To the participants of the joint conference of the International Federation of Textile Manufacturers and the International Association of Apparel Manufacturers

📅 10.09.2024

Dear participants of the conference!

Ladies and gentlemen!

First of all, from the bottom of my heart, I sincerely congratulate you, my dear ones, on the opening of today's prestigious event - the joint conference of the International Textile Federation and the International Association of Apparel Manufacturers.

I would like to express my special gratitude to the President of the International Federation of Textile Manufacturers Mr. Kei Vi Srinavasan and President of the International Association of Apparel Manufacturers Mr. Chem Altan for the fact that this joint conference is being held in Uzbekistan for the first time.

At the same time, I express my sincere gratitude to the high-ranking representatives of the industry, heads of prestigious international and regional organizations participating in this conference.

Welcome to the pearl of the ancient Great Silk Road, the land of craftsmen - the majestic city of Samarkand!

Dear participants of the conference!

In recent years we have taken decisive steps to radically improve the investment and business environment, create favorable conditions for foreign and domestic investors.

As in all spheres and sectors, we have been implementing large-scale reforms in the textile and garment industries.

First of all, the state monopoly in cotton cultivation has been abolished, and a cluster system has been created and is being consistently improved, covering the entire process from raw material procurement to the production of finished goods.

Our reforms in this area have won the recognition of prestigious international organizations, and the boycott of Uzbek cotton has been lifted. Our cooperation with the international coalition “Cotton Campaign” continues in this direction.

At the same time, as a result of creating a stable legislative framework, improving the investment environment and introducing new technologies, the volume of cotton fiber processing increased from 40 percent in 2017 to 100 percent. At the same time, the work on import of cotton raw materials and production of finished products with high added value began.

Thanks to the opportunities created in the sphere, the volume of textile production has increased 5 times, its export - 4 times.

The most important thing is that earlier a significant part, i.e. 70 percent of exports in the sector, was accounted for raw materials, while today 60 percent of exported goods are finished products.

In the first years of reforms, we identified as a priority task the development of human capital, training of the population, especially young people and women, in professions, training of qualified personnel for all sectors, and these issues will continue to be in the center of our attention.

Decent working conditions that meet international requirements are created for the employees of enterprises, and the “Better Work” and “Better Cotton” programs are systematically implemented.

Particular attention is paid to ensuring labor rights and providing full support to over 600,000 workers.

At the same time, decisive measures are taken to create national brands, attract prestigious international and foreign trademarks to our country.

Authoritative participants of the world market, such as “Teamdress” (Germany), “Cotonella” (Italy), “Indorama” (Singapore), “Posco International” and “Gwangyang” (South Korea) are effectively operating in the country.

Uzbekistan's textile industry is being actively integrated into global production processes, and the number of our reliable partners on all continents of the world is increasing.

It should be noted that long-term cooperation with foreign investors and international brands, increasing production of high value-added products, bringing national brands to the international level will remain our priorities in the textile industry in the future.

I am convinced that today's conference will serve as an effective platform for further strengthening and expanding cooperation in this area on an international scale, sharing best practices and ideas.

I hope it will contribute to further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation between representatives of more than 500 national and international organizations, manufacturers and retailers participating in the conference, and will bring the development of the industry to a qualitatively new level.

We highly appreciate and support all mutually beneficial initiatives of our foreign partners. In particular, we are ready to provide all possible assistance in introducing the necessary standards for international brands to enter Uzbekistan.

We are ready to create all necessary conditions for prestigious international organizations to regularly hold conferences, exhibitions and fashion shows in our country, particularly in such cities as Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz, Margilan, Kokand, Namangan, Andijan, which have high tourism and industrial potential.

I am confident that the ancient history, rich cultural heritage of our country, meetings with our hard-working and generous people will make an indelible impression on you, and the huge socio-economic potential of our regions will encourage investors to implement new projects.

I congratulate you once again on the opening of the prestigious conference that is starting today and wish you all good health, happiness and prosperity, success in the fruitful work of the conference.


Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

On September 8–10th, Tashkent to gather International Textile Industry Professionals

📅 15.08.2026

The capital of Uzbekistan will host the 17^th Central Asian International Textile Machinery Exhibition – CAITME 2026. It will inaugurate the traditional Global Textile Days week.

CAITME is a major event for Central Asia's textile and garment industries and, according to an independent audit, the largest specialist exhibition of its kind in the CIS. The exhibition plays an important role in equipping and uprading the region's textile and garment sector, helping manufacturers increase productivity, adopt advanced technologies and strengthen their competitiveness in the international markets.

This year, the exhibition will bring together 250 companies and brands from 17 countries. Germany will be represented by its National Pavilion, while companies from Austria, India, Italy, China, Turkiye, the USA, Switzerland and other leading textile-producing countries will also take part. Registration of participants is in full swing.

As in previous years, the exhibition will feature recognised global leaders in textile machinery manufacturing and suppliers of advanced technologies from Europe and Asia, including Rieter, Uster, Novibra, SSM, Spindelfabrik Sussen, Toyota, Muratec, Truetzschler, Saurer, Picanol, Santoni, Terrot, Habasit, MHMS, Vandewiele NV, Karl Mayer, Staubli, IRO, Biancalani, Ferraro, Epson, Zimmer Austria, Mario Crosta, Itema, Lafer, Motex Di Modiano Guido, Salvade`, Simet, Dettin, Sclavos, Effe, Mahlo, Lonati, Shima Seiki, Andritz Küsters, Brückner, Carl Schmale, Sossna, Texpa, Thies, Groz-Beckert KG, Kaeser Kompressoren, Schott & Meissner, Textima, Tetas, Temsan, Lakshmi Machine Works, Lakshmi Card Clothing, Precitex, Kansai, Brazzoli, Eliar, Guven Celik, West Global, CTMTC, Hengyi, Leadsfon, Rifa, Yingyang, Baoyu, Dyestar, NF Kimya, Eksoy, Deniz Kimya and many more.

Uzbekistan is represented by leading industry players.                    

A highlight of the exhibition will be the innovative TextileExpo Uzbekistan Sourcing Hub Project, which will take place on September 9^th. For the first time in Uzbekistan, textile manufacturers and buyers from retail chains, factories and specialist companies will be able to hold direct business-to-business negotiations in a digital format using Artificial Intelligence.

 

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1nBUkXzHeF1F5lU-CGzZOI4CrmzOFfbZD

                                                                                      Dunyo IA

                                                                                      Tashkent

Transport and Logistics Cooperation Between Uzbekistan and the US: A New Stage of Strategic Partnership

📅 07.08.2026

Relations between Uzbekistan and the United States of America have reached a new level in recent years. Today, this cooperation encompasses strategic areas such as transport and logistics, aviation, infrastructure, digital technologies, financial services, industrial cooperation, and the development of international transport corridors.

As a nation located in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan places special emphasis on accessing international markets, expanding its export geography, and actively integrating into global supply chains. From this standpoint, modernizing the country's transport and logistics infrastructure has become one of the foremost priorities of its economic policy.

