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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dunyo IA

Libraries play a key role in education, culture, and community development, providing an invaluable resource for accessing knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting intellectual growth. In the modern information society, they remain an important institution that promotes the education and self-development of people of all ages.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasised during the opening ceremony of the People's Library under the President of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara: “Intellectual potential, high morale is what makes a nation strong. The source of this invincible power is books and libraries – the great invention of mankind”.  

At the present stage, education has become one of the most important areas of state policy. The government of the Republic of Uzbekistan pays special attention to the development of this sphere, recognizing its key role in the prosperity of the country. In recent years, the republic has achieved significant success in the educational domain. These achievements are aimed at modernizing the system, improving the quality of education and training, and expanding access to education for all citizens of the country.

At the same time, special attention is paid to the promotion of reading and the fostering of the reading culture of the population. And in the Presidential Decree adopted on September 13, 2017, “On the program of comprehensive measures to develop the system of publishing and distributing book products, improving the culture of reading”, clear goals are outlined for the creation of an effective system of information and library services to the population, which served to move this area to a new stage of development and contributed to raising the level of social and information culture and the role of libraries, made it possible to develop and implement modern innovative and educational technologies that increase the competitiveness of Uzbekistan in the world market.

In addition, the Presidential Decree “On further improvement of information and library services for the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was adopted on June 7, 2019. The main goals of the decree are:

• improving the regulatory framework in order to ensure high-quality social guarantees to the population for information and library services;
• development of information and library institutions taking into account modern requirements;
• promoting the sustainable development of information and library services the for population in the regions;
• strengthening the material and technical base of information and library institutions;
• development of public-private partnerships in the library sector, a network of private and electronic libraries;
• expanding cooperation with Internet resources that specialize in distributing electronic books to improve the efficiency of libraries and the efficiency of servicing (including paid) users;
• ensuring the safety of information and library institutions and the safety of information and library collections as part of the national and world cultural heritage;
• formation and enhancement of the information culture of society, sustainable interest in national history and culture, enhancement and promotion of a reading culture;
• staffing information and library institutions with qualified specialists.

The adoption of this decree expands the range of services in the country, including access to electronic resources and holding cultural and educational events, as well as improving staff qualifications and introducing modern methods of user service. In addition, these changes not only contribute to the development of the information society and economic growth by attracting investment in education and culture, but also promote the formation of a literate and informed society, which is an important step in the development of the country.

The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated December 14, 2020 approved the National Program for the Development and Support of a Reading Culture for 2020-2025, which includes the publication of quality books that meet the spiritual, educational, artistic and aesthetic needs of the population; supporting the activities of publishers and artists, publishing children's literature; translation of the best examples of national and world literature; simplification of the organization of book sales; improving the delivery system for newly published books and distribution of information sources; expansion of international cooperation in the field of online ordering of foreign work, their delivery and distribution.

In turn, it should be noted that within the framework of the “Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy, special attention is paid to the popularization of masterpieces of Uzbek and world literature. The country's leadership strives to instil in citizens a love of reading and ensure access to libraries and information services for everyone.

The Strategy “Uzbekistan - 2030” puts forward such main goals as increasing the number of young book lovers to five million, the annual creation of 100 works of art and 50 books for children and adolescents, the publication of the multi-volume book “Uzbek adabiyoti khazinasidan” (“From the Treasury of Uzbek Literature”), the 100-volume book “Jakhon Bolalar Adabiyoti Durdonalari” (“Pearls of World Children’s Literature”) in Uzbek, as well as the digitalization of a book fund of almost 40 million books.

On November 28, 2023, there was signed the Presidential Decree “On measures to implement the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, aimed at creating a system for translating books popular in the world into Uzbek, that contribute to increasing the intellectual and scientific potential of the younger generation.

At the same time, within the framework of the “Olympiad of Five Initiatives”, the following 5 projects in the field of reading and intellectual games are annually implemented: “Young Reading Family”, “Poetry Competition”, “Young Reader”, the intellectual game “Zakovat” and the project “Example of Foreign Languages”. These projects increase the interest of young people in reading books and help expand logical thinking and knowledge through intellectual games.

The “Young Reader” and “Young Reading Family” competitions are important events held to promote reading, the spiritual enrichment of youth, and increase their intellectual potential. This competition serves to increase interest in books among young people and expand their knowledge and horizons.

Also, within the framework of the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, the Agency for Youth Affairs will have to work on acquiring rights to use works from authors, translating them into Uzbek, and preparing for printing and publishing books on the basis of a state order and at the expense of the State budget (with the exception of books, published for state higher educational institutions).

Two stages have been established for translation into Uzbek and the publication of popular books in the world. First: a preliminary list of books is formed annually by the Expert Council. Second: the preliminary list is posted in the information systems of the Agency for Youth Affairs for selection by the population by voting, and thus the final list is formed.

The list of books published annually must include at least 20 percent of popular science works. The rights to the works prepared for publication will belong to the Agency for Youth Affairs, which will provide them free of charge to publishing houses.

It is also planned to create and ensure the continuous operation of a special mobile application that accumulates literature in the Uzbek language and provides the population with free access to a wide range of information. On the recommendation of the Expert Council, the works will be distributed to information and library institutions (including libraries of public and administration authorities), and electronic versions will be donated free of charge to the Alisher Navoi National Library of Uzbekistan and the relevant institutions of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan for wide use by readers.

