The Regional Environmental Summit, to be held on 22–24 April 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan, is of significant importance for Central Asia. Above all, it serves as clear evidence that the countries of the region are jointly seeking solutions to complex challenges such as climate change, water scarcity and land degradation. This reflects a transition to a new phase of environmental policy—one grounded in strong and sustained cooperation.

Shared Challenges Require Collective Solutions

Environmental challenges in Central Asia do not recognize national borders. The tragedy of the Aral Sea, inefficient use of transboundary water resources, desertification, and air pollution affect not just individual countries, but the future of the entire region.

In recent decades, unsustainable water management—particularly in the Amu Darya and Syr Darya basins—has increased pressure on both ecosystems and economic resilience. In this context, the regional summit represents a practical step forward—from acknowledging shared challenges to addressing them collectively.

The summit agenda outlines eight priority areas, reflecting a comprehensive approach to environmental policy. These include climate change mitigation; ensuring food security and ecosystem resilience; adaptation to natural risks and strengthening economic resilience; reducing air pollution and improving waste management; developing mechanisms to achieve environmental goals; sustainable management of natural resources; a just and inclusive green transition; and the development of environmental and digital competencies.

Thus, the summit agenda encompasses not only environmental, but also socio-economic dimensions.

Support for this initiative at the United Nations level adds considerable political and international weight to the process. It sends a strong signal that environmental issues are no longer confined to nature conservation alone—they are increasingly matters of security, economic stability and social well-being.

The participation of international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, is particularly important. It expands the potential to translate environmental initiatives into concrete projects, as addressing these challenges requires not only political commitments, but also substantial financial resources and advanced technologies.

The Green Transition: Opportunity or Challenge?

The concept of a “green transition” occupies a central place in the summit agenda. For Central Asian countries, this process is inherently dual in nature.

On the one hand, the transition to a green economy offers opportunities to attract investment, foster innovation and create new jobs. The development of renewable energy, resource-efficient technologies and sustainable agriculture can serve as key drivers of economic growth.

On the other hand, this transition requires large-scale reforms. Modernizing outdated infrastructure, upgrading industry, and strengthening environmental awareness among the population are complex and demanding tasks. This is precisely why the emphasis on a “just and inclusive green transition” is of fundamental importance.

Uzbekistan: Advancing Reforms and Environmental Initiatives

For Uzbekistan, the summit provides an important platform to present its environmental policy on the international stage. In recent years, the country has been implementing large-scale initiatives and programmes such as “Yashil Makon,” “Toza Havo,” “Bio Meros,” “Territory Without Waste” and “Eco-Culture,” demonstrating its proactive stance on the environmental agenda.

Particular attention is being given to the restoration of the Aral Sea region. Practical measures undertaken in this area position Uzbekistan as a significant partner not only regionally, but also globally, creating favorable conditions for attracting investment and expanding international cooperation.

Key Expected Outcomes of the Summit

The summit is expected to result in the signing of a number of strategically important documents, including a Joint Declaration of the Heads of State of Central Asia; a Regional Cooperation Programme with the United Nations for 2026–2030; memorandums on biodiversity, ecotourism, and ecosystem protection; agreements on the establishment of a regional early warning system for wildfires; and initiatives to create a transboundary “Peace Park.”

These documents will form a solid foundation for long-term cooperation and financing of environmental projects.

Conclusion: A Regional Response to Global Challenges

The Regional Environmental Summit highlights the growing role of Central Asia in the global environmental agenda. The forum represents an important step toward the development of a unified regional strategy aimed at reducing climate risks, conserving natural resources and ensuring sustainable development.

Today, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are connected not only by a shared border and close historical and cultural ties. A common economic space is gradually emerging, built on mutual trade, industrial cooperation, joint investment, and direct ties between businesses and regions.

Over the past decade, the two countries have moved from resolving accumulated issues to implementing concrete projects. The border is becoming a link rather than a barrier, while the complementary nature of the two economies is creating new opportunities.

Drivers of Trade and Economic Cooperation

The transformation is most clearly reflected in the growth of bilateral trade. Compared with 2016, mutual trade has increased more than sevenfold. Uzbekistan’s exports have grown more than sixfold, while imports from Kyrgyzstan have increased more than ninefold. Thus, the flow of goods is expanding in both directions.

In 2025, Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover with Kyrgyzstan reached nearly $1.2 billion, rising by 37% year-on-year. Uzbekistan’s exports to Kyrgyzstan increased by 46.5% to $771 million, while imports reached $428 million, up nearly 23%.

The positive trend continued in 2026. In January–May, trade turnover approached $469 million, increasing by 45.5%. Uzbekistan’s exports rose by 63% to $771 million, while imports from Kyrgyzstan increased by nearly 13% to $428 million.

The structure of bilateral trade has also changed significantly in recent years. For example, while light industry products accounted for more than 50% of Uzbekistan’s exports in 2021–2022, their share declined to 19%, or $147 million, in 2025. Agricultural and food products accounted for 15%, or $112 million; machinery, equipment, and vehicles for 11%, or $87 million; and chemical products for 11%, or $81 million.

At the product level, exports are primarily composed of finished textile products, electricity, cement, mineral fertilizers, knitted fabrics, automobile bodies and components, ceramic tiles, aluminum profiles, fruit and vegetable products, and confectionery.

The quality of Uzbekistan’s export structure has also improved. The share of raw materials in exports declined from 56% in 2019 to 8.2% in 2025. Processed goods accounted for 40%, with the remainder consisting of finished products, services, and goods supplied by individuals.

Imports from Kyrgyzstan are also gaining strategic importance. In 2025, mineral and raw material products accounted for 44%, or $190 million, of imports from Kyrgyzstan. Fuel and energy products made up 26%, or $111 million, including $85 million worth of coal and lignite. Agricultural and food products accounted for 14%, or $61 million. Other significant imports included glass, natural stone, rolled metal products, tires, and packaging materials.

