In recent years, taking into account international standards and advanced foreign experience, ensuring the protection of the rights of convicts, respect for their honor and dignity, education of morality and conscientious work for further social adaptation in society upon release, a fundamental improvement of the penal enforcement legislation in the Republic of Uzbekistan has been carried out with the introduction of effective legal mechanisms.

Currently, there are a number of international conventions and provisions aimed at protecting the rights of convicts, which are regulated by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. (1966), "Convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" (1984), "Declaration on the protection of all persons from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" (1975), "Standard minimum rules for the treatment of convicts (Nelson Mandela rules)" (2015), "UN rules for the protection of minor children deprived of liberty " (1990), "Basic principles of the treatment of convicts" (1990).

Based on the norms of these international documents developed and adopted by the international community on standards for the treatment of convicts, systematic work is underway in the country to humanize execution and reduce negative consequences during their execution, as well as strengthen the legislative, organizational and legal framework for the protection of human rights, the implementation of international human rights standards into national legislation and other important norms human life activities that have been accepted for implementation by the Republic of Uzbekistan as a subject of the above-mentioned and other international treaties.

It is important to note that "Standard minimum rules for the treatment of prisoners" of UN 1955 are generally recognized minimum standards for the detention of prisoners and have great importance and influence on the improvement of legislation, criminal law policy and the practice of penitentiary institutions around the world.

The revised text of these standard minimum rules of December 17, 2015 at the 70th session of the UN General Assembly № A/RES/70/175 was unanimously adopted in the form of a resolution. These Rules became known as the "Nelson Mandela rules" as a sign of respect for his memory after the death of the famous statesman, the President of South Africa, who outlined these rules based on the experience of spending a long part of his life in prison.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the fact that, following the visit to Uzbekistan of the Special Rapporteur of the UN Human Rights Council, the topic "Promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism" recommendations were made to bring the legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan into line with the minimum standard rules for the treatment of prisoners (Nelson Mandela rules), in order to improve the conditions of detention of convicts in penal institutions, to ensure the rights to freedom of religion, which formed the basis of the “Road maps”, developed in accordance with the National Action Plan of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

In order to ensure the fulfillment of these tasks, the conditions of detention of convicts in penal institutions of the Republic of Uzbekistan are considered on the basis of the requirements of the standard minimum rules for the treatment of prisoners (Mandela rules), which are gradually being implemented in accordance with these rules.

On the basis of international standards of the rights and duties of convicts, taking into account the best practices of foreign countries, the system of execution of punishments is being radically improved, the problems that have accumulated over the years are being solved.

In the new version of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan the right to life is an inalienable right of every person and is protected by law. The most serious crime is an attempt on a person's life. The death penalty is prohibited in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Essence is that no one can be intentionally deprived of life. This norm is in line with the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The human right to life is recognized as a natural and inviolable right arising from the moment of his birth, and belongs to a person regardless of the existence of statehood and laws.

In recent years, as part of the work to bring national legislation into line with international standards, for the first time the right to be elected was granted to convicts, except for persons who committed serious and especially serious crimes (Part 6 of Article 128 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan). The number of convicts held in institutions of general, strict, special, prison and educational regime has doubled, for correspondence, receiving visits, parcels, transfers and parcels, conducting telephone conversations.

In addition, those sentenced to imprisonment are guaranteed psychological assistance and non-application of disciplinary measures for violations committed at the time of mental disorder, and the right to a pension is established for those serving sentences in penal colonies.

Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan June 30, 2020 introduced a new norm into the Penal Enforcement Code defining the procedure for the application of incentive measures for persons serving sentences, expanded measures aimed at ensuring the personal safety of convicts while serving their sentences.

At the request of the convicts, long-term visits can be replaced by short-term visits or remote video calls or telephone conversations, and short-term visits are replaced by remote video calls or telephone conversations. Persons serving sentences from low-income families are employed in high-paying jobs.

In the process of ongoing reforms, special attention was paid to creating decent conditions for convicts, for this purpose, the pre-trial detention facility -64/1, which had a negative character and was popularly nicknamed "Tashturma", was closed in Tashkent. Instead, a new pre-trial detention facility №1 has been built and is functioning in  Zangiata district of the Tashkent region, fully meeting international standards. Similarly, the institution "Jaslyk" in Karakalpakstan was abolished, and the convicts held in it were transferred to other colonies of the republic.

In recent years, there has been a tendency in our country to use alternative, non-custodial measures, which has reduced the number of convicts sent to penal institutions. This situation has made it possible over the past four years to reduce three penal colonies of the general regime, one each in Navoi, Kashkadarya and Tashkent regions.

In the Republic, the legislative, executive, and departmental authorities constantly monitor compliance with the rule of law and ensure the rights and legitimate interests of persons serving sentences in places of deprivation of liberty.

Thus, with the introduction of the post of Commissioner of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman) He was granted the right to freely visit penal institutions. The Ombudsman and the Prosecutor have separate mailboxes designed for applications and complaints from these persons. The Prosecutor's Office and the Ombudsman regularly examine the observance of laws in penal institutions. The management of the Department for the Execution of Punishment constantly carries out field visits to places of deprivation of liberty in order to study the complaints and statements of convicts and make an appropriate decision and its immediate execution.

It should be added that, according to the recommendations of the UN charter bodies and treaty committees, the national preventive mechanism is being improved on the basis of the "Ombudsman Plus" model. The Ombudsman, and the Children's Ombudsman, the National Center for Human Rights and the Business Ombudsman have also been given the authority to monitor penal institutions.

As a result of the ongoing reforms, completely new priorities of the State penal enforcement policy have been developed and put into practice, providing for the following main aspects.

In particular, the Penal Enforcement Code has been supplemented with a new Article 102 "Procedure for the application of incentive measures", which abolished restrictions on visits of juvenile convicts with their parents or persons replacing them; convicted pregnant women with children are granted additional rights to long visits with minor children lasting up to five days - four times a year as well as long - term visits with the possibility of living outside the territory of the institution, the application of incentive measures to convicts - at least twice a year; if there is a threat to the safety of a person sentenced to imprisonment, it is established that he can apply, verbally or in writing, to any employee of the institution for the execution of punishment in order to ensure the declared safety, while the requirement is defined – upon receipt of such a statement about the need for immediate action, measures should be taken immediately to ensure his safety. An important requirement is also to prevent the unjustified use of rudeness, physical force and special means by employees and military personnel during the search of convicts; timely and appropriate conduct of long and short-term visits, telephone conversations, remote video communication, short-term remote video communication or telephone conversation.

It should be noted that such measures of encouragement for convicts are also enshrined in the penal codes of Spain, Turkiye, Japan and some other countries.

In accordance with the norms of the Penal Enforcement Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, penitentiary institutions provide measures to protect the health of convicts, ensure their education, free use of libraries and other authorized sources of information (radio, television, movies and video films, etc.).

The "Import model" of prison management in Norway with a developed penal enforcement system is of interest. To implement this model, work is underway to establish a system of providing services (education, library use, health care) in places of detention.

It is also necessary to mention the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated December 7, 2021, which, in order to humanize minors in the Penal Enforcement Code, provides for a norm defining the placement of persons in educational colonies not from the age of 13, but from 14. This has become one of the important steps towards reliable protection of the rights and legitimate interests of minors in the process of criminal and judicial proceedings in our country.

In order to further deepen the large-scale reforms being implemented in the system of Ministry of Internal Affairs, decree of March 26 and Resolution of April 2, 2021, the Main Directorate for the Execution of Punishment was transformed into the Department for the Execution of Punishment under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, it defines the legal basis for the department's activities to ensure the order of serving punishment by digitalizing the penal enforcement system, which will eliminate errors related to the human factor.

In addition, the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 15, 2023 "On State pension provision for citizens" provides that any work performed by persons sentenced to imprisonment while serving their sentence in penal institutions may be envisaged that the convicted person will be included in the work record in case of tax payment. This procedure is now defined in Article 96 of the Penal Enforcement Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan in a new edition, which has been renamed as "Payment of social tax and pension provision for convicts." Its first part defines "The expenses of institutions for the execution of punishment for the payment of labor sentenced to imprisonment that are subject to social tax", along with this, convicts have the right to transfer funds and use other services provided to convicts.

