 171 and 166 BC

Uzbekistan–USA: Strategic Partnership as a Driver of Interregional Cooperation
Uzbekistan–USA: Strategic Partnership as a Driver of Interregional Cooperation

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has arrived in Washington on a working visit to participate in the “C5+1” summit of the leaders of Central Asian countries and the United States and to hold meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as heads of U.S. government departments and agencies.

The C5+1 format, launched in November 2015 in Samarkand, has become an important mechanism for coordination and cooperation in areas such as regional development, economic resilience, environmental protection, energy, and security. Its primary goal is to establish a permanent platform for diplomatic dialogue, exchange views on pressing issues, and strengthen connectivity in the fields of transport, energy, trade, business, and humanitarian engagement. The Joint Declaration on Partnership and Cooperation, adopted at the first meeting, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Central Asian countries.

The first C5+1 leaders’ summit, held in New York in September 2023, gave a strong impetus to advancing the comprehensive agenda of the platform and marked the launch of new initiatives, including the B5+1 Private Sector Business Platform (Almaty, March 2024) and the Critical Minerals Dialogue (February 2024). Since its inception, the format has held 13 ministerial meetings and three high-level gatherings, as well as specialized forums on climate change, development, Afghanistan, and other priority areas.

Uzbekistan has taken an active and constructive role within the C5+1, consistently advocating for the institutionalization of cooperation, enhanced border-security coordination, intensified action on climate and environmental challenges, and the continuation of projects in trade, investment, transport, and energy. Tashkent also supports initiatives related to Afghanistan. Many Uzbek initiatives have been endorsed and implemented in practice, including the establishment of the Virtual C5+1 Secretariat (2021), the TIFA meetings (Samarkand, March 2023), and projects on artificial intelligence and educational cooperation under the C5+1 framework.

The impact of these multilateral initiatives is evident: strengthened regional cooperation has opened new export routes, enhanced investment attractiveness, and created expert-exchange platforms — all contributing to the overall resilience of Central Asia.

Uzbekistan’s active engagement in the C5+1 format is fully aligned with its broader policy of deepening bilateral cooperation with the United States, which continues to expand across all key areas - politics, security, the economy, science, and culture.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on February 19, 1992, Uzbekistan and the United States have made substantial progress. A milestone was President Mirziyoyev’s official visit to the United States on May 15–17, 2018, which laid the foundation for a new era of strategic partnership. The President has also met with U.S. leaders on various multilateral platforms — on the sidelines of the Riyadh Summit in May 2017 and during the UN General Assembly sessions in New York in September 2017 and 2025.

The bilateral political dialogue evolved in 2021 into the Uzbekistan–U.S. Strategic Partnership Dialogue, whose sessions are held alternately in the two capitals. The fourth meeting, held in Washington on November 13, 2024, concluded with an agreement to elevate its status to the Expanded Strategic Partnership Dialogue.

The regular visits of senior U.S. officials and special envoys to Uzbekistan further underscore the growing intensity of the partnership.

In 2025, Uzbekistan hosted several high-level American representatives, including Paolo Zampolli, the Special Representative of the U.S. President for Global Partnerships (August 28 – September 1, 2025), and Sergio Góvar, the Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, accompanied by First Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau (October 25–27, 2025).

A clear demonstration of the high level of bilateral relations was the official visit of Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov to Washington on April 8–10, 2025, during which he met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz. The sides discussed a wide range of regional and international issues, paying particular attention to strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States. Special emphasis was placed on cooperation in security, economic development, regional connectivity, and sustainable growth in Central Asia.

Inter-parliamentary ties are also expanding dynamically. In 2018, the Uzbekistan Caucus was established in the U.S. House of Representatives, with participation from both parties. Regular visits of congressional delegations contribute to the strengthening of parliamentary diplomacy.

Economic and investment cooperation is developing at a robust pace. The bilateral trade turnover and the number of joint projects continue to grow annually. Major American companies such as Air Products, General Electric, General Motors, Boeing, Honeywell, The Coca-Cola Company, and John Deere are successfully operating in Uzbekistan.

During the IV Tashkent International Investment Forum on June 9, 2025, the U.S.–Uzbekistan Business Forum was held with the participation of around 100 U.S. companies. Memorandums of understanding were signed and negotiations held with Boeing, FLS, Visa, NASDAQ, Air Products, Franklin Templeton, Morgan Stanley, and others.

The United States supports Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). In December 2024, the parties signed a protocol concluding bilateral negotiations on accession — an important milestone in Uzbekistan’s integration into the global trading system.