At the same time, considerable growth potential remains. Kyrgyzstan currently accounts for only about 1.5% of Uzbekistan’s total foreign trade turnover. This indicates that the goal set by the two countries to increase mutual trade to $2 billion by 2030 is fully achievable. However, reaching this target will require systematic efforts to diversify the range of traded goods and strengthen cooperative links that can support durable trade and investment relations.

Investment and Industrial Cooperation

Investment and industrial cooperation constitute the second major driver of economic relations between the two countries.

In 2016, only 49 enterprises with Kyrgyz capital operated in Uzbekistan. By the end of 2025, their number had reached 344, representing a sevenfold increase. As of July 1, 2026, there were already 374 such enterprises.

An important mechanism in this area is the Uzbek–Kyrgyz Development Fund, established in 2021. The fund already uses several support instruments, including investment lending, leasing, and project financing. The next stage of its development could involve expanding its portfolio and actively channeling resources into export-oriented joint ventures.

A number of joint enterprises have also been launched in recent years. These include the Kyrgyz–Uzbek Tulpar Motors automobile plant in the Chuy Region, which generates demand for metalworking, automotive components, logistics, and maintenance services.

Joint projects are also being implemented in the textile industry, household appliance manufacturing, the production of plastic and aluminum profiles, construction materials, and other sectors.

Implementation has begun on major projects such as the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and the 1.9 MW Kambarata Hydropower Plant-1.

These projects provide a solid foundation for a new structural breakthrough in bilateral relations.

Promising Areas of Cooperation

The results achieved in trade and economic cooperation, together with the rapid economic growth of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, create significant opportunities for further expanding bilateral economic relations.

One priority is to increase mutual trade, with a particular emphasis on products resulting from industrial cooperation. Achieving the target of $2 billion in bilateral trade will require more than simply increasing sales of finished goods. The two countries will need to expand trade in inputs intended for further processing as part of deeper cross-border value chains.

According to estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, Uzbekistan has the potential to increase exports to Kyrgyzstan of passenger vehicles and components, trucks, agricultural machinery, iron and steel products, finished textile products, polymer materials and finished plastic goods, electrical products and equipment, pharmaceuticals, and cement.

Kyrgyzstan, in turn, has the potential to increase supplies of mineral ores, plastic products, glass, natural stone, ceramic products, and environmentally friendly agricultural and food products.

A strategically important area of cooperation could be the transition to large-scale industrial collaboration through the creation of joint full-cycle production facilities and clusters in border regions.

In light industry, border regions produce more than 600 tons of raw cotton and have a cattle population of 4 million and a sheep and goat population of 6.4 million, providing a substantial raw material base. Proximity to China can also reduce the cost of purchasing synthetic raw materials for the industry.

Construction materials represent another promising area because their production is already one of the leading industrial sectors in the border regions. Kyrgyzstan is also experiencing a construction boom, with construction activity increasing 1.7 times in the first half of 2026, thereby generating additional demand for construction materials.

In the food industry, cooperation could focus on processing fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy products, and producing juices, jams, animal feed, and other food products.

In the mining sector, the two countries could develop joint projects for the exploration and development of mineral resources, including critical minerals and iron ore deposits. Such projects should aim to establish full production cycles, from extraction to the manufacture of finished products.

Additional potential for industrial cooperation and investment exists in electrical equipment, household appliances, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and automotive components, including parts, batteries, tires, and plastic and metal components.

An important consideration in this area is ensuring that products are manufactured in accordance with the standards and market requirements of the Eurasian Economic Union. This would strengthen the export potential of joint projects.

As part of their industrial cooperation agenda, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan should begin developing joint industrial projects along the route of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. Logistics terminals, industrial zones, warehouses, processing centers, and freight service facilities should be established along the route. This would help create a major industrial hub in the region.

Other important areas include deeper interregional and cross-border cooperation and greater support for entrepreneurship. Promising fields include e-commerce, joint entry into third-country markets, marketplaces, startup cooperation, digital payments, tourism, and workforce training for joint enterprises.

In conclusion, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan have already established a solid foundation for economic partnership. The next stage should transform quantitative growth into qualitative production integration. The two countries need to move from trading individual goods toward joint value chains, interconnected industrial cooperation networks, and a common production and logistics space.

Ruslan Abaturov,
Center for Economic Research and Reforms

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in the field of ecology and environmental protection is reaching a new level, encompassing both bilateral initiatives and active engagement on international platforms. Humanity finally discovered that poisoning the planet might have consequences. Remarkable timing.

The foundation of this partnership remains the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection, signed on September 11, 2008, in Baku. Today, the two sides continue to work on a new intergovernmental agreement intended to make cooperation more systematic and strategic. At the same time, regular exchanges of experience and information are taking place through international conferences, meetings, and platforms, including the structures of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Contacts within climate forums have gained particular importance. During COP28, representatives of the two countries discussed the transition toward a sustainable and resource-efficient economy within the Economic Cooperation Organization region. The dialogue later continued on the sidelines of the United Nations Environment Assembly in Nairobi, where the parties focused on preparations for COP29, held in Baku.

COP29 itself became an important milestone in deepening regional cooperation. During the conference, the first meeting of environmental ministers of the Organization of Turkic States was held, resulting in the signing of a corresponding declaration. In addition, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan joined the regional “Glaciers to Farms” program, implemented with the support of the Asian Development Bank and the Green Climate Fund. The program aims to mobilize $3.5 billion to improve the resilience of agriculture and infrastructure in the face of glacier melting.

Educational cooperation also remains an important area of partnership. Young environmental activists from Azerbaijan participated in international environmental camps in Samarkand organized with the involvement of the International Public Foundation “Zamin.”

