The President got acquainted with the construction of transportation infrastructure and engineering communications in New Tashkent.

As is known, the city under construction is designed for 1 million residents, which requires appropriate infrastructure with a view of long-term operation. In this regard, major underground engineering works are underway, laying the foundation for future grandiose constructions.

It is planned that infrastructure, daily life and ecology will harmoniously coexist in the new city. For instance, it is planned to create an environmentally friendly transportation system - metro and electric buses will be closely interconnected. For transportation 14 tunnels will be built, underground parking lots for 100 thousand cars will be equipped. In addition, all conditions will be created for barrier-free and safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists.

At one of the future intersections, foundation pouring for columns and waterproofing works are already underway. The President reviewed these processes. Recommendations were given on the use of high-quality and resistant materials.

Currently, the construction of one-section and two-section engineering collectors has begun, through which all centralized heating, water, electricity and telecommunications networks will pass underground.

The city will apply “smart” technologies in line with modern urbanization requirements. For the first time in the country, a “trigeneration” plant will be built here. Wastewater will be processed using modern technologies, and the resulting water will be used for irrigation and technical needs.

The President was also presented with the projects envisioned within the framework of the first stage of construction of New Tashkent. The winners of the auctions at which land plots were offered presented their investment initiatives.

Many local and foreign investors are interested in New Tashkent. Within the framework of the first phase, 11 mixed-use complexes, as well as hotels and restaurants have already been launched at a total cost of $490 million. Residential and commercial facilities as well as social institutions will make the neighborhood lively and attractive. Meanwhile, hotels and restaurants built in a unique architectural style will provide high-class service to guests and turn the city into a tourist center.

Next year, land plots for subsequent phases will be put up for bidding. Each phase will present new investment opportunities and projects. This will not only contribute to the further development of the city, but also create many new jobs and support local businesses.

In general, it is planned to create about 200 thousand high-income jobs in New Tashkent through the introduction of innovative technologies. Technoparks, IT-park, educational and medical clusters will be created for this purpose.

Social policy in our country contains a wide range of issues on poverty alleviation, job creation, and support for socially vulnerable groups of the population. Investments in human capital are both a contribution to the social and economic sectors of the country's development. Moreover, according to a study by the Institute of Macroeconomic and Regional Studies under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan, improving the quality of human capital leads to an increase in the inflow of foreign direct investment by 0.51 percent.
Article 1 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the new wording, adopted following the results of the national referendum, once again confirmed the commitment and orientation of the state to care for its citizens from the first days of their birth, regardless of their social status. It should be noted that the state did not come to this principle immediately, as the domestic social policy was formed step by step, i.e. in the process of long negotiations, permanent compromises and economic opportunities.
The enshrinement in the Constitution of the statement that Uzbekistan is a sovereign, democratic, law-based, social and secular State increases its social obligations.
It should be noted that a social state in the general sense guarantees quality education, qualified medical care, comprehensive support for families, children, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities, provides housing and employment for those in need, creates safe working conditions and reduces poverty.
All of the above-mentioned state guarantees began to be reflected in the last decade of our country, which entered the world history as New Uzbekistan.
First, the Strategy of Action on Five Priority Areas of Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021 and the Strategy for the Development of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 identify as priority tasks: building a humane state by elevating human honor and dignity and further developing a free civil society; turning the principles of justice and the rule of law into a fundamental and necessary condition for the country's development; accelerating the development of the national economy and ensuring high growth rates; carrying out the development of the country's economy; and ensuring the development of the national economy.

Secondly, the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction has been established, the Ishga Markhamat monocenters have been launched, the “iron” “women's” and “youth” notebook systems have been set up, one hundred percent pensions are paid to working pensioners, the Social Protection Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan has been approved, and the problem of poverty in the country has been recognized. Moreover, the post of assistant khokims has been introduced, who are responsible for poverty reduction, developing entrepreneurship, organizing jobs and increasing the incomes of citizens. Most importantly, a new system of caring for the population has been created.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a video conference call on May 15, 2023 to discuss measures to reduce poverty and provide employment. Following the recognition of the existence of poverty in the country, a system to reduce it was introduced. At the beginning of last year, all districts in Uzbekistan were divided into five categories and given differentiated benefits based on the pace of socio-economic development. As a result, one million people have been lifted out of poverty.
Thirdly, education and medicine are the most important and comprehensive social spheres. In order to accelerate reforms and improve efficiency in these sectors, relevant project offices have been established.
Undoubtedly, investment in human capital is the best contribution to the future. In this regard, unprecedented reforms have been carried out in the area of continuous improvement of the system of continuous quality education and training of qualified personnel. As a result, preschool education coverage has increased from 27 to 74 percent, 11-year compulsory schooling has been resumed, the workload of school teachers has been optimized, and forced labor has been abolished.
Changes in the higher education system in recent years have also shown significant positive results. As a result, enrollment in higher education has increased from nine to 42 per cent, and the number of higher education institutions has grown from 77 to 212.

Our country pays great attention to the medical sphere, which directly affects the quality of life. Over the past seven years, the financing of the health care system has increased from 5.9 trillion to 33.5 trillion soums, i.e. six times. Hospitals are being equipped with modern equipment and new facilities are being built. In order to bring medicine closer to the people, on-site screening examinations are being conducted.
It should be noted that Uzbekistan is working on targeted support for socially vulnerable segments of the population. This is evidenced by the addition of a new wording to article 57 of the Constitution on State measures aimed at improving the quality of life of socially vulnerable categories, creating conditions for their equal participation in public and State life with other citizens, and expanding their opportunities to independently provide for their basic living needs.
One of the main innovations is article 42 of the Basic Law, which states that the minimum wage shall be determined taking into account the need to ensure a decent standard of living. From December 1, 2023, the minimum wage is equal to 1.05 million soums, while the cost of consumer expenditures is set at 568 thousand soums per person per month.
In addition, according to the Presidential Decision “On measures to further improve the system of social services and assistance to the population” of September 28, 2023, a new system of social assistance by the employees of the social service centers “Inson” of the National Agency for Social Protection has been introduced in 28 districts (cities) on a pilot basis since October 15 last year. The employees are responsible for keeping records and register of lonely, elderly and disabled persons in need of care, which helps to develop a plan of individualized social services by taking into account the degree of need for care. At the same time, assistance to the lonely elderly included in the Unified Register of Social Protection is provided on the basis of a contract.

