The current stage of global economic development is characterized by a large-scale transformation of international supply chains and growing geopolitical uncertainty. In this context, transport connectivity is becoming a key factor in ensuring economic security and sustainable development.

These processes are particularly relevant for the countries of Eurasia. Comprehensive transport and logistics cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Uzbekistan, which serve as key links in the new transit corridor architecture, is of strategic importance here.

Russian-Uzbek cooperation is demonstrating stable positive dynamics. By the end of 2025, the total volume of freight traffic between the countries reached 18.2 million tons, an increase of 13.6 percent compared to the previous year. Exports accounted for 3.6 million tons, imports for 9.2 million tons, and transit for 5.4 million tons.

Rail transport traditionally forms the bulk of freight turnover. In 2025, volumes reached 12.9 million tonnes, representing a 12.3 percent increase compared to the previous year, while transit traffic increased by almost 15 percent to 4.8 million tonnes.

The development of strategic industrial cooperation has become an important stage of cooperation. Specifically, a large-scale project to transfer the Tashkent Passenger Carriage Construction and Repair Plant to the trust management of Transmashholding JSC is being implemented. The signed agreements provide for the complete modernization of the plant by the end of 2026, with the prospect of its phased privatization.

In terms of passenger rail transportation, service has been fully restored on the Tashkent-Moscow and Tashkent-Kazan routes. The launch of train service from Andijan to Moscow and the establishment of direct rail service between the two countries' tourist centers are currently on the agenda.

The development of road transportation also remains an important area of ​​cooperation. By the end of 2025, the volume of road freight transport exceeded 5.2 million tons, representing a 16.5% increase. At the same time, passenger bus service continues to develop. Regular bus services have been established from Tashkent to Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnodar, Ufa, Moscow, and St. Petersburg.

Routes to Nizhny Novgorod, Tyumen, and Yekaterinburg are planned for 2026–2028. To improve service quality, unified service standards, monitoring systems, and digital services, including electronic ticket booking, are being implemented.

Significant results have also been achieved in aviation services. In 2025, more than 34,000 bilateral flights were operated, representing a 4.8% increase, carrying over 4.2 million passengers. Currently, flights operate at a frequency of 340 per week, involving over 45 Russian airlines and leading Uzbek carriers (Uzbekistan Airways, Qanot Sharq, Panorama Airways, and My Freighter).

A breakthrough was reached in June 2025 in Moscow by aviation authorities. The parties agreed to increase the frequency to 1,000 scheduled flights per week. If these quotas are fully utilized, the annual passenger capacity will exceed 16 million passengers. The most significant area of ​​cooperation is the joint development of new international transport corridors, the key one being the multimodal corridor "Belarus – Russia – Kazakhstan – Uzbekistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan." The project was initiated by the signing of a memorandum on the development of this corridor in 2023 at the first SCO Transport Forum.

In April 2024, the first meeting of the working group was held in Termez, where the parties signed a roadmap providing for the analysis of cargo flows, the implementation of electronic digital documents, and the optimization of customs procedures. After Pakistan joined the memorandum, a number of additional meetings of the working group were held throughout 2025, during which tariff conditions, logistics solutions, and the organization of test container shipments along the route were agreed upon.

This transport corridor has the potential to become one of the most important routes in the Eurasian space, providing direct transport and logistics links between the Union State of Belarus and Russia, the countries of Central Asia, and the markets of South Asia.

Russian-Uzbek cooperation in transport and logistics has become a full-scale strategic partnership. The synchronized development of all modes of transport, deep industrial cooperation, and the joint development of new transit routes form a reliable framework for Eurasian connectivity, capable of ensuring economic growth throughout Greater Eurasia.

Leading specialists of the Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Sh. Akhmedov and M. Tohirov

Today, a new and ambitious strategic direction is emerging on the global energy map. The strategic partnership established between Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan is a historic step that serves not only to strengthen regional energy security but also to elevate the global "green" transformation to a new level. At the heart of this ambitious initiative lies, first and foremost, the mutual trust, strong friendship, and high responsibility of the leaders of the three brotherly states toward future generations.

Uzbekistan's Green Development Strategy

In recent years, large-scale and intensive reforms on the use of renewable energy sources have been implemented in Uzbekistan. To date, 15 solar and 5 wind power plants with a total capacity of 5,582 MW have been commissioned in various regions of the country, producing "green" energy for the country's population and economy. Notably, the capacity of solar photovoltaic plants is 3,930 MW, and wind power plants are 1,652 MW. To ensure the stability of the energy supply, 12 additional energy storage systems with a total capacity of 1,545 MW were also commissioned.

Looking at the figures, in 2025 alone, solar and wind power plants managed to generate 10.5 billion kWh of electricity. From the beginning of 2026 to April 15, this figure exceeded 2.5 billion kWh, and the goal is to increase it to 15 billion kWh by the end of the year. By 2030, Uzbekistan will become a true "green" energy hub: the total capacity of solar and wind power plants will reach 21 GW, and 54% of the total electricity generated in the country will come from renewable sources. As a result, 18 billion cubic meters of natural gas will be saved annually, and the emission of 25 million tons of harmful gases into the atmosphere will be prevented.

Regional Solidarity: The Brothers' Strategic Choice

Relations with the countries of the region, especially with our close neighbor and strategic partner Kazakhstan, are of decisive importance in achieving such high milestones. During the recent visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Uzbekistan, the leaders of the two countries outlined future priorities for the development of sectors, in particular, energy. These friendly relations guarantee the energy stability not only of the two countries but of the entire region.