An active dialogue is also being conducted at the level of профильных ведомств. In 2024, an Azerbaijani delegation visited the National Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Ecology and Climate Change during the first Uzbek-Azerbaijani Media Forum, where the parties exchanged experience in environmental communication and countering disinformation. Because apparently even climate change now has to survive internet arguments.

Future prospects for cooperation include several promising areas. These include exchanging experience in air quality monitoring and the development of green urbanization, expanding scientific research through the Central Asian University for Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University), and cooperation in the management of protected natural areas.

The parties are also considering the establishment of a joint working group and the completion of the new intergovernmental agreement. Additionally, they propose intensifying cooperation within international environmental conventions, including Azerbaijan’s accession to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.

Special attention is also being given to upcoming international events. Azerbaijan will participate in the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and will present its National Pavilion at the Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 exhibition, which will take place in Samarkand.

Thus, Uzbek-Azerbaijani cooperation in the environmental sphere demonstrates steady momentum and covers a broad range of areas, from climate policy and scientific research to youth initiatives and international cooperation.

The Resolution signed by the President of Uzbekistan “On measures to introduce a system of continuous improvement of knowledge of the population and civil servants in the fight against corruption” caused an interested discussion in the international expert community.

Alexander Klishin, adviser at the UN Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions:

– This initiative marks a significant step in the fight against corruption not only for Uzbekistan, but also on the international arena. The Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy is a leading initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed at introducing a system of continuous improvement of knowledge among the population and civil servants in the fight against corruption.

The initiative is perfectly aligned with global efforts to promote integrity, transparency and accountability across all sectors of the economy. Uzbekistan has once again reaffirmed its commitment to building a society free of corruption, where integrity, transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of public administration. The Anti-Corruption Virtual Academy fully embodies these values and serves as a commendable example for other countries.

Anas Fayyad Qarman, UNDP Resident Representative a.i. in Uzbekistan:

– We are pleased to know the adoption of the Resolution of the President of Uzbekistan regarding the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy. We view this measure as an important step towards further strengthening the anti-corruption ecosystem.

We have been cooperating with the Anti-Corruption Agency in various areas a long while, including the development of a compliance control system in government agencies and organizations. We are also jointly developing various digital solutions to combat corruption in the public sector. In my opinion, a distinctive feature of a new Academy is its availability to both civil servants and ordinary citizens.

Antti Karttunen, Head of OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan:

– The initiative of the President of Uzbekistan to create a Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy is a time requirement and will help find answers to many questions related to this area.

Like the Law ‘On Conflict of Interest’ recently signed by the President, it is another important step in the fight against corruption in Uzbekistan.

We look forward to continuing to support the improvement of legislation in the field of combating corruption, as well as to improve the qualification of employees of government bodies and organizations through the Virtual Academy and support all other efforts of Uzbekistan in this area.

Tuija Brax, Director of the Rule of Law Center, former Minister of Justice (Finland):

– It is my great honor to express a few words about the new Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy in Uzbekistan. We have been cooperating with the Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan for several years now, and I was greatly impressed by the initiatives of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to combat corruption in the country, measures to improve legislation in this area and efforts to raise public awareness. The new Virtual Academy is a unique opportunity to raise awareness, develop special courses for different target groups, and also attract young people to study this field, since ultimately it is about the future of Uzbekistan.

Quentin Reed, Professor of Oxford University, INGO Regional Dialogue’s Anti-Corruption Specialist (United Kingdom):

– I am happy to hear about the President signing the Resolution, which provides for the establishment of the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy. International NGO Regional Dialogue and the Anti-Corruption Agency have been cooperating for several years in developing preventive anti-corruption measures in Uzbekistan. We express our readiness to provide full-fledged support in the development of educational modules and programs within the Virtual Academy, as awareness-raising, education and training are key tools in the prevention of corruption. Appropriate anti-corruption system cannot be established without them. This is particularly important for public servants, especially those in vulnerable situations, but I would also pay particular attention to citizens.

Nuripa Mukanova, Secretary General, the Anti-Corruption Business Council under the President of Kyrgyzstan:

– My congratulations to the people of Uzbekistan and the Anti-Corruption Agency on the establishment of the Virtual Anti-Corruption Academy. The opening of this Academy is important for both Uzbekistan and the countries of Central Asia. This is a very important anti-corruption measure and platform for increasing the capacity of all those directly involved in anti-corruption issues, as well as those who want to increase their capacity, knowledge and skills in the field of combating and preventing corruption. This platform will also allow young people who study and then enter public service to improve their anti-corruption skills.

Dunyo IA

In recent years, taking into account international standards and advanced foreign experience, ensuring the protection of the rights of convicts, respect for their honor and dignity, education of morality and conscientious work for further social adaptation in society upon release, a fundamental improvement of the penal enforcement legislation in the Republic of Uzbekistan has been carried out with the introduction of effective legal mechanisms.

Currently, there are a number of international conventions and provisions aimed at protecting the rights of convicts, which are regulated by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. (1966), "Convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" (1984), "Declaration on the protection of all persons from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" (1975), "Standard minimum rules for the treatment of convicts (Nelson Mandela rules)" (2015), "UN rules for the protection of minor children deprived of liberty " (1990), "Basic principles of the treatment of convicts" (1990).

Based on the norms of these international documents developed and adopted by the international community on standards for the treatment of convicts, systematic work is underway in the country to humanize execution and reduce negative consequences during their execution, as well as strengthen the legislative, organizational and legal framework for the protection of human rights, the implementation of international human rights standards into national legislation and other important norms human life activities that have been accepted for implementation by the Republic of Uzbekistan as a subject of the above-mentioned and other international treaties.

It is important to note that "Standard minimum rules for the treatment of prisoners" of UN 1955 are generally recognized minimum standards for the detention of prisoners and have great importance and influence on the improvement of legislation, criminal law policy and the practice of penitentiary institutions around the world.