The Economic Agenda of New Uzbekistan Takes on a Regional Dimension

The strategic significance of the Turkic world is growing amid profound shifts in global logistics. The member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) are forming one of Eurasia’s largest overland economic spaces, linking Central Asia, the Caucasus, Turkiye, and European markets.

The OTS region is home to more than 170 million people and possesses substantial economic potential. In 2025, the combined nominal GDP of OTS member states reached approximately $2.3 trillion, equivalent to around 2% of the global economy. In purchasing power parity terms, GDP exceeded $6.2 trillion, accounting for 3.4% of world GDP. The aggregate foreign trade turnover of OTS countries surpassed $1.2 trillion.

Proven natural gas reserves across OTS member states amount to approximately 19.9 trillion cubic meters, while proven oil reserves total 38.2 billion barrels, making the region one of Eurasia’s prominent energy centers.

The Turkic world is characterized by a high degree of economic complementarity. Turkiye and Hungary possess advanced industrial and engineering capabilities, while Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan hold substantial energy resources. Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are strengthening their positions in manufacturing and agro-industrial production.

Against this backdrop, Uzbekistan is emerging as one of the most dynamic economies in the region. Over the past five years, the country has risen by 28 positions in Harvard Growth Lab’s Atlas of Economic Complexity, reaching 70th place among 145 economies. Average annual export growth stood at 13.4%, while non-energy exports expanded by an average of 17% per year, outpacing both regional and global trends.

In this context, the OTS is acquiring increasing practical economic relevance, with trade, transport, industrial cooperation, investment, and digitalization forming the foundation of a new model of regional connectivity.

Trade and Industrial Cooperation

Today, Uzbekistan’s cooperation within the OTS spans more than 35 areas. At the same time, the economic dimension of this engagement continues to deepen. Over the past nine years, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with OTS countries increased 2.7-fold, from $4 billion in 2017 to $10.8 billion in 2025. Exports rose from $1.2 billion to $3.8 billion, while imports expanded from $1.8 billion to $7 billion.

Kazakhstan and Turkiye remain Uzbekistan’s largest trading partners within the OTS. Kazakhstan accounts for 46% of total trade, or approximately $5 billion, while Turkiye’s share stands at 28%, or around $3 billion. Trade with Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan also reached significant levels, totaling about $1.2 billion with each country.

The structure of trade is evolving. In Uzbekistan’s exports to OTS countries, manufactured goods account for 28.2%, machinery and transport equipment for 19%, food products for 11.1%, chemical products for 10%, and services for 12.7%. This reflects a gradual transition toward a more sophisticated trade model, with growing exports of finished goods, services, and products created through industrial cooperation.

Imports from OTS countries are closely linked to the needs of Uzbekistan’s modernizing economy. Key import categories include food products, mineral fuels, manufactured goods, machinery, and equipment, indicating the expansion of production linkages across the region.

According to estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), Uzbekistan has the potential to increase its exports to OTS countries by an additional $2.7 billion. The largest unrealized export opportunity is in Turkiye, where additional export potential is estimated at $1.8 billion.

This export potential is based on Uzbekistan’s competitive advantages across a number of product categories, particularly agricultural products such as dried fruits, vegetables, and nuts. The combined agricultural market of OTS countries is estimated at approximately $72 billion, where Uzbek producers already hold solid positions.

Further export growth could be driven by increased shipments of textiles, electrical equipment, construction materials, food products, fertilizers, copper, ethylene polymers, and other higher value-added goods.

Investment and the Institutional Framework for Cooperation

Trade integration within the OTS is being accompanied by deeper investment and industrial cooperation. Between 2017 and 2025, total investments from OTS countries into Uzbekistan exceeded $11.5 billion, including $3.8 billion attracted in 2025 alone.

These investments have been directed primarily to manufacturing, energy, agriculture, construction, and logistics. As of April 2026, more than 4,500 enterprises with capital from OTS countries were operating in Uzbekistan. These include joint manufacturing ventures, logistics projects, and industrial partnerships serving both regional and external markets.

Turkiye remains the most active investor. In 2025, Turkish investments totaled $2.4 billion, while the number of enterprises with Turkish capital in Uzbekistan reached 2,140. Turkish businesses are playing a major role in industrial production, construction, textiles, and transport and logistics infrastructure.

Kazakhstan, as Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner among OTS countries, is also one of its most important investment partners. More than 1,200 enterprises with Kazakh capital are currently operating in the country.

The signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in 2024 has provided a major impetus to bilateral cooperation. As a result, 367 enterprises with Azerbaijani capital are now active in Uzbekistan.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Kyrgyzstan has contributed to an increase in the number of joint ventures to 346.

Although the number of enterprises with Hungarian capital remains relatively modest, the projects being implemented are notable for their scale and technological sophistication. These include poultry clusters in the Syrdarya Region valued at $165 million and wastewater treatment facilities in New Tashkent worth $59 million.

An additional mechanism supporting joint projects is the Turkic Investment Fund. In 2025, its authorized capital was increased from $500 million to $600 million, with Uzbekistan contributing $100 million. Going forward, the Fund could become an important instrument for financing infrastructure, industrial, logistics, and digital projects across the OTS region.

For Uzbekistan, investment cooperation within the OTS facilitates capital inflows, export-oriented production, technology localization, broader industrial cooperation, and deeper integration into regional value chains.

Transport Integration

For a landlocked country such as Uzbekistan, transport connectivity is a critical prerequisite for expanding foreign trade and integrating into global production networks. Accordingly, transport has become one of the central pillars of economic cooperation within the OTS.