The necessary spiritual, legal, material, and technical basis has been created in the Republic to develop children's literature and improve the quality of textbooks and teaching aids. The country's publishing houses have increased the publication of works by authors of world and Uzbek children's literature. In accordance with a number of documents adopted to promote book reading, systematic measures are being taken in all regions to popularise literature among children and adolescents. Over the past four years, a number of presidential decrees and government resolutions have been adopted to guide the country's publishing, printing, and bibliographical information institutions.

Thus, bibliographical information services play a critical role in ensuring public well-being by providing citizens with easy access to information, knowledge, and culture. In addition, the development of digital services, collaboration with communities, and the use of new technologies strengthen the role of libraries as centres of learning, information, and communication. This helps to enhance the capabilities of people and stimulates their desire for education. The development of the potential of information and library services contributes to lifelong learning, self-improvement, cultural and spiritual enrichment of the population. This is of crucial importance for modern society.

Ramzidin Nuridinov

Expert of the Development Strategy Center.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Timur Akhmedov,

Head of Department,

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

On November 18, the first session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan after the elections was held in Tashkent.

It was attended by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The session was opened by Chairman of the Central Election Commission Zayniddin Nizamkhodzhaev.

The National Anthem of the Republic of Uzbekistan was played.

Temporary Secretariat of the first session, Counting Commission and temporary group on control over the use of electronic vote counting system were elected. The agenda was approved. The CEC Chairman presented information on the results of the elections to the Legislative Chamber.

On the proposal of the Council of Representatives of Political Parties, deputies elected Nuriddin Ismoilov to the post of Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis by secret ballot.

Then the chairmanship of the session passed to the Speaker. Deputy Speakers were elected. The factions of five political parties were registered. Ten committees of the Legislative Chamber were established in accordance with their agreed proposals.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed the session.

At the beginning of his speech, the Head of State congratulated the deputies on their election, emphasizing that this is the embodiment of high trust and respect of our people.

It was emphasized that the current parliamentary elections have entered the history as being the first ones held in accordance with the updated Constitution. This process was conducted for the first time under a mixed electoral system.

As a result of the elections, 150 deputies were elected to the Legislative Chamber. Among them were 57 women and 11 young people under 35 years of age. Overall, the composition of the lower house was renewed by almost 60 percent.

The activities of the Chamber over the past five years were discussed. During this period, the Constitution has been updated and more than 130 new laws have been adopted, which is 1.5 times more than in the previous period.

The President also drew attention to the issues that remained out of parliamentary attention. For example, the share of laws with direct action and clear enforcement mechanisms remains low. Parliamentary and deputy control is still not effective enough. The activity of deputies in constituencies is mostly limited to organizing meetings, answering complaints and questions.

The Head of State outlined his vision of the new tasks ahead of the Legislative Chamber.

In particular, it was proposed to create public councils under each committee with the participation of representatives of civil society to strengthen the dialogue.

It is important to establish not only control and requirements in the work of parliamentary committees, but also close cooperation with ministries. It is also necessary to strengthen party and fractional discipline.

The President emphasized that lawmaking, primarily, should be aimed at solving urgent problems of society, and put forward a number of legislative initiatives. Among them are the construction of modern residential buildings replacing outdated ones, guaranteeing the protection of citizens' funds allocated for housing construction, support for private education and investors in the energy sector, introduction of compulsory health insurance, creation of a legal framework for franchising, capital market and startups, and relations arising in the field of artificial intelligence.

In order to boost the opposition, it was proposed to increase the number of guaranteed rights of the parliamentary opposition from 3 to 6, including giving it the positions of one committee chairman and two deputy committee chairmen, as well as additional rights to submit questions within the framework of the “government hour” and parliamentary inquiries.

Particular attention was paid to the need to transition to a system of broad, high-quality parliamentary control. In particular, in accordance with the updated Constitution, the control over the execution of the State Budget is the exclusive competence of the Legislative Chamber. In this regard, it is necessary to strengthen the work of the Chamber in this direction, including the introduction of the practice of submitting all reports of the Government on the State Budget to the Chamber only together with the audit report provided for by the Budget Code.

- A deputy is a servant of the people, a model for all, a person with a high level of political culture and knowledge, who sincerely loves his homeland. Our people, all of us, above all rely on you to strengthen peace, mutual understanding and harmony in the family, mahalla and society, to educate the youth in the spirit of patriotism, to defend the interests of Uzbekistan in the international arena, - said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Heads of political party factions and deputies addressed the session. The President supported their views, urged the deputies to work harder and be closer to the people.

- The voice of a deputy is the voice of the people. If you consider every issue concerning the fate of the country and first of all see our hardworking, generous and noble people in front of you, if you act thinking not only about today, but also about peace and happiness of future generations, then our people will be satisfied with you, - emphasized the Head of State.

The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis adopted resolutions on the agenda.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The UN General Assembly adopted by consensus, without a vote, the resolution Peaceful Settlement of Border Disputes, introduced by Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan and co-sponsored by 40 states. Akramjon Nematov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, commented to IA Dunyo on the significance of the adopted document in the context of changing perceptions of our region on the international stage.

- This is truly a historic event of fundamental importance both for Central Asia and for the entire contemporary international practice. The fact that the resolution was adopted unanimously, without a formal vote, testifies to the unconditional support for and high level of trust in our region on the part of the international community. I would especially emphasize that dozens of countries acted as co-authors of the document, but the key initiators, acting in solidarity and on equal terms, were Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The document is devoted to a topic that today remains one of the most difficult and painful on the global agenda – the peaceful delimitation and formalization of state borders. At a time when geopolitical fractures are deepening across the planet, trust is declining, and there is a dangerous rollback toward forceful methods of resolving disputes, the states of Central Asia have demonstrated high political maturity and responsibility.

