The first meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, dedicated to the theme "Building a Common Space for Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," will be held in Termez on May 19-21, 2025. This meeting is expected to be attended by representatives of the foreign policy agencies of Central and South Asian countries, which are becoming the focus of world politics, as well as representatives of specialized UN organizations, international and regional organizations such as the CIS, the SCO, the CICA, and leading specialists and experts in relevant fields.

Central and South Asia have long been connected by reliable trade routes and have served as a bridge between the countries of the Middle East, Europe, and China. The peoples of this region share historical and civilizational commonalities, having repeatedly existed within common state associations in the past, as well as within a single political, economic, and humanitarian space. Over many centuries, relations between the two regions have been strengthened by numerous migration flows, intensive trade exchanges, rapid dissemination of scientific ideas, and cultural cross-pollination.

As a result of the spread of Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam in these regions, unique ethnocultural associations formed, which left a deep mark on human history.

The incorporation of the peoples of this region into such states as the Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms, the Turkic Khaganate, Khorasan and Transoxiana, the Ghaznavid, Timurid, and Mughal empires had a great influence on their historical, cultural, and political development. Common customs, traditions, lifestyles, and holidays were formed; spiritual values were created in Persian, Turkish, and Arabic. Medieval cities such as Bukhara, Samarkand, Termez, Balkh, Herat, Ghazni, Agra, and Delhi were shared centers of science.

The mutual competition of colonial powers negatively affected the traditional ties, trade, and cultural exchange of the peoples of Central and South Asia. Trade and economic relations in South Asia changed, and local supply systems, main industries, and economies became dependent on supplies from outside the region. This development weakened the traditional cultural ties between South Asia and Central Asia.

Today, jointly addressing existing problems that threaten peace and stability in the region is one of the important factors in the social, cultural, and economic development of these countries. Therefore, the renewal of their close historical ties is becoming increasingly relevant. Taking the above into account, the Termez Dialogue on the Connectivity between Central and South Asia is being organized.

The location chosen for the dialogue is connected to the geostrategic position of this city, situated at the crossroads of Central and South Asia, or at the intersection of interregional connectivity routes. Termez has long been a center of trade, economy, and crafts, serving as a link between the vast regions of Central and South Asia. Therefore, from a geopolitical perspective, the city can be considered a "natural bridge" connecting Central and South Asia, the most suitable place for bringing the peoples of the region closer together through its historical location and cultural heritage.

Currently, the countries of Central and South Asia represent a territory of global significance, with a population of more than 2 billion people and great educational potential. The region is experiencing high demographic growth, with the majority of the population consisting of young people, and there are enormous opportunities for realizing intellectual potential. While the population of South Asian countries is about 2 billion people, the number of people living in Central Asia is about 82 million, and the population of Central Asian states is growing year by year. The countries exhibit a "disparity in literacy levels." For example, among the leading countries of Central Asia, the average adult literacy rate is 99 percent, while in South Asia it is 74 percent.

One of the pressing problems is the uneven quality of education, insufficient coverage of preschool and higher education, especially among girls and residents of remote areas. In South Asia, youth unemployment remains high, and in some countries, this figure exceeds 40 percent. At the same time, the employment rate of women is one of the lowest in the world. In addition, the infrastructure of educational systems is not sufficiently developed, and the shortage of specialists and teacher qualifications also creates a number of problems.

In this context, cooperation in the field of science and education is becoming increasingly relevant. Scientific cooperation in the context of digitalization and geopolitical instability will allow for maintaining dialogue between academic circles. At the same time, limited academic mobility and weak coordination between scientific communities significantly hinder the development of states' potential in science, innovation, and technology.

In this regard, it is necessary to encourage joint research and innovation work, the organization of scientific and educational internships, experience exchange programs, the development of startups, and the holding of competitions.

The adoption of a joint program of academic and research exchanges under the auspices of UNESCO is becoming relevant. It is also necessary to launch an online platform between universities and research structures of the countries of Central and South Asia.