The United States, with its advanced technologies, a developed aviation industry, major financial institutions, digital solutions, and global logistics expertise, is a key partner capable of providing Uzbekistan with practical support in achieving these strategic goals.

Following meetings with leading American companies held in New York in September 2025, a portfolio of contracts and promising projects was formed in the fields of civil aviation, mining, finance and innovation, chemicals, energy, and other priority sectors, with a total value exceeding $100 billion.

In 2025, of the total 60,400 tons of cargo transported between Uzbekistan and the US, 44,200 tons were carried by rail. Road transport accounted for 13,800 tons, and air freight for 2,400 tons.

In the first six months of 2026, 31,200 tons of cargo were transported between Uzbekistan and the US. Of this volume, 30,700 tons were imports from the US to Uzbekistan.

The intensification of high-level political dialogue creates an important institutional foundation for advancing economic and infrastructure projects. During high-level meetings in Washington in November 2025, discussions focused on the further development of the Uzbek-American strategic partnership, the expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation, and the deepening of practical engagement between Central Asia and the United States in the "C5+1" format. The parties particularly emphasized the need to improve institutional mechanisms for promoting joint projects.

Meetings in June 2026 with leading U.S. companies, financial institutions, and business circles also demonstrated that the bilateral economic partnership is entering a practical phase. These meetings were attended by representatives of the U.S. EXIM Bank, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce, and major companies such as Boeing, Visa, JP Morgan, Meta, BlackRock, and Air Products. Discussions focused on advancing specific projects in areas such as critical minerals, energy, metallurgy, finance, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies, among others.

The direct link between these sectors and the transport and logistics system is that modern industrial and export chains cannot develop without a reliable logistics infrastructure. Delivering critical minerals, industrial products, high-tech goods, and agricultural products to foreign markets requires multimodal transportation, containerization, warehouse and customs terminals, electronic tracking systems, and responsive transport services.

In this context, infrastructure initiatives such as the construction of a new international airport in Tashkent, data centers, and dry ports hold a special place on the transport and logistics agenda of Uzbek-American cooperation. The new international airport will help expand the country's air transport capabilities, developing air cargo, postal services, express delivery, e-commerce, pharmaceutical transport, and international transit services.

Currently, direct flights are operated on the Tashkent–New York–Tashkent route. This route is vital for developing business ties, tourism, and trade between the two countries.

At the same time, this route serves as an important logistics channel for high-value cargo requiring rapid delivery.

One of the most significant steps in the aviation sector relates to agreements between Uzbekistan Airways and Boeing. In September 2025, the national carrier signed an agreement to acquire 14 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with an option to purchase an additional 8. Later, during the C5+1 summit, the agreement for the additional 8 aircraft was converted into a firm order, bringing the total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft ordered by Uzbekistan Airways to 22.

The new fleet of long-haul aircraft will allow Tashkent to be transformed into a major air hub connecting North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This will not only increase passenger traffic but also create new opportunities for international air freight.

Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization is also of great importance for the transport and logistics industry. At a meeting on June 25, 2026, with a delegation led by the U.S. Trade Representative, special attention was given to continuing cooperation with and support from the United States in our country's WTO accession process. WTO membership will help harmonize trade rules with international standards, simplify customs procedures, increase the transparency of documentation, and reduce unnecessary barriers in foreign trade.

Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization is also of great importance for the transport and logistics industry. At a meeting on June 25, 2026, with a delegation led by the U.S. Trade Representative, special attention was given to continuing cooperation with and support from the United States in our country's WTO accession process. WTO membership will help align trade rules with international standards, simplify customs procedures, ensure transparency in documentation, and reduce unnecessary barriers in foreign trade.

This process directly leads to lower logistical costs, shorter cargo clearance times, and the creation of a competitive environment for exporters. Furthermore, a trade system compliant with international standards establishes a reliable legal framework for foreign investors and logistics companies. As a result, this expands investment opportunities in modern warehouses, logistics centers, dry ports, customs terminals, and multimodal transportation services.

Growth in trade figures also confirms this trend. While trade turnover between the two countries reached $882 million in 2024, the volume of mutual trade exceeded $1 billion in 2025. Moreover, the activity of approximately 340 American companies in our country's market shows that the United States has become one of Uzbekistan's key economic partners. Major projects being implemented in the energy, critical minerals, transport, agriculture, information technology, and other sectors are further enriching the practical content of bilateral cooperation. This means that the entry of Uzbek products into the US market is becoming a stable trend, and in turn, the demand for transport and logistics services will grow.

Another important area of cooperation is related to digital services and high technology. The growth in exports of IT and digital services targeting the US market indicates the formation of new export sectors in Uzbekistan's economy.

Cooperation within the C5+1 format adds a regional dimension to Uzbek-American transport and logistics relations. The dialogue between the countries of Central Asia and the United States on strengthening trade, investment, the digital economy, supply chains, and transport connectivity is accelerating the region's integration into global markets. For Uzbekistan, this process expands opportunities to diversify international transport corridors, enhance its transit potential, and develop into a regional logistics hub.

Large-scale programs are being implemented in the country to modernize its road and rail networks, terminals, and airports. The fact that more than $12 billion is planned to be allocated for the development of transport infrastructure by 2030 clearly demonstrates the scale and long-term significance of reforms in this area.

This cooperation serves the goals of modernizing Uzbekistan's transport and logistics system, increasing its export potential, integrating into global supply chains, and becoming a competitive logistics hub in Central Asia.

 

1. Abdusamatov, Leading Specialist

Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems

at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Through the Caspian to New Markets

📅 21.07.2026

Development of the “Central Asia Plus” Formats

In recent years, Central Asia has increasingly acted as a unified region in international relations. Alongside bilateral ties, “Central Asia Plus” formats have been developing, allowing the countries to coordinate their shared interests and discuss trade, investment, industrial cooperation, transportation, energy, and security with external partners.

Existing formats include “Central Asia–European Union,” “Central Asia–Russia,” the C5+1 platform with the United States, as well as dialogue mechanisms with China, Japan, South Korea, and other partners. These mechanisms do not replace bilateral cooperation but complement it with a regional agenda.

Central Asia’s Multivector Cooperation

The first “Central Asia–European Union” summit, held in Samarkand in April 2025, focused on developing a strategic partnership between the two regions. Particular attention was paid to investment, technological modernization, green energy, critical minerals, transportation, and logistics.

Uzbekistan proposed establishing an investment platform to advance regional projects and developing coordinated conditions for expanding the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. It also proposed holding a meeting of the transport ministers of the countries located along the route.

The second “Central Asia–Russia” summit, held in October 2025, focused on expanding trade, industrial cooperation, and collaboration in energy and transportation.

Uzbekistan proposed holding annual summits, establishing a coordination council at the deputy prime minister level, and creating an integrated transportation and logistics framework combining national road, rail, and air connectivity programs. Particular attention was also paid to developing the North–South Corridor and resilient production chains.