In practice, we have proved to the entire world that direct, honest, and respectful dialogue is the only effective way to untangle the most complex knots of contradictions that remained unresolved since the collapse of the USSR. Central Asia is finally moving away from its former stereotypical image as a “zone of latent risks and border conflicts.” Today, our region is acting as a mature and independent subject of international politics, capable of ensuring stability in our common home through its own efforts and of shaping exemplary peaceful practices that are in demand on a global scale.

— Bringing this initiative to the UN level is a serious step. What strategic and legal consequences does it entail for the initiating states?

— Bringing the Central Asian case to the universal UN platform is important because it consolidates the results we have achieved and gives the processes of regional rapprochement a stable and irreversible character.

By registering these steps within the international legal framework, the states of the region publicly confirm their mutual commitments to follow the course of good-neighborliness. This places a high level of responsibility on all parties before the international community. Thus, strong political and legal guarantees of stability are being created, and the risks of any future revision of the agreements are being radically reduced.

This breakthrough became possible thanks to the firm political will and foresight of the leaders of all Central Asian states, who were able to place the long-term interests of stability and prosperity of our peoples above current disagreements. If we analyze the origins of this process, the most important role here was played by the open and pragmatic foreign policy course of Uzbekistan proclaimed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017. This strategy was initially aimed at turning Central Asia into a space of trust.

What is fundamental is that this approach was not imposed from above as someone’s doctrine, but found a sincere and active response among our neighbors. The current success is precisely the result of joint work and inclusive regional synergy. The initiatives of Tashkent were supported, substantively supplemented, and jointly implemented together with Bishkek and Dushanbe. The signing by the leaders of the three countries of the agreement on the junction point of state borders and the opening of the “Stele of Friendship” became a logical outcome of this large-scale joint work, where the contribution of each side is equally valuable

- Akramjon Ilkhamovich, the political will of the leaders has given a powerful impulse, but peace must also be durable in practice. What economic prospects are opening up for the region, and how is the very model of ensuring security at the borders changing?

- Today we are witnessing a conceptual shift in approaches to regional security: the previous paradigm of rigid restrictions, fences, and barriers in border areas is being replaced by a modern security model based on joint economic development and the formation of deep interdependence. Security in the region is now measured not by the height of dividing barriers, but by the depth and scale of joint projects.

New round-the-clock border checkpoints are opening one after another, which has greatly simplified the movement of people and caused a colossal tourism boom. An illustrative fact: neighboring states now account for more than 60% of all tourists visiting Uzbekistan, which amounts to about 7 million people annually.

The economic framework of stability lies in the fact that we are moving toward major joint infrastructure projects. Trade and industrial zones and logistics centers are being built in border areas, a vivid example of which is the International Trade and Economic Park “Dostuk”. Moreover, we are jointly building the strategic railway China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan and launching projects for the construction of major hydroelectric power plants such as Kambarata HPP-1 and Yavan HPP. What until recently seemed like a distant, almost unattainable dream is today being realized through our common efforts.

All this opens colossal prospects. Central Asia is turning into a single, integral, and stable macro-region. Today our population amounts to about 85 million people. Such a demographic scale has never existed in our history before. But the most important thing is the absolute, practically one hundred percent literacy of this population. The presence of such an impressive body of educated, qualified intellectual capital makes the region a powerful asset for attracting high technologies, major investments, and transforming Central Asia into a key transit and industrial hub for the whole of Eurasia.

- For this complex process to develop progressively, agreements at the highest level must be supported by society. What role do institutions of people’s diplomacy and dialogue platforms on the ground play here?

- You are absolutely right: interstate agreements will be viable only when they possess a developed social base and take root at the level of civil society. Look at how actively dialogue through people’s diplomacy is developing today: regular forums of civil society and women leaders of our countries are being held, large-scale meetings of the creative and scientific intelligentsia are taking place, and living human ties are being restored.

The expert community plays an enormous role in this architecture. It is precisely for this purpose that new inclusive dialogue platforms are being created, and one of the key among them is the Fergana Peace Forum, which we are actively developing in close partnership with our neighbors. We are convinced that the Fergana Forum should become a permanent platform for cooperation in the Fergana Valley. This is a space where analysts, representatives of government bodies, entrepreneurs, and local communities of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan conduct direct and transparent dialogue. Coordinated approaches to complex cross-border challenges are developed here — issues of joint water use, ecology, climate change, and the development of border territories. This makes it possible to transfer potential points of friction into the sphere of practical interaction.

And, of course, systematic work with youth occupies a special, strategic place, because it is the new generation that will have to preserve and develop the conflict-free space that is being laid today. Continuing the logic of the Fergana Peace Forum, already in June, within the framework of the “Youth Month,” we plan to hold a large-scale International Youth Seminar on Peacebuilding in Fergana under the auspices of the UN and the OSCE.

Active youth from all over Central Asia will take part in this three-day event, but the main emphasis is on young people from the border regions of our three countries. Our task is to strengthen youth ties on the ground, teach them to find a common language, jointly implement projects, and deeply support the continuity of the culture of peaceful dialogue.

In conclusion, it can be said that by adopting this resolution, the world recognized that the joint experience of compromises in Central Asia is highly in demand at the global level as a viable matrix of preventive diplomacy that can and should be studied and scaled up. Through concrete action, our region has proved its ability to independently generate stability and bear joint responsibility for a common prosperous future.

IA Dunyo

The analysis covers the key thematic and semantic emphases of the President’s speech, the structure of core concepts and their interrelations, priority directions of state policy, as well as the strategic benchmarks for the country’s socio-economic development in 2026.

