The exhibition will bring together more than 100 companies and brands from 12 countries.
The specialised international exhibition of the beauty, cosmetology, and perfumery-cosmetics industry – Beauty Uzbekistan 2026 – will take place from April 28 to April 30 at the CAEx Uzbekistan exhibition complex in Tashkent.
Beauty Uzbekistan is a professional B2B exhibition that brings together manufacturers and distributors of cosmetic products, aesthetic medicine specialists, retail representatives, salon business owners, and professionals in the personal care sector. The exhibition provides direct access to leading global brands, innovative products, and cutting-edge technologies, while offering valuable opportunities to establish business connections, and gain early insight into key trends in the beauty industry.
The exhibition will feature more than 100 companies and brands from 12 countries: Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Republic of Korea, Poland, Russia, Sweden, Spain, UAE, and Uzbekistan. National pavilions from the Republic of Korea and Poland will showcase advanced beauty industry solutions and the export potential of these countries.
According to the organizers, the main sections of the exhibition are:
- Beauty Uzbekistan – covering the full spectrum of the perfumery and cosmetics industry, including makeup and skincare cosmetics, fragrances, personal care products, and hair industry products.
- Beauty Derma Central Asia – a dedicated segment focused on aesthetic medicine, device-based cosmetology, and anti-ageing solutions. This section of the exhibition will present advanced technologies for clinics and industry professionals, including injectable treatments, as well as next-generation laser and energy-based technologies.
Traditionally, the exhibition will feature a comprehensive business programme, including specialised seminars, expert-led sessions, and professional discussions.
Dedicated programme segments will address key developments in aesthetic medicine, balneology, and SPA industry, including scientific approaches in aesthetic medicine (CYTOLIFE / MedTenderGroup, Russia), as well as advanced solutions in balneological equipment and hydrotherapy technologies (Physiotechnika, Russia).
A specialised session on fragrance solutions presented by the Swiss Company LUZI may be of particular interest to industry professional and household chemical manufacturers.
Beauty Uzbekistan 2026 is more than just an exhibition — it is a dynamic professional platform where business, medicine, technology, and the latest beauty trends converge.
The event is organised by Iteca Exhibitions, an international exhibition company, in partnership with ICA Eurasia Group, informed that one can register to visit the exhibition on the website: www.beautypro.uz.
IA “Dunyo”
Esteemed Heads of Delegations!
Once again, I would like to express my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, esteemed Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, for the warm welcome and excellent organization of the Summit in Astana.
We are highly estimate Kazakhstan’s effective chairmanship of the SCO, which has facilitated the expansion of multifaceted cooperation within the Organization.
It is a great honor to have with us the heads of observer-states and dialogue partners, esteemed guests.
Dear Participants of the Meeting!
I believe that a meeting in the broad format of SCO Plus is timely and necessary.
The world needs to restore trust, justice and solidarity more than ever.
The current global political and economic landscape is characterized by fractures, wars, and conflicts that are undermining the foundations and key principles of the system of international relations.
The contradictions and protectionism that have emerged are creating fragmentation of the world economy and supply chain disruptions, which are in turn creating new dividing lines that prevent countries from cooperating effectively in trade, finance and investment, technology transfer and innovation.
The only viable solution to these challenges is to consolidate efforts in the interest of global security, development, and prosperity.
The SCO has always advocated for and has been committed to a just world order based on the universally recognized principles of international law and multilateralism, with the UN playing a central coordinating role.
In this regard, our Organization continues to serve as a focal point for many countries seeking to build broad cooperation without political and ideological biases.
Concurrently, the evolving circumstances necessitate the implementation of new strategic approaches to enhance the efficacy of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
Today, as it stands on the threshold of its 25th anniversary, it is imperative to develop a new agenda that aligns with the Organization’s immense potential and growing role in world politics and economy.
Building on the “Shanghai Spirit” and the founding principles of the Charter, unity and cohesion within the Organization should be preserved. I propose to intensify joint efforts with the objective of strengthening the atmosphere of trust and friendship within the SCO and to remove barriers to deeper cooperation.
First of all, it is necessary to undertake a comprehensive reevaluation of the conceptual foundation underpinning the SCO’s security-related activities.
The nature and scope of contemporary challenges have undergone a significant transformation since the establishment of the Organization.
Environmental and natural disasters, water and food shortages, cyberattacks, new methods of undermining sovereignty and economic stability pose an increasing threat.
All of this should also be taken into account when considering the strengthening of the SCO's potential, including the establishment of the Universal Center for Countering Security Threats and Challenges.
In this context, I propose to hold annually SCO Plus Dialogue on Security Issues with the participation of the heads of the competent bodies and experts of all our countries.
Uzbekistan proposes to consistently “reload” trade and economic cooperation in the SCO area, which continues to be fragmented.
So far, we could not manage to create a solid foundation for multilateral trade and inter-sectoral partnership.
For a long time, no consensus has been reached on the establishment of the SCO Development Fund and the SCO Development Bank.
Today at the summit we agreed to take comprehensive measures to simplify trade procedures and develop e-commerce, stimulate technological cooperation, including in the industries of the future.
In order to create an effective platform for business dialogue with the participation of all partners, we propose the annual holding of the SCO EXPO International Industrial Exhibition in our countries.
It is also important to actively promote economic interaction and seek opportunities for linking joint initiatives with the Economic Cooperation Organization, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Eurasian Economic Union, ASEAN and others.
The new geopolitical realities convince us of the need to build an inclusive and integrated transport and transit system to strengthen interregional connectivity.
The global problems such as climate change and environmental disasters cannot be ignored by the Organization. Our countries are increasingly facing natural disasters, land degradation, reduced agricultural yields, air pollution and water shortages.
I believe that climate cooperation should become a key element of the new SCO agenda.
We advocate for developing an Agreement on cooperation in combating climate change, with concrete measures to achieve common goals and objectives in the area of green development.
We are also proposing the establishment of the SCO Center for Innovative Climate Solutions in Tashkent. It will conduct research on environmental sustainability and “green” growth.
Improving livelihoods and social protection should be given a central place on the Organization’s agenda.
We intend to hold a Global Conference on Sustainable Social Protection in Samarkand next year, under the auspices of the United Nations, as a contribution to achieving the goals Summit of the Future.
Finally, we need to strengthen and promote together a unique model of inter-civilizational dialogue.
The rich cultural, historical and spiritual heritage, traditions, customs and ways of life of our peoples are a powerful and resilient force for building bridges of mutual trust, good-neighborliness and lasting friendship.
This is the message contained in the recent UN General Assembly resolution on the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations, adopted at our joint initiative.
In this context, the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative for Common Security and Prosperity, which we have put forward, aimed at overcoming the trust deficit through constructive dialogue and multilateral partnership, is more relevant than ever.
The practical implementation of this initiative will contribute to strengthening inter-civilizational dialogue to overcome contradictions on the path to sustainable development.
I am confident that together we can make the Organization even more creative through the implementation of programs in the area of cultural, educational, youth and tourist exchanges.
To this end, we propose to develop a Unified Bank of SCO Humanitarian Initiatives and Programs, which will enable projects in these areas to be systematized and jointly implemented.
I am convinced that the outcomes of this meeting will give a strong impetus to the development of a multifaceted partnership within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
Thank you for your attention.
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)
A comprehensive monitoring of key business activity indicators across Uzbekistan’s regions points to growth across all major metrics.
Based on operational data from the Tax Committee, Customs Committee, Central Bank, and the Uzbek Republican Commodity Exchange, the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) continues to monitor business activity across the regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
As of March this year, tax revenues demonstrated steady positive momentum, increasing by 54% compared to the same period last year.
The most notable growth in revenues was recorded in the Navoi, Syrdarya, Tashkent, and Khorezm regions, as well as in the city of Tashkent, where average growth rates reached 33%.
Personal income tax revenues rose by 15.2%, property tax revenues by 10.7%, and land tax revenues by 33.8%.
Customs revenues increased by 19.5%. The highest growth rates were recorded in the Navoi region, up 77.6%, and the Namangan region, up 64.2%.
Stable positive dynamics were also observed in the Fergana and Samarkand regions, as well as in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, where revenues increased by an average of 32%.
Analysis of foreign economic indicators shows that merchandise exports rose by 30%. The strongest export growth was recorded in the Navoi region, up 71.4%, and the Tashkent region, up 52.4%. Export growth was also observed in the Samarkand region (30.6%), Namangan region (29.3%), and Bukhara region (27.2%).
At the same time, lending activity expanded significantly. During the reviewed period, the volume of loans issued by commercial banks increased by 9.1%. The highest growth was recorded in the Samarkand region (+69.5%). In the Bukhara, Khorezm, Fergana, and Tashkent regions, lending growth averaged more than 43%.
The active development of the private sector is also reflected in a substantial increase in the number of newly established business entities. In March this year, 22,443 new enterprises were registered. The largest numbers were recorded in the Tashkent region (2,276), Khorezm region (2,035), Samarkand region (1,854), Fergana region (1,626), and the city of Tashkent (4,759).