This will contribute to the creation of a sustainable regional network of scientific diplomacy, the formation of a common agenda in the field of education and technology, and the emergence of a unified scientific space.

The above-mentioned steps will serve as a powerful tool for the development of scientific diplomacy, which will facilitate interaction between the countries of the two regions.

From this point of view, the integration of intellectual resources in Central and South Asia, strengthening cooperation in the field of education, and developing cooperation platforms to improve the quality of education are important for the future of the region. The transformation of demographic potential into human capital is the main condition for sustainable development, economic growth, and a worthy place in global competition for both regions. In this regard, the development of education as one of the priority areas of regional cooperation, the development of partnerships for the exchange of experience and training of personnel in various countries is most relevant.

The countries of the region, in particular India and other South Asian countries, have in recent decades been occupying an increasingly prominent place in the world community in the field of science, technology, and innovation. Information technology, aeronautics, pharmaceutical production, and artificial intelligence are rapidly developing in India. For example, in 2014, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history as the first Asian country to launch an artificial satellite into Mars orbit. In 2023, as part of the "Chandrayaan-3" project, a successful landing on the Moon's surface was achieved. These results demonstrate the country's independent and innovative capabilities in the scientific field.

In the field of information technology, India has become one of the world's largest IT outsourcing centers. Cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai have become major hubs for Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Oracle, and many other multinational corporations. Every year, millions of specialists in technical and technological fields are trained in the country. Among India's higher education institutions are prestigious scientific centers like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Science (IISc), which also rank highly in global ratings. It's worth noting that scientific research in artificial intelligence, bioengineering, quantum computing, and cybersecurity is widespread in the country.

Pakistan is also making progress in science, especially in nuclear energy and military technologies. Centers such as COMSATS University and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) play a crucial role in the country's scientific development. In particular, government programs are being implemented to strengthen international cooperation in IT and cybersecurity.

In Bangladesh, alongside the textile and light industry, information technology is developing rapidly. Based on the "Digital Bangladesh" strategy, the country has widely implemented e-government, digital, and distance learning services. In 2021, over 120 IT parks were established in Bangladesh, demonstrating the country's commitment to digitalizing its economy.

Afghanistan's scientific and technological potential remains limited, and issues related to political stability are hindering its development. Nevertheless, some universities and educational institutions in the country, particularly Kabul University, participate in scientific projects with the support of various international educational organizations.

In this context, developing a joint strategy for digital connectivity between Central and South Asia is crucial. Adopting such a document will create significant opportunities for stimulating trade and investment, improving access to education and healthcare, strengthening regional cooperation, and increasing competitiveness on the global stage.

Coordinating efforts of Central and South Asian countries to widely implement the digital economy will contribute to improving digitalization processes in all spheres of life. Moreover, this will advance the implementation of the SDG initiative to ensure safe Internet access for the population and will open up great opportunities for education and medical services.

Overall, deepening digital connectivity between Central and South Asia will bring significant economic and social benefits to both regions, create a solid foundation for expanding trade, economic, energy, and transport links, and enhance the competitiveness of the region's states on the global arena.

In general, the Termez Dialogue is an important initiative that contributes to elevating the interaction between Central and South Asian states to a new level in the process of today's geopolitical and civilizational transformations. This dialogue, particularly in the fields of education, science, and new technologies, will stimulate, consolidate, and expand the intellectual potential of the two regions. This is because in both regions, the majority of the population consists of young people who show high interest in education, are capable of scientific research, and quickly adapt to digital technologies.

Today, countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have achieved world-class successes in information technology, biotechnology, nuclear physics, medicine, and artificial intelligence, while Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and other Central Asian countries are also taking active measures to update scientific infrastructure, expand international cooperation, and implement modern educational projects. The Termez Dialogue is a unique opportunity to combine this experience and achievements, establish student and scholar exchanges, create joint research centers, and develop startups and innovative platforms in IT and STEM.

This dialogue has great historical significance in ensuring regional stability, creating a foundation for peace, progress, and intellectual development through science and education. The states of Central and South Asia have the potential to become the leading intellectual center in the entire Eurasian space based on the principle of mutual trust and shared future, integration in the spheres of education and science.