On 26 December 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered his Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan. Experts of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) conducted a linguistic content analysis of the President’s speech.

The analysis was carried out using modern linguistic methods and is aimed at identifying semantic priorities, key concepts and their connections. A word cloud and diagrams were also prepared to visually demonstrate the priority directions of state policy.

Analysis (from the original language)

In total, the President used 9,135 words in his Address. The creation of a word cloud made it possible to visualize the most significant themes and gain a deeper understanding of the priorities and directions of the country’s socio-economic development.

Figure 1. Most frequently used words in the President’s Address (26.12.2025)

The linguistic analysis showed that the most frequently used key words included “mahalla” – 49 times, “aholi” (population) – 35 times, “iqtisodiyot” (economy) – 28 times, “bozor” (market) – 26 times, “loyiha” (project) – 25 times, and “technology” – 22 times (Fig. 1).

Words such as “ta’lim” (education), “natija” (result) and “daromad” (income) were each used 20 times; “tadbirkor” (entrepreneur) and “sanoat” (industry) – 19 times each; “suv” (water) – 18 times; “elektr” (electricity) and “hudud” (territory) – 17 times each; “yoshlar” (youth), “infratuzilma” (infrastructure) and “qurilish” (construction) – 16 times each.

The analysis of two-word expressions showed that the phrase “Markaziy Osiyo” (Central Asia) was used eight times; “aholi daromadi” (household income), “qishloq xo‘jaligi” (agriculture) and “yangi bosqich” (new stage) – seven times; “yangi texnologiyalar” (new technologies) and “Toshkent shahri” (city of Tashkent) – six times each. Expressions such as “Davlat xizmatlari” (public services), “xorijiy investitsiya” (foreign investment) and “yangi tizim” (new system) were used five times, while “dual ta’lim” (dual education), “ish o‘rni” (jobs), “viloyat markazlari” (regional centers) and “tuman byudjeti” (district budgets) were used four times each.
Among three-word combinations, the most frequent expressions included “the next five years” – nine times; “based on dual education” – four times; and “water-saving technologies” and “water, electricity” – three times each.

Thus, the analysis shows that at the core of state policy are the mahalla, public welfare, and the transition to a new stage of development based on economic and technological transformation, with clearly defined strategic objectives for the next five years.

Thematic structure of the speech

The diagram below shows the distribution of the speech’s vocabulary by key directions, where the content is grouped into nine main thematic blocks.
The diagram clearly demonstrates that technological development and human interests, implemented at the level of the mahalla, are at the center of state policy. The ultimate goal of all reforms is to ensure public welfare through sustainable economic growth (Fig. 2).

Figure 2. Distribution of words by thematic areas in the structure of the speech

Interconnection of development directions

The analysis highlights key words that demonstrate the interconnection between various directions of Uzbekistan’s state policy in the coming years.
The transition of the economy to a technological and innovation-based growth model is a central element of state policy and implies a shift away from a raw-materials model toward high-tech industry. This direction is closely linked with such concepts as “investment,” “technology,” “market,” and “product.”

The block on economic growth and welfare reflects the key outcomes of reforms, including the increase of the economy to $145 bn and a twofold reduction in poverty over the past three years. It is directly associated with the concepts of “population,” “economy,” “mahalla,” and “services.”

The social foundation of reforms is built through the development of the mahalla and social solidarity. This direction is associated with “mahalla,” “youth,” “society,” and “values.”

Structuring vocabulary by thematic areas shows that the core of the President’s speech is technological modernization of the economy and a human-centered governance model based on the “mahallabay” system.

It emphasizes the interconnection between economic growth, improvement of public welfare and the development of local infrastructure, as well as priorities such as strengthening human capital, expanding employment and increasing the efficiency of public administration.

Figure 3. Interconnection of development directions

Among the highlighted semantic blocks are also tasks related to stimulating domestic demand, developing the housing and tourism sectors, modernizing the transport system, increasing productivity in agriculture and introducing water-saving technologies.

Special emphasis is placed on the “green” agenda, including the development of renewable energy, expansion of the “Yashil Makon” (“Green Space”) initiative, and strengthening resilience to climate risks.

In the foreign policy dimension, the analysis highlights Uzbekistan’s openness, strengthening of good-neighborly relations, and integration into the global economic system.

The linguistic analysis confirms that the idea at the core of the President’s speech is built around the triad “inson qadri – mahalla – farovonlik” (human dignity – mahalla – welfare), where the goal of reforms is sustainable growth, improved quality of life, and the further strengthening of Uzbekistan’s position.

Ilyos Rabbimov, CERR

CERR Public Relations Service

For inquiries, please contact:

(78) 150 02 02 (417)

On September 13, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting with the winners and medalists of the XVII Summer Paralympic Games.

The event was attended by the leadership of the National Paralympic Committee and sports federations, coaches, parents of athletes, representatives of state and public organizations.

As you know, the competitions were held from August 28 to September 8 in the capital of France, Paris. About 4.4 thousand Paralympians from 168 countries participated in them. From Uzbekistan, 65 para-athletes competed in 9 sports.

The Paralympic Games, like the Olympics, were successful for our country. Our compatriots set many records, winning 10 gold, 9 silver, 7 bronze - a total of 26 medals. They took 13th place in the overall team standings, as well as 3rd place in Asia and 1st place among Turkic, Islamic countries and the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Over the past five years, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has undergone a qualitative transformation, evolving into an effective mechanism for interregional cooperation.