Trading volume on the Uzbek Republican Commodity Exchange increased by 20.8%. The highest growth in exchange activity was recorded in the Syrdarya region, where activity rose by 68.4%. Additional strong growth was observed in the Syrdarya, Bukhara, Navoi, Namangan, and Surkhandarya regions, as well as in the city of Tashkent, where average growth reached 33%.
Sultonmurod Ozodov, CERR
Ahead of the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, a landmark event for interregional integration scheduled for June 4–6, Akramjon Ne’matov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, answered questions from Dunyo IA.
— Akramjon Ilhomovich, the second meeting within the framework of the Termez Dialogue will begin in the coming days. What is on the agenda of this forum, and what are its key priorities? Most observers primarily associate this process with economic issues — railways, energy infrastructure, and transit trade. Is this the core essence of connectivity?
— Undoubtedly, the economy is one of the key components. Economic cooperation creates tangible shared interests that bind states together, generates mutual benefits, and serves as the foundation for the prosperity and growth of our peoples. Naturally, when we speak about transregional connectivity, logistics, trade, transport corridors, energy, and infrastructure constitute the essential and tangible foundation of this process.
However, connectivity cannot be measured solely in economic terms. Our agenda is far broader, and our objectives are far more ambitious. We are speaking about the creation of a common space of trust, sustainable development, and indivisible security across the vast Eurasian continent.
That is precisely why the agenda of the Termez Dialogue is so comprehensive and why its composition of participants is highly inclusive. This year’s meeting is being organized in partnership with the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). This is no coincidence, as CICA’s core mission has always been to strengthen confidence-building measures across Asia. The dialogue is also being actively supported by the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).
Although Central and South Asia remain at the geographic core of the discussions, countries from across the Eurasian space and beyond are full-fledged participants and stakeholders in this dialogue, as clearly evidenced by the delegations arriving from Azerbaijan, China, Germany, Qatar, Russia, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and many other countries.
It is important to emphasize that the Termez Dialogue itself represents a practical embodiment of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s global initiative aimed at strengthening connectivity between Central and South Asia. This strategic vision received unanimous international support and was formally enshrined in a special United Nations General Assembly resolution adopted in 2022. The significance of this resolution can hardly be overstated: it established a long-term international legal framework for transregional rapprochement and recognized it as a key factor for sustainable development. More broadly, this step clearly reflects our President’s far-sighted strategic approach, which is based on the consistent development of interstate relations grounded in mutual benefit, genuine good-neighborliness, and preventive peacebuilding.
The dialogue is also co-organized by respected peacebuilding organizations, political foundations, and leading academic institutions. Among them are the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the Berghof Foundation (Germany), PeaceNexus (Switzerland), Search for Common Ground (United States), as well as the renowned Georgetown University. Our shared objective is to establish a genuinely inclusive multilateral platform for comprehensive and open dialogue.
— What does the programme of the upcoming dialogue include? Will it be limited solely to official plenary sessions?
— Our dialogue is a large-scale three-day forum, and its programme extends far beyond traditional plenary sessions. We seek to combine profound theoretical discussion with practical outcomes.
In addition to the main sessions, the programme includes a wide range of important side events.
In particular, the forum will host a series of expert and academic discussions devoted to cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and Afghanistan, the development of dialogue within the Afghanistan–Uzbekistan–Pakistan dialogue format, issues of regional identity in Central Asia, as well as the promotion of youth dialogue on peacebuilding and sustainable development.
The primary purpose of these discussions is to mobilize intellectual and analytical expertise in support of a constructive cooperation agenda, deeper mutual understanding, and the establishment of long-term mechanisms for regional interaction.
Moreover, the programme includes on-site sessions. Participants of the dialogue will travel to Termez to familiarize themselves firsthand with the modern infrastructure facilitating trade, economic, and logistics cooperation with South Asian countries, including the activities of the Ayrtom International Trade Center and the Termez Cargo Center international logistics hub, while also experiencing the rich cultural and historical heritage of this ancient city.
The third day of the dialogue will take place in Samarkand, where delegates will explore the unique civilizational legacy of the Renaissance of Samarkand, which historically served as a bridge between East and West, North and South.
— How exactly is economic growth connected with stability and security? Is this purely a matter of business calculation, or do economic projects represent something greater?
— Absolutely, it represents something far greater. We are speaking about the formation of long-term strategic common interests. Large-scale cross-border projects are designed to firmly connect regions and deepen their interdependence. When countries become economically invested in joint creation and development, conflict ceases to serve the interests of any participant.
Moreover, sustainable economic growth removes the social foundations of destructive phenomena such as poverty, unemployment, and social marginalization, which have traditionally served as the principal fuel for radicalism and instability. Economic development addresses the root causes of challenges rather than merely dealing with their consequences.
Take, for example, the Trans-Afghan Railway Corridor project — “Termez–Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Naibabad–Kharlachi”. For the countries of Central Asia, it provides the shortest route to the ports of the Indian Ocean, reducing logistics costs by 30–40 percent. For Pakistan and South Asia, it creates direct access to the resources and markets of our region.
This project will serve as a powerful driver for the development of adjacent sectors of the economy, creating new jobs, generating budget revenues, and opening the path toward accelerated technological advancement. Most importantly, however, this corridor integrates Afghanistan into the processes of peaceful and constructive development.
Thus, the Trans-Afghan railway is not merely a commercial or engineering project — it is a highly effective peacebuilding instrument that creates long-term economic incentives for peace on Afghan soil. The same principle applies to other major cross-border initiatives such as CASA-1000 and the TAPI gas pipeline. Their greatest value lies in the fact that they create a shared and indivisible interest among all parties in maintaining long-term peace and stability across the region.
— What role do the shared ecosystem and climate change issues play on the agenda? Central and South Asia are facing enormous pressure from environmental challenges.
— This is one of the most important and sensitive issues. Nature and our shared ecosystem most clearly demonstrate the inseparable link between our regions and the vital necessity of collective responses to common challenges.
Climate change illustrates how closely interconnected water security, food security, energy security, transport systems, and human livelihoods truly are. When the glaciers of the Pamirs and Tien Shan melt, this directly affects water supply and agriculture in both Central and South Asia.
Droughts and extreme weather events are our common challenges, requiring exclusively joint responses, because they directly affect the existential foundations of life for hundreds of millions of people and shape the trajectory of our sustainable development.
That is why the agenda of the dialogue includes issues related to joint adaptation and environmental sustainability. We are convinced that effective solutions cannot consist of isolated national measures; they must have a transboundary character.
We are actively engaged in this area. In particular, our Afghan partners are permanent participants in the water dialogue organized by Uzbekistan and Central Asia as a whole. Afghan delegations have actively participated in Tashkent Water Week, conferences on water diplomacy, and other regional environmental forums.
There is an ongoing joint search for mutually acceptable and equitable solutions in the sphere of shared water resource management, because nature does not recognize political borders. Today, we increasingly see that issues which could potentially become sources of tension, when approached properly, can instead provide the foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation.
The growing awareness of our shared environmental threats is becoming a powerful driver of our collective constructive efforts.
— What place do culture and the humanitarian dimension occupy within this large-scale transregional framework? How important are they?
— I would answer this way: they constitute our principal and foundational direction. Although we began our conversation with economics, infrastructure, and climate issues, I am convinced that cultural and humanitarian connectivity must come first. Economy and logistics form the skeleton, but culture and shared historical memory are the soul and heart of our integration.
It is important to understand that our countries share a common space of cultural, historical, and civilizational development. We are not building bridges of trust from scratch — this foundation was formed over centuries.
The Termez Dialogue itself is named after the ancient city of Termez, which for millennia served as a gateway for civilizational exchange between Central and South Asia.
On this land, the destinies and traditions of great empires became intertwined — beginning with Sogdiana, ancient Bactria, and the Achaemenid state, and continuing through the era of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, where a unique synthesis of Eastern and Hellenistic cultures emerged.
This was followed by the Kushan Empire, which presented the world with one of the earliest examples of comprehensive interregional integration and transformed Termez into a key hub of the Great Silk Road.
During the Middle Ages, the Turkic Khaganates acted as reliable guarantors of the security of trans-Eurasian trade routes, while the Ghaznavid dynasty created a powerful bridge of statehood linking the high culture of Mawarannahr with the plains of Hindustan.
Finally, the Timurid era and the Mughal Empire founded by Babur became the ultimate culmination of this synthesis. The architectural masterpieces of Samarkand and Bukhara found direct reflection in the majestic ensembles of Delhi, Agra, and Lahore, while a unified cultural layer emerged at the intersection of Old Uzbek, Persian, and Sanskrit languages. Its musical and poetic traditions continue to live within the cultural memory of our peoples to this day.
For centuries, this macro-region developed as a sacred crossroads of world religions. Bactria was one of the cradles of Zoroastrianism. From here, Buddhism spread through Afghanistan to the north and east — the Buddhist monasteries of Fayaztepa and Karatepa in Termez still preserve the memory of this spiritual bridge.
Nestorian Christianity, Tengrianism with its profound ecological philosophy of harmony between humanity and nature, and, of course, Islam — which absorbed the great heritage of religious tolerance and gave rise to the phenomenon of the Eastern Renaissance — all coexisted peacefully in this region.