An important legislative decision is the prohibition of the use of a punishment measure with the use of a "straitjacket". This provision is based on Article 26 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which states: "No one may be subjected to torture, violence, or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment" directly acts to prevent the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in penal institutions.

As a result of the ongoing reforms in the system of state penal enforcement policy, it is stipulated that common living quarters for persons with disabilities of groups I and II sentenced to imprisonment should be equipped with special means and devices; it is allowed to watch films, television and radio broadcasts, except for the time allotted for night rest; criteria for treatment are defined convicts.

In addition, it is important to eliminate corruption factors in assessing the behavior of convicts by including the length of service in the institution in the total length of service for their further retirement and, most importantly, by establishing strict criteria that determine the way to correct convicts.

The above allows us to conclude that the reforms carried out in this area are yielding positive results. In particular, recently the offenses of convicts in places of deprivation of liberty and after their release have been reduced; to a greater extent, the conditions of serving a sentence in the form of imprisonment comply with international standards, the incentive mechanisms applied to convicts serving sentences and those who have embarked on the path of correction are being improved, they ensure the protection of the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of convicts, allowing them not to violate their interests; Public groups and citizens' self-government bodies are actively involved in the educational process of correcting convicts; offenses by law enforcement agencies have significantly decreased.

Mirzayusup Rustambayev,

Head of the University of Public Safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of Law, Professor

From 3 to 6 May 2026, Samarkand will host the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The event is expected to bring together heads of banking and financial institutions from 69 member countries, as well as representatives of international organizations. Discussions will focus on the key development challenges facing the countries of Asia and possible ways to address them.

The holding of such a high-level forum in Uzbekistan reflects the growing recognition of the country’s ongoing economic reforms and the strengthening of its position within the global financial system. A significant factor has also been the notable expansion of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB in recent years, as evidenced by a number of objective international assessments of the country’s socio-economic development.

First, there has been a steady rise in Uzbekistan’s international standing and stronger performance in global rankings. In particular, in the Government Technology Maturity Index published by the World Bank, the country advanced by 71 positions, entering the world’s top ten.

Second, despite continuing disruptions in global production and transport-logistics chains, rising commodity prices, and tighter financial conditions, Uzbekistan continues to demonstrate устойчивый economic growth. In 2025, for the first time in the country’s history, gross domestic product exceeded USD 145 billion, while gold and foreign exchange reserves surpassed USD 60 billion.

At the same time, the volume of attracted foreign investment increased significantly, reaching USD 43.1 billion, while the share of investment in GDP exceeded 31 percent. Moreover, despite growing protectionism and sanctions pressure in the global trading system, the republic increased exports by 23 percent, bringing them to USD 33.4 billion.

Third, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB is comprehensive and long-term in nature. The total portfolio of joint initiatives amounts to 174 projects worth USD 27.5 billion, of which 66 projects worth USD 10.5 billion have already been completed, while another 30 projects valued at USD 4.6 billion are currently under implementation. These figures confirm the ADB’s status as one of Uzbekistan’s leading development partners.

Building on accumulated experience, the ADB launched a new five-year partnership strategy with Uzbekistan in August 2024 for the period 2024–2028. Its key priorities include supporting the republic’s transition toward a green and inclusive economy, enhancing private sector competitiveness, and stimulating investment in human capital.

In addition, Uzbekistan and the ADB approved a Memorandum of Understanding for 2026–2028, which envisages the implementation of 28 projects with a total value of USD 4.2 billion.

The fact that the meeting is being held in Uzbekistan positions the country as a regional hub for dialogue on development and investment, demonstrates the progress of reforms, and contributes to attracting global partners to accelerate the country’s sustainable development. According to experts, the meeting will serve as an important platform for strengthening cooperation and concluding priority agreements between the Government of Uzbekistan and the ADB.

Furthermore, in order to consolidate long-term priorities, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward an initiative to mark the Samarkand summit with the signing of an important document — the Expanded Strategic Partnership Programme with the ADB for 2027–2030. It will serve as a medium-term roadmap, with primary emphasis placed on human capital and social resilience.

Thus, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB has evolved from financial assistance into a strategic partnership. Today, the Bank finances key projects, shapes the reform agenda, and supports the long-term transformation of the national economy, effectively acting as an institutional partner.

Such cooperation opens a number of significant advantages for Uzbekistan:

Economic – access to concessional loans and grants, reduced budgetary burden in implementing large-scale programmes, improvement of the investment climate and inflow of long-term foreign investment, infrastructure development, and employment growth;

Structural – acceleration of market reforms, liberalization and diversification of the economy, and private sector development;

Strategic – integration into the global economy, transition to a green growth model, and participation in regional value chains and transport-logistics corridors.

As can be seen, the modern ADB agenda largely coincides with Uzbekistan’s current reform trajectory. According to experts, the republic has synchronized its national strategy with the Bank’s priorities and, as a result, can attract even greater volumes of financing to accelerate structural reforms and strengthen economic resilience.

Overall, the key features of the modern model of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB are: comprehensiveness (covering all major sectors), strategic orientation (alignment with the long-term goals of “Uzbekistan–2030”), institutional depth (reforms, regulation, standards), and sustainability (environmental protection and inclusiveness).

Thus, today the ADB is not merely a creditor, but a key strategic partner participating in structural reforms, economic modernization, and Uzbekistan’s integration into global economic processes.

Dmitriy Trostyanskiy

Chief Research Fellow,

Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies

under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan,

Doctor of Economic Sciences

Human history demonstrates that every great advancement is built upon intellectual and spiritual foundations. Today, a project emerging from the heart of Central Asia is drawing global attention for its scale and significance - Center of Islamic Civilization is not merely an architectural landmark, but an intellectual bridge connecting the past, present and future of the region.

The anticipated opening of the complex in March 2026 has already attracted the attention of leading international publications and organizations, recognizing it as one of the most significant cultural projects of the New Uzbekistan.

The foundation for the project was laid in 2017, when President Shavkat Mirziyoyev introduced the initiative at the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. At that time, Leader of Uzbekistan emphasized the need to show the international community the true humanistic essence of Islam - enlightenment, peace and creation. This was not only a political statement but also a program for returning to the roots of a land that for centuries served as a cradle of science and culture.

The emergence of this monumental project coincides with a global need for spiritual transformation. In an era where Islamophobia and radicalism are spreading across different parts of the world, Uzbekistan has proposed a model to confront these challenges through science and education.

Today, this vision has materialized in a majestic complex covering ten hectares in the historic center of Tashkent. Its 65-meter azure dome and four golden gates symbolically represent the unity of all regions of Uzbekistan. Across every line of the building, architectural traditions of the Timurid era are harmoniously integrated with modern technological solutions.

Center embodies a balance of religion and science. Its main pillar, reflecting the rich architectural traditions of Ulugh Beg Madrasah, is adorned with a calligraphic inscription of the first revealed verse of the Qur’an, “Iqra” (“Read in the name of your Lord”), symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge as the highest spiritual duty of every individual.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is the 7th-century Uthman Qur’an, a unique sacred relic inscribed by UNESCO in the “Memory of the World” Register.

The architectural concept of the complex impresses not only with its grandeur but also with its full compliance with contemporary urban planning and environmental sustainability standards. Every element of the project - from the foundation to the dome - has been constructed with respect for historical heritage and designed for longevity. The landscaped grounds surrounding the complex transform it into more than a scientific center, creating a spacious cultural and educational zone accessible to both city residents and international visitors.

The exhibition concept of the Center fundamentally departs from that of traditional museums. Built upon the principle endorsed by Shavkat Mirziyoyev, “Civilization – Personalities – Discoveries”, it does more than present historical facts; it immerses visitors in a living intellectual innovation. The exhibition is organized chronologically: the pre-Islamic period, the First and Second Renaissance and New Uzbekistan - forming the foundation of the Third Renaissance.