The cultural and humanitarian sphere constitutes a significant dimension of bilateral cooperation. Sister-city relations have been established between Tashkent–Seattle, Bukhara–Santa Fe, and Zarafshan–Clinton. These municipal partnerships foster cultural and educational exchange, tourism, and business collaboration.

Educational cooperation is also advancing: the Tashkent branch of Webster University (opened in 2019) and the American University of Technology (AUT), established in partnership with Arizona State University, play a key role. On August 30, 2025, an American Corner — a cultural and educational hub promoting academic and scientific collaboration — was inaugurated at AUT.

In October 2023, Tashkent hosted the Education USA Regional Forum with the participation of 65 U.S. universities. The activities of American Councils for International Education (ACIE) have resumed, and work is underway to restore the Peace Corps presence in Uzbekistan.

Transport connectivity has also improved: since July 2017, direct Tashkent–New York–Tashkent flights operated by the national airline have resumed, facilitating business and humanitarian exchanges.

Furthermore, the United States continues to support Uzbekistan’s domestic reforms. Reports by the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Labor highlight progress in combating human trafficking and eradicating the worst forms of child labour. Uzbek cotton has been removed from the lists of goods produced with forced child labour; in December 2020, Uzbekistan was delisted from the “Countries of Particular Concern” regarding religious freedom; and in April 2024, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) removed Uzbekistan from the Special 301 Watch List on intellectual property protection.

In summary, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s current visit to the United States and participation in the C5+1 Summit will provide a new and powerful impetus for the practical implementation of initiatives on both the multilateral and bilateral agenda. The visit will undoubtedly strengthen political dialogue, accelerate the realization of investment agreements, expand educational and cultural exchanges, and give fresh momentum to joint projects in energy, transport, and digital technologies.

For Uzbekistan, this visit represents another opportunity to reaffirm its status as an active and reliable partner in Central Asia; for the United States, it serves as a platform to deepen engagement in a region of strategic importance for global stability and economic growth.

 

Dunyo IA

Proposals on further development and increase of competitiveness of the jewelry industry were considered
Proposals on further development and increase of competitiveness of the jewelry industry were considered

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was given a presentation on measures to further develop the jewelry industry, support jewelry production and sales, and increase exports of finished products.

Our country has a huge potential for increasing production and export of jewelry.

As the head of state noted, only 6 percent of gold mined in the country is processed, and exports of its products amount to only 78 million dollars, so it is important to create jewelry zones with special conditions for entrepreneurs, to review the provision of raw materials, training of specialists, production chain and sales system.

In this regard, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry have developed relevant proposals.

In particular, it is planned to improve the activity of the Uzbekzargarsanoati association, expand its powers and reorganize the management system.

In order to support manufacturers of the industry, it is proposed to apply the benefits provided for members of the Association "Uzbekzargarsanoati" to individual entrepreneurs - manufacturers of jewelry, who are members of the Association "Uzbekzargarsanoati".

The possibility of establishing a zero rate of customs duty and value added tax on equipment, packaging and marking materials that are not produced in Uzbekistan and used in the jewelry industry for the period up to October 1, 2026 is being studied.

The issues of creation of special jewelry centers including production, exhibition and trade areas were considered. Information was provided on the placement of pilot projects in Tashkent and Namangan region.

The issue of increasing the volume of jewelry exports was discussed. It was proposed to establish a zero rate of customs duty for export of jewelry made in our country to the United States of America under the GSP system.

The head of state instructed to finalize the presented measures and work out a program for the development of domestic jewelry production for the period up to 2027.

A New and Technological Approach to Elections Begins
A New and Technological Approach to Elections Begins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Central Election Commission

of the Republic of Uzbekistan

 

Uzbekistan–Japan: Expanding the Boundaries of Strategic Partnership
Uzbekistan–Japan: Expanding the Boundaries of Strategic Partnership

In December 2025, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay an official visit to Japan and take part in the high-level Central Asia + Japan Dialogue summit.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states on 26 January 1992, the development of Uzbek–Japanese cooperation has been one of the key priorities of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region. Based on mutual respect and trust, Tashkent and Tokyo are today building dynamic, multi-tiered cooperation covering politics, security, the economy, investment, innovation, education, culture, tourism, and interaction within regional formats.

Japan has traditionally been a key strategic partner in modernizing industrial and energy infrastructure, advancing digital transformation, promoting sustainable development, and supporting progress in education, science, culture, and humanitarian exchange.