All of this shaped a unique and resilient culture that has not disappeared but continues to live within our daily practices, thoughts, and traditions.
However, this heritage cannot survive in collective memory on its own — it must constantly be revived and recreated. History is an ongoing act of retelling, and our key task is to restore this great historical truth to active public consciousness.
I am deeply convinced that awareness of this shared heritage will significantly strengthen our collective responsibility for preserving peace and stability.
— But why does this heritage seem forgotten today?
— Unfortunately, over the past century and a half, this historical memory was systematically and deliberately erased from our consciousness.
We were artificially subjected to the destructive colonial stereotype of the “Great Game,” along with the false notion that our regions are doomed to perpetual fragmentation, geopolitical rivalry among external powers, and endless conflict.
To a considerable extent, we still remain under the influence of this harmful stereotype, perceiving Afghanistan exclusively through the prism of threats, while viewing South Asia as something distant, alien, and insecure.
But we are not standing on barren ruins. Our shared history remains alive.
Reviving this historical memory, developing profound expert discourse, and restoring awareness of our shared civilizational greatness represent an enormous historical responsibility borne by today’s generations and political elites. This is precisely one of the principal existential objectives of the Termez Dialogue.
When citizens, intellectuals, and leaders in Tashkent, Delhi, Islamabad, and Kabul begin to see one another not merely as business counterparts, but as heirs to a common cultural code, an entirely new level of trust will emerge.
This sense of belonging to a shared heritage will become the most reliable internal safeguard against any attempts by external actors to destabilize the region or exploit regional contradictions.
The awareness of the indivisibility of our shared destiny will compel nations to choose a constructive agenda without alternative and to reject war once and for all.
Ahead of the Tashkent round of the Termez Dialogue, it is becoming increasingly evident that Uzbekistan is offering the international community a fundamentally different and deeply thought-out philosophy of integration.
This is not merely a technocratic approach to building railways or laying power transmission lines. It is a doctrine in which physical infrastructure serves only as the material embodiment of strong invisible ties rooted in a shared history.
Once this fundamental sense of responsibility and belonging is established, trade routes, investment flows, and climate initiatives will function naturally and sustainably, because the economy will become a logical continuation of mutual civilizational affinity.
The Termez Dialogue is returning to the peoples of Asia their own history, reminding them of what must be cherished and for the sake of what great future peace and stability must be preserved on this sacred land.
Dunyo IA
The first quarter proved highly favorable for Uzbekistan’s economy. Economic growth reached 8.7%, inflation fell to its lowest level in recent years, investment hit a record high, and exports continued to expand steadily.
Economic Growth Dynamics
The pace of economic growth achieved by Uzbekistan in the first quarter exceeded the expectations of international institutions. The Asian Development Bank had projected 6.7% growth for the first quarter. The World Bank initially forecast 6.0%, but revised it upward to 6.4% in April. The IMF also raised its forecast in April from 6.2% to 6.8%.
In practice, Uzbekistan’s economy grew by 8.7%. GDP in current prices amounted to $36.9 bn. The forecast closest to the actual result came from the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (Uzbekistan), which projected first-quarter growth of up to 7% at the beginning of the year.
The strongest growth was recorded in construction, where gross value added increased by 15.0%. The services sector expanded by 8.8%, retaining its position as the largest segment of the economy. Industry grew by 8.0%, while agriculture increased by 5.1%.
Significant gains were also seen in oil refining, up 29.5%. In light industry, apparel and textile production rose by 15.3%, while knitwear output increased by 26.9%. In automotive manufacturing, production expanded by 12.5%, including buses by 64.7% and trucks by 46.6%. Within services, the highest growth rates were recorded in education, up 22.5%, and financial services, up 22.4%.
An important contribution to overall growth also came from measures aimed at reducing the shadow economy. Its share declined from 24.8% to 22.9%, while legalized business activity supported higher recorded growth figures.
Another major factor behind accelerated growth has been the country’s active market reforms, which were recognized this year in the Index of Economic Freedom, where Uzbekistan rose by 14 positions and entered the category of moderately free economies for the first time.
Overcoming Inflationary Challenges
External pressures continue to affect domestic price formation. Global oil prices have risen by 40% since the beginning of the year. Geopolitical tensions have disrupted logistics corridors, increasing transportation costs for trade flows by 25–30%. As a result of these disruptions, imports of cattle into Uzbekistan fell by half in the first quarter, creating risks for food security.
To stabilize food prices, the government introduced partial reimbursement of air freight costs for imports of breeding livestock and meat products. It also approved the import of 100,000 breeding sheep and goats from Mongolia with compensation of 50% of transport costs.
Since the beginning of the year, Uzbekistan has actively implemented a new system of inflation management and price stability. For all responsible officials and regional governors, the key task for 2026 has been defined as maintaining stable prices for essential food products and keeping annual inflation below 6.5%.
As a result of these measures, despite external pressures, the inflation environment improved significantly in the first quarter. Consumer prices rose by 1.93% in January–March. In March alone, monthly inflation stood at 0.6%, while annual inflation fell to 7.1% for the first time, compared with 10.34% a year earlier.
Budget Policy and Regional Development
Thanks to such dynamic economic growth, Uzbekistan’s State Budget revenues also increased steadily in the first quarter, rising by 35% year-on-year. Tax revenues grew by 24%, while customs revenues increased by 20% compared with the same period last year.
Funds retained by local budgets rose by 21%. In addition, land sales and privatization processes generated an extra $47.1 mn for local budgets. At the same time, $90.6 mn were transferred from the republican budget to local budgets to support the regions. As a result, district-level local budgets retained $115.3 mn, nearly 4.2 times more than the $28.5 mn recorded in the same period last year.
This demonstrates the continued and consistent policy course toward expanding the financial autonomy of the regions, helping unlock local potential and support dynamic regional development.
Investment Outlook
Investment activity in Uzbekistan reached a record level in the first quarter. Capital investment and development projects totaled $12.85 bn, up 41.5%. Foreign direct investment increased by 45.7% to $8.84 bn. During the quarter, 1,508 new projects worth $1.185 bn were launched, creating around 28,000 new jobs.
In the first quarter, investment volumes exceeded $50 mn in 50 cities and districts, while in 21 of them the figure surpassed $100 mn, indicating broader regional investment activity. By source of foreign investment, China ranked first with $6.4 bn, followed by Russia with $1.1 bn, Türkiye with $975 mn, the UAE with $824 mn, and Germany with $342 mn.
Overall, in 2026 Uzbekistan plans to implement 125 projects with the participation of international financial institutions and foreign state financial organizations, attracting $5.1 bn. In the first quarter alone, $947 mn in foreign loans had already been mobilized from these sources, exceeding forecast targets by 120%. These projects have already delivered tangible results in infrastructure development and improved living standards.
The next important step in attracting investment may be the listing of state assets on international markets. Speaking at the meeting, the President announced that 30% of state assets worth $2.4 bn would soon be placed on international stock exchanges for the first time. This is linked to the establishment of the National Investment Fund and the transfer of management of 13 strategic enterprises to Franklin Templeton.
The country’s overall target for this year is to attract $53 bn in foreign investment. Officials were also instructed to introduce an AI-based platform that would provide optimal project recommendations for specific regions. Investors and consulting companies will be granted access to the platform through a one-stop-shop mechanism.
Growing Export Potential
Total exports of goods and services maintained strong growth momentum in the first quarter, reaching $5.8 bn, up 26% year-on-year, or by $1.2 bn. Export growth was recorded in 147 districts and cities across the country. As a result, the total number of exporting enterprises reached 4,000.
In particular, exports of natural uranium amounted to $402.6 mn, up 95%. Exports of non-ferrous metals reached $248.7 mn, doubling year-on-year. Oil and gas exports totaled $160 mn, up 15%.
Positive dynamics were also observed in manufacturing. Textile exports reached $731 mn, up 18%. Exports of construction materials totaled $304 mn, rising by 75%. Jewelry exports reached $214 mn, up 54%.
Agricultural and food exports also posted solid growth. Fruit and vegetable exports reached $320 mn, up 12%. Food exports totaled $282 mn, surging by 120%. Strong momentum was also seen in services, where exports reached $2.2 bn, up 35% year-on-year, or by $573 mn.
The geography of exports continues to expand. In January–March, previously non-exported goods worth $162 mn across more than 140 product categories were supplied for the first time to 86 countries, including the United States, Austria, Belarus, Poland, South Korea, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan.
Despite these achievements, external market challenges continue to affect exporters. The President noted that over the past six months, due to changing conditions among foreign partners, 908 entrepreneurs with signed contracts worth $3.6 bn had still been unable to begin exports.
Support for Entrepreneurship
Active support for small and medium-sized businesses continued in the first quarter. This year, $11.5 bn is being allocated through banks for this purpose. In the first quarter, entrepreneurs received $2.9 bn in credit resources, including $659 mn under state support programs. A total of 21,000 microprojects were implemented, helping raise incomes for 52,000 residents.