A special feature is the “Wall of Civilizations”, which showcases humanity’s intellectual progress as a continuous process. It illustrates how the discoveries of great figures from each era - including Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Farghani, Ibn Sina, Al-Biruni, and Mirzo Ulughbek - are directly linked to modern high technologies.

The extensive use of VR and AR technologies, holograms, and artificial intelligence enables the Center to “bring to life” unique 9th-century manuscripts, digitally reconstruct the original appearance of ancient observatories and transport past discoveries into the digital realm.

This large-scale integration of digital technologies positions the Center as a museum of the future. Through smart systems, visitors not only receive visual information but can virtually interact with great scientists and participate in their laboratory experiments. The “1001 Inventions” Laboratory, designed for children, sparks early interest in engineering and natural sciences. Center thus evolves beyond a repository of knowledge, becoming an interactive educational platform that nurtures the nation’s intellectual potential.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, has repeatedly emphasized that the true strength of a nation lies in its memory and cultural roots. He instructed that museum exhibitions be enriched with authentic examples of national heritage and that the rarest artifacts preserving the spirit and history of the Uzbek people be returned to the homeland.

In fulfillment of this noble vision, a delegation led by Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization and a special commission of scholars, Orientalists and art historians, conducted large-scale research. One of the Center’s most important tasks is the repatriation of national cultural heritage scattered abroad; in recent years, systematic cooperation has been established with prestigious auction houses and private collectors for this purpose.

Thanks to these efforts, more than a thousand unique manuscripts and artifacts have been returned to Uzbekistan. The World Society for the Study, Preservation and Promotion of the Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan (WOSCU) has also transferred numerous unique artworks from Transoxiana and Khorasan to the Center's collection.

Scientific expeditions and diplomatic missions organized by the Government of Uzbekistan have facilitated the creation of facsimile copies of manuscripts preserved in major museums and libraries worldwide. This process underscores that the rich cultural heritage of the Uzbek people is not only the legacy of Central Asia but also an integral part of the Islamic world and human civilization. Each repatriated treasure symbolizes the determination of the New Uzbekistan to restore its cultural identity.

The Center of Islamic Civilization is conceived not merely as a museum, but as an active scientific and educational platform. It provides comprehensive facilities for researchers, including a library housing over 200,000 volumes, restoration laboratories, a calligraphy school, and digital archives. Center also hosts offices of prestigious international organizations - including ICESCO, IRCICA and OCIS (Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies) - highlighting its role as a major hub for scientific and educational engagement.

More than 1,500 specialists from over 40 countries contributed to the project. International experts, including Khaled El-Enany, have described the Center as a “unique civilizational complex, integrating a next-generation museum, advanced research infrastructure, a modern library, national and international archives on the history of Central Asian civilizations, digital humanities technologies and an extensive network for global scientific and cultural collaboration”.

President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, referred to the Center as an intellectual hub of the modern world, likening it to historical institutions such as the Bayt al-Hikma, Academy of Ma’mun and Ulugh Beg Madrasah, which once shaped the development of science.

At the Congress “Central Asia: Shared Spiritual and Educational Heritage – Shared Future”, Center was visited by five presidents, becoming a symbol of collective regional pride. The event also brought together more than 300 scholars and cultural figures from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan.

In February 2026, new reports from Paris further bolstered the project’s global prestige. The International Committee of the “Prix Versailles” included Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent in the list of the “World's most beautiful museums of 2026”.

This recognition is further reinforced by the inclusion of the Center of Islamic Civilization in authoritative international publications and rankings, such as “Smithsonian Magazine”, “BBC Travel”, “BBC History” and “National Geographic”. This places it alongside the world’s major museum initiatives, including the “Lucas Museum of Narrative Art” (Los Angeles), “National Geographic Museum of Exploration” (Washington, D.C.) and “London Museum” (London).

Such acclaim significantly enhances the Center’s scientific and tourism potential, transforming it into a must-visit global landmark. These achievements vividly demonstrate the creative potential of New Uzbekistan and its innovative approach that meets international standards.

It is no coincidence that the Center’s opening coincides with the Holy month of Ramadan. It was in 2018, during this blessed month, that the first stone of this grand project was laid. Now, eight years later, Center of Islamic Civilization will open its doors, becoming a vital symbol of the revival and preservation of Islamic cultural heritage for future generations.

On March 5 President of the Republic of Uzbekistan attended a meeting of the National council on combating corruption. The meeting analysed the work carried out on creating corruption-free environment and defined further goals.

In his speech, the Head of State mentioned that corruption is a serious challenge in the course of reforms.

In this connection in the past years laws were adopted and a new system on combating this vice was created. Responsible committees were formed in the parliamentary chambers, a National council and Anti-Corruption Agency were established.

Particular attention is paid to creating conditions where the public can openly raise and discuss the problem of corruption. The role and influence of the media in this sphere are raising.

Primarily, measures are taken to combat the causes of corruption. For example, the abandonment of allocation of land plots by decisions of khokims and transition to the auction system made the allocation process more open. There have also been positive changes in this area since the introduction of the “Shaffof Kurilish” program.

The adoption of the law on public procurement, digitalization of the system of elections and tenders, as well as the establishment of healthy competition allowed saving 14 trillion soums of budget funds last year.

Today, all banks provide household loans up to 100 million soums online in 5 minutes without human involvement. As a result, thousands of bankers, who used to process such applications, now work directly in mahallas, offering projects and credit programs, thus contributing to the growth of the customer base.

In the pre-school and school education system, more than 10 types of services have been fully converted to electronic format, reducing the number of applications by 2.5 times.

The higher education system was also digitalized: a system for taking tests and selecting universities based on their results was introduced, and the automated receipt of 35 types of documents reduced the number of requests by 2.2 times.

Due to the use of body cameras by traffic safety inspectors, the sale of license plates through auctions, and the elimination of paper protocols, corruption factors have been significantly reduced.

Services to the population and entrepreneurs are organized on the basis of the principle of “the state serving the people”: the requirements to provide 120 types of documents, more than 160 licenses and permits have been abolished. This led to the emergence of almost 200 thousand new entrepreneurs in the market, and the number of enterprises with foreign participation increased almost 5 times, reaching 23 thousand.

The number of electronic public services increased 15 times, reaching 721, and the number of their users exceeded 11 million.

Most importantly, these measures have strengthened the faith of the population, entrepreneurs, foreign partners, international organizations and investors in the ongoing reforms. Over the past seven years, over $120 billion in investments have been attracted, and the country's economy has doubled, reaching $115 billion last year.

The President emphasized that the fight against corruption is an ongoing process and outlined the current issues and future tasks in this sphere.

It was noted that law enforcement agencies are mainly focused on detecting and punishing corrupt acts, while preventive measures aimed at eradicating corruption factors are neglected.

In this regard, it was decided to change the working methodology of the Anti-Corruption Agency. As an experiment, compliance control in five agencies - the Ministries of Health, Construction, Water Resources, Joint Stock Companies “Uzbekneftegaz” and “Uzsuvtaminot” will be transferred to the Agency.

In addition, an in-depth study of factors of domestic and systemic corruption will be conducted at the district level, which will be used to develop specific measures and submitted to the National Council.

It was noted that 75 percent of corruption crimes are committed in the form of domestic corruption in districts and mahallas, so the composition of the regional councils on combating corruption will be completely renewed. They will be headed by chairmen of regional councils of people's deputies.

The regional councils will propose to the National Council amendments to legislation aimed at eradicating corruption factors and ensuring inevitability of punishment.

Eight years ago, a system of sectors for the integrated development of territories was introduced. They contributed to solving socio-economic problems. In recent years, the potential of the regions has increased significantly.

In this regard, it was decided that prosecutors, heads of internal affairs and tax authorities would no longer be involved in sector activities. Additional tasks have been set to prevent and combat crime.

Special attention is paid to preventing corruption in public procurement. An Expert Commission will be established for this purpose. Based on best practices, an electronic platform will be developed to monitor that the prices of goods and services purchased through public procurement do not exceed the market average by more than 20 percent. Accountability measures and fines will be introduced for violation of this requirement.