Growing trade among member states has been accompanied by a significant expansion in freight flows. Kazakhstan remains Uzbekistan’s most important transport partner, serving as the main land bridge to Russia, the Caucasus, and Europe. In 2025, freight volumes between the two countries exceeded 22.3 million tons, including 19.6 million tons transported by rail.

The Kyrgyz route is also demonstrating strong momentum. In 2025, cargo volumes between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan increased by 22.4% to nearly 5.4 million tons, while export shipments by all modes of transport more than doubled.

Transport cooperation with Azerbaijan and Turkiye is also expanding steadily. In 2025, freight volumes between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan increased by 28.3%. Regular air service between Tashkent and Baku currently operates 14 times per week. Air links with Turkiye are similarly intensive, with 97 scheduled flights per week on eight routes, including services to Istanbul and Ankara.

Turkmenistan remains another important element of the regional transport system. A practical step toward facilitating border trade was the launch of the joint trade zone “Shavat–Dashoguz.” In 2025, freight volumes between the two countries rose by 22.5% to approximately 1.8 million tons.

As trade within the OTS expands, the development of resilient multimodal connectivity is becoming increasingly important. This requires an integrated system of corridors linking rail, road, air, and maritime infrastructure.

In this context, the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, widely known as the Middle Corridor, has gained particular significance. For Uzbekistan, this route is important not only as a transit corridor, but also as a strategic channel for expanding exports to Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Europe, and the Middle East.

The relevance of alternative Eurasian transport routes is increasing amid ongoing changes in global logistics. The restructuring of supply chains due to geopolitical instability has already raised transport costs for Central Asian countries by as much as 30% and extended delivery times by several weeks.

Against this backdrop, the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan Railway is becoming strategically important as a new East-West transport link. Once operational, the railway is expected to reduce delivery times to 10 days and enable the transportation of up to 15 million tons of cargo annually.

In the longer term, integration of this route with the Middle Corridor and the Trans-Afghan corridor could reshape the transport geography of Eurasia. In such a system, Uzbekistan would be positioned not only as a transit country, but also as a full participant in regional value chains, supported by its own cargo base, logistics centers, transport companies, and industrial facilities.

At the same time, further progress in transport integration will require coordinated policies within the OTS. Key priorities include tariff harmonization, infrastructure development, capacity expansion, digital customs procedures, and the alignment of technical standards. These areas are gradually shaping the organization’s practical transport agenda.

The Digital Agenda as Trade Infrastructure

The theme of the current OTS Summit in Turkistan, focused on artificial intelligence and digital development, is directly linked to the broader economic agenda. In modern trade, competitiveness depends not only on product quality and proximity to markets, but increasingly on the speed of customs clearance, supply chain transparency, digital interoperability, and access to information.

For OTS member states, digital integration could become one of the most practical and impactful areas of cooperation. Harmonizing e-commerce standards, mutually recognizing digital documents, integrating customs information systems, and creating digital business registries could significantly reduce transaction costs and facilitate market access.

This is particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises. Many firms face fewer tariff barriers than informational constraints related to partners, certification requirements, logistics, and payment mechanisms. A unified digital platform for businesses across OTS countries could serve as a practical tool for expanding trade, especially within border regions and regional supply chains.

Over recent years, Uzbekistan has accumulated substantial experience in the digitalization of public services and the business environment. This experience could prove highly valuable within the organization, particularly in areas such as e-government services, digital platforms, customs administration, and entrepreneurship support.

Conclusion

The OTS is gradually evolving toward a more practical model of economic cooperation. For Uzbekistan, this process coincides with the current stage of economic reforms aimed at expanding export capacity, developing industry, and strengthening connectivity with external markets.

As economic interaction within the OTS deepens, Uzbekistan’s role in shaping regional trade, transport, and production linkages continues to grow. In recent years, cooperation within the organization has already acquired a stable economic dimension encompassing trade, investment, industrial cooperation, transport infrastructure, and logistics.

In this context, the agenda of the informal OTS Summit in Turkistan places particular emphasis on the development and application of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. This reflects the growing interest among member states in modern forms of economic interaction, especially the digitalization of trade and logistics, the expansion of electronic services, the integration of infrastructure solutions, and the reduction of transaction costs across the region.

Against this backdrop, Uzbekistan’s participation in the informal OTS Summit is increasingly acquiring a practical economic focus. The expansion of trade, development of multimodal transport corridors, deepening industrial cooperation, growth in investment ties, and enhanced digital connectivity are creating a strong foundation for further integration into Eurasia’s regional production and logistics networks.

Ziyoda Rizaeva
Head of Public Relations and Media Sector
Center for Economic Research and Reforms

In January, growth in the business climate was mainly driven by an outpacing increase in the expectations component. The agricultural sector and services became the key drivers of business confidence.

The Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) presented the results of its business climate analysis based on monthly surveys of entrepreneurs across the republic. Based on the collected data, a composite Business Climate Indicator was formed, reflecting both current assessments of business conditions and expectations for the next 3 months.

Dynamics of Uzbekistan’s Composite Business Climate

In January of the current year, Uzbekistan’s composite Business Climate Index stood at 64 points (on a scale from −100 to +100), which is 23% higher than the level of 2025.

The improvement in the business climate was primarily driven by stronger assessments of the current business situation, which increased by 28%.

An additional contribution came from improved optimism regarding short-term business prospects. In particular, business expectations rose by 20%.

According to the survey, 22% of enterprises increased their number of employees. At the same time, 71% of respondents expect demand for their products to grow over the next three months, compared to about 60% in the same period last year.

The share of enterprises forecasting an increase in employment in the coming quarter rose to 65%, up from 58% a year earlier.

Sectoral Dynamics of the Business Climate Index

In sectoral terms, an improvement in the business climate compared to last year was observed in construction, agriculture, and services.

In agriculture, the Business Climate Index increased by 62% year-on-year and reached 77 points, compared to 48 points in January 2025.