At the same time, certain shortcomings remain. Not all districts and cities are equally effective in converting loans into permanent jobs, and the differences are considerable. To address this issue, the President emphasized the need to use AI tools in credit allocation and instructed banks to launch an “AI Consultant” platform.
The meeting also discussed optimization of government administrations and the creation of new business spaces. Since many central and busy streets in district centers are occupied by state institutions, 19 districts and cities have already begun relocating government offices into unified administrative centers, with vacated premises transferred to businesses. Scaling up these measures nationwide would free up 5 mn m2 of space for business activity.
Social Policy
A strong social policy and active measures to reduce poverty and promote employment continued in the first quarter.
Permanent jobs were provided to 167,000 people, while 737,000 citizens received assistance in creating additional income sources and improving their living standards. An important contribution came from formalizing 241,000 previously informal workers, giving them access to social protection, financial services, and stable employment.
Special attention in social policy is being given to low-income families. A total of 105,000 support services were delivered to 86,000 vulnerable families, including employment assistance, training, business start-up support, and income generation. Under women’s support programs, 26,000 women were employed, while youth support programs benefited 58,000 young citizens.
To accelerate development in territories facing difficult socio-economic conditions, $297 mn were allocated from the republican budget. Additional support of $329 mn was also directed to areas granted the status of “New Image of Uzbekistan.”
These policies continue to contribute to lower poverty and higher living standards. Poverty fell to 5.0% in the first quarter, while unemployment stood at 4.7%. According to forecasts, both indicators may decline further to 4.3% by mid-year.
Significant attention is also being paid to social infrastructure and improving living conditions with the active participation of international financial institutions. In the first quarter, 89 km of drinking water networks, 8.2 km of sewerage networks, and 40 km of roads were built.
These measures are creating a sustainable foundation for further poverty reduction, stronger employment, higher welfare, and better living conditions across all regions of Uzbekistan.
Perspectives
It is useful to compare Uzbekistan’s first-quarter growth performance with the global economy and other countries.
In its April forecast, the IMF lowered projected global growth from 3.3% in January to 3.1% in April. Growth in advanced economies is expected at 1.5–1.6%, while developing economies are projected at above 4%. US growth is forecast at 2.0–2.1%, while Europe is expected to remain the weakest region, with UK growth revised downward to 0.8%.
The IMF identified India as the fastest-growing major economy, with projected growth of 7.3%. Yet Uzbekistan’s first-quarter growth exceeded even that figure, reaching 8.7%. This reflects the soundness and effectiveness of ongoing reforms, as well as strong and responsive economic management, where emerging challenges are addressed without delay.
Uzbekistan is expected to maintain high growth momentum in 2026. Real GDP growth is projected in the range of 8.3–8.7%, with services rising by 9.1%, industry by 8.7%, and construction by 11.5%.
At the same time, despite these positive results, the President noted that there is no room for complacency. Against the backdrop of intensifying global rivalry, the world economy will no longer be as stable as before. This requires special focus in the current year on sustaining growth, containing inflation, creating jobs, expanding exports, and improving the quality of investment.
Khurshed Asadov, Deputy Director of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms under the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Хуршед Асадов, ЦЭИР
Samarkand Forum of the Asian Development Bank
In the Context of Contemporary Challenges and Historical Significance
In early May, Samarkand hosted the 59th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank under the theme “Crossroads of Progress: Advancing the Region’s Connected Future.” The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, outlined key priorities for further cooperation with the ADB.
The forum brought together more than 4,000 experts from over 100 countries, including representatives of foreign governments, international financial institutions, leading banks, and major corporations. The central topics of discussion included digital and green transformation, climate resilience, supply chain development, and food security.
Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank: Effective Partnership
Uzbekistan joined the ADB in 1995. Over the past 30 years, the Bank has become a reliable strategic partner for the country. The current portfolio of joint projects has reached nearly $16 billion. Uzbekistan has become the Bank’s largest partner in the region by operational volume and ranks among the top 10 countries globally in terms of ADB operations.
In August 2024, the ADB launched a new Country Partnership Strategy for Uzbekistan for 2024–2028. This five-year strategy focuses on supporting the transition to a green economy, enhancing private sector development and competitiveness, and stimulating investment in human capital, in line with the national development priorities outlined in the “Uzbekistan–2030” strategy.
ADB financing across sectors is distributed as follows: transport – $3.1 billion; energy – $2.9 billion; water supply, sanitation, and urban services – $1.4 billion; agriculture and water resources – $0.9 billion.
Through effective cooperation with the ADB, more than 1,400 km of railway lines and 1,700 km of roads have been modernized. Over 4,000 km of water supply networks have been completed, and around 750 educational institutions have been upgraded. In 2025, a record annual commitment volume exceeding $1.4 billion was achieved.
New Cooperation Program with Uzbekistan
During the Samarkand forum, a new partnership program between Uzbekistan and the ADB through 2030 was adopted. It envisages the implementation of projects totaling $12.5 billion, including infrastructure development, support for reforms, private sector growth, and public-private partnerships.
Key components include: infrastructure financing – $2.6 billion; results-based lending – $2.2 billion; budget support for reforms – $3.3 billion; multitranche financing facilities – $350 million; partial credit guarantees – $250 million; direct private sector financing – $2 billion; PPP projects – $1.7 billion.
Priority Areas Outlined by the President
In his address, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized the need to introduce new mechanisms and approaches for sustainable development amid global economic challenges and rapid technological change.
First, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are transforming virtually all sectors. By 2040, AI is expected to increase global trade volumes by an additional 40%. The adoption of open AI models is therefore essential in key sectors such as education, healthcare, water management, environmental protection, and food security. Uzbekistan proposed developing a dedicated ADB-led program to scale AI adoption in developing countries and announced its accession to the Bank’s “Digital Highway for Asia” initiative, including the establishment of a regional coordination center in Tashkent.
Second, the expansion of digital technologies and AI is driving a sharp increase in energy demand. By 2030, electricity consumption by data centers is projected to rise by 2–3 times compared to current levels. Only countries capable of providing affordable and reliable green energy will remain competitive globally. Uzbekistan identified green energy development as a strategic priority and acknowledged ADB support for the “Central Asia–Europe” green energy corridor aimed at expanding clean energy exports.
Third, ensuring the connectivity of transport systems and the stability of logistics corridors is becoming increasingly critical. Changes in global logistics routes have already led to transport cost increases of up to 30% for Central Asian countries, with delivery times extended by several weeks. In this context, the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project is of particular importance. Uzbekistan proposed establishing a “Digital Customs and Logistics Alliance” within the CAREC framework.
Fourth, according to international experts, demand for critical minerals will increase sixfold by 2040. Uzbekistan possesses significant reserves of copper, tungsten, molybdenum, magnesium, graphite, vanadium, titanium, and other resources. To ensure deep processing and production of high value-added goods, Uzbekistan proposed joining the ADB’s “From Critical Minerals to Production” program.
Fifth, climate change and desertification pose serious challenges to Central Asia. The ADB is implementing its Climate Action Plan through 2030, allocating at least 50% of its annual financing to climate-related projects. Uzbekistan proposed launching a regional “Green Belt of Central Asia” initiative to complement national afforestation efforts in the Aral Sea region.
Sixth, amid global instability, demand for safe travel destinations is growing. Central Asia has strong potential in pilgrimage, cultural, gastronomic, ethnographic, extreme, and medical tourism. Uzbekistan proposed creating a “Central Asia Tourist Ring” to integrate regional tourism offerings.
To advance these initiatives, Uzbekistan aims to fully utilize ADB financial instruments, including mobilizing private capital, and proposed establishing an Innovative Platform for Financing Regional Projects.
Transformation of ADB Operations
The implementation of these initiatives requires a transformation of the ADB’s institutional model. In response to global economic shifts, rapid technological change, and increasing interdependence, the Bank is shifting its focus toward sustainability, regional integration, and future-oriented infrastructure.
A key direction is the expansion of investments in next-generation infrastructure, including cross-border energy networks, electricity trade, and digital infrastructure such as internet connectivity and data transmission networks.
Another major shift is the transition from financing predominantly national projects to prioritizing regional systems. This includes integrating energy systems, developing regional electricity markets, and advancing digital integration across Asia.
These priorities are reflected in two major initiatives announced at the Samarkand forum, totaling $70 billion through 2035, aimed at energy system integration, cross-border electricity trade, digital corridors, data centers, and broadband expansion across Asia and the Pacific.
A significant announcement was also the launch of the “Critical Minerals-to-Manufacturing Financing Partnership Facility,” covering the full value chain from exploration and resource mapping to the production of final goods, including chemicals, batteries, renewable energy components, electronics, as well as recycling and reuse.
For Uzbekistan, this approach is particularly relevant, as the country is already developing value chains based on its mineral resources. The ADB program is expected to accelerate this process significantly.
Overall, the transformation of the ADB reflects a shift toward supporting systemic resilience and regional markets. This includes three key transitions: from individual projects to integrated economic systems; from national to regional focus; and from development support to long-term economic sustainability.
As a result, the ADB is evolving from a project financing institution into a coordinating platform for regional economic connectivity, strengthening its role in Asia’s integration amid the formation of competing global economic blocs.