Bilateral cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is rich and dynamic. A turning point in the development of the dialogue was President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s official visit to Japan in December 2019, which gave a powerful impetus to the implementation of major joint economic, investment, and humanitarian projects and defined the long-term trajectory of bilateral engagement.

On the international stage, Uzbekistan and Japan interact effectively within international organizations and support each other’s positions. Over the years, Uzbekistan has supported Japan’s candidacy to UN bodies more than 40 times, while Tokyo has co-sponsored a number of UN General Assembly resolutions initiated by Uzbekistan, including resolutions on the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone, education and religious tolerance, youth support, and the role of parliaments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The strategic nature of bilateral relations is also reflected in inter-parliamentary cooperation. Friendship groups operate within both national parliaments, regular meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Forum are held, mutual visits take place, and online consultations and negotiations are conducted.

Cooperation between the foreign ministries is likewise intensive. Since 2002, 19 rounds of political consultations have been held between the foreign ministries of the two countries.

A significant milestone in this regard was the first Strategic Dialogue between the Foreign Ministers of Uzbekistan and Japan, held on 25 August 2025 in Tashkent. This new format underscored the long-term nature of bilateral engagement and the readiness of both sides to expand mutually beneficial cooperation across all areas.

Regular contacts, telephone conversations, meetings on international platforms, and reciprocal visits by foreign ministers help coordinate positions on bilateral and multilateral issues and further intensify cooperation in other areas.

Honorary consuls of Uzbekistan in Japan also play an important role in promoting interstate cooperation, actively contributing to the advancement of economic and cultural initiatives.

Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is developing dynamically and encompasses industry, energy, communications, infrastructure, innovation, transport, and the “green economy.” Trade between the two countries is conducted under the most-favored-nation regime, which has contributed to steady growth in bilateral trade turnover.

In 2024, the Uzbek–Japanese Trade House opened in Nagoya, demonstrating Japan’s growing interest in expanding trade ties with Uzbekistan.

Joint meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan and Japan–Uzbekistan Committees on Economic Cooperation serve as the key coordination mechanism for bilateral economic projects.

Today, 84 joint ventures with Japanese capital operate in Uzbekistan, and 13 major Japanese companies have representative offices in the country, working in the oil and gas, chemical, engineering, logistics, education, and tourism sectors.

Japanese financial institutions play a strategic role in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy. In January 2025, a loan agreement worth USD 150 million was signed in Tashkent with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the construction and equipping of the Republican Center for Neurology and Stroke — a modern project that will represent an important step in advancing national healthcare.

The cultural and humanitarian dimension of Uzbek–Japanese relations is distinguished by depth and emotional resonance. For more than two decades, the Uzbekistan–Japan Friendship Society, as well as the Fukushima–Uzbekistan Association and the Japan–Uzbekistan Association, have been actively operating. The Hiroshima Peace Stone installed in Tashkent and the Japanese Garden in the heart of the capital have become symbols of strong friendship between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Japan.

Uzbekistan regularly hosts Japanese cultural festivals, film screenings, performances, and exhibitions. In turn, Uzbekistan widely showcases its cultural traditions in Japan — from national cuisine and traditional garments to music and dance. Such exchanges form a unique basis for friendship between the two nations, fostering mutual respect and strengthening long-term cooperation.

Modern cultural projects have become the hallmark of humanitarian dialogue. In April 2022, Tokyo hosted the vibrant event “Spirit of the Silk Road — Bridge of Friendship,” and in 2024, the Japanese ensemble “Japanese Pearl” won third place at the traditional Boysun Bahori festival.

Education is one of the most rapidly developing areas of humanitarian cooperation. More than 2,500 students study Japanese language across seven universities in Uzbekistan. The Uzbek–Japanese Center for Human Resource Development operates in the country, the Japan Development Scholarship (JDS) program is being implemented, and joint projects are carried out with the universities of Tokyo, Nagoya, Tsukuba, Keio, and Toyohashi. Over 400 Uzbek students have received JDS scholarships, and about 2,500 specialists have undertaken internships in Japan. Exchange programs and faculty visits are active, and university rector forums are held.

Joint scientific research is being conducted in ancient history, archaeology, oriental studies, agriculture, and climate processes.

Japan provides financial and technical support to the development of healthcare in Uzbekistan. More than USD 60 million has been allocated for equipping medical facilities, training specialists, and supplying vaccines. Over 100 Japanese volunteers have worked in Uzbekistan, and more than 200 Uzbek medical professionals have completed internships in Japan.