Thus, the “Central Asia Plus” formats enable the region to develop cooperation in several areas simultaneously. Their purpose is not to choose a single partner or route, but to expand economic ties and strengthen the region’s resilience to external changes.

Establishing a New C5+1 Format

The “Central Asia + Azerbaijan” format differs from other platforms because Azerbaijan is directly connected to the region through the Caspian Sea and is a key component of transportation routes leading toward the South Caucasus, Türkiye, and Europe.

For Central Asia, Azerbaijan is an important transit, investment, and industrial partner. For Azerbaijan, the Central Asian countries represent a growing market and a source of cargo flows for its port, railway, and logistics infrastructure. The new format therefore has not only political significance but also a specific economic dimension.

At the seventh Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, held in Tashkent on November 16, 2025, a decision was made to grant Azerbaijan full participation. This became the first meeting of regional leaders in the expanded format.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed gradually transforming the consultative dialogue into a strategic “Central Asian Community” format. Initial steps included strengthening the institutional framework of the meetings, establishing a rotating secretariat, and elevating the status of national coordinators to special representatives of the presidents.

In trade and economic cooperation, Uzbekistan proposed developing a Comprehensive Regional Program for Trade and Economic Cooperation through 2035. The document is expected to address the removal of administrative barriers, simplification of customs and tax procedures, joint use of industrial and free economic zones, and other measures to increase intraregional trade.

Initiatives were also proposed to establish a common investment space and develop e-commerce. These measures include coordinating basic approaches to investor protection, creating regional digital marketplaces, and developing reliable digital payment systems.

Particular attention was paid to transportation and energy infrastructure. Uzbekistan proposed establishing an Infrastructure Development Council at the deputy prime minister level. Priorities included the construction and modernization of roads, railways, border checkpoints, energy networks, green corridors, and digital infrastructure.

Transportation initiatives covered the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, the Trans-Afghan route, and the Trans-Caspian transportation routes connecting Central Asia with the markets of the Caucasus, Türkiye, and Europe.

In 2026, the meeting is expected to continue under Turkmenistan’s chairmanship in the new “Central Asia and Azerbaijan” format.

 

Economic Foundation of Cooperation

The expansion of the regional format is taking place against the backdrop of growing trade and investment ties between Uzbekistan and the Central Asian countries.

In 2025, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with the countries of the region reached $8.3 billion. Exports totaled approximately $3.2 billion, while imports amounted to $5.1 billion. Kazakhstan remained Uzbekistan’s largest regional trading partner, accounting for 60.2% of its trade with Central Asian countries. Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan each accounted for 14.5%, while Tajikistan accounted for 11%.

As of June 2026, Uzbekistan was home to 2,384 enterprises with capital from Central Asian countries. These included 1,283 enterprises with Kazakh capital, 442 with Tajik capital, 362 with Kyrgyz capital, and 297 with Turkmen capital.

The total volume of direct investment and loans attracted from the countries of the region in 2017–2025 amounted to $2.5 billion. In 2025 alone, this figure reached $1.3 billion.

At the same time, the potential of intraregional trade has not been fully utilized. According to calculations by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, replacing some goods imported from third countries with intraregional supplies could increase trade within Central Asia by $11.4 billion, more than doubling its current volume. Unlocking this potential requires reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, improving information exchange among businesses, and developing regional production chains.

Uzbekistan’s economic relations with Azerbaijan are also strengthening. Between 2017 and 2025, bilateral trade increased 9.5-fold, from $32.5 million to $307.3 million. Uzbekistan’s exports reached $227.3 million, while imports from Azerbaijan amounted to $80 million.

Uzbekistan’s exports mainly consist of manufactured goods, machinery and transportation equipment, food products, beverages, finished goods, and services. Imports are dominated by food and manufactured goods, machinery, transportation equipment, and chemical products.

Uzbekistan is home to 460 enterprises with Azerbaijani capital. Their number has increased 6.5-fold since 2017. In 2025, Azerbaijani investment in Uzbekistan totaled $173.7 million, bringing cumulative investment to $318.6 million.

An additional instrument was created in 2023 with the establishment of the Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Investment Company, which has authorized capital of $500 million and can finance projects in Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and third countries.

Cooperation is also developing in the automotive industry, textiles, construction, agriculture, and other sectors.

The Middle Corridor and Azerbaijan

Expanding trade and industrial cooperation requires reliable transportation infrastructure. For Uzbekistan, which has no direct access to the sea, developing alternative routes is essential to strengthening the resilience of foreign trade.

The Middle Corridor connects China and Central Asia with the South Caucasus, Türkiye, and Europe. Cargo from Uzbekistan can be transported through Kazakhstan or Turkmenistan to Caspian ports, shipped by sea to Azerbaijan, and then delivered to European markets through Georgia and Türkiye or across the Black Sea.

Azerbaijan occupies a central position in the western section of the route. Its transportation infrastructure includes the Alat International Sea Trade Port, the Caspian merchant fleet, and the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway.

The capacity of the Alat Port is expected to increase from 15 million to 25 million metric tons, while the capacity of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway has been expanded to 5 million metric tons. A unified digital platform is also being developed to simplify transportation operations and trade between Caspian ports.

According to the World Bank, if the necessary infrastructure and organizational reforms are implemented, freight traffic along the Middle Corridor could triple by 2030, while delivery times could be reduced by half.

During the first nine months of 2025, transit freight between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan exceeded 1 million metric tons. This indicates growing prospects for using Azerbaijan’s transportation infrastructure as a transit route for Uzbek cargo.

The opening of the Zangezur Corridor is also expected to create additional opportunities for all Central Asian countries.

Opportunities for Uzbekistan and Central Asia

For Uzbekistan, the Middle Corridor provides an additional route to the markets of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye, and the European Union. This makes it possible to diversify transportation routes and reduce foreign trade dependence on a limited number of corridors.

Delivery times and predictability are especially important. They directly affect the competitiveness of textiles, fruits and vegetables, electrical equipment, automobiles, and other high-value-added products. Coordinating rail and maritime transportation schedules, introducing digital documentation, and reducing border-crossing times could lower exporters’ costs.

The corridor’s development will also create demand for dry ports, multimodal terminals, warehouses and cold-storage facilities, repair enterprises, and insurance, financial, and digital services. Transportation can therefore be viewed not only as a means of delivering goods but also as a separate area of investment and industrial development.

Additional opportunities are associated with the construction of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. Its integration with the Middle Corridor would establish a shorter and more resilient transportation link between China, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.

For Central Asia as a whole, developing the route would make it possible to consolidate cargo flows, harmonize transportation procedures, and increase the region’s attractiveness to international investors. A larger and more stable cargo base would support regular train and vessel services, reduce per-unit costs, and expand the geographic reach of shipments.

The Middle Corridor is not viewed as a replacement for northern or southern routes. Its main purpose is to expand available options, strengthen logistics resilience, and create additional connections to external markets.