Conclusion
The 59th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Samarkand was of significant importance not only for Uzbekistan due to its international prestige and the adoption of a new cooperation program, but also for the entire Asia-Pacific region.
The forum marked the launch of two major initiatives and the new “From Critical Minerals to Production” program, reflecting the Bank’s updated strategy aimed at enhancing economic stability and regional consolidation in Asia.
Holding the forum in Samarkand is symbolic. Historically a crossroads of trade and culture between East and West, the city once again serves as a focal point for shaping the region’s future.
It was here that initiatives and decisions were announced that may influence the development trajectory of all Asia, reinforcing Samarkand’s role as a platform for dialogue and strategic vision.
Viktor Abaturov,
Center for Economic Research and Reforms
In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) has expanded steadily, acquiring strategic significance. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties between the two nations but also serves as a foundation for the formation of a unified digital space across Central Asia.
A Robust Legal Framework
The legal foundations of bilateral cooperation were established in the early years of independence and have been progressively refined since. Agreements and memoranda concluded in the areas of electrical and postal communications, cross-border telecommunications services, radio frequency coordination, and space research have created a solid basis for bilateral relations. Notably, a new agreement on radio frequency usage signed in 2025 is contributing to the harmonised development of shared digital infrastructure.
Digital Economy: Growth and Investment
Cooperation in the digital economy has intensified considerably in recent years. The number of IT Park residents with Kazakhstani capital has reached 67, with export services valued at USD 2.8 million rendered in 2025 and 755 new jobs created. The number of companies exporting services to the Kazakhstani market has reached 155, with total export volume amounting to USD 17.6 million and a combined workforce of 4,600 employees — a clear indicator of growing mutual trust and an increasingly favourable business environment.
The Central Asian Innovation Hubs platform, established through the cooperation of the region's leading technology parks, has elevated the regional startup ecosystem to a new level, enabling hundreds of startups to access international markets.
Startups and Global Integration
Special attention is being devoted to startup support within the framework of bilateral cooperation. Both countries' startups are actively participating in such prestigious events as ICT Week Uzbekistan and GITEX Global. Kazakhstani and Uzbekistani startups have attracted new investment through participation in international acceleration programmes held in the United States, the UAE, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Forty startups participated in the Draper University, AlchemistX, and Silicon Valley Residency programmes.
One hundred startups under the Central Asian Innovation Hubs umbrella participated in major international conferences, including the AI Forum in Kazakhstan, Eurasia Technology Week in Turkey, Machines Can See Summit in the UAE, GITEX in Germany, and London Tech Week in the United Kingdom.
More than 20 companies with Uzbek capital are currently operating among Astana Hub residents, including Oson, Billz, Sales Doctor, IT Academy for Engineers, Verifix, Smartup, Iman, Uysot, Smartcast, Tezbor, Platma, and BITO.
The opening of the Khan Tengri Innovation Hub in Shanghai has broadened market entry opportunities for regional startups in China.
On 3 October 2025, the Kazakhstan Market Entry global acceleration programme was launched during the Digital Bridge 2025 international conference, with 10 startups from the Republic of Uzbekistan presenting their projects on stage. The programme is being conducted in partnership with Astana Hub as an exchange initiative, under which 10 Kazakhstani startups are actively developing their products in the Uzbekistani market through the Digital Startup Awards acceleration programme.
The Digital Startup Awards — one of the region's most prominent initiatives with a total prize fund of USD 1 million — brought together startups from Central Eurasia, including Kazakhstan and other regional markets, through its incubation, acceleration, and Best Startup Project competition components. Upon completion of the programme, 14 startups successfully completed the acceleration track and 15 completed incubations. Based on results achieved and expansion potential, IT Park Ventures invested up to USD 50,000 per startup in SAFE format for acceleration participants, and up to USD 10,000 for incubation participants on the same terms.
Telecommunications: Strengthening Interconnectivity
In the field of telecommunications, direct communication channels have been established between major operators of both countries, enabling the efficient exchange of international telephone and internet traffic. Operators including Uzbektelecom JSC, Kazakhtelecom JSC, Jusan Mobile JSC, TransTeleKom JSC, and TNS-Plus LLC are facilitating the exchange of international direct and transit telephone and telegraph traffic. Additionally, a system for sharing data on the IMEI codes of mobile devices is being introduced between the two states — a significant measure in ensuring information security and combating the circulation of unauthorised devices.
Artificial Intelligence: Forward-Looking Cooperation
Cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence is progressing consistently. Scientific and research ties have been established with the Institute of Artificial Intelligence at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. Specialists from both countries are engaged in joint work on personnel training, the development of research laboratories, and the creation of innovative solutions.
Digital Government: Cross-Border Collaboration
On 17 December 2025, agreements were reached to launch a pilot project on tourism data exchange, building on Memoranda of Understanding signed between the UN ESCAP and both the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan.
On 13 March 2026, a meeting held at the Digital Government Project Management Centre between UN ESCAP, Korea's National Information Society Agency (NIA), and Kazakhstan's NITEC JSC announced the successful completion of the first phase of the project. During this phase, the legal and technical frameworks for cross-border data exchange among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Korea were developed, and data-driven analyses were prepared demonstrating their value in decision-making processes. Results pertaining to the activities and consumer behaviour patterns of Korean tourists in Uzbekistan proved particularly significant.
Upon the successful completion of subsequent phases, the project envisions expanding data exchange to other priority sectors and establishing a unified intergovernmental data-sharing platform among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and the Republic of Korea — an initiative that will drive the development of cross-border digital cooperation and enhance the efficiency of both public and commercial services.
Information Security and Infrastructure
Efforts are under way within the framework of cooperation memoranda to develop e-government systems, digital platforms, and public data management systems. The transition of digital television broadcasting to enable the rollout of 4G and 5G networks in the 700 MHz band is being implemented in a coordinated manner across Central Asia.
ICT cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan today carries strategic importance not only for both nations, but for the entire Central Asian region. Joint initiatives in digital economy, the startup ecosystem, artificial intelligence, and telecommunications are accelerating innovation-driven development across the region. This partnership will undoubtedly serve as a key driver in the formation of a unified digital space and the enhancement of global competitiveness.
Under the auspices of UNESCO, the “Sharq Taronalari” XIII International Music Festival will be held from August 26 to 30 in the ancient and unique city of Samarkand, known as “The Pearl of the Earth.”
“Sharq Taronalari” is considered one of the largest festivals in Central Asia. The main objectives of the festival are to promote the achievements in national music art to the wider public, to preserve and develop the cultures and traditions of nations, to support talented youth in the fields of music and singing, and to expand international creative ties while promoting the ideals of peace, friendship, and mutual tolerance.
Established in 1997 and held for the first time, the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival welcomed musical groups and performers from 31 countries; by 2019, the number of participating countries had increased to 75 during the XII “Sharq Taronalari” festival.
The XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari”, scheduled for August 26-30, 2024, is expected to be attended by more than 300 representatives from about (As of August 1, 62 countries have expressed their desire to participate in the festival, and applications for participation in the festival continue to arrive these days) 70 countries.
As of today, “Sharq Taronalari” has taken its place among the famous festivals not only in Central Asia but on a global scale. This is vividly evidenced by the increasing number of participants and the countries expressing desire to participate each year, alongside the growing level of the program’s quality.
The following program is planned for the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari”:
On August 26, a solemn opening ceremony of the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari” will be held in the city of Samarkand.
On August 27-28, an International Scientific and Practical Conference on the theme “Music Culture of Eastern Peoples: Principles of Creative Convergence in the Processes of Globalization” is scheduled, expecting the participation of musicologists, scientists from research centers, professors and teachers from musical higher education institutions, and researching doctoral and master’s students.
From August 27-29 (at 7:00 PM), a competition will be held among the participants of the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari,” where the performances will be evaluated by an International Jury in two directions:
Professional (classical) level of folk music and song;
Music and song created by modern composers.
For reference. (Order No. 354 of April 25, 2019, on the approval of the regulations for the holding of the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival (lex.uz))
To evaluate the performances of the competition contestants, an International Jury consisting of no less than seven members will be formed by the Organizing Committee.
The Jury will include highly qualified foreign and local musicologists, renowned artists, composers, and representatives from organizations of international art festivals in foreign countries.
During the evaluation process, the national identity of the songs, the harmony and meaning of the lyrics, the level of the performer’s skills, cultural attire, and stage movement will be the main criteria for the competition.
For the performance, a live ensemble of no more than 12 musicians will be allowed to participate.
The performances of the competition participants will be evaluated by the International Jury in two directions:
Professional (classical) level of folk music and song;
Music and song genres created by modern composers.
Winners of the competition will be awarded diplomas, statuettes, and cash prizes in the following amounts by the Organizing Committee:
“Grand Prix” — 10,000 US dollars;
1st place (in each genre) 2 x 5,000 — 10,000 US dollars;
2nd place (in each genre) 2 x 3,500 — 7,000 US dollars;
3rd place (in each genre) 3 x 2,000 — 6,000 US dollars;
The “Grand Prix” will not be awarded if no worthy candidate is found according to the decision of the International Jury.