Thanks to the far-sighted policy and friendship of the heads of state of the three countries—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan—the "Green Corridor" project is being implemented. This path, which began with a Memorandum of Understanding in May 2024, was further strengthened by the Strategic Partnership Agreement signed by the Presidents of the three countries at the COP-29 international summit in Baku in November of the same year. This historic document marked the beginning of a new era not only in energy production but also in the field of energy transmission.

"Green Corridor" - practical steps towards the future

The practical stages of the project are proceeding consistently. Within the framework of the founding agreement signed on December 27, 2024, the national operators of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan - JSC "National Electric Grid of Uzbekistan," JSC "KEGOC," and JSC "Azerenerji" - united for a common goal. Negotiations held in early 2025 in Tashkent with the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Energy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia once again proved the project's international prestige.

The establishment of the Green Corridor Alliance Limited Liability Company in Baku on July 1, 2025, laid the institutional foundation for the project. The world-renowned Italian company CESI has been involved in developing the project's feasibility study, which, according to the agreement signed with the Asian Development Bank, will be submitted by the beginning of 2027. Currently, specialists from the three countries, together with CESI, are working on a complete model (technical and economic basis) of the project.

In conclusion, this strategic partnership is not only an important pillar for exporting "green" energy to Europe but also for the transition of Central Asia and the Caspian region to a unified, environmentally friendly, and digital energy system. There is no doubt that the friendly will of the heads of state and the spirit of regional solidarity will make Uzbekistan one of the most reliable and major players in the global energy market in the future.

Ministry of Energy

of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Today, elections to the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis and kengashes of people's deputies are being held in our country.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev together with his family members visited polling station No. 59 in Mirzo-Ulugbek district of the capital and took part in the voting.

Article 128 of the Constitution of our country states that citizens have the right to elect and be elected to the representative bodies of state power. The right to vote, equality and freedom of expression are guaranteed by law.

Five parties are running in the elections: the Movement of Entrepreneurs and Business People - Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan, the Milliy Tiklanish Democratic Party, the Ecological Party, the People's Democratic Party and the Adolat Social Democratic Party.
This important event is taking place in the context of increased social and political activity in our country, under the slogan “My Choice - Prosperous Motherland”.
For the first time in the history of Uzbekistan, elections to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis are held on the basis of a majoritarian-proportional, that is, mixed electoral system. 75 deputies are elected directly under the majoritarian system, i.e. by voting for their preferred candidates, and the remaining 75 - under the proportional system, when votes are cast for political parties.

Over the past period, the electoral legislation has been radically improved in line with advanced democratic standards. In particular, a new system of electoral bodies headed by the Central Electoral Commission had been introduced, and, in order to enhance the role of women in society, it had been established that the proportion of women among political party candidates should be at least 40 per cent.
Another notable aspect of the current elections was that the interaction between the participants in the process had been fully digitalized through the E-Saylov information system.
This information system has raised the openness of the elections to a higher level.

All polling stations have created conditions for voters in accordance with the law. There are 5,770 district and 11,028 precinct election commissions organized in the field, including 57 polling stations in 40 foreign countries.
More than 850 foreign and international observers from the CIS, SCO, Organization of Turkic States, as well as a full-scale mission of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights are taking part in monitoring the election process.
The head of state talked to citizens who came to the polling station. He thanked them for their active participation in the elections with a sense of involvement in the fate of their native country and their district.

Interview of Akramjon Nematov, First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan (ISRS), with Dunyo IA.

- The historic state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to the Kyrgyz Republic has once again drawn considerable attention within the expert community to the construction of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. What place did this project occupy during the high-level talks in Bishkek and which aspects were at the center of the discussions between the two leaders?

- Indeed, recent state visit was truly a historic event, opening a new chapter in the development of Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan relations. The high-level talks took place in an atmosphere of unprecedented trust, mutual understanding, and strategic partnership, confirming that bilateral cooperation has advanced to the fundamentally new level of an alliance.

A central item on the agenda was the practical implementation of what is already widely referred to as the “project of the century” - the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. Following many years of discussion, the project has entered the active construction phase and the two leaders held detailed discussions on the progress of this unprecedented undertaking.

Of particular significance was President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev's emphasis on the need to accelerate construction of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, describing it as one of the key drivers of the region's long-term economic development.

In essence, this is far more than another infrastructure project. A new architecture of Eurasian connectivity is taking shape - one that will enable Central Asia to strengthen its strategic agency, expand access to global markets, and diversify its external economic ties. This explains why the two leaders devoted such close attention to coordinating the practical implementation of the project and to the further development of regional transport infrastructure.

It is equally important to note that, thanks to close coordination at the highest political level, construction is progressing ahead of the original schedule. Although initially planned to take at least five years, the project is now expected to be completed one year earlier than originally anticipated.

This reflects an exceptional level of resource mobilization. More than 10,000 specialists and over 7,000 pieces of heavy construction equipment are already engaged on site. The railway is opening an entirely new chapter in the development of Central Asia, fundamentally reshaping both the geopolitical and geoeconomic landscape of the region.

- What is the geoeconomic significance of this corridor for Eurasia as a whole, and how will it transform the position of the region, particularly Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan?