Requirements for the procurement of fixed assets at the expense of the budget and extra-budgetary funds will also be tightened. Domestic transportation and furniture will be given priority in procurement by government agencies, and a requirement for evaluation against high anti-corruption standards will be introduced for major projects.

The fight against corruption begins with the selection of professional and dedicated employees for the civil service. In this regard, instructions have been given to improve procedures for hiring and evaluating candidates.

The need to adopt a law on the declaration of income of civil servants was noted, and a draft of this law will be submitted for public discussion.

The importance of instilling the ideas of honesty in educational institutions was emphasized in order to educate a new generation intolerant of corruption, as well as to support the initiatives of young people.

Addressing the public, the President said that the fight against corruption is a national task and a matter of conscience for every patriot of the country.

- If we all join forces, we will definitely achieve significant positive results. That is why mahalla activists, the older generation, intellectuals, writers and poets, art and culture workers, businessmen, well-known figures, leaders, deputies and senators - the entire public should become united and consider corruption as a “plague on the body of society”.

During the meeting, a dialogue was held with members of parliament, government representatives and the public.

For the first time, the event held in such a format demonstrated a strong political will to fight corruption.

The Head of State presented 55 concrete initiatives, which will include the development of 5 laws, 12 decrees and resolutions, as well as strengthening the role of Parliament, National and Regional Councils and civil society institutions in the fight against corruption.

The legal basis for the fight against corruption will be strengthened: the introduction of a new system of income declaration and a procedure for preventing illicit enrichment will reduce corruption factors. The activities of the Anti-Corruption Agency and internal control structures in organizations will be strengthened.

The responsibility of heads of ministries and agencies in preventing domestic corruption will be increased. A system of public evaluation of the quality of public services will be established, and strict measures will be taken against managers with the worst performance.

The independence of control inspections will be strengthened, and corruption prevention mechanisms will be introduced in major investment projects and auctions.

By streamlining the public procurement system and restricting direct procurement, budget savings will be achieved, and diversion of public funds will be curbed.

The freed resources will be mobilized to fight crime, which will lead to greater stability in society and increase the confidence of citizens. Strengthened prosecutorial oversight of illegal inspections will contribute to improving the business and investment climate in the regions.

The achieved results will improve the position of our country in international ratings, and by 2027 conditions will be created for Uzbekistan's candidacy for the UNCAC conference.

Most importantly, the legal consciousness of the population, especially young people, will be raised, and the society will form ownership of the fight against corruption.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Introduction

Central and South Asia form one of Eurasia’s most significant geographic junctions. Central Asia connects the continent’s east–west and north–south routes, while South Asia contains one of the world’s largest population bases and consumer markets. Taken together, the countries of the two subregions have a population of more than 2 billion people; however, their direct economic interaction remains below its potential level.

The scale of the potential market is confirmed by the figures: in 2024, the population of South Asia was approximately 1.68 billion people, while the region’s combined GDP was about US$4.5 trillion. At the same time, the economy of the five Central Asian countries in 2024 amounted to approximately US$489 billion. However, the level of interregional integration remains low: even within South Asia, intraregional trade is estimated at around 5% of total trade turnover, which is significantly lower than the ASEAN figure^[1][2][3].

This is evident in trade statistics: Central Asia’s main trade flows continue to be oriented toward Russia, China, the European Union, Türkiye, and the Middle East, while trade with South Asia occupies a comparatively limited niche.

The underused potential is explained not by a lack of demand, but by structural constraints. Between the two subregions, there are mountain barriers, complex cross-border routes, differing levels of integration into international supply chains, non-uniform customs and technical procedures, as well as the Afghanistan factor, which is simultaneously the shortest connecting link and the most sensitive element of the regional architecture. Therefore, the issue of connectivity has not only commercial but also strategic significance.

The restoration of economic ties between Central and South Asia should not be viewed as a romanticized return to historical routes. In modern conditions, it is a matter of competitiveness, supply-chain security, energy resilience, and diversification of foreign economic directions. For the countries of Central Asia, the southern route opens shorter access to the ports of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. For the countries of South Asia, it creates an opportunity to gain access to energy resources, food products, industrial goods, and new markets in Eurasia.

Uzbekistan occupies a special place in this logic. It is located in the central part of the region, borders all Central Asian states and Afghanistan, and therefore is capable of forming a link between the internal markets of Central Asia and the southern direction. At the same time, the role of a connector state means more than the transit of goods. It includes the coordination of infrastructure projects, the development of logistics services, the improvement of institutional quality, the creation of an analytical basis for decision-making, and the involvement of the private sector in interregional projects.

2. Historical and geographical preconditions for connectivity

The historical connection between Central and South Asia was formed long before the emergence of modern state borders. The cities of Transoxiana, Khorasan, Bactria, and northern India were part of a network of caravan routes and exchanges of artisanal goods, knowledge, religious traditions, and financial practices. Samarkand, Bukhara, Balkh, Merv, Kabul, Peshawar, and Lahore, in different periods, served as trade and cultural hubs linking the Eurasian space.

However, historical connectedness does not automatically translate into economic integration today. Modern supply chains depend on railways, highways, ports, energy networks, digital cargo-tracking systems, insurance, banking settlements, and predictable rules. Where even one of these elements is absent, transit becomes expensive, slow, and risky.

The geography of the region creates both incentives and constraints. On the one hand, the distance from Uzbekistan’s southern borders to northern Afghanistan is relatively short, and the route through Afghanistan is potentially the shortest overland path from Central Asia to Pakistan and onward to the ports of the Indian Ocean. On the other hand, mountain ranges, differences in railway gauge, the limited capacity of border infrastructure, security issues, and insufficient standardization of procedures increase the cost of projects.

Uzbekistan’s geographical role has not only qualitative but also measurable significance: the country is one of only two double-landlocked states in the world and, at the same time, the only state bordering all four other Central Asian countries as well as Afghanistan. In this context, the Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar railway project, with a length of approximately 573 km, acquires systemic importance, since it could reduce the time and cost of transportation toward Pakistan’s ports by roughly 30%^[4].

Therefore, connectivity should be understood more broadly than the physical connection of two points on a map. In the modern economy, it includes four dimensions. The first is infrastructural: roads, railways, terminals, ports, and energy networks. The second is institutional: customs, tariffs, standards, sanitary and phytosanitary rules, permits, and transit guarantees. The third is commercial: demand, purchasing power, contracts, logistics companies, insurance, and banking channels. The fourth is social and humanitarian: education, labor skills, tourism, medical ties, and research cooperation.

This approach helps avoid oversimplification. Even the shortest road will not become a sustainable corridor unless it is supported by a reliable legal environment, competitive tariffs, financial guarantees, and coordination among states.

3. Current state of trade and economic cooperation

Trade and economic ties between Central and South Asia are developing, but their scale still does not correspond to the size of the markets. Trade between Central Asian countries and India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan remains relatively modest compared with their trade with China, Russia, the European Union, Türkiye, and countries of the Middle East.

Central Asia supplies, or could potentially expand supplies to South Asia, in such areas as agricultural products, grain, fruit and vegetable products, textiles, fertilizers, energy goods, certain types of metals, and industrial raw materials. South Asia, primarily India and Pakistan, holds competitive positions in pharmaceuticals, medical goods, IT services, equipment, textile products, processed food products, and consumer goods.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has been strengthening the southern direction of its foreign economic policy. Trade ties with India and Pakistan are developing through pharmaceuticals, textiles, food products, services, logistics, and investment projects. Uzbekistan’s foreign trade in the southern direction is already growing, but it still occupies a limited place in the overall structure of foreign trade. The largest trade flows with South Asian countries are with Afghanistan and India. However, the very fact that certain bilateral flows are growing does not solve the main problem: interregional trade remains fragmented. In order to turn it into a sustainable market, it is necessary to reduce transaction costs, ensure the predictability of transit, make standards comparable, and develop business services.