Interregional diplomacy occupies an increasingly important place in bilateral relations. Sister-city partnerships have been established between Rishtan and Maizuru, Tashkent and Nagoya, and Samarkand Region and Nara Prefecture. Within this framework, Samarkand Days are regularly held in Japan, alongside cultural events in Nagoya.

Growing interest among Japanese visitors in Uzbekistan’s culture and history is stimulating cooperation in the tourism sector. The number of Japanese visitors to Uzbekistan continues to rise, facilitated by expanded air connectivity, active promotion of cultural tourism, and improved infrastructure.

Particular interest is drawn to Uzbekistan’s Buddhist heritage sites — Kara-Tepe, Fayaz-Tepe, Dalverzin-Tepe, and the temple complexes of Termez and its surroundings. Thanks to the research of Japanese scholars, these monuments have gained international recognition and attract visitors and experts from around the world.

Another vivid example of Japanese public interest in Uzbekistan was the success of the Uzbek pavilion, “Garden of Knowledge: Laboratory of the Future Society,” at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. Uzbekistan’s national pavilion was recognized as one of the most remarkable exhibits and was awarded a Gold Medal. The world premiere of the National Symphony Orchestra of Uzbekistan’s performance “Celestial Dance,” dedicated to bilateral friendship, captivated Japanese audiences.

The Central Asia–Japan Dialogue, whose first leaders’ summit President Mirziyoyev will attend during his visit, is a format that fully aligns with Uzbekistan’s regional priorities and reflects the growing political consolidation of Central Asian states.

The initiative to establish the Dialogue was first proposed by Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi during her visit to Tashkent on 24 August 2004. The priority goals identified at the time included ensuring peace and stability in the region, supporting reforms and social development, strengthening intra-regional ties, enhancing Central Asia’s partnership with neighboring regions and the international community, and cooperating on pressing regional and global issues.

Today, the Dialogue has evolved into a stable platform for trusted interaction and discussions on sustainable development.

To provide the format with practical substance, regular working meetings of senior officials, sectoral expert consultations, and Tokyo Intellectual Dialogues are held. In recent years, the Economic and Energy Dialogues at the ministerial level, conducted in Tokyo in 2023–2025, have become particularly significant.

Infrastructure assistance has always been one of Japan’s priorities within the Dialogue. Japanese organizations such as JICA and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) systematically participate in modernizing transport corridors, logistics hubs, roads, engineering facilities, airports, and rail infrastructure. These projects significantly increase regional connectivity and strengthen Central Asia’s role as a key bridge between East Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Japan, a global leader in digitalization and automation, actively shares its expertise with the countries of the region. For Uzbekistan, this cooperation is especially important: the country is rapidly developing its IT sector, creating IT parks and technology parks, launching digital economy programs, and attracting Japanese experts for training national specialists.

Given Japan’s long-standing leadership in environmentally sustainable development and energy-efficient technologies, environmental cooperation is also a central element of the partnership.

As the most populous country in the region and a major transport and logistics hub, Uzbekistan plays a central role in shaping the agenda of the Dialogue. In recent years, Uzbekistan has contributed significantly to strengthening the practical content of cooperation by initiating new projects across various fields.

Over the past two decades, the Dialogue has proven itself as a stable and in-demand mechanism of partnership that allows the countries of the region and Japan to build systematic cooperation across a wide range of areas.

Thus, the upcoming visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan and his participation in the Central Asia + Japan Summit will deepen both bilateral and multilateral political dialogue, expand economic and investment cooperation, and strengthen educational and scientific ties. Undoubtedly, the active efforts of the President to expand mutually beneficial partnerships will once again confirm Uzbekistan’s commitment to regional integration and open, constructive international dialogue.

DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM RELATIONS BETWEEN UZBEKISTAN AND THE CIS COUNTRIES: DYNAMICS AND PROSPECTS
DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM RELATIONS BETWEEN UZBEKISTAN AND THE CIS COUNTRIES: DYNAMICS AND PROSPECTS