Growth was mainly supported by a significant improvement in assessments of current conditions and more favorable expectations. The current situation indicator in the sector increased 2.7 times from 27 to 72 points, while expectations grew by 17% to reach 82 points.

44% of entrepreneurs assessed the condition of their business in the sector as “good,” compared to 39% a year earlier. Growth in demand for products over the past three months was reported by 46% of enterprises versus 39% in January last year. Expectations for further demand growth in the near term remain high at 71%, compared to 68% a year earlier.

In the services sector, the business climate increased by 25% compared to January last year, reaching 65 points versus 52 points a year earlier.

Growth was driven by a gradual improvement in current business conditions. Current assessments in services rose by 18% to 52 points. At the same time, a more pronounced increase was observed in the expectations component, which grew by 32% to 79 points, indicating a substantial strengthening of companies’ confidence in short-term prospects.

70% of entrepreneurs expect demand for their services to grow over the next three months, compared to 58% in January 2025. The share of enterprises expecting to increase employment in the coming quarter amounted to 61%, up from 54% a year earlier.

In the construction sector, the business climate increased by 13% to 61 points, compared to 54 points a year earlier. The current situation indicator improved by 43% to 57 points. Expectations were formed at the level of 66 points, showing a decline of 4%.

38% of respondents reported that business conditions in construction had improved over the past three months, compared to 35% a year earlier. The share of enterprises reporting workforce growth rose to 38% from 22% a year earlier. Expectations of demand growth over the next three months were expressed by 77% of entrepreneurs, compared to 61% in January last year.

In industry, the business climate slightly declined by 5% compared to last year, while remaining at a sufficiently high level of 54 points.

At the same time, optimism among industrial enterprises remains steadily high. In January, expectations increased by 10%, reaching 78 points, indicating a continued positive outlook regarding development prospects.

According to the survey, the share of respondents reporting an improvement in business conditions over the past three months reached 32%, compared to 30% a year earlier. Demand growth over the same period was noted by 38% of industrial enterprises versus 36% in January last year. Meanwhile, employment expansion plans strengthened — 69% of entrepreneurs expect to increase their workforce in the next three months, compared to 62% a year earlier.

Barriers to Entrepreneurial Activity

According to the survey, more than half (57%) of entrepreneurs see no barriers in their activities. Among the problems cited, the most frequent are taxation (11%), utilities (9%), and access to credit (8%).

CERR Sector for the Study of Sectoral Competitiveness and Investment Activity

Tel: (78) 150 02 02 (441)

CERR Public Relations and Media Sector

Tel: (78) 150 02 02 (417)

Central and South Asia are increasingly facing the same reality: climate risks are no longer a distant forecast. Droughts, water scarcity, heatwaves, land degradation, dust storms, floods, and pressure on water, food and energy security are already affecting economies, public health, infrastructure, and the resilience of entire regions.

This is why the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia is of particular significance. The second meeting is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in partnership with the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia. This format reflects Uzbekistan’s consistent foreign policy direction aimed at strengthening trust, open dialogue, and sustainable connectivity between the regions.

While the first meeting introduced the Termez Dialogue as a platform for bringing the two regions closer together, the new agenda takes the next step: moving from a discussion of connectivity to practical mechanisms for joint climate adaptation and stronger environmental resilience. Its task is to move from conceptual discussions to concrete priorities and practical mechanisms, with joint adaptation to climate change identified among the key areas of cooperation.

Climate as a New Test of Connectivity

Climate change shows how closely water, food, energy, transport, health, and ecosystems are linked. When water availability declines, the impact is not limited to agriculture. It also affects hydropower, food prices, migration, employment, soil conditions, and even regional stability. As extreme heat becomes more frequent, cities, transport systems, healthcare systems, and labour productivity all come under pressure.

The Synthesis Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), prepared as part of the Sixth Assessment Cycle, emphasizes that adaptation is already taking place in all regions of the world, but the gap between what is needed and what is being done remains and will continue to grow at the current pace of action. The IPCC also underlines that the most effective responses are not isolated measures, but integrated solutions that connect water management, agriculture, infrastructure, social protection, ecosystems, and population needs.

This is particularly important for Central and South Asia. Both regions depend on mountain watersheds, irrigated agriculture, the resilience of rural areas, as well as stable and secure energy supply and the cross-border movement of goods and people. Climate adaptation, therefore, cannot remain solely a matter of national policy. It must become part of interregional cooperation.

Uzbekistan: The Data Confirm the Urgency of Action

Uzbekistan’s Fourth National Communication under the UNFCCC identifies the country as among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in Central Asia and Eurasia. This vulnerability is linked to accelerated temperature rise, growing water scarcity, glacier retreat, and the increasing frequency of extreme hydrometeorological events.

Water remains an especially sensitive factor. Uzbekistan’s water resources belong to the Aral Sea basin, while the main surface runoff of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers is formed outside the country. This means that Uzbekistan’s climate resilience is directly linked to the quality of regional and interregional cooperation. Water, data, forecasts, infrastructure, and trust become part of one security system.

Cities as a New Frontline of Climate Adaptation

The climate agenda is also becoming increasingly connected with the future of cities. Speaking at the Leaders’ Summit of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum in Baku, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that, over the next 15 years, the country’s population is expected to grow from 38 to 50 million people, while the urbanization rate is projected to rise from 51% to 65%.

For Uzbekistan, this is not only a demographic trend but also a climate challenge. Urban growth increases pressure on water, energy, transport, housing, air quality, and green spaces. Therefore, plans for sustainable urbanization — including the development of “green”, “smart”, “safe”, and “15-minute” cities, the expansion of urban greenery, and the introduction of green city principles — are directly linked to climate adaptation.

In this context, the Termez Dialogue can become a platform for exchanging experience not only on water and agriculture, but also on climate-resilient urban development: from reducing the urban heat island effect and saving water to clean transport, digital air quality monitoring, and designing new districts with climate risks in mind.