- Project fundamentally redraws the transport and logistics map of Eurasia by creating the shortest and most efficient overland route between East and West a modern “Iron Silk Road”.

Traditionally, Central Asia has been viewed in global trade primarily as a landlocked region with limited transit potential. The commissioning of this railway will transform the region from a logistical cul-de-sac into one of the principal crossroads of Eurasian trade.

Projected annual capacity of the new railway will reach 15 million tonnes. To appreciate its scale, it is worth noting that the entire railway network of Kyrgyzstan transported 10.5 million tons of cargo in 2025. In other words, once the railway reaches its designed capacity, the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway alone will be capable of handling a greater freight volume than the current throughput of Kyrgyzstan's entire national railway system.

For Uzbekistan, project represents a major step toward consolidating its position as a regional transit hub, providing direct and secure access to the markets of South Asia, the Middle East and, ultimately, Europe.

For Kyrgyzstan, it will facilitate the large-scale economic integration of previously hard-to-access mountainous regions, create new jobs, and stimulate national economic development.

Railway will shorten the route from China to Europe and the Middle East by approximately 900 kilometres, while reducing cargo delivery times by seven to eight days, thereby decreasing dependence on the limited number of northern and maritime transport corridors.

However, project's significance extends well beyond shorter routes and faster delivery times. Railway is becoming a key element in shaping the new economic geography of Central Asia. It will transform the region from a passive transit area into an active organizer of Eurasian transport flows. This fundamentally changes the position of our countries within the global economy.

- How does this railway fit into the broader architecture of Eurasian connectivity alongside the Middle Corridor, Trans-Afghan routes and transport corridors through Iran?

- Rather than competing with other transport routes, it complements them by forming a single, integrated network of connectivity. First, the railway will connect directly with the Middle Corridor or Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), creating a seamless freight corridor linking China through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, across the Caspian Sea and onward to the Caucasus and Europe.

Second, by integrating with the emerging Trans-Afghan transport projects and Iran's transport network, the railway will create a powerful north-south and east-west transport crossroads. Central Asia will become a pivotal hub for continental trade, where cargo flows from China to South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe converge.

Looking at the broader picture, it becomes clear that integrating the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway with the Middle Corridor, Trans-Afghan route and transport links through Iran will establish an entirely new system of Eurasian connectivity.

Central Asia will no longer depend on just one or two external transport routes. Instead, it will gain the flexibility to redistribute trade flows across multiple corridors simultaneously. This will significantly strengthen the region's economic resilience while enhancing its strategic autonomy.

The greater the number of complementary transport corridors available to Central Asia, the greater its ability to determine its own development trajectory and the less vulnerable its economies will be to external geopolitical disruptions.

That is why this project should be viewed not merely as a transport initiative, but as a long-term investment in the resilience of Central Asia as an integrated economic space.

- You mentioned that, in the future, this corridor is expected to connect with the Trans-Afghan route. How is the implementation of the Termez–Naibabad–Maidanshahr–Logar–Kharlachi railway progressing today, and what impact could the success of the “project of the century” have on it?

- Work on the Trans-Afghan railway is also moving forward steadily. Active practical efforts are underway, and following the completion of field surveys, the feasibility study for this major transport corridor is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.

At the same time, the rapid pace of construction of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and the scale of resources committed to the project clearly demonstrate Uzbekistan's capacity to successfully implement some of the world's most complex cross-border infrastructure projects.

The success of this “project of the century” significantly strengthens our engineering and organizational capabilities, demonstrates the country's unwavering political commitment and serves as a powerful catalyst for future initiatives.

Practical implementation of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway has established an exceptionally high benchmark in terms of both pace and execution, creating strong positive momentum for advancing the Trans-Afghan railway, which will provide Central Asia with the shortest overland access to the ports of the Indian Ocean.

- Some observers argue that the railway will primarily serve as a transit corridor. Will it also become a driver of industrial development and economic growth, particularly in the Fergana Valley?

- It is a misconception to view the railway solely as a transit pipeline for foreign goods. The project has been designed as both a multimodal transport corridor and an industrial development framework. Alongside its transit function, the railway will become a powerful catalyst for the development of domestic industry and manufacturing. Growth zones are already emerging around the railway's key junctions.

A good example is the construction of the Makmal freight transfer station in Kyrgyzstan. It is being designed not merely as a technical railway facility but as a fully-fledged regional transport and logistics hub, incorporating cargo terminals, warehouses, manufacturing and processing facilities, and a wide range of service infrastructure.

Industry will benefit from reliable and efficient logistics for both raw materials and finished products, reducing transportation costs while enhancing competitiveness. The Fergana Valley will be among the principal beneficiaries of the project.

As one of the most densely populated and economically dynamic regions of Central Asia and historically the heart of the region - Fergana Valley has been presented with a unique opportunity to reclaim the pivotal role it played for centuries.

Historically, some of the most important branches of the Great Silk Road passed through this region. Today, thanks to the new railway, the Fergana Valley is once again becoming a center of Eurasian connectivity. Rather than remaining on the periphery of the regional transport system, the valley will evolve into a major production, logistics, and investment hub for the entire continent.

Running through Kashgar, Torugart, Arpa, Makmal, Jalal-Abad and Andijan, the railway will connect the key nodes of this macro-region, attracting investment, revitalizing cross-border trade and removing longstanding logistical bottlenecks. This fundamentally transforms the development model of border regions. Instead of peripheral territories, they will become dynamic zones of economic growth, industrial cooperation and business activity.