In recent years, Uzbekistan has demonstrated significant progress in the field of international tourism, which pays special attention to cooperation with the CIS countries. Historically, this region has close cultural, economic and humanitarian ties with Uzbekistan, which contributes to the active exchange of tourists and the development of joint initiatives in the tourism industry. According to statistics for JanuaryAugust 2024 and 2025, there has been a steady increase in the total number of tourists from 6.7 million visiting Uzbekistan to more than 7.5 million with an annual increase of 15-20% per year. By the end of 2025, more than 11 million foreign tourists are expected to arrive.
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan remain the most significant sources of tourists among the CIS countries. In 2024, Kazakhstan sent more than 2.1 million tourists to Uzbekistan in January August, Kyrgyzstan about 1.78 million, and Tajikistan almost 1.6 million. In 2025, Kyrgyzstan slightly surpassed Kazakhstan in the number of visitors 2.16 million against 1.77 million, which indicates a positive trend towards strengthening bilateral ties in the field of tourism. Tajikistan also showed an increase of almost 1.7 million tourists. In addition to the traditional leaders, the number of tourists from Turkmenistan increased significantly in JanuaryAugust, from 125,000 in 2024 to 243,000 in 2025. This growth confirms the growing attractiveness of Uzbekistan as a tourist destination for all neighboring countries.
The CIS countries with fewer tourists, such as Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, Armenia, Ukraine and Russia, also note positive dynamics. The increase in the number of Russian tourists in January August is particularly noteworthy from 587,000 in 2024 to more than 663,000 in 2025, reflecting the strengthening of tourist and cultural ties between the two countries. The growth of the tourist flow from the CIS is largely due to Uzbekistan's comprehensive work to improve infrastructure, simplify visa procedures, and actively promote travel brands. The development of transport links, the introduction of modern services and the expansion of the range of tourism products make Uzbekistan more and more attractive to visitors from neighboring countries.
Uzbekistan is the historical center and pearl of the Great Silk Road, the crossroads of world cultures and civilizations. There are more than 8,000 cultural heritage sites in the country. 209 of them are part of four museum cities included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The magnificent monuments of the ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva attract many tourists who want to get acquainted with the rich heritage of the region. Samarkand is the ancient capital of the empire of the great commander Amir Temur, which houses the most beautiful Registan ensemble, the Ulugbek Observatory and the Imam Al-Bukhari complex, the most important for Muslims, the fabulous city of Bukhara, famous throughout the Islamic world with its Bahauddin Naqshbandi complex, the Ark fortress and the Poi Kalyan ensemble, the capital of the Khorezmshah State Khiva with a museum city open-air Ichan-Kala, and of course the city of Shakhrisabz, where Amir Temur was born and built the Ok-Saroy palace there.
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is the geographical center and the largest hub of Central Asia, a connecting bridge between East and West. Tourists can get great emotions and impressions from their stay in Tashkent, which has many interesting sights, including the architecture of modernity and the ancient East. Uzbekistan is not only a historical city, but also a huge number of natural attractions: the picturesque mountains of the Western Tien Shan and Pamir Alai, mysterious caves, the endless Kyzylkum desert, a huge number of lakes, the Ustyurt plateau and the Aral Sea in Karakalpakstan. It should be noted that Uzbekistan occupies high places in the world tourism rankings, in the field of security, historical attractions, family tourism, gastronomy, etc. There is a tourist police in all tourist centers of the country, thanks to which all foreign visitors feel safe at all times. At the same time, over the past 10 years, Uzbekistan has not had any incidents related to the safety of tourists in the country, which could negatively affect the tourist image of Uzbekistan. Great attention is paid to youth tourism in the country, special tours of historical subjects, ecotourism, extreme tourism, and industrial tourism have been formed to visit various production facilities, which also serve as their subsequent professional orientation.
The Government of Uzbekistan has identified several territories with high tourism potential as free tourist zones created specifically for businesses operating in the tourism sector. Conditions have been created to attract foreign investment in the tourism sector. To encourage investors, various incentives have been introduced for the hotel sector, the construction of tourist complexes and infrastructure. Business representatives from the CIS countries are the most active investors, creating both enterprises with 100 foreign investments and joint ventures in the tourism industry of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan invites Russian investors to take an active part in joint projects in the territories of Charvak, Chimgan, Nanai, Baysun, Maidanak, Miraki, Parkent, Akhangaran, Angren, Akchakul, Tudakul, Aydarkul and others tourist zones. The development of tourism with the CIS countries is becoming not only a factor of economic growth, but also an important element in strengthening interstate relations, cultural exchange and friendship of peoples. The growth of the tourist flow contributes to the creation of new jobs, the development of small and medium-sized businesses and the improvement of the standard of living of the population. The prospects for further development of tourism ties between Uzbekistan and the CIS countries look very promising. Enhanced cooperation, exchange of experience and implementation of innovative solutions will make the region one of the most attractive and dynamically developing tourist destinations in Eurasia. The Committee on Tourism of Uzbekistan is ready to support the tourism business of our countries in the implementation of joint projects, and create all necessary conditions for comfortable travel of tourists of all categories from the CIS countries.

Head of the Department of
Transport and Logistics Development Shukhrat Isakulov