The Importance of Industrial Cooperation

Transportation cooperation will have a long-term impact if it is linked to the development of manufacturing. Growth in transit alone will not ensure the full realization of the new format’s economic potential.

Uzbekistan, other Central Asian countries, and Azerbaijan could establish joint production chains in the automotive industry, textiles, agricultural processing, electrical engineering, construction materials, chemicals, and machinery manufacturing.

An analysis by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms shows that regional enterprises could supply one another with raw materials, components, and finished products, reducing their dependence on imports from third countries.

One promising area is the establishment of joint industrial zones and logistics centers along the Middle Corridor. The idea of creating “mirror” special economic zones in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan has not yet reached the implementation stage, but it offers significant development potential.

At the same time, growing bilateral trade, the work of the joint investment company, and expanding transportation links are creating conditions for revisiting this initiative.

Such zones could specialize in product assembly and processing, consolidation of export shipments, warehousing operations, and transportation services. Establishing interconnected production facilities in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan would combine Central Asia’s industrial potential with the transportation infrastructure of the South Caucasus.

Conclusion

The first meeting in the expanded format established a political and institutional foundation for cooperation between Central Asia and Azerbaijan. The next meeting, under Turkmenistan’s chairmanship, could focus on the practical development of the Middle Corridor and the expansion of industrial cooperation.

In transportation, the main priorities include coordinating tariffs and procedures, developing regular rail and maritime services, modernizing port and border infrastructure, digitizing documentation, and exploring opportunities to connect the Middle Corridor with the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway.

In industry, priorities could include establishing joint production chains, developing industrial zones, implementing projects through the Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Investment Company, and attracting international financial institutions to infrastructure and manufacturing projects.

For Uzbekistan, the “Central Asia + Azerbaijan” format creates opportunities to expand exports, diversify transportation routes, and attract investment in manufacturing and logistics. For other Central Asian countries, it provides an additional route to Western markets.

The format’s future significance will depend on how consistently the participating countries develop the Middle Corridor and complement the transportation agenda with industrial and investment cooperation. The upcoming meeting could provide practical momentum for implementing the most ambitious and mutually beneficial projects.

 

Edvard Romanov,

Center for Economic Research and Reforms

Uzbekistan in the “C5+1” Platform: Strengthening the Strategic Dialogue with the United States and Central Asian Countries

📅 10.11.2025

Modern Central Asia is becoming a space of sustainable growth and mutual trust. The countries of the region demonstrate a strong commitment to building balanced relations with global partners, prioritizing practical initiatives in trade, energy, transport, and innovation. One of the key formats shaping this new architecture is the “C5+1” platform, which unites the Central Asian states and the United States.

Regional Consolidation: Dialogue Based on Equality and Pragmatism

In recent years, the “C5+1” format has evolved from a diplomatic mechanism into an effective platform for coordination and implementation of joint projects. The latest ministerial meeting in Samarkand, attended by the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, demonstrated a high level of trust and a shared focus on tangible results.

Key topics on the Samarkand agenda included food security, climate resilience, development of green and digital economies, diversification of transport corridors, and deepening industrial cooperation.

Following the meeting, memorandums were signed on decarbonization and digitalization of customs procedures - a step that paves the way for harmonized trade rules, easier exports, and increased investment inflows into the region.

Central Asia: From Fragmentation to an Integrated Economic Space

The figures speak for themselves: the total foreign trade turnover of Central Asian countries has reached $220 billion, almost doubling since 2017, while mutual investments have grown 5.6 times. The region’s combined GDP increased by 40% over the past five years to exceed $406 billion.

These indicators reflect not only growth but also a qualitative shift - from isolated initiatives to a coordinated regional development strategy.

Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan: Industrial and Logistics Core

The Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan partnership exemplifies a new model of integration. Between January and August 2025, mutual trade reached $3.03 billion, up by 15%. Projects exceeding $7 billion are under implementation across engineering, agriculture, construction, and energy sectors. Over 1,100 enterprises with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan, creating jobs and new export niches.

Uzbekistan - Tajikistan: Transport and Energy Bridge

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are rapidly strengthening railway and energy cooperation. In 2024, cargo traffic between the two countries reached 10 million tons, while regular passenger flights and a joint investment company with a $100 million capital were launched. These are not just numbers - they represent an architecture of trust that enables joint industrial and agricultural clusters.

Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan: Corridors of Growth

Cooperation with Turkmenistan is expanding in energy, logistics, and industry. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.14 billion, and the Shavat - Dashoguz border zone is evolving into a hub of trade and joint manufacturing. A localization project for repairing Turkmen wagons in Andijan is a vivid example of practical industrial integration.

Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan: A “Roadmap” for the Future

The interstate program until 2030 and the Border Regions Council ensure steady progress. From January to August 2025, trade turnover approached $600 million, while Uzbekistan’s exports grew by nearly 80%. New logistics routes are being developed to reduce transport costs and enhance business competitiveness.

“C5+1” as a Catalyst for Development

Participation in the “C5+1” framework gives regional integration new depth - aligning national interests with global sustainability trends.

The United States and regional partners are building long-term cooperation in green energy, resilient supply chains, infrastructure modernization, and human-capital development.

Special attention is given to unified standards for digital trade, environmental management, and logistics technologies, making Central Asia a vital link in Eurasian value chains.

Benefits for the Region and Uzbekistan

For Central Asia, the “C5+1” format provides:

• Investment and technology: opportunities to attract foreign partners for renewable energy, raw-material processing, and digital transformation;
• New markets: expanded export opportunities through unified customs and trade standards;
• Energy security: development of interconnected grids and energy-storage infrastructure;
• Human capital: education, internships, and exchanges with leading global companies.

For Uzbekistan, the advantages are clear:

• Expanded export potential through access to new transport routes;
• Technology localization and industrial partnerships with neighbors;
• Institutional stability and strengthened position as a regional integrator;
• Inflow of direct investment supported by uniform rules and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Conclusion: From Geography to the Economy of the Future

Central Asia is steadily transforming from a “crossroads of geography” into a region of synergy. The “C5+1” format has become a framework connecting the efforts of regional and global partners into a unified development strategy - based on trust, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth.

For Uzbekistan, participation in this platform is not merely a foreign-policy choice, but a practical instrument for achieving its long-term national goals - industrialization, export growth, and improved living standards.

‘Mustaqillik’ Generation: New Navigators of the Silk Road

📅 14.08.2026

Sadriddin Suyarov,

Journalist

 

A Tashkent evening in midsummer can resemble a vibrant Mediterranean metropolis transplanted into the heart of Central Asia.

On a summer terrace in the city center, young people move effortlessly between Uzbek and English while discussing a new fintech startup. A few kilometers away, their peers are presenting an exhibition where traditional Uzbek ikat textiles meet digital art.

This is more than a snapshot of modern Tashkent. It is the face of Uzbekistan in 2026, a country marking the 35th anniversary of its independence.