Ultimately, these developments elevate Uzbek–Kyrgyz relations to an entirely new level of alliance, where jointly overcoming some of the world's most demanding engineering challenges in the high mountains fosters profound mutual trust and transforms the border into a zone of peace and shared prosperity.

- Will this corridor also be used for passenger transport and what impact could it have on tourism and business?

- From the outset, the project has been designed not only as a freight corridor but also as a passenger railway. Its technical specifications provide for passenger train speeds of up to 120 km/h, even in the challenging mountainous terrain. In practical terms, this represents a genuine transformation. Businesspeople, engineers, and executives will be able to travel quickly and comfortably between the major commercial centers of China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, helping to create a more integrated investment environment.

It is worth recalling that the number of joint ventures between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan has already reached 450, and the launch of the railway is expected to stimulate business activity many times over. The railway will also connect the spectacular mountain landscapes of the Tian Shan, iconic destinations such as Issyk-Kul, the historic cities of the Fergana Valley, as well as Samarkand and Bukhara, through a single high-speed rail network. Tourists will be able to cross borders within a matter of hours, generating a substantial multiplier effect for tourism, the service sector, and people-to-people exchanges.

- Some experts have expressed concerns that the railway could simply turn Central Asia into a market for Chinese goods. How would you respond to such assessments?

- Such views are based on an outdated perception of Central Asia as merely a supplier of raw materials. Today's reality is fundamentally different.

First, the countries of the region are implementing ambitious industrialization programs. In recent years, Central Asia has recorded some of the highest rates of industrial growth across Eurasia. In Uzbekistan, industrial output has increased by more than 70 percent over the past eight years, while manufacturing production has nearly doubled. Today, the manufacturing sector accounts for around 80 percent of the country's total industrial output. The fastest-growing industries include machinery manufacturing, electrical engineering, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, metallurgy and textiles. At the same time, the production and export of higher value-added manufactured goods continue to expand steadily.

Kyrgyzstan has likewise demonstrated impressive industrial growth. In 2025, industrial production increased by 10.6 percent, while total industrial output has more than doubled over the past five years. Manufacturing accounted for 79.7 percent of the country's total industrial production. The strongest growth has been recorded in the food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, construction materials, and manufacturing industries. Meanwhile, new production facilities, industrial zones, and logistics centres are being established to support international transport corridors.

Second, the benefits are mutual. Our countries will gain exceptionally fast access to China's market of more than 1.4 billion consumers, creating significant new export opportunities for agricultural products, textiles, non-ferrous metals, chemicals, electrical equipment, construction materials, and other value-added manufactured goods.

Moreover, during the recent state visit, considerable attention was devoted to the proactive development of modern industrial zones, logistics hubs and manufacturing facilities along the entire railway corridor. Uzbekistan's initiatives are specifically aimed at promoting joint manufacturing, industrial cooperation and the localization of new production chains - not at turning the region into a mere transit corridor.

In effect, a new industrial belt of Eurasia is taking shape, with Central Asia emerging not as a final consumer market but as an integral participant in global value chains. Consequently, the railway is needed not only to transport raw materials but increasingly to support the rapidly expanding industrial production of our countries. It is becoming far more than a transport corridor - it is laying the foundation for a new model of economic development in Central Asia based on industrial cooperation, higher value-added production, and deeper integration into the global economy.

- What has been accomplished on the ground so far and is there still scope to maximize the project's benefits?

- The scale of the work already underway is truly impressive and clearly demonstrates that the “project of the century” has entered its most intensive implementation phase. Construction activities are currently being carried out simultaneously at 83 of the 107 planned sites along the Kyrgyz section of the railway. More than 10,000 specialists and over 7,000 pieces of heavy construction equipment are working around the clock.

To appreciate the magnitude of this undertaking in the exceptionally challenging terrain of the Tian Shan Mountains, where construction is taking place at elevations exceeding 3,000 metres, it is enough to look at the figures. To date, more than 19.6 million cubic metres of earth have been excavated, including over 5.26 million cubic metres for the construction of the strategically important Makmal station.

At the same time, a network of 26 tunnels is under construction. More than 13.5 kilometres of the main tunnels have already been excavated, while excavation of the auxiliary adits has exceeded 51 percent of the planned volume. Approximately one-third of the tunnelling work is being carried out using advanced mechanized methods without the use of blasting technology. Construction is also underway on 38 of the 50 bridges envisaged under the project—equivalent to 76 percent of the total - with nearly 2,400 foundation piles already installed.

In other words, highly complex engineering challenges virtually unprecedented in the region - are being solved every day. The implementation of the project is simultaneously becoming the largest platform for training engineering specialists, introducing advanced construction technologies and developing new expertise in the transport sector.

Cooperation with Chinese partners, who possess world-class experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects under extremely challenging conditions, enables our specialists to master cutting-edge technological solutions that will subsequently be applied to other major infrastructure projects across Central Asia.

At the same time, the construction of the railway represents only the first stage of the initiative. It is equally important to begin creating the conditions that will allow the new transport corridor to generate the greatest possible economic benefits for all participating countries.

With this objective in mind, experts from the Project Office for the Development Strategy of International Digital Transport Corridors have prepared a number of practical initiatives aimed at maximizing the railway's operational efficiency.