The revised text of these standard minimum rules of December 17, 2015 at the 70th session of the UN General Assembly № A/RES/70/175 was unanimously adopted in the form of a resolution. These Rules became known as the "Nelson Mandela rules" as a sign of respect for his memory after the death of the famous statesman, the President of South Africa, who outlined these rules based on the experience of spending a long part of his life in prison.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the fact that, following the visit to Uzbekistan of the Special Rapporteur of the UN Human Rights Council, the topic "Promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism" recommendations were made to bring the legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan into line with the minimum standard rules for the treatment of prisoners (Nelson Mandela rules), in order to improve the conditions of detention of convicts in penal institutions, to ensure the rights to freedom of religion, which formed the basis of the “Road maps”, developed in accordance with the National Action Plan of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

In order to ensure the fulfillment of these tasks, the conditions of detention of convicts in penal institutions of the Republic of Uzbekistan are considered on the basis of the requirements of the standard minimum rules for the treatment of prisoners (Mandela rules), which are gradually being implemented in accordance with these rules.

On the basis of international standards of the rights and duties of convicts, taking into account the best practices of foreign countries, the system of execution of punishments is being radically improved, the problems that have accumulated over the years are being solved.

In the new version of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan the right to life is an inalienable right of every person and is protected by law. The most serious crime is an attempt on a person's life. The death penalty is prohibited in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Essence is that no one can be intentionally deprived of life. This norm is in line with the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The human right to life is recognized as a natural and inviolable right arising from the moment of his birth, and belongs to a person regardless of the existence of statehood and laws.

In recent years, as part of the work to bring national legislation into line with international standards, for the first time the right to be elected was granted to convicts, except for persons who committed serious and especially serious crimes (Part 6 of Article 128 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan). The number of convicts held in institutions of general, strict, special, prison and educational regime has doubled, for correspondence, receiving visits, parcels, transfers and parcels, conducting telephone conversations.

In addition, those sentenced to imprisonment are guaranteed psychological assistance and non-application of disciplinary measures for violations committed at the time of mental disorder, and the right to a pension is established for those serving sentences in penal colonies.

Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan June 30, 2020 introduced a new norm into the Penal Enforcement Code defining the procedure for the application of incentive measures for persons serving sentences, expanded measures aimed at ensuring the personal safety of convicts while serving their sentences.

At the request of the convicts, long-term visits can be replaced by short-term visits or remote video calls or telephone conversations, and short-term visits are replaced by remote video calls or telephone conversations. Persons serving sentences from low-income families are employed in high-paying jobs.

In the process of ongoing reforms, special attention was paid to creating decent conditions for convicts, for this purpose, the pre-trial detention facility -64/1, which had a negative character and was popularly nicknamed "Tashturma", was closed in Tashkent. Instead, a new pre-trial detention facility №1 has been built and is functioning in  Zangiata district of the Tashkent region, fully meeting international standards. Similarly, the institution "Jaslyk" in Karakalpakstan was abolished, and the convicts held in it were transferred to other colonies of the republic.

In recent years, there has been a tendency in our country to use alternative, non-custodial measures, which has reduced the number of convicts sent to penal institutions. This situation has made it possible over the past four years to reduce three penal colonies of the general regime, one each in Navoi, Kashkadarya and Tashkent regions.

In the Republic, the legislative, executive, and departmental authorities constantly monitor compliance with the rule of law and ensure the rights and legitimate interests of persons serving sentences in places of deprivation of liberty.

Thus, with the introduction of the post of Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman) He was granted the right to freely visit penal institutions. The Ombudsman and the Prosecutor have separate mailboxes designed for applications and complaints from these persons. The Prosecutor's Office and the Ombudsman regularly examine the observance of laws in penal institutions. The management of the Department for the Execution of Punishment constantly carries out field visits to places of deprivation of liberty in order to study the complaints and statements of convicts and make an appropriate decision and its immediate execution.

It should be added that, according to the recommendations of the UN charter bodies and treaty committees, the national preventive mechanism is being improved on the basis of the "Ombudsman Plus" model. The Ombudsman, and the Children's Ombudsman, the National Center for Human Rights and the Business Ombudsman have also been given the authority to monitor penal institutions.

As a result of the ongoing reforms, completely new priorities of the State penal enforcement policy have been developed and put into practice, providing for the following main aspects.

In particular, the Penal Enforcement Code has been supplemented with a new Article 102 "Procedure for the application of incentive measures", which abolished restrictions on visits of juvenile convicts with their parents or persons replacing them; convicted pregnant women with children are granted additional rights to long visits with minor children lasting up to five days - four times a year as well as long - term visits with the possibility of living outside the territory of the institution, the application of incentive measures to convicts - at least twice a year; if there is a threat to the safety of a person sentenced to imprisonment, it is established that he can apply, verbally or in writing, to any employee of the institution for the execution of punishment in order to ensure the declared safety, while the requirement is defined – upon receipt of such a statement about the need for immediate action, measures should be taken immediately to ensure his safety. An important requirement is also to prevent the unjustified use of rudeness, physical force and special means by employees and military personnel during the search of convicts; timely and appropriate conduct of long and short-term visits, telephone conversations, remote video communication, short-term remote video communication or telephone conversation.

It should be noted that such measures of encouragement for convicts are also enshrined in the penal codes of Spain, Turkiye, Japan and some other countries.

In accordance with the norms of the Penal Enforcement Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, penitentiary institutions provide measures to protect the health of convicts, ensure their education, free use of libraries and other authorized sources of information (radio, television, movies and video films, etc.).

The "Import model" of prison management in Norway with a developed penal enforcement system is of interest. To implement this model, work is underway to establish a system of providing services (education, library use, health care) in places of detention.

It is also necessary to mention the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated December 7, 2021, which, in order to humanize minors in the Penal Enforcement Code, provides for a norm defining the placement of persons in educational colonies not from the age of 13, but from 14. This has become one of the important steps towards reliable protection of the rights and legitimate interests of minors in the process of criminal and judicial proceedings in our country.