A New Emphasis: Adaptation as a Practical Development Agenda

The Termez Dialogue can offer an important new approach: to view adaptation not as a response to crises, but as an investment in sustainable development. This changes the very language of climate policy.

Adaptation is not only about building protective infrastructure or responding to emergencies. It is about more accurate forecasting of droughts and floods and data exchange between countries. It is about water-saving agriculture, the modernization of canals, pumping stations, and urban infrastructure. It is about restoring degraded lands and ecosystems. It is about preparing farmers, engineers, hydrologists, energy specialists, and local authorities to operate under new climate conditions.

This is why the Concept of the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue emphasizes the consolidation of efforts by states and partners to develop coordinated and mutually reinforcing approaches to climate adaptation and to reducing the socio-economic consequences of climate and environmental risks.

Why Central and South Asia Must Adapt Together

Climate risks do not recognize borders. Drought in one part of the region can affect food markets in another. Glacier retreat changes river regimes far beyond mountain areas. Dust storms, heatwaves, and extreme rainfall can affect several countries at once. Joint adaptation is therefore a practical necessity.

The IPCC stresses that around 3.3 to 3.6 billion people worldwide live in conditions of high vulnerability to climate change. It also emphasizes that the vulnerability of people and ecosystems is interconnected: the degradation of ecosystems increases risks for people, while social vulnerability reduces societies’ ability to adapt.

For Central and South Asia, this means that resilience must be built across several dimensions at once: water, food, energy, environment, and society. Food and environmental security cannot be strengthened without water. Infrastructure cannot be modernized without climate forecasts. Risks cannot be reduced without trust and information exchange.

Termez as a Place for Climate Partnership

The choice of Termez has both historical and practical significance. Termez is Uzbekistan’s southern gateway and a natural bridge between Central and South Asia. In today’s conditions, this role acquires new meaning: the city is becoming a symbol not only of transport and trade connectivity, but also of climate partnership.

Afghanistan has a particularly important role. The idea of the Termez Dialogue implies the need for the gradual integration of Afghanistan into regional economic, transport, humanitarian, and climate processes with the support of the international community. In the climate agenda, this is especially meaningful: without Afghanistan’s participation, it is impossible to build genuinely sustainable connectivity between Central and South Asia.

What the Termez Dialogue Can Deliver

The Termez Dialogue can become a platform for launching several practical areas of cooperation.

First, the exchange of climate and hydrological data, including forecasts of droughts, floods, glacier changes, and dust storms.

Second, the joint promotion of early warning systems, so that countries can prepare in advance for extreme weather events.

Third, the development of climate-resilient agriculture: water-saving technologies, drought-resistant crops, digital services for farmers, and the restoration of pastures and soils.

Fourth, ecosystem-based adaptation — the restoration of forests, wetlands, mountain and desert ecosystems that themselves serve as natural protection against climate risks.

Fifth, climate-resilient infrastructure — from transport corridors and logistics centres to energy facilities and rapidly growing cities.

From a Common Challenge to Shared Resilience

The main value of the Termez Dialogue is that it allows the climate agenda to be discussed not in the language of alarm, but in the language of joint solutions. Central and South Asia can not only exchange risk assessments, but also create common adaptation mechanisms: from scientific networks and pilot projects to investment programmes and regional standards for resilient infrastructure.

The new climate agenda of the Termez Dialogue is part of the larger idea of connectivity. Genuine connectivity is not only about roads, trade, and energy corridors. It is also about the capacity of countries to jointly protect ecosystems, human health, and the future of coming generations. The Termez Dialogue can become the space where Central and South Asia move from recognizing their shared vulnerability to building shared resilience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkiye is carried out within the framework of signed bilateral agreements and established intergovernmental mechanisms, and is supported by regular high-level contacts. In addition, Uzbekistan and Turkiye cooperate within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States.

In 2023, the President of the Republic of Turkiye paid an official visit to Uzbekistan, during which the Uzbekistan–Turkiye Business Forum was held. As a result of the visit, a substantial package of intergovernmental and commercial agreements was signed, covering key sectors of the economy with a total value of around $10 bn.

In June 2024, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan paid an official visit to Turkiye. During the visit, a meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council was held, resulting in the signing of an important package of agreements, protocols, and roadmaps aimed at further expanding trade, economic, and investment cooperation.

Mutual trade between Uzbekistan and Turkiye operates under a most-favoured-nation regime, and a Preferential Trade Agreement has also been signed.

Turkiye is among Uzbekistan’s leading trade and economic partners, ranking 4th in terms of total trade turnover and imports, and 5th in terms of Uzbekistan’s exports.

In 2025, Turkiye’s share in Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover amounted to 3.7%, including 3.4% of exports and 4.0% of imports.

Dynamics of Bilateral Trade

Over the period 2017–2025, bilateral trade between the two countries increased by 1.9 times and reached $3.0 bn by the end of 2025. Exports to Turkiye grew by 1.3 times to $1.1 bn, while imports from Turkiye increased by 2.8 times to $1.9 bn.

At the same time, annual growth rates of imports from Turkiye consistently exceeded export growth rates, resulting in a widening trade deficit to –$751.6 mn.

Uzbekistan’s exports to Turkiye in 2025 comprised the following categories: industrial goods (copper products, yarn, etc.) amounting to $511.4 mn (45%); miscellaneous manufactured articles (mainly precious metal products) at $152.3 mn (13.4%); chemical products (polymers, fertilizers, etc.) at $124.3 mn (11%); machinery and transport equipment at $80.1 mn (7%); food products (dried fruits and nuts) at $63.0 mn (5.5%); petroleum products (gasoline, gas oil) at $36.6 mn (3.2%); non-food raw materials at $18.0 mn (1.6%); as well as services, primarily transport services, at $149.9 mn (13.2%).