Three and a half decades may be a brief moment in history, but for Uzbekistan, the anniversary carries a particular meaning. More than 60 percent of the population is under 30. Those turning 35 today are, in a sense, the same age as the independent Uzbek state itself. They are known as the ‘Mustaqillik Generation’ - Generation of Independence.

They have no personal memory of shortages, the Iron Curtain or a centrally planned economy. Their worldview was shaped instead by global connectivity, increasingly open borders and sweeping reforms of the past decade. Today, this generation is increasingly taking the helm and helping define Uzbekistan’s future.

 

From Caravans to Code

For centuries, the Silk Road connected East and West through Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Shakhrisabz. Today, that historic exchange is taking on a new form.

Caravans have given way to fiber-optic networks, while technology hubs are emerging where caravanserais once stood. The most valuable resources of the new Silk Road are no longer silk and spices, but data, technology and human capital.

Over the past several years, Uzbekistan has made a significant leap in the IT sector, moving from a regional consumer of technology toward an exporter of digital services. At the center of this transformation is IT Park Uzbekistan, which has created an ecosystem for technology companies and helped connect them with international markets. Uzbek digital services are increasingly reaching clients in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the UAE, and beyond.

Behind these figures are individual stories. Young programmer and entrepreneur Ziyobek Turdiev, drawing on his experience in a U.S.-based logistics company specializing in vehicle transportation, founded TheCarGo, an AI-powered platform designed for American auto-transport brokers. Today, the company serves the US market and continues to expand.

His experience reflects a broader transformation: for a growing number of young Uzbeks, global markets can be reached from Tashkent itself.

This transformation has been supported by economic liberalization and a strong emphasis on education. Programs such as ‘One Million Uzbek Coders’ opening of branches of leading foreign universities and tax incentives for the IT sector have helped create an environment where entrepreneurship and innovation can flourish.

 

A New Diplomacy of Openness

Historic Silk Road prospered when trade routes were open and travelers could move freely between its cities. Uzbekistan’s recent transformation has increasingly revived this principle.

Introduction of visa-free travel for citizens of more than 90 countries has helped turn Uzbekistan from one of the region’s more difficult destinations to access into an increasingly attractive tourism and business hub.

But the change goes deeper than mobility. Over the past decade, constitutional reform, stronger protection of human rights, the ban on forced labor and a greater role for civil society have contributed to a broader transformation of Uzbekistan’s social and political landscape.

A younger generation of lawyers, diplomats, civil servants and entrepreneurs, many educated at universities in Europe, the United States and Asia, is bringing international experience into national practice.

Their growing engagement is also visible on the global stage. The 14th UNESCO Youth Forum, held in Samarkand in October 2025, brought together 145 young leaders from 135 UNESCO Member States and Associate Members. Held for the first time in Central Asia, the forum focused on climate action and its social impact on young people, while Uzbek participants contributed to discussions on climate and cultural heritage.

 

A More Connected Central Asia

This opening has also changed Uzbekistan’s role in Central Asia.

Rather than being defined by the rivalries of the past, the region is increasingly becoming a space for cooperation, connectivity and shared economic opportunity. Young entrepreneurs and activists from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are increasingly working together across borders, seeing Central Asia less as a geopolitical fault line and more as a shared home.

Recent youth initiatives illustrate this shift. The international ‘Eco-Zakovat’ intellectual tournament in Samarkand brought together around 150 young participants from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.

Eco-Camp 2026 in Tashkent Region brought together around 300 young environmental activists for discussions, competitions and practical initiatives focused on environmental protection.

For this generation, regional cooperation is becoming less a diplomatic slogan and more a natural way of thinking and acting.

 

Tradition Reimagined

‘Mustaqillik Generation’ is also redefining how Uzbekistan presents its cultural identity to the world.

Traditional textiles such as adras and khan-atlas, produced through the distinctive ikat technique, are being reimagined by young designers and combined with contemporary fashion. Uzbek patterns and craftsmanship are increasingly appearing in collections aimed at audiences in Paris, Milan, New York and other global cultural centers.

Young designers such as Nigora Hashimova and Marjona Sadinova illustrate this new creative confidence, bringing Uzbek-inspired designs to international platforms.

Country’s participation in the 2026 Venice Biennale, through its national pavilion The Aural Sea, offers another example. Bringing together Uzbek artists, young creatives and international collaborators, the pavilion explores the ecological transformation of the Aral Sea through contemporary art and storytelling.

Cultural revival is not simply about preserving the past. Traditional crafts, from Rishtan ceramics to Bukhara gold embroidery, are also supporting local communities, creating economic opportunities and sustaining environmentally responsible production.

For international audiences, this creates a different image of Uzbekistan: not a country frozen in its historical heritage, but a living cultural space where tradition and innovation coexist.

 

The Age of Conscious Maturity

For an individual, 35 can mark the transition from youthful ambition to greater maturity and a clearer understanding of one’s place in the world. For a state, meaning can be much the same.

As Uzbekistan marks 35 years of independence, its transformation is increasingly becoming more than a government-led process. It is being reinforced by a generation that has grown up with greater access to information, greater mobility and a stronger connection to the outside world.

This generation may ultimately prove to be the most important guarantee that Uzbekistan’s opening to the world will continue.

Modern Uzbekistan is therefore revealing itself in a new light. It is no longer simply viewed through the prism of its Soviet past or as an exotic destination along the old Silk Road. It is emerging as a dynamic, increasingly open and future-oriented state, with an expanding role in the economic and diplomatic architecture of Central Asia.

The great legacy of the Silk Road was never only about trade. At its heart was the movement of people, ideas, knowledge and cultures.

Today, a new generation of Uzbeks is carrying that legacy forward - not with caravans, but with technology, entrepreneurship, diplomacy and creativity.

As Uzbekistan celebrates the 35^th Anniversary of its Independence, it is not merely commemorating its past. It is writing a new chapter in its global story.

 

Uzbekistan nominated for Chairmanship of the UN Tourism Comission for Europe for 2025–2027 term

📅 14.05.2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

ON THE STATUS OF THE HOST COUNTRY AND A NEW PHASE OF INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL COOPERATION

📅 12.08.2026

Sport represents one of the most effective instruments for enhancing a nation’s image and visibility on the global stage. A country that consistently prioritizes the development of this sector achieves sustainable and measurable results over time. Such achievements are reflected through the dedication, professionalism, and patriotism of its citizens. At the same time, success in this field requires not only talent and perseverance, but also comprehensive state support and an enabling institutional environment. Under these conditions, the younger generation is empowered to pursue its goals with confidence and determination.

Occasions when the national flag is raised and the national anthem is performed at international arenas serve as profound expressions of national pride and dignity. In this context, sport constitutes an important unifying factor that embodies shared values and collective aspirations.

The World Nomad Games represent a unique international sports and cultural initiative that reflects these principles. Since their inception in 2014 in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Games have steadily evolved into a significant international platform. Subsequent editions held in 2016 and 2018 in Kyrgyzstan, as well as in 2022 in the Republic of Türkiye, have demonstrated consistent growth in both scale and international recognition.