The issue of trade data is especially important. Mutual trade is often assessed using different sources, while the statistics of exporting countries and importing countries may diverge. To develop effective policy, a regularly updated data panel is needed, broken down by corridors, types of cargo, border-crossing times, transportation costs, return loads, the number of permits, and the actual use of preferential regimes. Without such a database, regional initiatives risk remaining merely declaratory.

4. Transport and logistics infrastructure as the basis of connectivity

Transport infrastructure is the material foundation for the rapprochement of Central and South Asia. At the same time, it is more accurate to speak not of a single route, but of a portfolio of corridors. Relying on only one route increases the vulnerability of the entire system. A diversified network of routes through Afghanistan, Iran, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus, and existing Eurasian directions creates redundancy, reduces risks, and strengthens the negotiating position of shippers.

The key project in the southern direction remains the trans-Afghan railway corridor Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar. Its strategic value lies in its potential to connect Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries with Pakistan’s ports, including Karachi, Qasim, and Gwadar. If implemented, such a corridor could reduce the distance and delivery time for certain types of cargo. However, the project requires the resolution of several complex issues: financing, security, technical parameters, railway gauge compatibility, the operating model, tariffs, and the distribution of risks among participants.

The Termez–Hairatan hub in Uzbekistan has particular significance. It is the closest entry point from Uzbekistan into Afghanistan and is already used as a logistics, humanitarian, and trade channel. The development of terminals, warehouses, customs capacities, multimodal transport services, and digital cargo-control systems could turn this hub into a stable anchor point for interregional trade.

Alongside the trans-Afghan route, the route through Iran is also important. For India, Central Asia, and Afghanistan, the Chabahar port is of particular significance, as are its links with the International North–South Transport Corridor and the Ashgabat Agreement. This option does not replace the trans-Afghan route, but it increases the resilience of the trade system. Events of recent years have shown that the closure or restriction of individual routes quickly increases the importance of alternative pathways through Iran and the countries of Central Asia.

Road corridors remain a necessary complement to railways. They are especially important for perishable products, small consignments, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and high-value-added goods. In this area, the key factors are not only roads, but also border procedures, the permit system for carriers, weight control, insurance, the safety of parking areas, and access to backhaul cargo.

The development of air connectivity plays a separate role. Direct flights between Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, Astana, Delhi, Mumbai, Lahore, and other cities do not create mass freight logistics, but they reduce barriers to business travel, tourism, education, medical services, and managerial oversight of investment projects. For modern business, such mobility is not a secondary factor, but a systemic one.

5. Energy partnership: from project-based logic to a regional market

Energy is one of the most obvious areas of complementarity between Central and South Asia. The Central Asian countries possess significant resources in natural gas, hydropower, solar power, and wind generation. South Asia, primarily Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, faces high energy demand, seasonal consumption peaks, and the need for a more reliable supply structure.

The most advanced interregional project in the electricity sector is CASA-1000. According to World Bank materials, the project is intended to ensure the transmission of up to 1,300 MW of surplus summer electricity from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The project also provides for high-voltage transmission infrastructure, including power transmission lines and converter stations. Its significance goes beyond the energy sector: it demonstrates the possibility of contract-based electricity trade between the subregions with the participation of international financial institutions.

In the gas sector, the best-known project is TAPI: Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India. Its planned logic is straightforward: Turkmen gas is expected to flow through Afghanistan to the energy-deficient markets of South Asia. Published descriptions of the project usually indicate a length of approximately 1,800 km and a designed capacity of up to 33 billion cubic meters of gas per year. However, TAPI remains a complex project with a high dependence on security, financing, long-term contracts, payment guarantees, and political coordination among the participants.

CASA-1000 has not only political but also measurable infrastructural significance: the project cost is estimated at approximately US$1.2 billion, while the designed transmission capacity is 1,300 MW. The Kyrgyz component provides for around 456 km of 500 kV power transmission lines. This makes it possible to view CASA-1000 as the first major example of contract-based interregional electricity trade between Central and South Asia^[5][6].

The new energy agenda includes not only the export of fuel and electricity, but also the development of low-carbon solutions. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan are expanding projects in solar, wind, and hydropower, while also modernizing their grids. In the long term, South Asia could become a market for seasonal electricity and energy services from Central Asia. However, this requires rules for cross-border trade, compatible dispatch mechanisms, commercial guarantees, transparent tariffs, and investment in grid resilience.

Energy cooperation must take into account climate and water-related factors. In Central Asia, hydropower is closely linked to irrigation and water resource management. In South Asia, electricity demand depends on temperature peaks, urbanization, and industrial growth. Therefore, energy projects should be accompanied by mechanisms for climate adaptation, forecasting water availability, improving energy efficiency, and developing energy storage systems.

6. Investment cooperation and business ties

Investment cooperation between Central and South Asia is still developing on a case-by-case basis, but it has significant potential. Unlike trade in raw materials, investment requires a higher level of trust, legal certainty, protection of property rights, clear tax regimes, access to foreign-exchange settlements, and high-quality business information.

The most promising areas include pharmaceuticals, medical services, agro-processing, textiles, logistics, warehouse infrastructure, IT services, education, tourism, financial technologies, renewable energy, and the production of components for infrastructure projects. South Asian companies have strong competencies in IT, pharmaceuticals, and services, while Central Asia offers access to raw materials, industrial sites, growing domestic markets, and transit opportunities.

An important task is to move from one-off business contacts to a systematic investment pipeline. This requires project catalogues, clear requirements for investors, standardized public-private partnership models, dispute-resolution mechanisms, insurance against political and commercial risks, and joint workforce training programs.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are of particular importance. Large infrastructure projects create the foundation, but it is small and medium-sized businesses that fill corridors with real goods and services. For them, access to information, affordable logistics services, digital marketplaces, simplified payments, standardized documents, and support in entering a new market are critical.

Development institutions and international financial organizations can play a catalytic role. Their participation reduces risks, improves the quality of project preparation, and disciplines the participants. However, external financing does not replace national reforms. Without clear rules, transparent statistics, and effective courts, even concessional loans will not create a sustainable flow of investment.

7. The strategic role of Uzbekistan as a connector state

Uzbekistan possesses a unique set of preconditions for playing the role of a connector state. It is located at the center of Central Asia, borders all the countries of the region as well as Afghanistan, and is also a major demographic and industrial market. For a country without access to the sea, the development of external corridors is not an optional task, but a condition for long-term competitiveness.

Uzbekistan’s role is not limited to transit. A transit country earns revenue from the movement of goods, but a connector state shapes rules, services, trust, and the institutional environment. This means developing multimodal hubs, creating logistics centers, digitalizing customs procedures, expanding railway and road links, training personnel, attracting banks and insurance organizations, and providing analytical support for projects.

The southern direction strengthens Uzbekistan’s foreign economic diversification. It complements the country’s already existing links in the northern, eastern, and western directions. At the same time, the diversification of routes reduces dependence on individual markets and transit pathways, which is especially important amid instability in global trade, changes in tariff policy, and geopolitical restrictions.

Termez occupies a special place in this strategy. It can serve as a border logistics center, a platform for trade with Afghanistan, a hub of humanitarian and commercial infrastructure, and a symbolic space for discussing connectivity between Central and South Asia. To turn this role into a sustainable result, investment is needed in terminals, railway approaches, warehouse capacity, services for carriers, and a system for analyzing cargo flows.

Uzbekistan’s strength also lies in its ability to put forward multilateral initiatives. Interregional connectivity cannot be implemented through bilateral agreements alone. It requires the alignment of interests among the countries of Central Asia, the countries of South Asia, Afghanistan, international financial institutions, business, and the expert community. In this sphere, Uzbekistan can act as a coordinator of the agenda and a provider of analytical solutions.

8. Key barriers and ways to overcome them

The first barrier is incomplete infrastructure. Many corridors exist in the form of project concepts or partially functioning routes. To transform them into commercially sustainable directions, technical and economic feasibility studies, agreed tariffs, clear sources of financing, unified operational models, and transparent risk allocation are required.