One proposal calls for the establishment of neutral cross-border free technological zones along both the Kyrgyz–Chinese and Kyrgyz–Uzbek borders, operating under the principle of “one stop, one control”. Such an approach would substantially reduce border-crossing times while streamlining customs procedures.

A second initiative involves creating a modern cross-border free economic zone on the Kyrgyz–Uzbek border, incorporating logistics terminals, industrial facilities and processing industries. This would transform freight traffic into a source of higher value-added production, new employment opportunities, and integrated cross-border manufacturing value chains.

In addition, it has been proposed to establish a joint engineering and design bureau that would serve as a center for developing advanced technical solutions for the operation of high-altitude railways.

Another proposal envisions introducing a single digital transport document, integrating the railway administrations and customs authorities of the three participating countries into a unified digital system.

However, the project's greatest value extends far beyond transport infrastructure. The China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway is, in effect, creating a new model of regional development based on interconnected economies, industrial cooperation, technological partnership, and the joint utilization of the competitive advantages of our countries. It creates the conditions for Central Asia to move beyond its traditional transit role and emerge as an independent centre of manufacturing, logistics, and value creation.

Its political significance is equally important. Only a decade ago, the implementation of such an ambitious initiative would have seemed virtually impossible due to accumulated disagreements and a lack of trust among the countries of the region. Today, thanks to a consistent policy of good-neighbourliness, open dialogue, and mutual support, Central Asia is demonstrating an entirely new level of regional cooperation.

In this sense, the railway is becoming not only a symbol of transport connectivity but also a tangible embodiment of a new political culture in the region one founded on trust, pragmatism and shared responsibility for the future.

For this reason, the significance of the project will ultimately be measured not only by the millions of tons of cargo transported or the kilometres of railway constructed, but above all by the fact that it lays a durable foundation for the sustainable development, economic self-reliance, and strategic agency of Central Asia as a whole.

At the invitation of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh will pay a state visit to our country on June 23-26.

In accordance with the program of the high-ranking guest's stay, it is envisaged to hold high-level talks in Tashkent, during which issues of further expansion and strengthening of Uzbek-Mongolian relations of friendship and multifaceted cooperation will be considered.

In particular, the agenda includes plans to develop constructive political dialogue and inter-parliamentary contacts, increase bilateral trade turnover, implement cooperation projects in mining, agriculture, livestock, light industry, healthcare, transport, logistics and other areas. Joint measures aimed at boosting cultural, humanitarian and tourist ties will also be discussed. There will be an exchange of views on international issues.

A package of intergovernmental and interdepartmental documents will be signed following the results of the summit.

As part of the program of the state visit, the leaders of the two countries will meet with representatives of leading companies and business circles, and a number of other bilateral events will be held.

Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh will also visit Khiva, where he will familiarize himself with the rich cultural and historical heritage of our people.

As Serbia’s economy continues to develop and demand for skilled workers grows across a number of sectors, an emerging model of cooperation with Uzbekistan could offer a solution built on legality, orderly mobility and institutional oversight by both countries.

This is not simply about sending workers from one country to another. The new approach is based on identifying the specific needs of the Serbian labour market, selecting and preparing the required specialists in Uzbekistan, directly involving employers in the process, and ensuring that employment takes place under conditions that safeguard workers’ rights.

In this context, a new and promising dimension is emerging in relations between Tashkent and Belgrade — a partnership in orderly labour mobility and human capital.

From political trust to a practical mechanism

The political foundation for this process was laid in October 2025.

The official visit of President of the Republic of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić to Uzbekistan marked a historic milestone in relations between the two countries. Following talks between Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Aleksandar Vučić, a Joint Declaration was adopted and a package of agreements covering the economy, investment, education, technology, tourism and other areas was signed.

Among them was a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of labour migration.

Orderly labour migration thus became one of the practical areas of high-level political dialogue between the two countries.

Seven months later, those political agreements began to take concrete institutional form.

On 18–19 May 2026, Tashkent hosted the International Migration Forum, attended by a Serbian delegation headed by Minister of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs Milica Đurđević Stamenkovski.

One fact is particularly significant for the Serbian audience: according to the official information of the Government of Serbia, this is the first agreement of its kind on labour mobility that Serbia has begun negotiating with a foreign country. Uzbekistan was chosen as its first partner.

Legal, safe and regulated mobility

Serbia’s approach to this cooperation was clearly articulated by Minister Milica Đurđević Stamenkovski during her visit to Tashkent.

According to the Minister, the future agreement is intended to establish an effective mechanism ensuring that labour mobility takes place exclusively within a legal, safe and regulated framework, based on clear rules and full institutional oversight by the state.

As she stressed, responsible states do not leave migration flows unmanaged; rather, they manage them in the interests of their citizens, their economies and national security.

This position is closely aligned with the new model that Uzbekistan has been developing in recent years.

For Uzbekistan, the objective is likewise no longer simply to direct a citizen towards an available job abroad. The new model begins by identifying an employer’s needs, selecting suitable candidates, providing professional and language training where necessary, establishing employment conditions in advance and only then facilitating employment through legal and organised channels.

Cooperation is not starting from scratch

Uzbekistan and Serbia already have practical experience of cooperation in the employment sector.