According to the decision of the International Jury, only the “Grand Prix” prize will not be shared; the cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places may be shared.
Participants who took part in the competition but did not win will receive a diploma of participation in the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Winners of the competition must participate in the concert program of the solemn closing ceremony of the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Participants who have won the competition (laureates) cannot participate in this competition in the following years but may be invited to the festival as honored guests. Participants who participated in the competition and did not place are entitled to participate in the next competition.
Participants recognized by the organizers, creative unions, foundations, and independent jury members and fans will be awarded special diplomas and cash prizes of 500 US dollars in categories such as “Youngest Participant,” “Best Participant Recognized by Fans,” “Best Instrumental Music Performer,” and other nominations.
Each participant of the festival will receive a certificate of active participation in the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Note: Participants who have won the competition (laureates) cannot participate in this competition in the following years but may be invited to the festival as honored guests. Participants who participated in the competition and did not place are entitled to participate in the next competition.
On August 30, the solemn closing ceremony of the “Sharq Taronalari” XIII International Music Festival will take place in Samarkand, where the winners will be announced and awarded.
List of winners (festivals I and XII) at the “Sharq taronalari” International Music Festival from 1997 to 2019List of award winners at the “Sharq taronalari” I International Music Festival.
1997 Position held Full name Country Awards
(US)
Gran pri Simara Imanova Azerbaijan 10.000
1-place Munojat Yo'lchiyeva Uzbekistan 5000
Shannu Khurana India 5000
2-place Se Liin China 3500
Shahrom Noziriy Iran 3500
3-place Aleksandr Samojikov Russia 2000
B.Ganbat Mongolia 2000
Ramazan Stamgaziyev Kazakhstan 2000
Special Jury Prize Turkmenistan music group "Neksiya" automobile
Egyptian national music ansam
UNESCO trophy
Afganistan music group
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” II international music festival. 1999
Gran pri Nasiba Sattorova Uzbekistan 10.000
1-place Muhammad Omon Saudi Arabia 7000
Yun Kong Son Korea 7000
2-place “Lashari” ensemble Georgia 5000
Jaspinder Narula Xonim India 5000
3-place Olim Boboyev Tajikistan 2000
Ustod Ali Hamidxon Pakistan 2000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” III International Music Festival. 2001
Gran pri - - -
1-place Alim Gasimov Azerbaijon 7000
Sohibjon Niyozov Uzbekiston 7000
Abdunabi Ibrohimov Uzbekiston 7000
2-place “Lashari” ensemble Georgia 5000
Madkhushri Ramsonder Badaltjavhariy India 5000
3-place Milliy musiqa ensemble Greece 3000
Nohide Tokguz Turkey 3000
Special Jury Prize "Altay" group Russia 1000
"Музыканты" group Kyrgyzstan 1000
Festival organizing committee trophy "Angan al-Shabab" group Egypt Maxsus mukofot
List of awards at the "Sharq taronalari" IV International Music Festival. 2003
Gran pri "Uranhay” ensemble Russia (Tuva Republik) 10.000
1-place Dilnura Mirzaqulova Uzbekiston 7000
Fozil Jamshidiy Iran 7000
2-place Ozoda Ashurova Tajikistan 5000
Zabit Nabizade Azerbaijan 5000
3-place Milliy musiqiy ensemble Afganistan 3000
An'anaviy musiqiy ensemble Bangladesh 3000
UNESCO trophy Abduhoshim Ismoilov Uzbekiston 1000
Musiqiy ensemble India 1000
Roman Kehman Israil 1000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” V International Music Festival. 2005
Gran pri - - -
1-place Aygun Biylar Azeribajan 7000
Nodira Pirmatova Uzbekiston 7000
2-place "Viulan" group Italy 5000
Kuwait Academy of music string instrument ensemble Kuwait 5000
Urna Chahar Tuhchi Mongolia 5000
3-place Korean music group South Korea 3000
Shilpakala Academy musical group Bangladesh 3000
"Nazaret" Orchestra Israil 3000
Special Jury Prize National Brass Band Egypt 2000
UNESCO Special Prize musical group led by Hanif Nabizoda Afganistan 1500
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” VI international music festival. 2007
Gran pri Kuwait Music Institute group Kuwait 10.000
1-place South Korean music institute group South Kora 7000
2-place "An-Nil " national musical instrument group Egypt 5000
Music group Italy 5000
3-place "Ratang" group Keniya 3000
"Seri Maharani Gazal" group Malasia 3000
China National Youth Center Group China 3000
YUNESKO sovrini Youngest participant Arzu Aliyeva Azerbaijan 2000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” VII international music festival. 2009
Gran pri Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Lale Begnazarova Turkmenistan 10.000
1-place Gochag Askerov Azerbaijan 7000
People's artist of Uzbekistan Matluba Dadaboyeva and ensemble of folk instruments Uzbekistan 7000
2-place "Vinalog" rok-pop group South Korea 5000
"Shem Tov Levi" ensemble Israil 5000
3-place Ensemble of folk instruments of the State Institute of musical arts Kuwait 3000
Laura Molika Italy 3000
Special Jury Prize "Kunsu" opera artists China
"Borte" group Mongolia
"Big Mountain" group US
Musiqiy group India
"Shilpakala" national ensemble of the Academy of music Bangladesh
List of recipients at the “Sharq taronalari” VIII international music festival. 2011
Gran pri "Park Jong-Vuk va Park Jonguk" South Korea 10.000
1-place "Dunhuang nude vords" China 7000
"Aysva" Lithuania 7000
2-place "Lider" musiqiy group Russia 5000
"Sato" musiqiy group Uzbekistan 5000
"Ovoi mehriboni" music group Iran 5000
3-place "Talilema" Madagascar 3000
"Chvenburebi" Georgia 3000
"Galkinish" group Turkmenistan 3000
UNESCO Special Prize Ilyos Arabov Uzbekistan
Jivan Gasparyan Armenia
Nazeket Teymurova Azerbayijan
For his contribution to the development of National Music "Huk Mongol" Mongolia
"Dror" Israil
"Yorqin ijrolar"
"Varsi brazers" India
Fan recognition "Hidden Dragen" Japan
Samarkand City Hall Award Afghanistan Institute of Arts team
Registan award of Samarkand regional government Xurshed Ibragimov Tajikistan
Special Jury Award "Bogʻ aro" Uzbekistan
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” IX International Music Festival. 2013
Gran pri Rashmiya Agarval India 10.000
1-place "Sadoi Pamir" group Afganistan 7000
"Lanaya" group Burkina Faso 7000
2-place "Pentan" group Great Britain 5000
"Sarihyun Gayageum Byungchangdan" group Republic Of Korea 5000
National opera and drama theatre team China 5000
3-place Abror Zufarov Uzbekistan 3000
"Chikuyusha" group Japan 3000
Catch-pop String-strong Austria 3000
Special award winners Sanam Marvi Pakistan
Galit Giat Israil
Taul Triini Estonia
Nadi Singapura Singapore
Salomat Ayapov Karakalpakstan
Sedar Hills US
"Sharq taronalari" List of awards at the X international music festival. 2015 < BR >
Gran pri "Jiangsu" women's orchestra China 10.000
1-place "Shamisenʼ group Japan 7000
2-place Chelm Poland 5000
Silver Sepp Estonia 5000
3-place "Quelite" Costa Rica 3000
UNESCO Special Prize "Ayqulash yulduzlari" Uzbekistan 1500
Samarkand City Hall Award Didgori Georgia
Samarkand regional government award "EVA" ensemble Bulgaria
Special Jury Award Afrikan voice JAR
Festival Direction award" Sharq taronalari Birjan Baziljanov Kazakhstan
Ministry of culture and Sports Award "Sedaa" Mongolia
Special awards Pung Ryu Republic Of Korea
Lingua Franca ansambli Greece, Cyprus
"Baxshi" trio Turkmenistan
"Laus Nova" group Italy
Yulduz Turdiyeva Uzbekistan
"Buta" team Azerbaijon
Ucell Communications special award Modern Maori Quartet New Zenland
List of awards at “Sharq taronalari” XI international music festival.
Gran pri Sohib Poshazoda Azerbaijan 10.000
1-place Mohichehra Shomurodova Uzbekistan 7000
"Keosong"people's artistic collective South Korea 7000
2-place Kyrgyz artistic team Kyrgyzstan 5000
Litwa artistic team Litwa 5000
3-place "Nagesh" artistic team Iran 3000
Indonesia artistic team Indonesi 3000
Turkish artistic team Turkey 3000
List of recipients at the “Sharq taronalari” XII International Music Festival.
Gran pri Mehrinigor Abdurashidova Uzbekistan 10.000
1-place "Qomuzchilar" duet Kyrgyzstan 5000
Parviz Gasimov Azerbaijon 5000
2-place "Archabil" group Turkmenistan 3500
"Xatan" group Mongolia 3500
3-place "Ayarxan" group Russia 2000
"Badaxshon" group Tajikistan 2000
Azizjon Abduazimov Uzbekistan 2000
Ulugʻbek Elmurodzoda Uzbekistan 2000
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The Central Election Commission held a meeting and a series of events today, July 26th. The primary agenda item was the preparation and high-level accomplishment of the upcoming elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies in full compliance with the Constitution and laws.