The second barrier is security and the predictability of transit. For business, what matters is not only the length of the route, but also the likelihood of delays, losses, border closures, changes in rules, and additional payments. Therefore, transport policy should include insurance mechanisms, security standards, corridor monitoring, crisis protocols, and regular information exchange among government agencies.

The third barrier is administrative fragmentation. Different documents, uncoordinated customs procedures, weak advance declaration, the absence of mutual recognition of certain certificates, and limited digital interoperability increase the cost of trade. The solution lies in the transition to electronic transport documents, the expansion of the single-window principle, the introduction of risk-based control, and the coordination of technical standards.

The scale of the financial challenge can be assessed through the example of CAREC: in 2021–2024, transport investment under the program amounted to US$8.61 billion, with a significant share of financing provided by international partners. This shows that infrastructure corridors require not only a political decision, but also a sustainable financial architecture^[7][8].

Administrative barriers have a measurable expression. According to CAREC monitoring, in 2022, the average border-crossing time on road corridors was 9.9 hours, while on railway corridors it was 40.6 hours. This confirms that the digitalization of documents, advance declaration, and risk-based control can produce an effect even without the immediate construction of new arterial routes.

The fourth barrier is financial constraints. Infrastructure projects require large capital investments and have long payback periods. A combination of budget funds, loans from international financial organizations, public-private partnerships, guarantees, project financing, and blended-finance mechanisms is needed. At the same time, each project must undergo an assessment of commercial viability, not only political attractiveness.

The fifth barrier is the lack of market information. Companies often do not know potential partners, market requirements, logistics tariffs, certification rules, or available financial instruments. This barrier can be reduced through digital trade platforms, business missions, sectoral catalogues, regular exhibitions, analytical reviews, and consulting centers under chambers of commerce and industry.

The sixth barrier is climate and resource-related risks. Mountainous areas, droughts, floods, changes in glacial runoff, and extreme weather events affect roads, energy, and agriculture. New corridors should be designed with climate resilience in mind, while energy projects should take into account the water balance and the seasonality of demand.

Practical priorities through 2030

9. The Termez Dialogue as an institutional foundation for cooperation

The Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia can become an important institutional platform for coordinating the interregional agenda. In 2025, the first dialogue was held in Termez, dedicated to the formation of a shared space of peace, friendship, and prosperity. The very choice of Termez emphasizes the city’s practical role as Uzbekistan’s southern hub and as a symbolic point of connection with Afghanistan and South Asia.

The effectiveness of such a format will depend on whether it can move from general statements to the management of a project-based agenda. For this purpose, it would be advisable to structure the dialogue around four permanent tracks: transport and logistics, trade and standards, energy and climate, and investment and human capital. Each track should have a project map, progress indicators, responsible participants, and a mechanism for annual updates.

The participation of business is of particular importance. States can sign framework documents, but real demand for corridors is generated by exporters, importers, carriers, banks, insurance companies, terminal operators, and manufacturing enterprises. Therefore, within the framework of the Termez Dialogue, business sessions, B2B platforms, sectoral presentations, and discussions of specific barriers faced by companies are necessary.

The expert track should serve as an evidence base. It can prepare an annual report on the state of connectivity between Central and South Asia, a corridor-readiness index, monitoring of transportation time and costs, a review of regulatory barriers, analysis of investment projects, and recommendations for governments. In this area, Uzbekistan’s analytical institutions can play a leading role.

The Termez Dialogue is also important as an instrument for involving Afghanistan in economic processes on a pragmatic basis. This is not a matter of political legitimization, but of reducing economic isolation, developing transit procedures, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and creating incentives for stability. This logic corresponds to the interests of all participants, since Afghanistan’s economic predictability directly affects the cost and security of interregional routes.

10. Connectivity and the Sustainable Development Goals

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is directly linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The development of energy networks supports SDG 7, the expansion of trade and employment corresponds to SDG 8, the construction of resilient infrastructure is linked to SDG 9, the reduction of spatial isolation contributes to SDG 10, climate resilience relates to SDG 13, and regional coordination and partnerships correspond to SDG 16 and SDG 17.

However, the link with the SDGs does not arise automatically. Infrastructure can promote development, but it can also deepen inequality if benefits accrue only to major actors while local communities bear the costs. Therefore, projects should include environmental assessment, social safeguards, consultations with the population, management of land-related issues, occupational safety measures, and transparent compensation mechanisms.

Special attention should be paid to women, youth, and small enterprises. New corridors create demand for services in logistics, trade, catering, repair, digital support, education, and tourism. If access to these opportunities is opened to local entrepreneurs, infrastructure will become a source of inclusive growth, not merely transit rent.

Climate risk is already becoming an economic factor. According to World Bank estimates, by 2030, nearly 90% of South Asia’s population may be exposed to intense heat, while more than one fifth of the population may face the risk of severe flooding. For Central Asia, the key constraint is water: in Uzbekistan, the volume of water withdrawal significantly exceeds internal renewable resources, and the current water deficit may increase to 7 billion m³ by 2030 and to 15 billion m³ by 2050^[9][10][11].

The climate dimension of connectivity is becoming increasingly important. South Asia and Central Asia are exposed to the risks of extreme weather events, glacier melt, droughts, floods, and tensions around water. Therefore, new roads, railways, power transmission lines, and logistics centers should be designed with long-term climate scenarios in mind. For the energy sector, this means combining electricity trade, energy efficiency, renewable sources, and grid resilience.

From the standpoint of sustainable development, the most promising model is not one of raw-material transit, but one of value-added creation. This implies agro-processing, industrial cooperation, service chains, digital trade, the localization of selected industries, and workforce training. In this case, connectivity is transformed from the movement of goods into a mechanism of structural modernization.

11. Conclusion

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is one of the key conditions for the sustainable development of the macroregion. It is capable of expanding sales markets, reducing transport isolation, strengthening energy security, supporting employment, and creating new incentives for regional stability. At the same time, the expected effect depends not on a single project, but on a coordinated package of measures.

The main practical conclusion is the need for a portfolio approach. The trans-Afghan railway, the route through Iran, road corridors, air connectivity, the CASA-1000 and TAPI energy projects, trade digitalization, logistics hubs, and investment platforms should be viewed as mutually complementary elements. Each of them has different implementation timelines, risks, and economic logic; therefore, the regional strategy should ensure redundancy and flexibility.

Uzbekistan has objective advantages for the role of a connector state. Its geography, demographic potential, industrial base, southern hub in Termez, and active foreign economic agenda make it possible to bring together the interests of Central and South Asia.

The Termez Dialogue can become a platform where political will is translated into project-level discipline. For this to happen, it should generate not only declarations, but also a list of projects, indicators, road maps, evaluation mechanisms, and permanent channels of interaction among business, experts, and government agencies.

In the long term, connectivity between Central and South Asia should be oriented not only toward increasing trade volumes, but also toward improving the quality of development. A sustainable macroregion will take shape where infrastructure is connected with institutions, energy with climate responsibility, trade with industrial cooperation, and diplomatic initiatives with evidence-based analysis and practical results.

Muhammad Babadjanov,

Head of Department

at The Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies

under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan

[1] https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/south-asia-regional-integration/trade

[2] https://data.worldbank.org/?locations=TJ-UZ-KZ-TM-KG

[3] https://data.worldbank.org/country/south-asia

[4] https://uzembassy.kz/en/article/the-mazar-i-sharif-kabul-peshawar-railway-will-open-up-broad-prospects-for-international-trade

[5] https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/afghanistan/brief/updated-q-a-on-casa-1000-resumption-in-afghanistan

[6] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/11/01/additional-financing-for-casa-1000-project-for-the-kyrgyz-republic

[7] https://www.carecprogram.org/uploads/03-CAREC-Transport-Strategy-2030-Midterm-Review-Draft-Report.pdf

[8] https://cpmm.carecprogram.org/2022-report/key-results/

[9] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2025/06/03/climate-resilience-in-south-asia-will-be-private-sector-led

[10] https://data.worldbank.org/country/uzbekistan

[11] https://www.adb.org/news/features/numbers-climate-change-central-asia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Timur Akhmedov,

Head of Department,

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

Over the past few years, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have moved from strategic partnership to a fully fledged alliance. Two distinct dimensions now stand out in the way they engage with one another. On the one hand, the institutional foundation of their cooperation is firmly in place; on the other, its economic momentum is only beginning to build. In our view, the balance between the development of political and diplomatic machinery and the practical substance of economic cooperation is what will define the next chapter in Uzbek–Azerbaijani relations.