URGENCH, September 28. /IA “Dunyo”/. A delegation of Latvian businessmen visited Khorezm with the support of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Riga, Dunyot news agency's correspondent reports.

During the visit, a business forum and meetings were held with participation of representatives of business circles of the two countries.

The parties exchanged views on economic and investment potential of Khorezm region, opportunities for realization of joint projects in agriculture, personnel training, services, logistics and energy.

The Latvian side also familiarized with the activities of “Opportunity Generosity” LLC, a pharmaceutical manufacturer located in Urgench, and other companies.

As a result of the visit, representatives of Latvian companies expressed interest in the implementation of specific projects in the field of education, in connection with which the relevant documents were signed.

In recent years, relations between Uzbekistan and the United States of America have gained a new impetus. Moving beyond formal diplomacy, the partnership has evolved into a deeper, multi-dimensional engagement. Today, political dialogue is active, economic and business ties are expanding, and humanitarian and people-to-people connections are steadily strengthening.

Until 2017, Uzbek-American cooperation was primarily focused on regional security issues and the situation in Afghanistan, while noticeable progress in the economy and investment was virtually absent. However, following the election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his visit to Washington in 2018, cooperation began to acquire a strategic character.

This marked the first visit by Uzbek leader to the United States in 16 years and signaled a new level of mutual trust. During the visit, agreements and memoranda totaling over $4.8 billion were signed, paving the way for projects involving major U.S. companies.

These positive trends have largely been driven by Uzbekistan’s domestic reforms and its pragmatic approach to regional and foreign policy. Consequently, diplomatic engagement has intensified: regular consultations at the level of foreign ministries have fostered systematic and structured cooperation.

Since the 2020s, relations have evolved into a multi-layered structure. In 2021, the format of political consultations was transformed into the “Strategic Partnership Dialogue between Uzbekistan and the United States,” encompassing the economy, security, and environmental issues. The first meeting of this new format took place in Tashkent and laid the foundation for comprehensive cooperation.

In 2024, bilateral relations reached a qualitatively new level with the official establishment of an expanded strategic partnership. This format is based on the alignment of key priorities: Uzbekistan seeks deep economic modernization, attraction of foreign investment, integration into global markets, and the formation of a competitive economy. The United States supports these efforts, affirming its commitment to the reform process and encouraging American business participation in the new opportunities emerging in Uzbekistan.

In this context, the meeting between Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Donald Trump in September of this year on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly outlined specific priorities for bilateral cooperation and established the foundation for long-term collaboration. More than ten agreements were signed with major companies, including Boeing, Cargill, and Citigroup and others.

Following this, in October 2024, a U.S. delegation led by President Biden’s Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited Tashkent. The visit reinforced mutual trust and underscored both sides’ commitment to advancing joint initiatives in key areas of the bilateral agenda.

Undoubtedly, the U.S. contribution to Uzbekistan’s economy maintains a steady dynamic: in 2024, trade turnover increased by 15%, reaching $881.7 million. The portfolio of investment projects exceeds $11 billion. These figures illustrate a steady expansion of trade and economic cooperation, even as overall volumes remain relatively modest.

At the same time, the contemporary economic agenda, however, extends beyond traditional trade. Joint industrial and investment projects, collaboration in logistics, civil aviation, agro-industrial complex, and metallurgy, as well as the implementation of digital and innovative solutions in supply chain management, are coming to the forefront.

Structural changes in Uzbekistan’s export profile are particularly noteworthy. Services now constitute 86% of the country’s main export portfolio. The United States remains the largest market for Uzbek IT services: of 800 active exporters, 448 provide digital services to the U.S., representing 45% out of total IT exports. This underscores the U.S.’s role as a strategic partner in Uzbekistan’s technology sector.