The stability and effectiveness of this format are largely determined by the degree of development of its institutional architecture. Within the OTS, this architecture features a multi-tiered structure, comprising the Council of Heads of State, the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, the Committee of Senior Officials, the Council of Elders and the Secretariat of the organization.

A powerful impetus to the development of the association was provided by the adoption in 2021 of the “Turkic Vision – 2040” strategy, which became the conceptual foundation for the formulation of sectoral roadmaps, action plans, and a system of long-term milestones. The implementation of this strategy has manifested most visibly in the areas of transport digitalization, customs procedures, investment cooperation, and educational exchange.

Special attention should be paid to the activities of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA), within the framework of which efforts have intensified to harmonize legislative approaches in the fields of trade, transport regulation and humanitarian cooperation.

A significant impetus to the development of the OTS was provided by the active engagement of Uzbekistan in the organization's work. In the subsequent period, Tashkent became one of the key drivers in modernizing the OTS agenda. At the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the promotion of projects in transport connectivity, industrial cooperation, digital transformation, and investment collaboration intensified. It is with the invigoration of Uzbek participation that many experts associate the organization's transition from a declarative stage to a phase of practical institutionalization.

The 2022 Samarkand Summit provided an additional symbolic and political impetus, during which decisions were made to establish the Turkic Investment Fund and institutionally expand the economic agenda. This stage solidified the evolution of the OTS toward forming a fully-fledged geo-economic space while preserving its cultural and historical foundation.

Concurrently, economic cooperation is steadily establishing itself as a key pillar of the OTS development. The combined demographic potential of the organization is estimated at approximately 178 million people, a significant portion of whom comprise a young, able-bodied population. The nominal GDP of the member states exceeds USD 1.8–1.9 trillion, while their total foreign trade turnover surpasses USD 1.1 trillion.

In recent years, interregional trade has demonstrated steady positive dynamics. According to estimates by the OTS Secretariat, mutual trade turnover among member states reached USD 22–23 billion, nearly doubling compared to the figures at the beginning of the decade.

Uzbekistan plays a notable role in this process. By the end of 2025, the Republic's trade volume with OTS countries exceeded USD 9 billion, whereas in 2019, this figure stood at approximately USD 4.2 billion. Thus, over a six-year period, the trade turnover has practically doubled.

A prime example is the Uzbek-Turkish industrial cooperation. The number of enterprises with Turkish capital participation in Uzbekistan has surpassed 2,000, while the total volume of joint investment projects is estimated at over USD 5 billion. A significant share of these projects is concentrated in the textile industry, building materials manufacturing, electrical engineering, and the food industry.

The specific significance of this interstate association is driven by its geo-economic location. The member states of the organization are situated at the strategic intersection of transport arteries linking East Asia, the South Caucasus, the Middle East and Europe.

Its central element is the Middle Corridor, which connects China, Central Asia, the Caspian region, the South Caucasus, Türkiye and onwards to European markets. Over the past three years, the route has demonstrated steady cargo traffic growth. By the end of 2025, shipment volumes along the corridor exceeded 4.5 million tons, whereas in 2021, they stood at less than 1 million tons.

A key driver of this growth has been the comprehensive modernization of port infrastructure. For instance, following its reconstruction, the Baku International Sea Trade Port now possesses the capacity to handle up to 15 million tons of cargo annually, including up to 100,000 containers, with future expansion potential reaching 25 million tons.

The acceleration of delivery timelines is of equally vital importance. While cargo transportation from China to Europe along this route previously required 40–50 days, the digitalization of document flows (e-CMR), the unification of pre-arrival customs declaration procedures, and infrastructure modernization have successfully reduced this timeframe to 18–23 days.

The creation of a trans-regional "green energy corridor" is emerging as a highly promising avenue of cooperation, envisaging the export of electricity generated from renewable sources in Central Asia and the South Caucasus toward Europe. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have intensified their coordination regarding the synchronization and construction of the necessary power transmission infrastructure.

At the same time, in the context of accelerating global digitalization, technological development is acquiring not only economic but also strategic importance, forming the foundation for enhancing the efficiency of interstate cooperation, modernizing industry, and strengthening infrastructural connectivity.

The combined volume of the digital economy of the member states already exceeds $110 billion, while the average annual growth rate of the sector in a number of countries stands at 12–18%, which is significantly higher than the global growth rates of traditional industry.

The strengthening of the OTS digital development track was reflected in the agenda of the informal summit held on May 15, 2026, in Turkistan, where artificial intelligence and digital development served as the central theme. This highlighted the organization's transition toward treating technological transformation as a high-priority area of strategic cooperation.

Uzbekistan is likewise demonstrating accelerated digital modernization. By the end of 2025, the country's export of IT services exceeded $1 billion, representing a nearly fivefold increase compared to 2020. Hundreds of companies operate through a network of specialized IT Parks, serving external markets, including the OTS member states. Within the framework of regional cooperation, the Republic actively promotes initiatives for the unification of digital services and the development of joint educational programs in high technology.

However, the effectiveness of these processes is largely determined not only by economic but also by humanitarian factors. In this regard, the OTS possesses a unique advantage, as it is built upon a deep historical and cultural commonality, linguistic proximity, and a shared civilizational heritage among the member states.

A pivotal role in this process is played by a network of specialized institutions, among which the International Turkic Academy, TURKSOY, TURKPA, and the Turkic Universities Union hold particular significance, ensuring the comprehensive development of humanitarian, scientific and educational cooperation.

These structures provide coordination for scientific research, the development of joint educational initiatives, the promotion of cultural heritage, and the expansion of inter-societal engagement.