Imports from Turkiye in 2025 were dominated by the following categories: machinery and transport equipment at $674.6 mn (35.7%); chemical products at $408.9 mn (21.7%); industrial goods at $390.2 mn (20.7%); miscellaneous manufactured articles at $136.2 mn (7.2%); food products at $94.6 mn (5.0%); petroleum products (lubricating oils) at $30.2 mn (1.6%); non-food raw materials at $30.1 mn (1.6%); and services at $117.4 mn (6.2%).

Investment Cooperation

The two countries have signed an Agreement on the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments. As of 1 January 2026, 2,137 enterprises with Turkish capital operate in Uzbekistan, accounting for 11.8% of all active enterprises with foreign investment. Of these, 496 are joint ventures and 1,641 are wholly owned by Turkish investors.

Total direct investments and loans from Turkiye to Uzbekistan’s economy over 2017–2025 amounted to $9.0 bn, including $2.6 bn attracted in 2025 alone.

Turkish capital continues to expand its presence in Uzbekistan, primarily in priority sectors such as energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and construction.

In particular, investments in the power sector are linked to the construction by the Turkish company Cengiz Enerji of a 240 MW thermal power plant in Tashkent Region and a similar 220 MW plant in Syrdarya Region.

Prospective Areas of Economic Cooperation

An analysis of Turkiye’s import structure indicates opportunities to increase Uzbekistan’s exports to Turkiye, particularly in product categories that Uzbekistan already supplies to global markets. These include polymers (Turkiye’s imports amounting to $2.8 bn), copper wire ($1.4 bn), fertilizers ($1.1 bn), legumes ($1.0 bn), zinc ($857 mn), copper tubes ($360 mn), textile products, particularly T-shirts and undershirts ($373 mn), knitted fabrics ($158 mn) and other manufactured goods.

Promising areas for cooperative engagement between Uzbekistan and Turkiye include manufacturing industries – especially textiles, electrical engineering, and machinery – chemical industry, agriculture, healthcare, education, as well as projects aimed at preserving and promoting cultural heritage. There are also prospects for joint infrastructure projects, including the construction of water treatment facilities.

In agriculture, particular attention is paid to the selection and cultivation of domestic pistachio varieties and the development of pistachio farming. Agreements have been reached on implementing joint research projects focused on cultivation techniques and adaptation.

A significant emphasis is placed on expanding cooperation in education, including the involvement of Turkish lecturers and specialized professionals in educational initiatives in Uzbekistan, experience exchange, and human capital development.

At the same time, areas of cooperation in healthcare are being discussed, focusing on the development of primary healthcare, the introduction of medical insurance systems, sector digitalization, improvement of service quality, and modernization of the pharmaceutical industry.

Tourism has been identified as a separate and promising area of cooperation. Currently, 12 hotels in Uzbekistan operate with the participation of Turkish partners, along with more than 100 joint restaurants, reflecting sustained interest by Turkish businesses in the country’s tourism sector.

In 2025–2026, with the support of Turkish investors, 11 hotel projects with a total value of $167.9 mn are planned in Bukhara, Samarkand, Jizzakh, Fergana, and Tashkent regions.

Transport connectivity is also expanding significantly. The number of weekly flights between Uzbekistan and Turkiye has increased from 62 in 2023 to 106 at present, creating additional conditions for the growth of mutual tourist flows and the expansion of travel routes.

A key initiative in tourism is the “Million + Million” programme, aimed at attracting at least one million tourists to each country. The programme envisages a further increase in flight frequency and the expansion of tourist routes between Uzbekistan and Turkiye.

Conclusion

In recent years, there has been steady growth in bilateral trade, investment volumes, the number of enterprises with Turkish capital, and the breadth of economic cooperation.

At the same time, Uzbekistan’s exports to Turkiye are still dominated by raw materials and intermediate goods used in Turkiye’s industrial sectors. Against this background, the key task for the coming years is to move from a “raw materials–finished goods” trade model toward the formation of joint production chains with higher value added.

In this context, Turkiye can play a role for Uzbekistan not only as one of its principal trading partners, but also as a contributor to Uzbekistan’s industrial development and to the expansion of its participation in global value chains.

Edvard Romanov
Center for Economic Research and Reforms

In recent years, relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have become one of the key pillars of regional cooperation in Central Asia. These relations are founded on a shared border, historical proximity, regular political dialogue between the heads of state, and growing interdependence in trade, transport and logistics, energy, industry, agriculture, and the development of border regions. Consequently, the bilateral agenda is steadily evolving beyond the framework of traditional good-neighbourly relations toward a comprehensive and long-term economic partnership.

Regular high-level contacts continue to define the strategic direction of bilateral cooperation. The Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation remains the principal institutional mechanism for intergovernmental coordination. In May 2026, the Deputy Prime Ministers of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan held a meeting on the sidelines of the KazanForum. In June, the relevant ministers discussed current issues related to trade, investment, and economic cooperation. On 22–23 June 2026, the 12th session of the Intergovernmental Commission was held in Cholpon-Ata.

An important component of this cooperation architecture is the development of direct interregional ties. The Council of Governors of Uzbekistan's border regions and the Plenipotentiary Representatives of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, established in 2017, was transformed in 2025 into the Council of Heads of Regions of the two countries. As a continuation of this process, the first Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan Forum of Regions is planned to be held in Uzbekistan. This format has significant practical importance for promoting trade, logistics, border crossing infrastructure, local markets, and entrepreneurship in border areas.

Business-to-business cooperation is also becoming increasingly dynamic. In July 2024, Tashkent hosted a business forum attended by 350 entrepreneurs. The event resulted in the signing of 20 agreements worth a total of USD 213 million. Preparations for the next business forum in Bishkek confirm the regular nature of this dialogue and its focus not only on trade operations but also on projects aimed at strengthening industrial cooperation.

The growth in bilateral trade reflects the expanding economic interests of both countries. By the end of 2025, mutual trade had reached nearly USD 1.2 billion, representing an increase of 36.4 percent. The positive trend continued during January–May 2026, when bilateral trade amounted to USD 468.8 million, up by 43.9 percent compared to the same period of the previous year. Uzbekistan's exports increased by 60.8 percent, while imports from Kyrgyzstan grew by 12.1 percent. The commodity structure has also become increasingly diversified: Uzbekistan primarily exports textiles, food products, construction materials, and machinery, whereas imports from Kyrgyzstan include ores, electricity, metals, and plastic products.