The forthcoming hosting of the VI World Nomad Games in the Republic of Uzbekistan constitutes a major milestone. This event not only represents an important development in the field of sport, but also serves as a clear indication of the country’s growing international standing and engagement.

It should be emphasized that the World Nomad Games extend beyond the framework of sporting competition. They represent an integrated platform combining sport, culture, and knowledge. In this regard, Uzbekistan’s role as the host country provides an opportunity to present its rich historical heritage and cultural identity to the international community in a contemporary and compelling manner. The territory of Uzbekistan has historically been a crossroads of civilizations, where diverse cultures, traditions, and peoples have interacted for centuries.

Ancient caravan routes, equestrian traditions, national wrestling, and elements of oral heritage constitute an integral part of this legacy. The World Nomad Games contribute to the preservation and revitalization of these traditions.

At the same time, this initiative serves as an important platform for strengthening international cultural cooperation. In particular, during the 23rd Meeting of Ministers of Culture of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states, held in July 2026 in Cholpon-Ata (Kyrgyz Republic), key issues related to the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation were thoroughly discussed. A number of initiatives were advanced to expand collaboration in the fields of theatre, cinema, music, museum studies, and the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.

Such multilateral dialogue and coordinated initiatives significantly enhance the substance and long-term impact of major international projects such as the World Nomad Games. These initiatives function not only as sporting events, but also as platforms for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding among nations.

The project also possesses considerable economic and tourism potential. The participation of international athletes, experts, and visitors contributes to raising global awareness of Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and contemporary development. This, in turn, supports the promotion of national tourism, traditional crafts, and creative industries.

Moreover, the World Nomad Games provide an important opportunity to further showcase Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage on the international stage. Hosting such a large-scale event underscores the country’s cultural capacity and its commitment to preserving and promoting its historical legacy within the global cultural landscape.

In conclusion, the Republic of Uzbekistan continues to demonstrate an active and constructive role not only in the field of sport, but also in the sphere of cultural diplomacy. The upcoming World Nomad Games are expected to serve as a significant affirmation of these efforts and to further strengthen international cultural cooperation.

Uzbekistan Launches the Updated and Ambitious “Uzbekistan–2030” Strategy for National Development

📅 01.04.2026

TASHKENT — Uzbekistan has unveiled its updated Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy, marking a major step in the country’s journey toward national reform and development. Officials emphasise that implementing reform requires responsibility, consistency, institutional discipline, and public legitimacy. The government has revised the strategy following extensive public consultations, ensuring that citizens’ voices are reflected in the results-based policy framework. Aligned with international standards and designed to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the strategy positions Uzbekistan as an active participant in the global development agenda.

A defining feature of the strategy is its emphasis on measurable implementation. Authorities have established 100 goals to be assessed annually through 2030, each with designated institutions, mechanisms, and financing sources. This approach creates a governance model centred on accountability and transparency. International organisations and development partners will also be able to monitor progress, access reports, and contribute expertise — a move officials say will further enhance transparency and attract external support.

The first major priority of the strategy is to create opportunities for every person to realise their potential, with 44 goals linked to human development. These include targets for expanding access to education, healthcare, employment, and social protection. In education, the government aims to boost pre-school coverage to 80 per cent, achieve universal participation in school-preparation groups, and modernise schools with electronic boards and new-generation textbooks. Teachers’ salaries are set to double, and 500,000 education staff will receive ongoing professional development. Higher and vocational education goals include expanding access, improving graduate employability, and increasing the number of internationally accredited university programs to 200.

Officials have tied human capital development to advances in science and innovation. The strategy calls for raising spending on science to 1 per cent of GDP, increasing the number of research and innovation projects, and propelling Uzbekistan into the top 60 of the Global Innovation Index.

Healthcare reforms aim to increase average life expectancy to 78 years, with health expenditure projected to rise to 5 per cent of GDP. Priorities include reducing premature deaths from major diseases, improving maternal and child health, and expanding digital healthcare services. Broader social goals include increasing women’s representation in leadership and civil service, eliminating extreme poverty, reducing unemployment to 4 per cent, and training 2 million citizens in new skills and foreign languages.

Youth policy is another central pillar, with goals to offer free foreign language instruction to 7 million young people, train 3 million in modern professions using AI tools, and employ 300,000 in the IT sector. The strategy also seeks to boost participation in sports, culture, and the arts nationwide.

The second major priority is sustainable economic growth. The government has set targets to increase GDP from $145 billion to over $240 billion by 2030, and GDP per capita from $3,800 to $5,800. Other economic targets include keeping inflation at 5 per cent, public debt below 50 per cent of GDP, and the budget deficit under 3 per cent.

Plans for industry focus on diversification and value addition, with aims to boost high-tech output, raise car production to 1 million units (including 200,000 electric vehicles), create 1.8 million industrial jobs, and increase industrial value added to $60 billion. The government expects over 400 strategic projects worth $150 billion in foreign investment. Financial reforms will include bank privatisation, expanded credit, and the development of Islamic finance.

The strategy also emphasises the green economy. Officials want renewable energy to account for 54 per cent of total generation and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35 per cent. Transport and logistics improvements will include expanding transit freight, repairing or building roads, and modernising airports. In agriculture, the focus is on boosting productivity and exports, with a target of $10 billion in agricultural exports.

Environmental protection and water saving are also key goals. Uzbekistan plans to improve water-use efficiency by 25 per cent, fully meter drinking water, and expand water-saving technology in agriculture. Other environmental targets include increasing urban greenery, expanding forested land, and creating new green spaces in the Aral Sea region and deserts. The government also aims to improve biodiversity, waste management, air quality, and climate resilience.

Strengthening the rule of law and public service is another core priority. The strategy aims to improve local governance, expand electronic public services, and reduce emergency response times. Legislative reforms will focus on increasing the number of directly applicable laws and reducing the regulatory burden. At the same time, additional measures will promote meritocracy, judicial reform, human rights, anti-corruption, and public oversight.

The strategy also calls for advancing a safe and peace-loving state by promoting an active foreign policy, regional cooperation, support for Uzbeks abroad, and better-managed labour migration. Targets include increasing the number of visa-free destinations for Uzbek citizens, boosting trade turnover with neighbours, expanding diplomatic representation abroad, and advancing WTO accession. Other goals include defence modernisation, disaster preparedness, and strengthening public trust and interethnic harmony.

A formal monitoring system will track implementation through a digital platform, using colour-coded performance categories to flag progress or delays. The Development Strategy Centre will play a key role in monitoring strategic indicators and recommending improvements.

The Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy stands out for combining ambition with a structured, results-oriented approach. Rather than isolated initiatives, the government is pursuing a coordinated, accountable, and long-term transformation agenda. The strategy is expected to guide Uzbekistan’s development and reform efforts well into the next decade.