According to Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency, 435 Uzbek citizens in 2022, 135 in 2024 and 215 in 2025 were sent to Serbia through organised channels for temporary employment in agriculture. During the first seven months of 2026, another nine citizens began working in Serbia through the same mechanism.

Today, three cooperation agreements are in place between Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency and Serbian companies for the recruitment of Uzbek citizens for temporary employment.

In 2026, cooperation began expanding beyond agriculture.

In February, Serbian partners reported demand for approximately 200 seasonal workers in selected sectors of the economy. In June, a Serbian recruitment company identified a need for another 50 specialists for façade works.

The clearest practical example of the emerging model, however, came in July.

A Serbian employer selects workers directly in Uzbekistan

From 6 to 10 July 2026, Serbian company M Enterijer Gradnja doo Beograd–Voždovac conducted direct recruitment in Uzbekistan for 120 positions in the construction sector.

The vacancies included 50 reinforcement workers, 50 carpenters, five civil engineers, five crane operators and ten special-equipment operators.

Monthly salaries were set at €1,000–€1,500. The employer covers the costs of visas and work permits, transportation, accommodation, two meals a day and medical insurance.

One hundred Uzbek citizens expressed interest in the vacancies. Of these, 74 were admitted to interviews and practical assessments. Following the selection process, 43 specialists successfully passed the recruitment process, and their documents were submitted to the Serbian employer for further processing.

This experience illustrates the essence of the emerging model.

Rather than assessing candidates solely on the basis of their CVs, the Serbian employer can evaluate their professional skills directly in Uzbekistan. Candidates, meanwhile, know before travelling to Serbia where they will work, what their duties will be, how much they will earn and what employment and living conditions will be provided.

This reduces uncertainty for both sides.

Training first, employment second

Another important change in Uzbekistan’s approach to labour mobility is that a foreign employer’s request is no longer viewed merely as a vacancy, but as a specific requirement for workforce preparation.

In May 2026, the INTIL International Centre for Foreign Language and Vocational Training opened in Tashkent. At its initial stage, the centre provides training in eight foreign languages and 12 professions, hosts international examinations and offers advisory services related to visas and documentation.

In the future, this infrastructure can also be used to prepare specialists specifically for the needs of Serbian companies.

For example, if a Serbian employer requires a certain number of welders, construction specialists, drivers or workers in other occupations, candidates can be selected in Uzbekistan, their skills upgraded to meet the employer’s requirements, and initial language training provided before departure.

This aspect is also important to the Serbian side.

Milica Đurđević Stamenkovski positively assessed Uzbekistan’s readiness to prepare citizens before they travel to Serbia for temporary employment, including by introducing them to the Serbian language. Such preparation could help workers adapt more quickly to both their workplace and everyday life in Serbia.

The prospective model of cooperation can therefore be expressed in a simple formula:

Serbia identifies the demand — Uzbekistan selects and prepares the workforce — the employer assesses their qualifications — and state institutions ensure that the process remains legal and transparent.

People at the centre

Any labour mobility model can only be sustainable if people remain at its centre.

For Uzbekistan, protecting the labour rights of citizens temporarily employed abroad, ensuring the timely payment of wages, decent living conditions and access to legal protection are therefore just as important as securing the job itself.

Dialogue with Serbia in this area is not new.

As early as 2022, an Uzbek delegation held talks with Serbia’s competent labour authorities, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, representatives of the agriculture, construction and hospitality sectors, employers, and the International Organization for Migration’s office in Serbia. Direct meetings were also held with Uzbek citizens working in Serbia to assess their employment and living conditions.

There is now an opportunity to transform this experience into a permanent institutional mechanism between the two states.

Here again, the two sides share a common principle: labour mobility should be legal, safe and orderly.

Another step towards greater mobility

Practical steps are also being taken to facilitate movement between the two countries.

Since late April 2026, Serbia has been issuing Uzbek citizens category “C” electronic visas, allowing a single entry for stays of up to 30 days.

Looking ahead, there is scope to explore more convenient mechanisms for seasonal employment, simplify visa procedures for other categories of work, and strengthen direct cooperation between Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency and Serbia’s National Employment Service in the field of organised employment.

Importantly, this relationship is not one-way.

Serbian citizens are also legally employed in Uzbekistan. In particular, relevant work authorisations were issued to 53 Serbian citizens in 2022, 48 in 2023 and 32 in 2024.

The issue, therefore, is much broader than “sending workers from Uzbekistan to Serbia”. It is about orderly labour mobility between two countries.

Why Uzbekistan?

For a Serbian audience, this is a natural question.

The Government of Serbia itself has addressed it: Uzbekistan’s selection as Serbia’s first foreign partner for such a labour mobility agreement was linked to the country’s dynamic economic development and the rapid deepening of bilateral relations towards a strategic partnership.

Uzbekistan, for its part, has a large and young workforce while simultaneously developing a system for preparing citizens according to the specific requirements of international labour markets.

This is where the interests of the two countries complement one another: Serbia’s demand for workers and Uzbekistan’s capacity to select and prepare them.

In the future, this also creates an opportunity to expand cooperation beyond seasonal agriculture and construction. Based on the actual needs of the Serbian economy, specialists could be trained specifically for other sectors as well.

A new bridge between Tashkent and Belgrade

During the first summit between Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Aleksandar Vučić in October 2025, the importance of developing new transport corridors between Central Asia and the Balkans was highlighted.