Special attention is dedicated to the development of academic integration. Since 2025, dozens of academic exchange programs, including joint master's and doctoral tracks, have been implemented within the framework of inter-university cooperation among the OTS states. The number of students participating in educational mobility between the countries of the organization increases annually by an average of 18–22%.

A notable contribution to this process is made by leading universities, such as the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Ankara University, Samarkand State University, and the Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, which serve as key centers for personnel training and scientific support for integration processes.

Separate attention of the member states is directed toward expanding tourism potential. The cumulative tourism flow among the OTS states has increased by more than 35% over the past five years. A significant impact was delivered by the development of joint tourist routes, including pilgrimage, historical-cultural, and ethnographic programs.

In this context, "Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" program and the granting of this status to cities such as Khiva, Aktau, Turkmenbashi, and Shusha have contributed to a significant intensification of tourism exchange within the format.

Another factor driving tourism development has been the formulation of a unified tourism product, "Tabarruk Ziyorat," aimed at developing religious and educational tourism among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye.

Looking ahead, the OTS possesses significant potential for further strengthening as a space for practical cooperation.

Crucial importance in this context will be attached to the deepening of economic cooperation by reducing non-tariff barriers and digitalizing trade and customs procedures, the further development of transport and logistics connectivity - primarily within the framework of the Middle Corridor - the expansion of technological collaboration focused on the development of the digital economy and joint innovation platforms, as well as the strengthening of expert-analytical, academic and educational interaction.

On the whole, deepening cooperation across key areas will serve to strengthen the role of the OTS as one of the most promising frameworks ensuring the development and resilience of Central Asian nations.

In this context, the informal OTS summit held in Turkistan stands as a crucial milestone in advancing this agenda, reaffirming the commitment of the member states to expanding practical cooperation and defining new benchmarks for joint development, primarily in digital transformation and technological collaboration.

The history of mankind demonstrates that great civilizations rest upon a synthesis of intellectual achievements, spiritual values and cultural heritage. Since ancient times, Central Asia has served as a pivotal hub of science, art and philosophy, shaping the foundational elements of a civilization that has influenced the entire world. Today, this profound potential is embodied in a monumental project - Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent. This institution does not merely preserve historical artifacts; it serves as a living platform for science, education and spiritual enlightenment.

The project symbolizes a new stage in Uzbekistan’s development - the Third Renaissance - where the past, present and future are unified through intellectual and cultural heritage. The Center of Islamic Civilization demonstrates how spiritual and educational values can serve as the foundation for national revival and international cooperation, attracting researchers, tourists and the global public.

Amir Temur occupies a distinguished place in world history as an outstanding statesman, military commander, and the creator of one of the largest empires of his time. The late 14^th and early 15^th centuries were a period of profound political transformations; against this backdrop, Temur succeeded in uniting vast territories stretching from India to the Middle East, establishing a powerful state with a resilient system of governance.

Diplomacy played a pivotal role in his policy. Amir Temur established contacts with European nations, including France, England and Castile; his victory over the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I at the Battle of Ankara (1402) shifted the balance of power between the East and the West. The Spanish Ambassador Ruy González de Clavijo, who visited Samarkand in 1404, noted the state’s high level of organization, its advanced infrastructure and profound respect shown to foreign envoys.

Samarkand became the capital of the empire, evolving into a cultural and economic hub where the trade routes of China, India, Europe and the Middle East intersected. The city was distinguished by its multi-ethnic population, a sophisticated handicraft system, magnificent architecture, well-tended gardens, advanced irrigation systems and bustling commercial streets.

Amir Temur also established a unique legal foundation for his empire. According to the “Institutes of Temur” (Tuzuk-i-Temuri), the state rested upon four pillars: counsel, discussion, a deliberate plan and decisiveness. Nine-tenths of state affairs were resolved through consultation and prudent measures, and only one-tenth by the sword. This principle reflects the priority of diplomacy and legal resolutions over military force, emphasizing the balance of justice and resolve in governance.

Temur’s social policy was aimed at ensuring order, justice, and economic growth. He supported handicrafts, trade and agriculture, while maintaining strict oversight over officials and punishing abuses of power. Simultaneously, he cared for the welfare of the populace by resettling skilled artisans and creating the necessary conditions for the sustainable development of the state.

Following the passing of Amir Temur, his successors - the Timurids - continued the development of the state, placing particular emphasis on science, culture and education. This period is referred to as the Second Renaissance of Central Asia, characterized by an intellectual and artistic flourishing comparable to the European Renaissance. The most prominent figure of this era was Mirzo Ulugbek, who established one of the preeminent observatories of his time and made significant contributions to astronomy, mathematics, architecture and the arts. His scholarly works influenced not only Islamic but world civilization, laying the groundwork for future scientific discoveries.

Today, the Timurid legacy is preserved within the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, which houses unique exhibits demonstrating the cultural and spiritual richness of that era. Among them is a fragment of the Quran transcribed by the calligrapher Umar Aqta for Amir Temur, widely known as the “Baysunghur Quran”. This manuscript represents a triumph of calligraphy over ornamentation: the harmonious, powerful forms of the letters and the precise flow of ink create a magnificent visual impact. The Center preserves a single line of this Quran, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Timurid art and understand how the culture of letters shaped the spiritual identity of the state.

A place of particular distinction is held by the Timurid/Mughal talismanic shirt - a protective garment crafted in court workshops to provide the wearer with divine safeguarding and blessings. The dense cotton is entirely covered with Quranic inscriptions, including the Shahada and the 99 Names of Allah, while the back features a verse from Surah Yusuf (12:64): “Indeed, Allah is the best guardian, and He is the most merciful of the merciful”. This shirt symbolizes Divine protection and the wearer’s spiritual connection with the Almighty, reflecting the religious depth and artistic mastery of the Timurid era.