To consolidate these positive trends, the two countries are implementing the Programme for Increasing Bilateral Trade for 2024–2030. The programme is aimed at moving beyond the expansion of individual commodity groups toward a more sustainable trade model through the diversification of product ranges, the development of new distribution channels, and the removal of trade barriers. Within this framework, the parties are addressing issues related to coal, construction materials, livestock, seedlings, and sheet glass.

The next stage of cooperation focuses on trade, logistics, and industrial instruments. The International Trade Centre "Termez" provides Kyrgyz products with an additional southern export route. Trade houses in Bishkek and Tashkent are expected to become permanent platforms for promoting bilateral trade, while assembly production facilities utilizing Uzbek-made components will add greater industrial value to bilateral economic relations.

The investment dimension is supported by the growing presence of businesses in each other's markets. Currently, 450 enterprises with Kyrgyz capital operate in Uzbekistan, while 85 enterprises with Uzbek capital are active in Kyrgyzstan. This demonstrates a gradual transition from conventional trade transactions to more sustainable forms of business cooperation.

Industrial cooperation is acquiring tangible substance. In the Chui Region, automobile production has been launched with the participation of the Uzbek side, including the assembly of the Onix, Captiva, Damas, Cobalt, Tahoe, and Tracker models.

The opportunities for cooperation, however, extend well beyond the automotive industry. In geology, both countries are interested in jointly exploring a number of mineral deposits, including iron ore and phosphorite reserves, as well as cooperating in the development of critical minerals. In the pharmaceutical sector, the parties are working on projects to manufacture affordable medicines.

The textile and light industry also retains considerable potential. Textile enterprises have already been established in Kara-Balta and Andijan, garment production is expanding in Bishkek and Osh Region, and textile manufacturing is being developed in the Chui Region.

Alongside industrial initiatives, energy cooperation remains of strategic importance. The Kambarata HPP-1 project occupies a central place on the bilateral agenda. It is essential to expedite the conclusion of the intergovernmental agreement on the project while ensuring a balanced approach to the water and energy interests of both countries.

Transport cooperation complements this agenda, as it directly affects the sustainability of economic ties. Creating predictable operating conditions for transport operators requires the establishment of a joint working group and the development of a Joint Transport and Logistics Programme for 2026–2028.

Financial support for a number of bilateral initiatives is provided by the Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan Development Fund. Its portfolio already includes projects in transport, finance, light industry, construction materials, and energy. Expanding the Fund's project portfolio and considering Kyrgyzstan's participation in its authorized capital could further strengthen the institution's long-term sustainability.

Border infrastructure also deserves particular attention, as it translates the broader bilateral agenda into practical cooperation at the regional level.

Overall, these developments demonstrate that Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan relations are entering a more mature stage of economic partnership. Growing trade, expanding industrial cooperation, energy coordination, transport connectivity, agricultural and industrial initiatives, together with enhanced financial mechanisms, are forming not merely a collection of individual agreements but an integrated system of long-term strategic partnership.

Dear forum participants!

Dear guests!

I sincerely congratulate you, all those who make a worthy contribution to the development of the holy religion Islam, on the opening of the international scientific-practical conference dedicated to the study of the scientific heritage of the great muhaddis Imam Termezi in the homeland of outstanding Muslim scholars - in Uzbekistan.

It is gratifying that today's authoritative forum is attended by renowned specialists in the field of Islamic studies - prominent scholars and ulema, experts and researchers. In your person we see the continuers of the good traditions of the great thinkers who are the pride of the Muslim world - Imam Bukhari and Imam Termezi.

May the Almighty bless you, I wish you happiness and prosperity!

Dear friends!

Speaking about our outstanding ancestors-scientists, bright representatives of the Islamic world of the Middle Ages, we, of course, among the first names of Hazrat Imam Termezi.

We are rightfully proud of this incomparable person, the favorite disciple of the great Imam Bukhari, who was honored with the high rank of Sultan of Muhaddis, who has been glorifying our region for twelve centuries with his undying works and high human qualities.

Imam Termezi is recognized in the world as one of the six great muhaddis, his collection of hadiths is among the most revered and reliable sources, and the Muslim Ummah bows before the name of this outstanding man.

Another practical expression of such recognition is the fact that the topic for discussion at today's conference was the unique works of Imam Termezi “Ash-Shamoil al-Muhammadiyya” and “Sunani Termiziyya”, as well as important issues concerning the scientific heritage of the Ulema Termezis and its relevance today.

Dear participants of the conference!

In recent years, a great work has been carried out in our country to study and popularize the invaluable heritage of many of our thinkers-theologians who made a great contribution to the development of the Islamic religion, to honor their memory, to improve the places associated with their life and activities, including Imam Termezi.

It should be noted that a magnificent memorial complex has been erected in his honor in Sherabad district of Surkhandarya province, and an international research center, a specialized Islamic secondary school and an Islamic institute have been opened in the city of Termez bearing his name.

These institutions, together with the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the Centre for Islamic Civilization, the Hadith Scientific School and other religious educational and research organizations, are studying the rich heritage of Imam Termezi in a comprehensive and in-depth manner. In particular, works of the thinker are published, scientific researches, books and artistic works are dedicated to him.

I hope that after familiarizing yourselves with the work carried out in this direction within the framework of the conference, you will express your opinions and proposals on further activation of cooperation in this field.

We, the heirs of great scientists, emphasizing that Islam is a religion of peace, goodness and humanism, on the way of realization of good hopes and aspirations of mankind, consider it our most important duty to jointly enrich this incomparable spiritual treasure and preserve it for future generations.

I express my deep gratitude to the scientists and ulema of our country and to you, dear guests, to all figures of science who show real dedication for such a noble goal.