Yet one of the most important bridges between the two regions may be built not only through railways or highways, but through human capital.

For Serbia, orderly labour mobility offers an opportunity to attract pre-selected and trained workers who match the real needs of its economy through transparent and legal mechanisms.

For Uzbekistan, it offers an opportunity to open new legal labour markets for its citizens, strengthen their professional skills and earning potential, while ensuring state-level protection of their rights and interests abroad.

For this reason, it would be too narrow to view the process now unfolding between Tashkent and Belgrade simply as another labour migration project.

Its potential is considerably broader: to build a long-term partnership model based on targeted workforce preparation, direct employer participation, legal and safe labour mobility, and investment in human capital.

Speaking in Tashkent, Serbia’s Minister of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs Milica Đurđević Stamenkovski said that relations between Uzbekistan and Serbia were entering a “new historical phase”, with the goal of elevating ties between the two friendly countries to the level of a strategic partnership.

The practical steps taken in the field of labour mobility in recent months show that this vision is already acquiring tangible substance.

High-level political trust is in place. The legal framework is taking shape. Direct links between employers and potential employees have already begun.

The task now is to transform this opportunity into a sustainable system that serves the economies of both Serbia and Uzbekistan — and, above all, the people of both countries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dunyo IA

PRESS RELEASE

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

“The image of Sahibkiran Amir Temur,

having become a symbol of our

national statehood, continues to provide

immense spiritual strength to our people

in realizing our identity and restoring

our ancient traditions and values”,

 Shavkat Mirziyoyev

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

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

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

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

OPENING CEREMONY

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

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

INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPATION

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

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

KEY THEMES AND DISCUSSIONS

The following priority topics were extensively discussed during the conference:

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

OBJECTIVES AND SIGNIFICANCE

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

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

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

Today, civil society institutions, particularly non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs), play an active role in Uzbekistan's development and the implementation of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy. It is impossible to build a new Uzbekistan without organizing the activities of NGOs, the most important institution of civil society, according to democratic principles. On this basis, effective work is being done to support NGOs and civil society institutions, strengthen social partnerships with state bodies, implement effective public oversight, and improve the legal framework governing this area.

As a result of the measures implemented, the legal and regulatory framework has been improved to provide legal guarantees for NGOs while also meeting modern democratic requirements and international standards. The laws "On non-governmental non-profit organizations," "On guarantees for the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations," and "On public oversight," as well as the Presidential Decree "On approval of the civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025" and a number of Governmental decrees, have all been adopted.

The civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025 aims to increase state support for civil society institutions in the form of subsidies, grants, and social orders by 1.8 times, as well as increase the volume of allocated funds to 70 billion soums by 2025.

A number of goals, objectives, and indicators related to the further development of civil society are set out in conceptually significant documents such as the Strategy for Action, the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, and the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy. Upon that basis, it is worth noting that the State programmes adopted annually include provisions for further strengthening the activities of civil society institutions and NGOs.

The chapter titled "Civil society institutions" and the term itself were included for the first time in the new version of the Constitution adopted through a referendum in 2023.

It should be mentioned that the President of Uzbekistan prioritizes civil society institutions and NGOs in his publications, speeches, and reports. Shavkat Mirziyoyev's book titled "Strategy of New Uzbekistan" includes a separate paragraph titled "Free and Open Civil Society" and it includes comments on priority areas for civil society development as well as proposals for implementing a number of tasks based on a thorough examination of relevant national legislation, law enforcement practice, and best foreign experience.

According to the figures, there were only 95 NGOs operating in the country on January 1, 1991; by January 1, 2000, there were 2,585, by January 1, 2016, there were 8,417, and by January 1, 2024, there were over 9,000. These NGOs are critical in protecting individuals' and legal entities' rights and legitimate interests, as well as democratic values and the achievement of social, cultural, and educational objectives. 

It is also important to note the dynamic growth of support and financial sustainability provided by NGOs. In particular, 513.8 billion soums were allocated from the state budget to support 2,074 NGOs and other civil society institutions between 2017 and 2023. If 12.3 billion soums were allocated in 2017, the figure was 226.4 billion in 2023. It is planned to allocate 1.8 trillion soums in 2024.

Furthermore, the scope of state support for civil society institutions has been broadened, and public funds to support civil society institutions have been established through the local Councils (Kengash) of People's Deputies. The legal basis for allocating funds from the local budget to support civil society institutions in the regions has been strengthened, and social projects are funded through these channels.

It should be acknowledged that favourable conditions are one of the most important factors in the effective operation of non-governmental organizations. In 14 regions of our republic, "Houses of non-governmental non-profit organizations" have been established, housing approximately 500 NGOs and providing them with the necessary office equipment, furniture, items, equipment, and other tools. As a result, the NGOs' problems with the building were resolved, and their socially beneficial activities were resumed. In particular, newly established NGOs carrying out their activities in socially significant spheres were accommodated in these buildings under the right of free use.

To regularly improve the knowledge and skills of NGOs' managers based on the best foreign experience, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan organizes training courses on a special 72-hour training programme. To date, 367 NGO leaders and managers have attended advanced training courses. These advanced training courses are expected to train 134 NGO managers by 2024.

It should be noted that NGOs express proposals and initiatives to improve State programs and legislation in their field, as well as carry out public control measures over the implementation of Regional socioeconomic development programmes and State programmes.