In order to further deepen the large-scale reforms being implemented in the system of Ministry of Internal Affairs, decree of March 26 and Resolution of April 2, 2021, the Main Directorate for the Execution of Punishment was transformed into the Department for the Execution of Punishment under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, it defines the legal basis for the department's activities to ensure the order of serving punishment by digitalizing the penal enforcement system, which will eliminate errors related to the human factor.

In addition, the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 15, 2023 "On State pension provision for citizens" provides that any work performed by persons sentenced to imprisonment while serving their sentence in penal institutions may be envisaged that the convicted person will be included in the work record in case of tax payment. This procedure is now defined in Article 96 of the Penal Enforcement Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan in a new edition, which has been renamed as "Payment of social tax and pension provision for convicts." Its first part defines "The expenses of institutions for the execution of punishment for the payment of labor sentenced to imprisonment that are subject to social tax", along with this, convicts have the right to transfer funds and use other services provided to convicts.

An important legislative decision is the prohibition of the use of a punishment measure with the use of a "straitjacket". This provision is based on Article 26 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which states: "No one may be subjected to torture, violence, or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" directly acts to prevent the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in penal institutions.

As a result of the ongoing reforms in the system of state penal enforcement policy, it is stipulated that common living quarters for persons with disabilities of groups I and II sentenced to imprisonment should be equipped with special means and devices; it is allowed to watch films, television and radio broadcasts, except for the time allotted for night rest; criteria for treatment are defined convicts.

In addition, it is important to eliminate corruption factors in assessing the behavior of convicts by including the length of service in the institution in the total length of service for their further retirement and, most importantly, by establishing strict criteria that determine the way to correct convicts.

The above allows us to conclude that the reforms carried out in this area are yielding positive results. In particular, recently the offenses of convicts in places of deprivation of liberty and after their release have been reduced; to a greater extent, the conditions of serving a sentence in the form of imprisonment comply with international standards, the incentive mechanisms applied to convicts serving sentences and those who have embarked on the path of correction are being improved, they ensure the protection of the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of convicts, allowing them not to violate their interests; Public groups and citizens' self-government bodies are actively involved in the educational process of correcting convicts; offenses by law enforcement agencies have significantly decreased.

Mirzayusup Rustambayev,

Head of the University of Public Safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of Law, Professor

The President of Uzbekistan signed the Constitutional Law “On the Tashkent International Financial Center”.

In the legal hierarchy of the state, a Constitutional Law ranks immediately after the Constitution. This means that no agency, no instruction and no by-law may contradict its provisions. For an investor, especially an international one, this is the highest form of legal guarantee: capital flows to where it cannot be taken away tomorrow.

The signing of the Constitutional Law was accompanied by amendments to the Basic Law and dozens of legislative acts — the Criminal, Civil, Tax and Customs Codes, as well as laws on banks, securities, investment, auditing and many others.

Article 15 of the Constitution has been supplemented with a provision stating that a special legal regime may be established in special zones within the country's unified legal space. This legitimizes the existence of the TIFC as a jurisdiction with different rules within Uzbekistan, without contradicting the Basic Law.

Article 131 of the Constitution has been supplemented with a provision allowing for the establishment of specialized courts in zones with a special legal regime, which forms the constitutional basis for the Tashkent International Commercial Court.

The Tashkent International Financial Center is being established as an independent entity with clearly defined boundaries that cannot be arbitrarily reduced once it becomes operational.

The legal system of the TIFC is based on English law and the principles of equity of England and Wales. This is the very system under which the world’s largest financial centers operate. It is familiar and well understood by global banks, investment funds and multinational corporations. In other words, it is the language of international capital.

All decisions taken by the center's bodies are published in the official register in English, which is an important signal for foreign participants. The translation barrier, which often becomes a source of dispute, is eliminated here from the outset.

Particular attention should be paid to the establishment, within the TIFC, of the Tashkent International Commercial Court, which will become an institution of trust. The court enjoys full independence, and no agency or state body has the right to instruct it or interfere in its activities. Judges may be citizens of any state — specialists in international trade law, finance, technology and arbitration — which opens the way to attracting judges of international standing and reputation.

It is also important that the rulings of the Tashkent International Commercial Court are binding throughout the territory of Uzbekistan and cannot be reviewed by the country’s ordinary state courts, except in strictly defined cases. The court consists of a court of first instance and a court of appeal.

The law establishes a clear and exhaustive list of protective mechanisms for TIFC participants. First and foremost is the prohibition on confiscation, nationalization, expropriation and the freezing of assets other than by court order and strictly in accordance with the law.

Participants of the Tashkent International Financial Center are guaranteed freedom of capital movement and the right to conduct transactions in foreign currency and digital assets within the limits established by the Financial Services Authority together with the Central Bank of Uzbekistan. The right to freely repatriate capital is also provided for — that is, the ability to transfer profits abroad without administrative obstacles.

A separate set of provisions sets out the tax and customs regime. The TIFC's bodies and the structures under their control are exempt from corporate income tax and the social tax. This benefit is fixed until 1 January 2076 — that is, for 50 years. This is not a tactical incentive but a strategic guarantee designed to span a change of generations.

The list of services that participants may provide within the center covers the entire spectrum of the modern financial industry. These include banking and insurance activities, management of investment and pension funds, trust structures, leasing, crowdfunding, Islamic finance, work with digital assets, market-making, and transactions with securities of all classes — shares, bonds, sukuk and derivatives.

In addition to the financial sector, activity is permitted in auditing, consulting, legal and accounting services, corporate governance, and financial-technology (fintech) startups. Provision is also made for the establishment of holding companies, special-purpose vehicles and treasury companies.