 

By Eldor Tulyakov,

Executive Director, Development Strategy Centre

Tashkent brings together leaders and key deals in Polymer Market of Central Asia

📅 11.09.2026

September 22-24^th, 2026, traditional Plastex Uzbekistan 2026 exhibition will be held in the capital of Uzbekistan

 

More than 250 companies and brands from Austria, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, China, Latvia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Uzbekistan have confirmed their participation in the exhibition.

Organizers: international exhibition company Iteca Exhibitions and its partner ICA Eurasia Group.

Every autumn, Plastex Uzbekistan brings together equipment manufacturers, raw material suppliers, processors, engineers and executives from the polymer industry in Tashkent. As the only specialized plastics industry exhibition in Uzbekistan, it annually showcases the latest developments in the chemical and polymer sectors.

Among the new exhibitors are companies that will present their solutions to Uzbek industry professionals for the first time. “Koenig & Bauer Kammann GmbH (Germany)” has been a leading manufacturer of fully automated screen-printing machines for the decoration of plastic containers for more than 70 years. “Definitive Innovation (Italy)” is a reliable partner in advanced solutions for dosing, mixing, filtration, storage, pneumatic conveying and industrial automation technologies. “PLAS MEC S.R.L. (Italy)” enjoys worldwide recognition as a leading manufacturer of mixing systems for PVC, plastics, masterbatches, powder coatings, engineering plastics and other high-quality materials. “TERMOKAR MAKİNA (Türkiye)” offers highly efficient chillers and heat-exchange solutions for industries including plastics, rubber, medical, pharmaceutical, food and automotive manufacturing. Local manufacturing will be represented at the exhibition by “NOVOPLAST TPE (Uzbekistan)”, a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomers and products made from them.

Visitors will be able to explore modern equipment for plastics production and processing, polymer raw materials and specialty additives, moulds and dies, auxiliary equipment, as well as solutions for the packaging and recycling industries.

One of the key advantages of Plastex Uzbekistan remains its practical exhibition format. Visitors will have the opportunity to see equipment in operation, receive consultations from company representatives and discuss technical issues directly with manufacturers and suppliers.

Since 2025, Plastex Uzbekistan has been held jointly with “4P Central Asia”, bringing together the printing, packaging, plastics and polymer sectors. This format expands the exhibition and enables industry professionals to explore solutions from several interconnected sectors during a single visit.

Chemical and polymer industry remains one of the priority areas of Uzbekistan’s industrial modernization. Growing polymer production and processing are creating sustained demand for modern equipment, raw materials and technologies. In this context, Plastex Uzbekistan serves as an important B2B platform for international equipment and raw material manufacturers, chambers of commerce and industry associations. It provides an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the current needs of the Uzbek market, assess prospects for localization and exports and establish direct contacts with key industry enterprises.

For official delegations, the exhibition is of practical interest as a tool for assessing the investment and trade potential of the polymer industry - both from the perspective of the Uzbek market and in the context of advanced global technologies showcased at the exhibition by leading international manufacturers.

 

 

Dunyo IA

Current State, Comparative Dynamics, and Development Prospects of Relations with the Organization of Turkic States

📅 12.05.2026

Relations with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) have reached a qualitatively new stage of development by 2026. While Uzbekistan’s accession to the organization in 2019 was largely of a political and symbolic nature, today this cooperation has evolved into a comprehensive system enriched with tangible elements of economic, transport-logistical, and technological integration. In this context, the OTS is no longer merely a platform based on shared language and cultural ties, but rather functions as a significant geo-economic center influencing regional development.

The summits held between 2024 and 2026, along with the documents adopted within their framework, have significantly accelerated the institutional consolidation of the organization. In particular, initiatives such as the “Charter of the Turkic World”, as well as decisions related to digital cooperation and green development, have defined the long-term strategic priorities of the OTS. By 2026, the practical outcomes of these initiatives have begun to materialize: the volume of mutual trade has increased, the number of joint investment projects has expanded, and transport connectivity among member states has been substantially strengthened. All these developments indicate the steady strengthening of the organization both institutionally and in practical terms.

A comparative analysis of development dynamics over the past seven years reveals several key trends. First, there has been a clear institutionalization of political dialogue, with meetings at the level of heads of state becoming systematic and mechanisms for implementing decisions being established. Second, the scope of economic cooperation has significantly expanded: whereas trade relations were previously limited, there is now active development of industrial cooperation, the establishment of investment funds, and the formation of joint production clusters. At the same time, cooperation in transport and logistics has intensified considerably, transforming the OTS into one of the key transit hubs of Eurasia. Particular importance by 2026 has been attached to the so-called “Middle Corridor” (the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route). Against the backdrop of global geopolitical shifts and disruptions in traditional supply chains, this corridor is increasingly viewed as a reliable and alternative route connecting Europe and Asia. Uzbekistan is actively participating in these processes by modernizing its railway and road infrastructure and developing logistics centers. As a result, the country is strengthening its position not only as a transit state but also as one of the key transport hubs in the region.

Economic cooperation within the OTS continues to demonstrate stable positive dynamics. By 2026, the volume of intra-organizational trade has grown significantly, driven by trade facilitation measures, harmonization of customs procedures, and the implementation of digital platforms. At the same time, new projects in industrial cooperation are being carried out, particularly in sectors such as textiles, automotive manufacturing, and agricultural processing.

In the energy sector, cooperation is acquiring new dimensions. While the primary focus was previously on traditional energy sources, priority is now increasingly given to green energy. Projects in solar and wind power, energy efficiency programs, and initiatives aimed at ensuring environmental sustainability are being actively promoted within the OTS framework. This contributes to strengthening the organization’s role in the global climate agenda.

Digital transformation has emerged as one of the most rapidly developing areas of cooperation. By 2026, collaboration in e-government systems, digital services, and IT startups has deepened significantly. These processes not only enhance economic efficiency but also contribute to the modernization of public administration.

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation continues to play a crucial role, serving as the foundation of the OTS’s “soft power.” Educational exchange programs, the establishment of joint universities, tourism development, and cultural initiatives contribute to strengthening mutual understanding among member states. This, in turn, creates a solid social foundation for further deepening economic and political cooperation.

From the perspective of future development, the further evolution of the OTS is associated with several strategic directions. In particular, the likelihood of forming elements of a common economic space is increasing. Further deepening of transport and logistics integration is expected, enabling the OTS to become an integral part of global trade chains. Significant potential is also linked to the development of the digital economy and innovation. At the same time, geopolitical factors will continue to play an important role, contributing to the transformation of the OTS into one of the key centers of power in Eurasia.

In conclusion, by 2026 the Organization of Turkic States has emerged as a dynamically developing integration structure steadily expanding its sphere of influence. Uzbekistan’s active and proactive participation in these processes plays an important role in ensuring its foreign policy and economic interests. The observed positive trends suggest that, in the future, the OTS is likely to secure a significant and stable position not only at the regional but also at the global level.

Peace and Trust in Asia - essential conditions for sustainable development

📅 14.10.2026

The third decade of the 21^st century is shaping up to be a complex yet opportunity-rich period for the international relations system.