The doors of the leading research and educational institutions of Uzbekistan are always open for you.

Greeting you once again from the bottom of my heart, I wish you health, new achievements in your scientific and creative activities, and a successful conference.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

At present, Uzbekistan is entering an entirely new stage of development, which is vividly demonstrated by the comprehensive reforms being carried out in all spheres. Profound transformations in domestic and foreign policy, socio-economic life, cultural and spiritual-educational fields are reflected in the lifestyle of our people.

At the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and based on the unity of the people, the “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy was adopted, serving as a solid legal and practical foundation for national renewal. The reforms implemented under this program create conditions for improving the well-being of citizens and ensuring the sustainable development of the state and society.

In recent years, special attention has been paid in our country to strengthening the atmosphere of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation among various religious confessions, supporting intercultural dialogue, and ensuring peace and harmony, which has been widely recognized by the international community.

It is noteworthy that on 19 September 2017, at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in New York, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward an initiative which found its practical embodiment in the adoption, at the following session of the UN General Assembly in 2018, of a special resolution entitled “Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance”. The draft prepared by Uzbekistan was unanimously approved by all UN member states.

This resolution gained particular significance as it placed education and enlightenment at the forefront as an effective means of countering global threats – extremism and terrorism – especially at a time of growing intolerance and uncompromising attitudes towards representatives of different religions and beliefs.

As a logical continuation of this work, in 2022 the international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” was held with the aim of implementing the principles and provisions of the resolution “Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance”, as well as achieving the goals of the National Human Rights Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, approved in 2020.

The main outcome of this meeting was the adoption of the “Bukhara Declaration,” which supplemented earlier declarations adopted in Marrakesh, Mecca, Jakarta, Potomac and Punta del Este. This document became an important contribution of Uzbekistan to strengthening the ideas of religious tolerance and interethnic harmony at the international level.

It is important that this dialogue has become a regular tradition: on 10–13 September of this year, the second international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” is scheduled to take place in Tashkent and Samarkand.

This forum represents an integral part of the international community’s efforts to ensure freedom of religion and to strengthen interfaith dialogue, as well as a demonstration of Uzbekistan’s readiness to actively promote at the global level its firm adherence to international obligations in the field of human rights and freedoms.

It should be emphasized that while in many parts of the world fundamental rights – to life, education, work, self-realization, and freedom of religion – are being violated, in Uzbekistan representatives of more than 130 nationalities and 16 confessions live peacefully on the basis of tolerance. The ability of people of different faiths to freely and safely perform their religious rites is a key factor of social stability.

Currently, there are 2,373 registered religious organizations in Uzbekistan, of which 2,174 are Islamic and 199 are non-Islamic. Over the past eight years, 130 religious organizations have been registered, including 3 higher and 1 secondary special Islamic educational institutions, 105 mosques and 25 non-Islamic organizations of various confessions.

The legal foundation for these transformations is the Concept of State Policy on Ensuring Freedom of Conscience of Citizens and in the Religious Sphere, adopted by the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. 1037 of 25 February 2025.

The Concept affirms the right to freedom of conscience and the constitutional principle of the secular nature of the state, and defines the goals, objectives, principles and priority directions of state policy in the religious sphere. It was developed on the basis of the rich national-historical experience of statehood and universal values, and is aimed at ensuring a stable environment for the progressive development of Uzbekistan’s multiethnic and multi-confessional society on the basis of democracy, secularism, freedom, equality, social justice and solidarity.

Within a short period, major scientific and educational institutions were established, such as the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, international research centers named after Imam Bukhari, Imam Maturidi, Imam Termizi, Bahauddin Naqshband, the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the School of Hadith Studies in Samarkand, and the Mir Arab Higher Madrasa in Bukhara.

These institutions contribute significantly to ensuring a healthy spiritual environment in society, educating the younger generation as modern-minded individuals worthy of their great ancestors, in line with the noble universal idea “Enlightenment against Ignorance”.

If in 2017 the country had only 3 higher (1 Islamic and 2 non-Islamic) and 9 secondary special religious educational institutions, today their number has reached 16, of which 6 are higher institutions.

To further develop this sphere and elevate it to a new stage, a Presidential Decree “On measures to further strengthen guarantees of the right of citizens to freedom of conscience and to bring reforms in the spiritual-educational sphere to a new level” was signed. This document was positively received not only by representatives of the religious-educational sphere, but also by the wider public.

It is also worth noting that in recent years anniversaries and events of non-Islamic confessions have been held at a high level, alongside Islamic ones. These include the 145th (2017) and 150th (2021) anniversaries of the Russian Orthodox Church Diocese of Tashkent and Uzbekistan, the 120th anniversary of the Armenian Apostolic Church (2023), the 25th (2018) and 30th (2023) anniversaries of the Bible Society of Uzbekistan, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah (2017), the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab (2019), and the 100th anniversary of the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha (2022). These events are vivid examples of peace and tolerance in our country.

At the same time, special attention has been paid to enabling believers of various religions to make pilgrimages abroad. In particular, nearly 500,000 citizens have performed Hajj and Umrah, and more than 10,000 people have visited holy sites in Israel, Russia, Georgia, Turkey and other countries.

In conclusion, it should be noted that for thousands of years Uzbekistan has been an integral part of the Great Silk Road, making a worthy contribution to the development of world civilization. Trade, science and cultural centers here have always flourished, while tolerance, hospitality and respect for representatives of different cultures have been key factors of progress.

Today, the traditions and customs of different peoples in Uzbekistan continue to develop in harmony. The consistent policy in the spiritual-educational sphere pursued under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev serves as an important foundation not only for ensuring peace, stability and harmony in our country, but also for their promotion globally.

The broad participation of representatives from different countries in the upcoming second international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” is clear evidence of the high international recognition of Uzbekistan’s state policy in ensuring freedom of religion and interfaith harmony.

Davronbek Maksudov,

First Deputy Chairman

of the Committee on Religious Affairs