The law also establishes a special visa regime for foreign nationals working at the Tashkent International Financial Center. An entry visa valid for up to five years can be obtained directly at Tashkent International Airport. Foreign specialists may be hired without obtaining work permits in Uzbekistan, which significantly simplifies the recruitment of global talent.

The Tashkent International Financial Center is governed through four bodies: the TIFC Council, the Administration, the Financial Services Authority, and the Tashkent International Commercial Court. Each operates within strictly defined powers and has no right to interfere in the sphere of competence of another.

The composition of the Council is approved by the President of Uzbekistan. At least one-third of the Council's members must be independent specialists in international finance and law who have never held positions within the government system of Uzbekistan. This serves as a safeguard against the governing body turning into just another administrative structure.

Council members (other than the chairperson) are appointed for a term of five years and may be removed early only on grounds provided for by law. The stability of the governing body's composition is another form of predictability for market participants.

Thus, the creation of the Tashkent International Financial Center is not merely another economic development project. It is a declaration of intent, enshrined at the highest legal level. Uzbekistan wants — and is ready — to become part of the global financial system as a fully-fledged platform operating under clear, internationally recognized standards.

Half a century of tax incentives, English law, an independent international court, constitutional guarantees for the protection of capital, and simplified visa procedures — each of these elements is, on its own, a competitive advantage. Together, they form a system capable of attracting long-term, institutional, smart capital.

Dildora Kamalova
Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan

(Dunyo IA)

Just a few years ago, Central Asia and the Caucasus were rarely considered major players in the global technology landscape. Today, that perception is rapidly changing. The region is steadily strengthening its position on the global innovation map, attracting international investors, technology companies, entrepreneurs, and venture capital.

What makes this transformation particularly remarkable is that the countries of the region are not developing as competitors, but as complementary innovation ecosystems. Each country is building on its own competitive strengths while contributing to a shared environment for innovation, knowledge exchange, investment, and cross-border collaboration.

A Region Evolving into a Unified Innovation Ecosystem

The progress made by Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan over the past few years illustrates this transformation particularly well. In 2026, Uzbekistan was named Country of the Year by StartupBlink, recognizing the country's remarkable startup ecosystem growth. Venture investments increased more than fivefold, the number of startups surpassed 1,200, and the country is now home to 22 venture capital funds managing over $200 million in combined assets.

Both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have prioritized building long-term innovation infrastructure. Each country has established its own Fund of Funds to accelerate venture investment and help startups scale internationally, while Kazakhstan's fund has reached a total capitalization of $1 billion.

Today, both countries have produced unicorn companies, developed globally recognized innovation institutions—including IT Park Uzbekistan and Astana Hub—and continue to earn the confidence of international investors.

From Bilateral Cooperation to a Regional Alliance

A major milestone in regional integration came with the launch of the Central Asian Innovation Hubs (CAIH) initiative in 2024 by IT Park Uzbekistan and Astana Hub. In 2025, IT Park Tajikistan joined the alliance, further expanding regional collaboration.

Since its establishment, dozens of startups from across the region have gained access to international markets in Europe and Asia through participation in major global events such as London Tech Week, GITEX Kazakhstan, and Digital Kazakhstan.

The alliance also established two international innovation hubs in 2025: Khan Tengri Innovation Hub in Shanghai and Tumar Innovation Hub in Dubai. Today, these hubs actively support startups in entering the U.S., European, Chinese, and Middle Eastern markets, facilitating investment opportunities while strengthening research and development capabilities.

Another important initiative has been the launch of joint Market Entry Programs. In 2025 alone, more than 50 startups expanded into international markets, including the United States, the UAE, China, and others. More than 20 startups also joined leading global acceleration programs, including Draper University Hero Training Program (6 startups), AlchemistX (10 startups), and the Silicon Valley Residency Program (6 startups).

Expanding Toward the Caucasus

Discussions are currently underway to bring Azerbaijan into this growing regional partnership, creating an integrated innovation ecosystem that connects Central Asia with the Caucasus.

One of the platforms where this collaboration is already taking shape is the international innovation summit INMerge. Over the past five years, the forum has evolved from a relatively small corporate gathering into one of the largest technology events in Central Eurasia. Today, INMerge brings together participants from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Türkiye, and many other countries to discuss artificial intelligence, venture capital, digital infrastructure, startup development, and international cooperation.

In 2026, INMerge expanded beyond Baku for the first time by launching its regional Roadshow format across major innovation hubs. One of its flagship destinations was Tashkent, underscoring Uzbekistan's growing role as a leading innovation hub in Central Eurasia.

For startups, events like INMerge represent far more than networking opportunities—they provide direct access to international investors, strategic partners, and new global markets.

Digital Startup Awards: A Gateway to the Global Stage

Another example of the region's growing integration is the Digital Startup Awards, an initiative launched by Uzbekistan to foster a more interconnected innovation ecosystem. The program brings together startup founders from eight countries across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Mongolia, and has become one of the region's leading platforms for identifying high-potential technology ventures.

More than a competition, the Digital Startup Awards offers a comprehensive growth platform for founders looking to scale their businesses, strengthen entrepreneurial capabilities, expand internationally, and secure investment.

Interest in the program continues to grow. In 2025, the Digital Startup Awards reached a new milestone by receiving a record 1,025 applications from startups across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Mongolia.

The initiative aims to identify promising technology companies, connect them with investors and strategic partners, support their international expansion, and deepen collaboration among regional innovation ecosystems. Through programs like these, talented founders gain opportunities to compete on the global stage, while Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Mongolia continue to strengthen their position as one of the world's most dynamic emerging innovation regions.

IT Park Uzbekistan

Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea has been developing consistently in recent years, acquiring new substance in such priority areas as the economy, investment, advanced technologies, digitalization, and public financial management. Relations aimed at further expanding practical cooperation between the two countries, studying advanced experience, and introducing modern technologies are becoming particularly important.