In this context, trust can be viewed today as a unique form of developmental capital. This is because in an environment where political trust exists, economic cooperation expands, investment climates improve, transport and logistics links develop and scientific and technological exchanges accelerate. Most importantly, nations begin to seek solutions to common problems through collaboration rather than in isolation.

Central Asia’s role as a region of peace, trust, and cooperation has also achieved international recognition within the framework of the United Nations General Assembly. In 2025, Uzbekistan delegation to the UN emphasized that joint efforts aimed at strengthening mutual trust, expanding economic and humanitarian ties and ensuring stability in Central Asia are shaping a new regional agenda based on equality, solidarity and shared responsibility. 

Adoption of a resolution at the UN General Assembly in May 2026, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and economic integration to ensure sustainable development in Central Asia, served as a logical continuation of this process. It places special emphasis on promoting innovation, creating new jobs, ensuring long term sustainable economic growth and further developing good-neighborly relations among Central Asian nations.  

In Uzbekistan’s contemporary foreign policy, transforming Central Asia into a peaceful, stable and prosperous region is viewed as a top priority. The Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asian nations have become an important mechanism for coordinating positions, advancing shared initiatives and strengthening mutual trust on an institutional basis. 

Today's Asia is one of the leading spaces for the global economy, industry, innovation and technological progress. However, the long-term future of the continent is not determined solely by economic growth rates. Asia's true potential also depends on the ability of states with diverse political, economic, and cultural systems to cooperate around shared interests. 

From this perspective, the meaning of “connectivity” in modern international relations is also evolving. While it was previously explained primarily through transport and trade routes, today it manifests as a complex phenomenon encompassing transport, energy, digital infrastructure, science, education and people-to-people ties. 

A technological innovation created in one country can increase the efficiency of another nation's economy, and joint scientific research can offer a solution to a pressing issue for the entire region. For this reason, the new Asian model must rely not only on the movement of goods and capital but also on the free exchange of knowledge, technology and human capital. 

In this regard, the cooperation between Central Asia and the Republic of Korea serves as a promising example. At the first “Central Asia – Republic of Korea” Summit held in Seoul in September 2026, security, practical economic cooperation and humanitarian exchanges were discussed as priority areas. Uzbek side particularly emphasized the open, pragmatic, and constructive nature of this partnership. 

Value of such formats lies in the fact that they enrich traditional diplomatic relations with concrete economic, technological, scientific and educational projects. As a result, mutual trust transcends the level of political declarations and begins to manifest in practical outcomes. 

One of the strongest foundations for sustainable peace is mutual understanding between people. Education, science and culture play an incomparable role in shaping it. 

Political agreements establish the legal and institutional framework for relations between states. However, long-term trust between nations is primarily strengthened by people who understand each other's language, history, culture and values. 

Therefore, viewing universities merely as educational institutions that train personnel no longer fully meets the demands of the modern era. A modern university is a space where scientific ideas are generated, different cultures engage in dialogue, youth gain international experience and long-term intellectual ties are formed between states. 

Educational cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea

demonstrates noteworthy experience in this regard. Cooperation in higher education, vocational training, science and technology is expanding, making education a vital area of bilateral relations that shapes human capital. In particular, the need to train specialists who do not simply import modern technology but understand, adapt and develop it under local conditions is becoming increasingly urgent. 

Conceptual significance of this approach is that the education-science innovation-production chain ensures the stability of international cooperation alongside economic development. Joint scientific laboratories, academic exchange, mobility of professors and students, and international research projects build professional trust between states. Over time, professional trust transforms into intersocietal trust.  In this sense, international cooperation focused on education can be evaluated as a long-term investment in peace. Looking at this issue through the example of Bukhara, one can see a unique continuity between history and the present day. As one of the vital crossroads of the Great Silk Road, Bukhara has served for centuries not only as a hub for trade but also for science, education, culture and the exchange of ideas. 

This historical experience carries significant meaning for the modern era as well. Having connected peoples and civilizations through caravan routes in ancient times, Bukhara can contribute to dialogue between different countries today through international education, scientific cooperation and academic diplomacy. 

At Bukhara State University, we approach international cooperation precisely from this perspective. Joint educational programs with foreign higher education institutions, scientific research, international conferences, academic mobility and the exchange of professors and students are not isolated directions of the university's international activity. They serve a single purpose — bringing peoples closer together through knowledge and strengthening mutual trust through scientific cooperation. 

In this process, role of youth is especially critical. A student participating in an international academic program today may become a scientist, engineer, entrepreneur, diplomat or public administration specialist tomorrow. Their experience of communicating with representatives of other nations and cultures today will undoubtedly influence their future professional decisions. 

Therefore, it is not enough to evaluate the results of cooperation between universities simply by the number of signed memorandums or implemented projects. Its most significant outcome is the formation of a new generation that understands one another and can cooperate for the sake of common goals. 

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals also define the formation of peaceful and inclusive societies as an indispensable condition for sustainable development. This approach is no coincidence. Where there is no peace, long-term investment is difficult; in an unstable environment, scientific research and innovation slow down; and under conditions of distrust, states are forced to spend their resources on risk management rather than development.  Therefore, when thinking about sustainable development in Asia, it is necessary to view three interconnected concepts as a single whole: peace, trust and human capital. Peace creates a stable environment for development. Trust expands cooperation between states, institutions, and societies. Human capital, in turn, transforms these opportunities into scientific, technological, economic and social outcomes. 

Support for the initiative to strengthen regional cooperation and economic integration in Central Asia at the UN General Assembly in 2026 also shows the intrinsic link between peace, good-neighborliness, and sustainable economic development. 

In today's environment, Asia's future is determined not by the isolated success of a single state, but by the capacity of regional states to collectively find solutions to shared problems. Climate change, water resources, ecological safety, energy, food supply, digital transformation and technological progress are issues that are not restricted by national borders. Their solution also demands transnational cooperation. 

Therefore, modern era requires us to understand peace not merely as the absence of conflicts, but as an active socio-political environment that creates opportunities for development. Trust should be evaluated not as an abstract category of diplomatic relations, but as a practical mechanism for economic and intellectual cooperation.

Asia's progress in the 21st century largely depends on the degree to which we strengthen trust between states, how effectively we establish dialogue, and our ability to place common interests above competition. 

New cooperative environment emerging in Central Asia demonstrates important experience along this path. Open dialogue, good-neighborliness, economic integration and scientific and humanitarian exchanges are shaping a qualitatively new stage of relations between states.  The task now is to further deepen this trust through strong institutions, joint economic and scientific projects, academic exchanges, cultural dialogue and youth cooperation.  After all, peace is not just today's tranquility — it is an opportunity created for future development. Trust, on the other hand, is the force that realizes this opportunity.  Peace builds trust, trust expands cooperation and cooperation creates a solid foundation for sustainable development and shared prosperity.  This principle must become the most essential substance of Asia's future development paradigm.

 

 

 

 

Obidjon Khamidov 

Rector of Bukhara State University