According to Article 128 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies are scheduled to take place on the first Sunday of the third ten-day period of October in the year their term expires. Considering that the term of the deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies ends in 2024, the elections will be held on October 27th of this year, and the election campaign will begin on July 26th, as decided by the Central Election Commission.
These elections mark a significant departure from the past, taking place in a new socio-political environment as stipulated by our Constitution. The meeting underscored the unique features of these elections, which include:
The meeting underscored the significance of these elections as a vivid example of democratic state-building in our country and an essential means for citizens to exercise their constitutional rights to vote and be elected to democratic state bodies. The elections will involve the election of 150 deputies to the Legislative Chamber, 65 members to the Senate, 65 deputies to the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, deputies to 208 district (city) Councils in the regions and Tashkent city, with around 30,000 candidates and nearly 90,000 trusted representatives actively participating. Over 120,000 election commission members and more than 70,000 citizens and international observers are expected to participate in the election process.
Considering the important role of elections in state life and with the aim of widely engaging citizens in this process, the Central Election Commission announced that the elections will be held on October 27th under the slogan “My Choice—My Prosperous Homeland.”
The 'E-Saylov' information system is a key tool in making the election process more transparent and accessible. It facilitates around 60 interactions between election commissions, political party candidates, observers, and the media entirely electronically. Integrated with other electronic platforms, the system automates many procedures in the election process without human intervention. This system forms an extensive database of nearly 400,000 participants in the election process, including election commission members, candidates, and observers. Around 32,000 participants will professionally use the information system, which includes communication through 40 types of SMS notifications.
For citizens, the "E-Saylov" information system introduces several conveniences in obtaining election-related information. Specifically, it provides statistical data on voters and polling stations, information on candidates for various elections, and interactive maps to learn about candidates and their biographies.
The meeting emphasized that the "E-Saylov" information system represents a new level of technological advancement and transparency in elections.
It was also noted that according to Article 37 of the Election Code, political parties have the right to nominate candidates for deputies to the Legislative Chamber and local Councils.
To participate in the elections, political parties must have been registered by the Ministry of Justice at least four months before the announcement of the election campaign and collect at least 40,000 signatures supporting their participation.
Additionally, the meeting approved a calendar plan to ensure that the activities related to conducting the elections are carried out step-by-step within the timelines specified by election legislation. The Central Election Commission, as an impartial and independent constitutional body, will take all necessary measures to prepare for and conduct the upcoming elections in full compliance with national legislation and international election standards, ensuring the process is open and transparent.
A Press Center has also been established under the Central Election Commission.
Central Election Commission
of the Republic of Uzbekistan
In the 21st century, "green" development has become not just a trend, but an unavoidable path for all of humanity. In the face of rapid climate change, intensifying water resource scarcity, and loss of biodiversity, sustainable development has become a priority for every nation. The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Sh.M. Mirziyoyev, speaking at international, regional, and national forums, consistently promotes the agenda of sustainable "green" development as the key to the prosperity of future generations.
The recently published book "The Path of 'Green' Development for New Uzbekistan" presents 310 quotes and 54 initiatives by Sh. Mirziyoyev, proposed during the period of 2017-2025, addressing climate change mitigation, rational use of water and natural resources, biodiversity conservation, and transition to a "green" economy.
Structurally, the book is divided into three chapters: "'Green' Development - the Path Chosen by Humanity," "Central Asia - The Course Towards 'Green' Development and the Future," and "New Uzbekistan on the Path of Sustainable Development."
Green development: the path humanity has chosen
In the context of the global climate crisis, depletion of natural resources, and deterioration of environmental quality, an increasing number of countries are transitioning to a sustainable development model. Within this concept, a "green" economy is replacing raw material-industrial models centered on extraction, exploitation, and disregard for environmental risks.
The leader of Uzbekistan has repeatedly emphasized that for Central Asian countries, "green" development should become the foundation for a new stage of modernization: ..."only by efficiently utilizing limited land and water resources, addressing environmental issues, and embarking on the path of 'green' development, 'green' economy, and 'green' energy can we ensure sustainable development of the country and the well-being of its population. This is the only correct path." This quote reflects a fundamental shift in state policy: from narrow economic thinking to a strategic approach that focuses not only on profit and growth but also on environmental preservation, ecosystem sustainability, and public health. This is precisely why Sh. Mirziyoyev advocates the idea that the green course is not a fashionable trend, but a long-term necessity. Supporting the transition to green energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening environmental legislation, and educating the public are all part of a systemic green reform.
The President consistently emphasizes that responsibility for the future lies not only with developed countries but also with emerging economies. In this context, he declared at the UN General Assembly (2023): "At this pivotal historical moment, we all must reflect on what kind of planet we will leave for future generations." This appeal aims to mobilize the global community, but primarily reflects Uzbekistan's internal transformation - a course towards sustainability, resource conservation, and climate justice. In this regard, we present the following scientifically grounded proposals of the President.
Firstly, "climate change has become one of the main challenges for sustainable development in Central Asia," declared the President of Uzbekistan at the COP28 summit in Dubai. He emphasized that "the transition to a 'green' economy and achieving carbon neutrality are strategic objectives of New Uzbekistan."
Secondly, "Climate change has become one of the main challenges to sustainable development. This is especially acute in Central Asia and adjacent regions against the backdrop of the Aral Sea tragedy - one of the most devastating ecological crises of our time."
Thirdly, "the rise in air temperature in Central Asia is twice the global average, the number of extremely hot days has doubled, and a third of glacier masses have melted."
Fourthly, "soil degradation, regular dust and sand storms, drinking water shortages, air pollution, biodiversity loss, sharp decline in crop yields, and many other factors are negatively impacting the quality of life of millions of residents in the region."
Fifthly, the President also called for "swift agreement on the Global Framework for Climate Change Adaptation within the Paris Agreement." He also addressed the topic of global transition to a low-carbon economy. According to him, this process "must be fair, transparent, and inclusive" and "must necessarily take into account the interests of developing countries."
Sixthly, to transform the Aral Sea region into a Zone of Innovation, Technology, and New Opportunities, the head of Uzbekistan invited everyone to close cooperation "in creating an International Climate Technology Expo Hub in this region." Additionally, the President proposed to "establish scientific exchange and conduct joint research on the platform of the Climate Science Forum," which is being created on the basis of Green University in Tashkent, involving scientists and experts from foreign countries.
Central Asia: Charting a Course Towards "Green" Development and Future
Global climate change is one of the most serious problems of our time, affecting all countries worldwide and becoming a significant obstacle to sustainable "green" development. The observed warming is causing extreme natural phenomena across the globe, such as droughts, hurricanes, scorching heat, fires, torrential rains, and floods.
Uzbekistan and other Central Asian states are among the countries most vulnerable to environmental disasters. Against the backdrop of a general increase in climate threats, Central Asia is developing its own regional response to the challenges of global warming and environmental degradation. The initiatives of the President of Uzbekistan on international platforms demonstrate that green transformation is not just a national priority, but also an interstate one.
Speaking at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly (2023), the President emphasized: "Today, the world is facing a severe ecological situation. The triple planetary crisis, caused by climate change, loss of biodiversity, and environmental pollution, is intensifying.
Under these challenging conditions, Central Asia, which continues to grapple with the tragedy of the Aral Sea, is becoming one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change."
This quote indicates the need for regional integration in the field of environmental safety. The President emphasizes the importance of joint actions in the management of natural resources, in particular transboundary waters. He initiated the development of a Regional Strategy to combat desertification and land degradation, emphasizing that sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation are only possible through coordinated efforts.
As part of this initiative, the following proposals were put forward:
First proposal: establishment of a Regional Center for Climate Technologies;
Second proposal: creation of a unified "green" energy space;
Third proposal: joint projects for reforestation and combating desertification, particularly in the dried-up seabed of the Aral Sea;
Fourth proposal: development of transboundary water diplomacy based on the principles of the Helsinki Convention.
In recent years, at Uzbekistan's initiative, the UN General Assembly has adopted more than ten special resolutions. Many of these directly address environmental issues in Central Asia and reflect Uzbekistan's active role in regional environmental diplomacy.
It is particularly noteworthy that all international initiatives and efforts of Uzbekistan's leader in this field are rooted in our national values, passed down from our ancestors over millennia. It should be emphasized that the environmental initiatives presented by the head of state at global forums receive widespread support from the international community and make a tangible contribution to ensuring sustainable "green" development at the global level.
For instance, one of Uzbekistan's landmark achievements was the adoption of a Special Resolution by the UN General Assembly in 2021, declaring the Aral Sea region a zone of environmental innovations and technologies. This marks the first time the UN General Assembly has granted such a high status to a region. This is because, due to the drying up of the Aral Sea, the Aral Sea region has become the epicenter of a global ecological disaster, a territory with an elevated risk to human health and ecosystem instability.