Within the framework of the Central Asia–Republic of Korea Cooperation Forum, particular attention is being paid to identifying new areas of regional and bilateral cooperation, implementing joint projects in innovative and high-tech sectors, as well as developing human capital.

This process is becoming even more relevant ahead of the high-level visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Republic of Korea on September 14–17. The visit will create important opportunities for bringing the strategic partnership between the two countries to a new level, expanding investment and technological cooperation, as well as reaching new agreements on the implementation of promising projects.

In particular, cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea in the area of public financial management and modernization of the treasury system is also developing steadily. In this regard, the Republic of Korea’s advanced experience is being studied as part of the modernization of the treasury system and the gradual transition to a “Digital Treasury” system.

From April 5 to 10, 2026, the Korea Fiscal Information Service (KFIS) organized a training and practical seminar in the Republic of Korea dedicated to public financial management information systems and the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies. The delegation of the Treasury Service Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan took part in the seminar.

During the visit, the advanced information systems used in the Republic of Korea in the field of public financial management were studied in detail, including the operating mechanisms, functional capabilities, and role of the dBrain+, e-Naradoum, and e-Hojo systems in the digitalization of public financial management processes.

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Treasury Service Committee and the Korea Fiscal Information Service. This document will contribute to further strengthening bilateral cooperation at the institutional level, expanding the exchange of experience, and developing practical cooperation aimed at improving public financial management information systems.

Furthermore, during meetings with the leadership of the Korea Fiscal Information Service, an agreement was reached on the engagement of a highly qualified expert from the Republic of Korea in the process of modernizing Uzbekistan’s public financial management information systems.

There are also prospects for establishing cooperation with the Republic of Korea in developing a semiconductor ecosystem, as well as implementing “OSAT” (the process of chip packaging and testing) and “IC Design” projects.

One of the key areas being identified is the exploration of opportunities to attract the Republic of Korea’s advanced technologies to Uzbekistan in the production of raw materials and high-purity chemical materials for semiconductors, train local specialists, establish cooperation in research and develop a semiconductor materials base in the country.

Within the framework of developing cooperation in the semiconductor sector with “SK Group,” particularly “SK Hynix,” prospects are being considered for technology transfer, the establishment of educational programs in “IC Design,” the training of local engineers and specialists in chip design, the implementation of joint educational programs, including grant-based projects, as well as the establishment of research and development centers.

The implementation of these initiatives will create an important foundation for developing the modern electronics and semiconductor industry in Uzbekistan, training highly qualified engineering professionals, localizing advanced technologies, and establishing new high-value-added manufacturing industries.

Initiatives aimed at applying the Republic of Korea’s advanced technological and institutional experience in Uzbekistan, expanding mutually beneficial investment projects, and training modern specialists will contribute to bringing the strategic partnership between the two countries to a new level.

In this regard, the initiatives being put forward within the framework of the Central Asia–Republic of Korea Cooperation Forum and the high-level visit will serve as an important foundation for further deepening multifaceted cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea, implementing new technological projects, and developing high-value-added sectors in the long term.

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

The contemporary system of international relations is being shaped by rapid geopolitical changes, growing fragmentation, disruptions in transport and supply chains, climate change, and increasing risks to food and energy security. Under these conditions, trust, dialogue and practical cooperation among states are becoming more important than ever. For Central and South Asia — two historically interconnected regions with significant yet not fully realized potential — connectivity has acquired not only economic, but also strategic, political and civilizational significance.

The initiative to strengthen connectivity between Central and South Asia, advanced by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, represents a timely response to this historical and geopolitical demand. Its core idea is that security cannot be ensured solely through military or political instruments. It must also be built through economic development, transport corridors, trade links, education, culture and human capital. In this sense, development is not merely a consequence of security; rather, it is one of its fundamental preconditions.

This approach gained institutional form in July 2021, when Tashkent hosted the high-level international conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities” at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The forum created an important political and expert platform for advancing interregional cooperation. Its international recognition was further demonstrated in 2022, when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the resolution “Strengthening Connectivity between Central and South Asia.” Initiated by the President of Uzbekistan and supported by more than 40 states, the resolution confirmed that Uzbekistan’s vision has significance not only at the national or regional level, but also for the wider international community.

The Termez Dialogue is a practical continuation of this diplomatic and intellectual process. Launched in May 2025, it has emerged as a permanent platform aimed at creating a stable, systematic and practice-oriented environment for cooperation between Central and South Asia. Its first meeting attracted considerable attention from the international expert community due to its broad participation, multilateral format and applied focus. The growing interest in this initiative was also reflected in the organization of a separate session on the Termez Dialogue during the Doha Forum in December 2025.

The second meeting of the Termez Dialogue, scheduled for 4–6 June 2026 in Tashkent, Termez and Samarkand, is expected to mark a new stage in the development of this platform. The main emphasis will shift from general conceptual discussions to the identification of specific priorities and practical mechanisms. In other words, the Dialogue is intended not only to exchange views, but also to generate concrete outcomes in political dialogue, economic connectivity, transport and logistics, climate adaptation, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation.

One of the key features of the Termez Dialogue is that it reflects Uzbekistan’s proactive, pragmatic and open foreign policy. Uzbekistan does not position itself as a state forced to choose between competing blocs, but rather as a reliable platform for dialogue among different regions, markets and civilizations. In this regard, the Termez Dialogue forms part of a broader system of initiatives, including the Fergana Peace Forum, the Samarkand Climate Forum, the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative, and proposals within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on good-neighbourliness, trust and cross-border partnership.

Transport and logistics remain among the most important dimensions of connectivity between Central and South Asia. The countries of Central Asia are landlocked and therefore face structural limitations in accessing global markets. Diversifying transport routes, reducing logistics costs and facilitating access to external markets are essential for the region’s long-term economic development. According to available estimates, the level of transport connectivity of Central Asian states with external markets is around 60 per cent, while in the European Union and ASEAN countries it exceeds 95 per cent. In some cases, transport costs in Central Asia may reach up to 50 per cent of the final value of goods, which is several times higher than the global average.