Finally, the key to the sacred Kaaba (dated approximately 1425-1426), crafted from brass with silver inlay and inscriptions, preserves the historical memory of the era and its spiritual significance. Together with other exhibits, it enables contemporary visitors to experience the intellectual and cultural ascent of the Second Renaissance and to realize how the spiritual and educational achievements of the past established the foundation for the development of civilization.

Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent is not merely a museum but a living educational platform. The architectural concept of the complex harmoniously integrates Timurid traditions with modern technologies, symbolizing the unity of the past and the present. Its 65-meter dome and four golden gates represent the convergence of all regions of Uzbekistan, evoking a sense of monumentality and historical continuity.

Center’s exposition is structured around the principle of “Civilization – Personalities – Discoveries” and spans key historical epochs: the pre-Islamic period, the First and Second Renaissances, Timurid era and contemporary New Uzbekistan. Visitors can not only observe unique artifacts but also interact with them through VR and AR technologies, holograms and artificial intelligence, making history vibrant and tangible.

Center integrates a diverse range of educational and cultural functions: interactive laboratories, including the “1001 Inventions” for children, a library with a collection of over 200,000 volumes, calligraphy schools, and digital archives. It also serves as a hub for offices of international organizations, including UNESCO, ICESCO, IRCICA and OCIS. This creates a space where traditions and innovations coexist and complement each other, stimulating the advancement of science and culture.

The Timurids and the Baburids - including the fragment of the Quran transcribed by Umar Aqta, the talismanic shirt and the key to the Kaaba - are seamlessly integrated into the exposition, allowing visitors to trace how this historical heritage shaped the intellectual and spiritual potential of the region. Through this approach, Center becomes not merely a repository of knowledge, but a living bridge between the Second and the Third Renaissance, ensuring the continuity of traditions and inspiring new generations toward scientific, cultural and spiritual achievements.

The legacy of Amir Temur and his successors plays a pivotal role in the modern world, particularly in shaping the cultural identity of Uzbekistan and fostering international cultural dialogue.

Firstly, it serves as the cornerstone of national identity. The history of the Timurids demonstrates the high level of statehood, science and culture of the region, while their legal and social traditions, reflected in the “Institutes of Temur”, provide an exemplary model of the balance between justice and resolve in governance.

Secondly, the diplomatic experience of Amir Temur remains highly relevant today. His ability to synchronize military strength with flexible and respectful diplomacy serves as an enduring model for contemporary foreign policy and international cultural engagement.

Thirdly, the cultural heritage of the Timurid dynasty fosters international exchange and tourism development. Architectural monuments in Samarkand, Shakhrisabz and other cities attract scholars and visitors from around the world. Exhibits at the Center of Islamic Civilization - including a Quran fragment transcribed by Umar Akta, talismanic Baburid shirt and the key to the Kaaba - allow contemporary visitors to experience the spiritual and intellectual power of the Second Renaissance firsthand.

In this manner, Center of Islamic Civilization becomes the cornerstone of the Third Renaissance, bridging the past and the present while inspiring a new generation toward scientific and cultural achievements.

Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent is not merely a museum, but a living bridge between the past and the future. It integrates the spiritual, cultural, and educational accomplishments of Central Asia, creating a space for scientific research, learning and international cooperation.

The legacy of Amir Temur and the Timurids, reflected in the exhibits and the architectural concept of the Center, demonstrates how spiritual and intellectual values can serve as the foundation for national revival. Quranic fragments, talismanic shirts, ceremonial keys and architectural symbols embody the ideas of Divine protection, science and enlightenment, creating a unique cultural space.

The project serves as the cornerstone of the Third Renaissance of New Uzbekistan, inspiring the modern generation toward achievements in science, education and spiritual sphere. Center of Islamic Civilization is evolving into an intellectual and cultural locomotive for the region, fostering the unification of humanity on the path to peace, harmony, and progress, following the great divine command of “Iqra” - “Read in the name of your Lord”.

Dunyo IA

PRESS RELEASE

International Scientific and Practical Conference dedicated to the 690th   Anniversary of the birth of Sahibkiran Amir Temur

“The image of Sahibkiran Amir Temur,

having become a symbol of our

national statehood, continues to provide

immense spiritual strength to our people

in realizing our identity and restoring

our ancient traditions and values”,

 Shavkat Mirziyoyev

An International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “The role and significance of the civilization of Amir Temur and the Timurids in world history and culture” was organized in the city of Tashkent to mark the 690th anniversary of the birth of Sahibkiran Amir Temur.

This prestigious forum was held at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, established at the personal initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

This international scientific and practical conference serves as a vital platform for scholarly dialogue, aimed at the profound study of national heritage and its extensive promotion on a global scale. It further seeks to re-evaluate the scientific and spiritual achievements of the Timurid era through the lens of modern science.

The conference was organized at the initiative of the Government of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with several ministries, agencies, research institutions, and international organizations. It featured the participation of prominent local and foreign scholars, historians, Orientalists, art historians, archaeologists and political scientists, alongside distinguished faculty members from prestigious universities.

OPENING CEREMONY

The solemn opening ceremony of the conference was organized at the highest level. It was attended by prominent state and public figures, leading scholars, representatives of international organizations and members of the diplomatic corps. In their addresses, the speakers specifically emphasized the persona of Amir Temur and his pivotal role in establishing traditions of statehood, justice and a strong centralized system of governance.