As mentioned above, the 83rd goal of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy prioritizes the expansion of free civil society and media activities, transforming Uzbekistan into a hub for civil society development. It specifically highlights the tasks of increasing the number of projects implemented within the framework of social partnership by at least threefold and increasing the number of NGOs participating in government programs to at least 80.

To summarize, civil society institutions and NGOs are genuine supporters of state bodies and organizations in the process of reforms, sociopolitical and socioeconomic changes, achievement of strategic goals, and serving as a social bridge between society and government.

Anvarjon Mirkomilov,

Head of Department,

Development Strategy Center

Uzbekistan and Finland possess significant potential to deepen their partnership in the areas of ecology, sustainable natural resource management, and climate change mitigation. Environmental institutions of both countries actively engage through international conferences, forums, and projects supported by international organizations and development banks.

One of the most notable examples of practical cooperation is the joint project between the Agency of Hydrometeorological Service of Uzbekistan, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and the Finnish Meteorological Institute. Valued at USD 2 million, the project aims to strengthen Uzbekistan’s hydrometeorological capacity, train specialists in modern forecasting methods for weather and natural disasters, and enhance climate services and adaptation measures to climate change.

To further expand bilateral cooperation, the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan has identified several priority areas that could form the basis for a future Memorandum of Understanding with Finland.

One key area of collaboration could be sustainable forest management. Over 70% of Finland’s territory is covered by forests, which account for 0.5% of global timber reserves. Studying Finland’s experience in public-private partnerships in forestry and its effective mechanisms for conserving forest ecosystems could help Uzbekistan improve its own approaches to developing green zones and protecting natural territories.

Another promising area is circular economy development. Finland was among the first countries to adopt a national “roadmap” for transitioning to circular models of production and consumption. For Uzbekistan — which is currently developing a modern waste management and recycling system — learning from Finland’s sustainable production practices would be an important step toward achieving “green” growth.

Air quality management is also an area of great interest. Finland is recognized as one of the countries with the cleanest air in the world, thanks to its advanced monitoring systems and strict environmental regulations. Adopting Finnish technologies for tracking pollutants and reducing emissions could significantly improve air quality in Uzbekistan’s urban centers.

Particular attention is also given to climate action. Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 and its strategies for reducing emissions and adapting to climate challenges could serve as a valuable model for Uzbekistan in implementing its own climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

An important area of focus is scientific and educational cooperation. The Ministry of Ecology of Uzbekistan is interested in establishing partnerships between Finnish universities and the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University). Academic exchange programs, joint research initiatives and the development of green educational technologies will contribute to training a new generation of environmental and climate specialists in the region.

Cooperation in biodiversity conservation and protected areas management is also of high importance. Finland allocates 13.3% of its territory for these purposes and plans to expand this figure to 30% by 2030. This experience holds great value for Uzbekistan, which is actively implementing a national program to expand its network of reserves and national parks.

The signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of the Environment and Climate of Finland would be a logical step toward strengthening this partnership. Joint initiatives between the two countries will help combine innovation and scientific expertise in pursuit of a shared goal — protecting nature, enhancing climate resilience, and building a sustainable and environmentally secure future.

Anvar Tursunaliyev,

Chief specialist Department of international cooperation

and rankings of the Ministry of Ecology,

Environmental Protection and Climate Change

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.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been informed of the work being done in the spiritual and educational sphere.

The main priority of transformations in multi-ethnic Uzbekistan is the comprehensive protection of the rights and freedoms of all its citizens. And one of the inalienable rights is freedom of religion. Therefore, all conditions are being created in our country so that believers can perform rituals and observe religious traditions.

It is worth emphasizing that the policy of New Uzbekistan in this area is receiving great recognition not only among our people, but also among the international community.

Thus, if in the early years of Uzbekistan's independence the number of compatriots honored with the holy pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina could be counted on fingers, these days more than 15 thousand Uzbeks are performing the sacred rites.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev's greeting to our people on the occasion of Kurban Hayit, his conversation with Chairman of the Muslim Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Khaliknazar on the pilgrimage of our compatriots have become one of the brightest pages of this year's Hajj season.

In a short period of time, Uzbekistan has created a comprehensive system of training qualified personnel in the religious and educational sphere. In order to study and popularize the rich scientific heritage of our scholars, research centers have been launched. Examples of this are the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the Mir Arab Higher Madrasa, the School of Hadith Studies, and the international research centers of Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, and Imam Moturidi. Large-scale renovation and improvement of Imam Bukhari memorial complex is underway.

During today's meeting it was emphasized the necessity of wider study and propaganda of works of these great thinkers among the population, especially among the youth. Since it is in them that the true meaning of Islam, enlightening ideas of the Muslim religion are laid down. And it is especially actual now, in our troubled time, when all over the world various forces try to distort the essence of religion and to lead young people off the true path.

It was noted a great role in this work and those who now make pilgrimage in sacred Mecca. The pilgrims have recently made an appeal, where they expressed their readiness to contribute to the spiritual education of the younger generation in their districts, in their mahallas.

Also at the meeting, the head of state stressed that an important role in these processes should be played by the Center of Islamic Civilization, the activities of which will serve to widely acquaint our people and foreign guests with the invaluable heritage of ancestors, to promote the ideas of enlightened Islam. At present, scientists-historians and theologians are working on filling the activities of the center with new content.

Information about further plans of the center's activity was heard.