In this context, the Trans-Afghan Corridor has strategic importance. It can provide Central Asian states with the shortest access to the ports of the Indian Ocean and link South Asia with the markets of Central Asia, Russia, China and Europe. This project is not limited to railway construction or transport infrastructure. It is also an instrument of regional economic integration, Afghanistan’s involvement in peaceful development processes, and the formation of a new trade architecture in Eurasia. Through this approach, Uzbekistan seeks to transform its geographical constraints into logistical advantages.

Afghanistan occupies a special place in this process. It is a natural land bridge connecting Central and South Asia. Uzbekistan’s policy toward Afghanistan is consistent and practical. Since 2021, Uzbekistan has sent 15 humanitarian convoys to Afghanistan, delivering more than 13,000 tons of humanitarian assistance. At the same time, bilateral trade and economic relations have been developing dynamically. In 2025, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan reached 1.7 billion US dollars, which is 55 per cent higher than the previous year. These figures demonstrate that Uzbekistan views Afghanistan not as a source of problems, but as an important participant in regional development and stability.

The choice of Termez as one of the central locations of this initiative is also highly symbolic. Historically, Termez has been a meeting point of trade, culture, science and religious traditions between Central and South Asia. The city played an important role in the history of Bactria, the Kushan Empire, the Great Silk Road and wider civilizational exchange. Today, Termez is becoming Uzbekistan’s southern gateway and a modern centre of practical cooperation with Afghanistan and South Asia.

There are concrete examples of this transformation. The Termez International Trade Centre, opened on 29 August 2024, covers 36 hectares and is located only 500 metres from the border with Afghanistan. A 15-day visa-free regime has been introduced within the centre. Its infrastructure includes more than 3,000 shops, customs facilities, banking services, public service centres and export-oriented platforms. The annual export potential of products represented in the trade zone is estimated at 1.2 billion US dollars. More than 1,000 local residents and about 140 Afghan citizens are employed there. This shows that connectivity is not an abstract political slogan, but a practical reality linked to jobs, exports, services and human livelihoods.

Another important example is the Termez Cargo Centre, an international transport and logistics hub operating since 2016. Located near the intersection of Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, the centre has been used since 2021 by the United Nations World Food Programme and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for delivering humanitarian cargo to Afghanistan. Thus, Termez is becoming not only a trade and logistics hub, but also an important point of humanitarian diplomacy.

The Educational Centre for Afghan Citizens, established in Termez in 2018, also reflects Uzbekistan’s long-term investment in human capital. The centre provides education for Afghan youth in 17 higher education fields and 16 vocational and secondary-specialized areas. Since its establishment, more than 800 Afghan citizens have studied there, including 200 girls and women. These figures demonstrate the importance of education and professional training in stabilizing Afghanistan. Peace is strengthened not only through political agreements, but also through an educated, skilled and socially active generation.

Another important dimension of the Termez Dialogue is climate and environmental sustainability. Central and South Asia are among the regions most affected by the consequences of climate change. Water scarcity, desertification, soil degradation, air pollution, glacier melting and natural disasters are not only national challenges, but also transboundary problems. Therefore, climate adaptation, rational use of water resources, early warning systems and the exchange of digital hydrological data should become integral components of cooperation between the two regions.

Uzbekistan is taking an active role in this field as well. The Samarkand Climate Forum, regional climate summits, the Green Agenda, the regional strategy for climate adaptation and environmental protection programmes are important steps in this direction. These initiatives show that Central Asia is no longer merely a region affected by environmental problems; it is increasingly becoming an active regional actor proposing practical solutions.

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation forms one of the deepest foundations of interregional connectivity. The peoples of Central and South Asia have been linked for centuries through shared history, trade routes, science, culture and spirituality. Today, the demographic potential of the two regions also creates major opportunities: more than 60 per cent of the population is under the age of 30. This opens broad prospects for cooperation in education, science, academic exchange, innovation and human capital development.

From this perspective, the Termez Dialogue is not only a meeting of diplomats and experts. It should also serve as a platform that opens new opportunities for young people, scholars, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, cultural actors and civil society representatives. Economic projects require trust, and trust requires closer ties, mutual understanding and cultural dialogue among peoples.

The planned visit to Samarkand also carries deep symbolic meaning. For centuries, Samarkand served as a centre of science, trade and diplomacy connecting East and West, Central and South Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The “Spirit of Samarkand” reflects openness, tolerance, dialogue and a commitment to shared development. In the diplomacy of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Samarkand has become a platform that connects Uzbekistan’s historical legacy with modern international initiatives.

In conclusion, the Termez Dialogue is not an ordinary international event aimed only at bringing Central and South Asia closer together. It is a strategic platform that reflects Uzbekistan’s new foreign policy thinking, regional responsibility and global initiative. Its foundation rests on three interconnected principles: trust through dialogue, cooperation through dialogue, and shared development through cooperation.

The international community is increasingly recognizing Uzbekistan’s efforts in this direction. The adoption of the UN General Assembly resolution, the support of more than 40 states, and the growing interest of international organizations, experts and regional partners in the Termez Dialogue clearly demonstrate this trend. Through this platform, Uzbekistan is building a new bridge of trust between Central and South Asia — a bridge strengthened by trade routes, railways, educational programmes, cultural ties and humanitarian initiatives.

Therefore, the Termez Dialogue should be viewed as an emerging architecture of interregional cooperation. It contributes to the formation of Central and South Asia not merely as neighbouring geographic spaces, but as a macro-region united by common interests, shared security and a common future. In this process, Uzbekistan acts as an initiator, organizer and reliable bridge between the two regions.

Sadullaev Qudrat Yusubbaevich
Chief Research Fellow of the Academy of Public Policy and Administration under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of Law (DSc)