Furthermore, it was noted that science, culture, and art flourished during the Timurid era, and this legacy continues to serve the progress of world civilization to this day. The conference participants emphasized that such events are of paramount importance for comprehending historical heritage and transmitting it to future generations.

INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPATION

The conference featured leading scholars, historians, Orientalists, archaeologists and political scientists from numerous countries, including Türkiye, France, Italy, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan and others, who engaged in an extensive exchange of scholarly perspectives.

In their reports, the participants presented the findings of scientific research on the history of the Timurid era, public administration, science, culture, architecture and international relations. Foreign experts placed particular emphasis on the global significance of this legacy and its role in the cultural dialogue between European and Asian civilizations.

KEY THEMES AND DISCUSSIONS

The following priority topics were extensively discussed during the conference:

• Amir Temur’s strategy in state administration and military art;
• The development of science and the education system during the Timurid era;
• The role of Samarkand and Herat in world civilization;
• Architectural and urban planning traditions of the Timurid period;
• Manuscripts, miniature art, and cultural heritage;
• International diplomacy and trade relations during the Timurid era;
• The study of the Timurid legacy in modern research.
• Additionally, the conference featured various thematic exhibitions, displays of rare manuscripts and specialized scholarly dialogues.

OBJECTIVES AND SIGNIFICANCE

The primary objective of the conference is to facilitate a comprehensive, evidence-based study of the legacy of Amir Temur and the Timurid era, to further elucidate its role in world civilization and to strengthen international scientific cooperation.

In addition to promoting historical heritage, this event served to educate the younger generation in the spirit of respect for national values, while stimulating scientific research and fostering the formation of new academic disciplines.

At the conclusion of the conference, a set of scientific findings, proposals, and recommendations was developed. It was emphasized that these results will serve as a vital strategic foundation for the future study and promotion of the Timurid legacy.

On September 20-24, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a working visit to the city of New York to attend the events of the 80th jubilee session of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to the press service of the Head of our state, President of Uzbekistan will deliver a keynote address on the first day of organizing the general debate of the UN General Assembly plenary session.

It’s noteworthy that during the current jubilee session of the UNGA topical issues of ensuring global security and stability, achieving Sustainable Development Goals, reforming the system of the UN and international financial architecture, combatting the consequences of climate change and other modern challenges, will be reviewed.

On the sidelines of the summit, the Leader of Uzbekistan will hold talks with the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, heads of foreign states and governments, leaders of authoritative international financial institutions. 

In the framework of the business program in the United States, it’s planned to hold meetings and events with participation of the leading American companies and financial-investment structures. It’s planned to sign a package of new agreements and contracts.

Leading international media outlets - including “CNN”, “Forbes”, “The Wall Street Journal”, “The Economist”, “Arab News” and “China Daily” - characterize the project as a “global-scale megaproject”, “pearl of Central Asia and a space that is shaping the modern understanding of Islamic civilization”.

The opening of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has sparked broad international interest and has become a focal point for the world's leading media. Publications about the Center have appeared in more than 20 countries and in 7 languages - including English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Turkish and Russian - reaching a total audience of over 1.5 billion people. These materials, prepared by international journalists, analysts and experts, reflect the high level of interest in the project from the global professional community.

International media emphasize the symbolic nature of this event. As “Arab News” notes, “the opening of the Center, initiated by President of Uzbekistan, took place during the holy month of Ramadan, just as the laying of the first stone did eight years ago, giving the project a special historical and spiritual continuity”. Meanwhile, “Khaleej Times” writes that the Center represents a “unique space where cutting-edge technology and modern scientific approaches are harmoniously combined”.

As “Forbes” notes, “under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country is implementing a strategy of sustainable development and economic openness” and amidst rapid technological changes and growing global tensions - ranging from geopolitical conflicts to discussions on cultural identity - Center of Islamic Civilization “is transforming its civilizational heritage into a modern tool of soft power”. “The Wall Street Journal” points out that the Center “unites a rich historical legacy”, highlighting its integrative function.

“China Daily” refers to the Center of Islamic Civilization as “one of Uzbekistan's key cultural and scientific projects”, contributing to the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Uzbekistan and China, while “The Korea Times” notes that the complex “reflects the humanistic and enlightening essence of Islamic civilization” and “serves as a modern platform for cultural dialogue and scientific collaboration”.

“Euronews” characterizes the Center as a “new hub for heritage and research”, bringing together scientific research, education and modern exhibition practices. The Spanish publication “ABC” notes that “Uzbekistan is reviving the legacy of the Great Silk Road”, linking the project to the region's historical role as a center of civilizational exchange.

In turn, Hungarian publication “Hello Magyar” emphasizes that “the complex's architectural concept is impressive not only for its grandeur but also for its full compliance with modern urban planning and environmental sustainability standards”, noting its architectural expressiveness and alignment with contemporary sustainable development requirements. The Turkish publication “Yeni Konya” characterized the Center of Islamic Civilization as a “monumental and majestic center that can be considered one of the most important historical, cultural and artistic achievements of the Islamic world in the last century”.

In Azerbaijani media, specifically the publication “Caliber.az”, Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has been described as a “candidate for the Guinness World Records”, highlighting its immense scale and uniqueness.

Center is becoming more than just a new museum; it is part of a broader narrative - a story of how countries rediscover their heritage and make it accessible to the world. Today, the Center is already open to visitors. Experts also note the Center's potential influence on the development of cultural tourism. This new complex is capable of becoming a key attraction for international visitors, strengthening interest in Uzbekistan as a destination with a unique historical and intellectual legacy. However, judging by the attention from the global press, its significance extends far beyond tourism.