The institutional architecture

The framework of bilateral ties built by Tashkent and Baku rests largely on top-down coordination: the agenda is set at the level of the heads of state, while intergovernmental, ministerial and business mechanisms deliver it. It is President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan who set the principal vectors of cooperation and its tempo, and who appreciably shorten the time needed to sign off on individual decisions.

This has gradually produced an extensive system of engagement mechanisms. The Supreme Interstate Council was established in 2023 and held its first session in 2024; the same year saw the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations. In July 2026, Tashkent hosted the fifteenth meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission. The Uzbek–Azerbaijani Business Council has been operating since 2020, three Forums of Regions have been convened, and eleven cities have entered into sister-city arrangements. In the past three years alone there have been more than twenty high-level inter-parliamentary contacts, and in 2025 Khiva hosted the first inter-parliamentary forum.

Contact of this density is normally found between neighboring countries, or between states whose mutual trade runs at far higher levels. For Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan – separated by the Caspian and still trading comparatively little – the degree of institutionalization achieved looks all the more striking.

The practical effect is to lower political and administrative barriers, shorten approval timelines and make it easier for companies to enter the partner’s market. Yet an institutional framework does not in itself generate trade flows or investment demand. It creates favorable conditions for business activity, but it is no substitute for the economic incentives on which the further momentum of cooperation depends.

The next stage, therefore, is likely to be defined less by adding to the number of existing formats than by their capacity to convert the political relationship already achieved into concrete economic results.

The economic dimension: a question of scale

Political dialogue between the two countries is still running well ahead of the underlying economic indicators, as the statistics make plain. Bilateral trade came to $307 million in 2025, an increase of roughly 15 percent. Uzbek exports grew by 8 percent to $227 million, while imports from Azerbaijan rose by 39 percent to $80 million. The Uzbek export basket widened by 116 product lines.

These figures take on a rather different meaning, however, when set against Uzbekistan’s total foreign trade turnover, which exceeded $81 billion in 2025^[1]. Azerbaijan accounted for less than 0.4 percent of it. That number should not be read as a verdict on the quality of the bilateral relationship. What it shows, rather, is how hard it is to translate political alignment into economic ties of real scale – a difficulty rooted in several objective structural constraints.

These include the absence of a shared border and the resulting need for multimodal shipping across the Caspian; a partial overlap in export baskets (textiles, fruit and vegetables, selected chemical products); and similar approaches to diversifying economic ties, which leave the two sides competing on third markets more often than complementing one another.

From this follows a thoroughly practical conclusion. Simply scaling up conventional trade is unlikely to bring the two countries to the $1 billion mark set by their presidents^[2]. Growth will have to be sought through investment and industrial cooperation, where trade flows arise from shared production chains.

Both countries appreciate how important it is to put such systematic work in place, and in recent years the center of gravity of the agenda has shifted noticeably from trade toward investment. The Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Investment Company (AUIC), created in 2023 with charter capital of $500 million, is already involved in fifteen projects worth some $360 million, according to Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade^[3]. The wider pipeline is considerably larger, taking in more than twenty projects worth around $6 billion, with a further twenty-five worth almost $1.5 billion in preparation^[4].

How far investment cooperation reaches beyond declared intentions is best judged from what is happening at specific production sites. The most visible example is the joint vehicle assembly operation run by Uzavtosanoat and Azermash at the Hajigabul industrial park, which has already turned out more than 11,000 Chevrolet cars and Isuzu buses^[5]. The project is now moving into its next phase: a full-cycle plant with investment of more than $84 million. Textile and sericulture clusters are developing in parallel, alongside agro-industrial and logistics projects.

The significance of such ventures is not measured by output alone. Their principal value lies in forging durable production links between the two countries.

Joint manufacturing generates steady demand for mutual deliveries of components, raw materials and equipment, which in effect embeds bilateral trade within a single production chain.

Ties of this kind tend to be less sensitive to swings in the market, since they rest not on one-off deals but on the long-term needs of production. Another consideration matters just as much. Localizing production in Azerbaijan, provided the relevant rules of origin are met, potentially opens the door to third-country markets with which Baku holds preferential trade arrangements.

In that sense, joint ventures can be seen not merely as a means of serving the two national markets, but as a possible platform for promoting products together beyond Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. That effect does not materialize automatically, however: it calls for dedicated work on the trade, customs and legal mechanisms involved.

What will shape further growth?

The institutional architecture now in place, together with the results already achieved in economic cooperation, creates considerable scope for taking the relationship further. Realizing that potential, though, will depend on the two sides’ ability to overcome a number of structural constraints.

Foremost among them are the competition between similar products on third markets noted above and the volatility of Caspian logistics, which reflects the condition of the ferry fleet and the seasonality of shipping. A further brake comes from the difficulty of making direct payments between the two countries’ banks and of insuring cargo, both of which add to the cost and duration of foreign trade transactions.

Against this backdrop, a natural question arises: what could accelerate the pace of cooperation?

One of the most practical steps would be mutual recognition of certificates and laboratory test results, above all for agricultural produce, which would cut both the time and the cost of bringing goods to the partner’s market.

In the financial sphere, there is a strong case for broadening correspondent banking relations and settlement in national currencies, by way of direct payments between banks and convenient currency conversion arrangements. This would reduce reliance on intermediaries and make settlement of trade and investment operations more predictable.

Transport deserves attention in its own right. Expanding the capacity of the Caspian routes, harmonizing tariffs and shipping schedules, and developing digital cargo tracking would all help lower costs for business.

Uzbek–Azerbaijani relations have thus reached the point at which the political capital accumulated over recent years is gradually acquiring economic and practical substance. In this sense it can be said with confidence that the two countries have laid a solid foundation for moving into new areas and deeper forms of allied partnership.

Miraziz Mirumarov, Leading Research Fellow,

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

Iroda Imamova, Leading Research Fellow,

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

[1]https://stat.uz/ru/press-tsentr/novosti-goskomstata/66431-2025-jilda-zbekistonning-tash-i-savdo-ajlanmasi-81-mlrd-dollardan-oshdi-3

[2]https://president.uz/ru/lists/view/8287

[3]https://surl.li/rgudkn

[4]https://surl.li/wbqoju

[5]https://economiczones.gov.az/post/hsp-de-avtomobil-istehsali-artir-az

The 26th International Textile and Garment Industry Exhibition TextileExpo Uzbekistan 2026 will be held from May 13 to 15, 2026 at the Uzexpocentre National Exhibition Complex in Tashkent

TextileExpo Uzbekistan is the largest B2B platform for the textile and garment industry in Central Asia, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and professional buyers. Here, the buyers find reliable partners, current trends, and favourable terms of cooperation, while industry representatives find comprehensive solutions for production development and optimization. Visitors can compare offers, evaluate product quality, and negotiate directly with manufacturers.

Over 150 verified suppliers from 7 countries will participate, with strong representation from companies from China.

The exhibition will traditionally cover all production cycle phases from raw materials to finished products and accessories. Visitors will find yarn, fabrics, knitwear, fittings and accessories, finished garments, technical and home textiles, hosiery, as well as chemicals and dyes for the textile industry.

According to the organizers, the traditional Buyers’ Program is planned as a unique component of the TextileExpo Uzbekistan. It is a platform focused on achieving concrete business outcomes, including targeted B2B meetings, the establishment of long-term partnerships, and the conclusion of commercial contracts. For domestic companies, the program serves as an effective channel for entering international markets and scaling export deliveries. For buyers, exclusive participation conditions are provided, allowing them to make the most efficient use of their time at the exhibition and gain priority access to key suppliers.

Dunyo IA

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

On 24–25 July, 2026, the city of Samarkand will host the International Forum of Brother Cities.