Water resource management issues in the region also remain within the focus of the President of Uzbekistan. "Effective water resource management with neighboring countries is key to sustainable development not only for Uzbekistan but for our entire region." This statement is particularly relevant for Central Asia, where water is becoming an increasingly scarce and politically sensitive resource. The leader of Uzbekistan advocates for the establishment of sustainable mechanisms for the distribution and joint management of water flows, which should reduce tensions and ensure harmonious development.
At the SCO summit in Bishkek (June 14, 2019), Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed adopting the SCO "Green Belt" program to introduce resource-saving and environmentally friendly technologies in the organization's member countries. At the 14th ECO Summit (March 4, 2021), the Head of Uzbekistan put forward an initiative to develop and approve a medium-term strategy aimed at ensuring energy sustainability and broadly attracting investments and modern technologies to this sector.
At the Third Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State, held on August 6, 2021, in Turkmenistan, the President of Uzbekistan advocated for the development of a regional "Green Agenda" program for Central Asia. This program aims to facilitate the adaptation of countries in the region to climate change. The main focus areas of the program could include gradual decarbonization of the economy, rational use of water resources, integration of energy-efficient technologies into the economy, and increasing the share of renewable energy production.
Overall, against the backdrop of the increasing prominence of the international climate agenda, Uzbekistan's ongoing systemic environmental policy in the field of environmental protection aims to further improve the ecological situation in the Central Asian region.
Uzbekistan's New Path Towards Sustainable Development
Today, Uzbekistan is actively integrating the principles of "green" transformation into its development strategies, laying the foundation for long-term sustainable growth. This is not merely a response to global challenges, but also an aspiration to enhance the quality of life for our citizens, generate new employment opportunities, and foster the country's sustainable "green" development. At present, "green" development in Uzbekistan has been elevated to the status of a nationwide movement. The primary objective of New Uzbekistan's transition to a "green" course is to safeguard human dignity, improve the population's well-being, and protect the fundamental rights of its citizens.
For Uzbekistan, the transition to "green" development is not an abstract concept or something far removed from reality. This notion has become an integral part of our country's constitutional course, encompassing all sectors of the economy and public life.
President Sh. Mirziyoyev emphasizes: "It is of great importance to accelerate the transition to an economy based on the careful management of water, energy, and other natural resources.
The task of developing 'green' and digital technologies, as well as production enterprises, is also crucial for us."
This is not merely a scientific and philosophical statement, but a guiding principle of state environmental policy. Under this slogan, various programs are being developed:
One example is the construction of solar and wind power plants in Navoi, Bukhara, and Samarkand regions. These projects are being implemented with the participation of major foreign investors (Masdar, ACWA Power) and are creating new jobs while reducing the burden on hydrocarbon resources.
Sh.Mirziyoyev also emphasizes the need to cultivate new ecological thinking in young people: "Understanding nature, environmental education and upbringing, forming environmental awareness and ecological culture among the population, especially among youth, which promote kindness, compassion, and mercy, are among the important tasks that must be accomplished to preserve the environment."
In this context, special attention is paid to environmental education, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting startups in the field of eco-technologies and green innovations. The creation of a national environmental performance rating for regions and institutions has become a tool for stimulating sustainable change.
Thus, Uzbekistan is becoming an example of a systematic approach to sustainable "green" development, combining environmental goals with economic growth and social justice. The principles of the "green" economy are increasingly being integrated into national planning, making Uzbekistan not only a participant but also an active driver of the international green agenda.
Conclusions: Prospects for the Future
First conclusion. The approach being implemented in New Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev exemplifies the synergy of political will, scientific knowledge, national policy, and international cooperation. "Green" development is not a trend or a temporary solution. It is a strategic choice, a path chosen by humanity, and Uzbekistan demonstrates how this path can be realized in the face of global challenges.
Second conclusion. The initiatives and statements of Uzbekistan's leader demonstrate that green development for Uzbekistan is not a temporary agenda, but a strategic vector for a promising future. The framework of an environmentally responsible state is being systematically formed: with new laws, institutions, technologies, and public awareness.
Third conclusion. A distinctive feature of the Uzbek approach is its comprehensiveness: from global leadership in climate diplomacy to the practical transformation of energy, land use, and water management. Sh. Mirziyoyev not only articulates the principles of sustainable development but also ensures their institutional establishment, investment, and public support.
Fourth conclusion. Thus, the path to a "green" future, proposed and implemented by New Uzbekistan, can serve as a model for countries facing similar challenges and opportunities. This is a path where economic progress goes hand in hand with care for the planet, where political will translates into concrete actions, and sustainability becomes a new norm for human development.
A presentation of the literary and publicistic collection “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future” was held in Islamabad, written in Urdu by renowned Pakistani journalist and author Muhammad Abbas Khan, explores Uzbekistan’s modern development vision and reform agendat.
The collection offers a comprehensive analysis of the essence, spiritual foundations, and global significance of Uzbekistan’s vision for a New Renaissance — the foundation of the country’s Third Renaissance — under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The book elaborates on the concept advanced by the Head of State, tracing its historical roots and outlining its relevance for the future of human civilization. The author emphasizes that this vision draws inspiration from the legacy of Uzbekistan’s great ancestors and seeks to unite the principles of modern development, enlightenment, and humanism, serving as a bridge between the nation’s rich intellectual past and its forward-looking aspirations.
The collection also highlights the shared initiatives and common aspirations of the leaders of Uzbekistan and Pakistan to advance major transport and communication projects linking Central and South Asia. According to the author, these efforts represent the revival of the legendary Silk Road. The book not only describes the sweeping reforms and modernization taking place in Uzbekistan, but also emphasizes that the development path of the “New Uzbekistan” may serve as an inspiring model for Pakistan and the wider Eastern world.
The presentation ceremony brought together members of Pakistan’s government and parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Islamabad, prominent scholars, analysts, public figures, and media representatives. Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting of Pakistan, attended the event as the guest of honour.
The presentation opened with the national anthems of Uzbekistan and Pakistan, followed by a video highlighting the nine years of Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership as a President of Uzbekistan.
The event commenced with welcoming remarks by Alisher Tukhtaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan. In his address, the Ambassador emphasized that, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has entered an era of openness and creative transformation.
He noted that over the past nine years, the country has implemented comprehensive reforms across the socio-economic, political, educational, and cultural spheres. As a result, Uzbekistan’s Gross Domestic Product has doubled, reaching 115 billion US dollars; exports have risen to 26 billion dollars; and foreign investments have exceeded 130 billion dollars. Thousands of new enterprises have been established, reflecting the dynamic pace of development and modernization.
It was noted that relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan have been elevated to the level of a strategic partnership, with the establishment of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. Direct air connections now link Tashkent with Islamabad and Lahore, while collaboration in the fields of education and culture continues to expand rapidly.
Particular attention was given to the Trans-Afghan Railway Project — recognized as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening peace, mutual trust, and economic connectivity across the region, effectively reconnecting Central and South Asia.
Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev expressed his sincere gratitude to the author of the featured work, Muhammad Abbas Khan, and to the management of “Daily Ittehad” publishing house for their contribution to the creation and publication of the book. He emphasized that this work will make a valuable contribution to fostering friendship and solidarity between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
In turn, Tahir Farooq, head of “Daily Ittehad” publishing house, expressed his satisfaction with the publication of the book “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future”.
“This book is not merely a compilation of facts about Uzbekistan”, - he noted, - but an important work that vividly reflects the ongoing processes of reform and renewal in the country. It is not a collection of speeches or a translation of another author’s work, but the result of five years of observation and analysis by Muhammad Abbas Khan. His insights carry great significance for understanding Uzbekistan’s contemporary path of development. The book also serves as an important historical document of the new era unfolding in Uzbekistan”.
In his address, Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Information and Broadcasting of Pakistan, highlighted the deep historical ties between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Pakistan, noting that the land of Uzbekistan has produced eminent figures of the Timurid dynasty, including the distinguished scholar and statesman Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur. The Minister emphasized that the region connecting Central and South Asia has always been a vital part of the Great Silk Road, and that Uzbekistan’s contemporary policy under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is focused on revitalizing this historic corridor of cooperation.
Concluding his speech, Minister Attaullah Tarar reaffirmed the readiness of Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to extend full support in promoting the book and the “Third Renaissance” initiatives advanced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Pakistani public.
In his address, author Muhammad Abbas Khan discussed the process of writing the book, the ideas it conveys, and its principal objectives. According to the author, the work is based on his research, observations, and personal impressions, providing an objective account of Uzbekistan’s ongoing processes of renewal and development.
“I have had the opportunity to directly observe the profound transformations taking place in Uzbekistan, the reforms being implemented under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the policies aimed at fostering an open society, enhancing human dignity, and advancing education and enlightenment, along with their tangible results. Today, Uzbekistan is experiencing a period of awakening. The concept of the Third Renaissance, being realized in Uzbekistan, serves as an example of a universal experience grounded in confidence in the future, scientific and spiritual renewal, and policies for the development of human potential”, - said Muhammad Abbas Khan.
The book “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future” is expected to serve as a unique resource for familiarizing the Pakistani public with Uzbekistan’s new historical path of development, while further strengthening the cultural and spiritual bonds between the two nations.