The forum will serve as an important international platform for dialogue, aimed at expanding Uzbekistan’s international cooperation, strengthening partnerships between cities, and promoting public diplomacy.

The forum program includes:

• An international scientific and practical conference dedicated to developing cooperation between the cities of Uzbekistan and foreign countries;
• Panel sessions and roundtable discussions covering a wide range of sectors;
• Signing ceremonies for memorandums of cooperation and partnership agreements between brother cities;
• Presentations focused on promoting public diplomacy and interregional cooperation;
• Cultural and educational events with the participation of foreign delegations;
• Guided tours of Samarkand’s historical and cultural landmarks;
• Exhibitions showcasing the investment, tourism, and cultural potential of Uzbekistan’s regions.

According to the organizers, the International Forum of Brother Cities will provide a valuable opportunity to strengthen international partnerships, exchange best practices, and foster long-term cooperation.

Dunyo IA

The traditional annual Address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered on the eve of the New Year, became an important programmatic statement summarizing the results of the outgoing year and outlining the country’s strategic development priorities for the period ahead.

As the Head of State emphasized, the past year marked a period of steady progress in reforms and the strengthening of Uzbekistan’s socio-economic position, despite ongoing instability in the global economy and a complex international environment. In this context, the announcement of the coming year as the “Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole” gained particular significance, signaling a transition toward a deeper focus of state policy on people’s quality of life and the development of civil society.

In his Address, the President noted that the national economy continued to demonstrate confident growth. The year 2025 concluded with landmark achievements: for the first time, the country’s GDP exceeded 145 billion US dollars, exports increased by 23 percent to 33.4 billion dollars, and foreign exchange and gold reserves surpassed 60 billion dollars. Investment inflows totaling 43.1 billion dollars enabled the implementation of dozens of major projects in industry, energy, and infrastructure. International rating agencies upgraded Uzbekistan’s sovereign credit rating from BB- to BB, opening more favorable conditions for external financing.

It was particularly emphasized that these macroeconomic results were accompanied by positive changes in the social sphere. Owing to active employment policies, the unemployment rate declined from 5.5 percent to 4.9 percent, and around five million people gained sustainable sources of income. Significant attention was devoted to supporting low-income families, developing targeted social assistance mechanisms, and improving access to basic services. The poverty rate decreased from 8.9 percent to 5.8 percent within a year, lifting approximately 1.5 million citizens out of poverty.

These outcomes were the result of consistent reforms aimed at enhancing economic resilience and creating a solid foundation for social development. Economic achievements expanded the state’s capacity to address social challenges and implement long-term support programs for the population. The President noted that social policy has become more responsive to the concrete needs of citizens, which represents a fundamental achievement of the current reform agenda.

Special attention in the Address was devoted to Uzbekistan’s foreign policy course, which was characterized as pragmatic, open, and oriented toward long-term national interests. The President emphasized that an active and balanced foreign policy remains a key factor in ensuring sustainable development, expanding economic opportunities, and strengthening Uzbekistan’s international standing. It was noted that in recent years the country has significantly expanded the geographical scope of its foreign economic relations, reinforced partnerships both with neighboring states and leading global centers, and consistently continued to promote regional cooperation initiatives. This course reflects Uzbekistan’s aspiration to assume a more visible and responsible role in international affairs, guided by the principles of mutual benefit and respect.

The Address also addressed the reform of the public procurement system as one of the key elements in enhancing transparency and efficiency in public administration. The President stressed that improving public procurement mechanisms is aimed at creating equal conditions for businesses, fostering competition, and ensuring the efficient use of budgetary resources. These measures are viewed as an important part of Uzbekistan’s preparation for accession to the World Trade Organization. In this context, reforms in the field of public procurement acquire not only domestic but also external economic significance, as they contribute to aligning national procedures with international standards and rules. Thus, the outlined steps reflect a systemic approach to Uzbekistan’s integration into the global trade and economic system.

A separate section of the Address focused on anti-corruption efforts, which were identified as one of the key priorities for further development. The President underscored that the fight against corruption is regarded not as a one-time campaign, but as a long-term state policy aimed at establishing an honest, transparent, and accountable system of governance.

“Allowing corruption is a betrayal of our reforms. We declare 2026 a year of ‘extraordinary measures’ to combat this scourge,” the President stated.

It was noted that the measures already being implemented—such as the digitalization of public services, increased transparency in decision-making, and strengthened public oversight—are producing tangible results, though they require further deepening. The emphasis on the anti-corruption agenda demonstrates a commitment to strengthening trust among citizens and international partners in state institutions.

Considerable attention in the Address was also given to environmental issues and sustainable development. The President noted that the environmental agenda is becoming an integral part of state policy and is directly linked to the quality of life of the population and the country’s long-term security. The importance of rational use of natural resources, the expansion of green technologies, and the implementation of programs to improve environmental conditions—especially in the most vulnerable regions—was underscored. Plans were announced to hold the next Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and the Central Asian International Environmental Exhibition in Samarkand in 2026. These events will create valuable opportunities to identify partners for industries, regions, and businesses, and to jointly launch new environmental projects. It was emphasized that environmental initiatives are viewed not only as a social necessity, but also as a key element of economic modernization and enhanced resilience.

Taken together, these priorities demonstrate the comprehensive nature of the ongoing reforms. They indicate that the course toward socially oriented development is inseparably linked with institutional transformation and international integration. This approach reflects Uzbekistan’s determination to build a balanced development model in which economic growth, social sustainability, and responsible governance mutually reinforce one another.

Summarizing the results of the concluding year, the Head of State stressed that all these achievements became possible due to a well-structured reform system and the active participation of society. At the same time, he underlined that further development requires not only economic resources but also a stronger social environment, trust, and solidarity. It was within this logic that the proposal was made to declare the coming year the Year of Support for the Mahalla, as the institution closest to people and their everyday concerns.

In the Address, the mahalla was characterized as a unique form of social organization that has absorbed centuries-old traditions of mutual assistance, responsibility, and respect. The President emphasized that the stability of the state begins with the stability of the mahalla, with an atmosphere of harmony and engagement at the local level. “If there is order and trust in the mahalla, there will be stability in society as a whole,” this idea became one of the key messages of the Address, logically linking past achievements with future objectives.

Support for the mahalla in the coming year is viewed as a systemic measure aimed at further strengthening social policy. The President pointed out that it is precisely at the mahalla level where family issues, employment challenges, education, social protection, and the prevention of social vulnerability can be identified most effectively. In this sense, the development of mahalla structures becomes a tool for increasing the targeting of state assistance and enhancing social justice. The economic achievements discussed earlier thus find their continuation in the social domain.

A significant part of the Address was devoted to citizen participation and the development of civil society. The President stressed that a modern state is impossible without active and responsible citizens involved in decision-making and oversight of implementation. In this context, the mahalla is seen as a space for fostering civic initiative and dialogue between authorities and the population.

“We must create conditions under which every person feels involved in the destiny of the country,” the Head of State noted, outlining a strategic commitment to expanding public participation.

Special emphasis was placed on the role of the mahalla in youth education and the strengthening of social values. The President noted that alongside economic indicators, the formation of a moral, educated, and socially responsible individual remains no less important. Support for projects in education, culture, and sports implemented at the mahalla level is regarded as an investment in the country’s future. “The future of Uzbekistan depends on the environment we create for our children today,” this quotation from the Address clearly reflects the long-term orientation of state policy.

Thus, the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole” demonstrates the state’s intention to move from macro-level achievements toward deeper engagement with quality of life, human capital, and social institutions. It signifies a concentration of efforts on strengthening local communities, developing social infrastructure, and fostering an active and cohesive society.

The President’s Address sets a clear development vector for the year ahead: reliance on achieved economic successes, reinforcement of social policy, and the advancement of civil society through support for the mahalla. This approach reflects a strategic understanding that the sustainability of reforms and the country’s long-term prosperity are impossible without strong communities, trust, and citizen participation. In this context, support for the mahalla emerges not only as a social priority, but also as a foundation for Uzbekistan’s long-term development.