To increase the export of Uzbek goods to the U.S., the President instructed the regions of the country to establish direct connections with individual states. For instance, in August of this year, a task was set to increase textile exports to the U.S. five to sixfold. Within this initiative, the Andijan Region Textile Trade House opened a representative office in St. Louis, one of the country’s key logistics hubs.

The American company Oppenheimer plans to participate in the financing of three major projects in the Andijan Region with a total value of $1.2 billion, including the creation of a textile industrial zone worth $180 million.

Uzbekistan has again attracted U.S. attention due to the presence of critically important minerals and rare earth elements used in batteries, semiconductors, and modern defense systems. In April 2025, the countries signed an agreement on cooperation in the extraction of such resources, and in September, the American investor Cove Capital began geological exploration work.

Significant progress is also observed in the humanitarian sphere: the number of academic exchanges and educational programs is increasing, and the interest of Uzbek youth in American education has noticeably grown. Currently, 40 Uzbek universities implement partnership projects with more than 25 American universities and educational institutions. Cooperation includes academic exchange of faculty and students, joint research, and the engagement of American specialists in the educational process.

These initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s aspiration for greater openness and integration into the international community, creating conditions for expanding contacts in tourism and cultural spheres.

In this context, starting January 1, 2026, Uzbekistan will introduce a 30-day visa-free regime for U.S. citizens. Previously, such a regime only applied to tourists over 55 years old. The new rules significantly facilitate U.S. citizens’ access to the country, promoting tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges, as well as opening additional opportunities for establishing direct contacts between individuals and organizations in both countries.

A central element of multilateral interaction remains the regional C5+1 format, which unites the U.S. and the five Central Asian countries. The U.S. National Security Strategy indicates the intention to intensify work within this platform to promote initiatives on climate change mitigation, energy and food security, development of transport connectivity, and expansion of Central Asian countries’ access to global markets.

To sum up, the evolution of Uzbekistan-U.S. relations demonstrates how pragmatism and reform-driven policies can overcome barriers and create mutual benefits. Today, bilateral relations are comprehensive and resilient: Uzbekistan has emerged as a significant partner, recognized in Washington as a key contributor to regional stability. The trajectory of cooperation points toward constructive partnership, with Central Asia serving not as periphery, but as a bridge for sustainable development and mutually beneficial collaboration.

Shakhnoza Kodirova

Head of the Department the

the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies

under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Libraries play a key role in education, culture, and community development, providing an invaluable resource for accessing knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting intellectual growth. In the modern information society, they remain an important institution that promotes the education and self-development of people of all ages.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasised during the opening ceremony of the People's Library under the President of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara: “Intellectual potential, high morale is what makes a nation strong. The source of this invincible power is books and libraries – the great invention of mankind”.  

At the present stage, education has become one of the most important areas of state policy. The government of the Republic of Uzbekistan pays special attention to the development of this sphere, recognizing its key role in the prosperity of the country. In recent years, the republic has achieved significant success in the educational domain. These achievements are aimed at modernizing the system, improving the quality of education and training, and expanding access to education for all citizens of the country.

At the same time, special attention is paid to the promotion of reading and the fostering of the reading culture of the population. And in the Presidential Decree adopted on September 13, 2017, “On the program of comprehensive measures to develop the system of publishing and distributing book products, improving the culture of reading”, clear goals are outlined for the creation of an effective system of information and library services to the population, which served to move this area to a new stage of development and contributed to raising the level of social and information culture and the role of libraries, made it possible to develop and implement modern innovative and educational technologies that increase the competitiveness of Uzbekistan in the world market.

In addition, the Presidential Decree “On further improvement of information and library services for the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was adopted on June 7, 2019. The main goals of the decree are:

• improving the regulatory framework in order to ensure high-quality social guarantees to the population for information and library services;
• development of information and library institutions taking into account modern requirements;
• promoting the sustainable development of information and library services the for population in the regions;
• strengthening the material and technical base of information and library institutions;
• development of public-private partnerships in the library sector, a network of private and electronic libraries;
• expanding cooperation with Internet resources that specialize in distributing electronic books to improve the efficiency of libraries and the efficiency of servicing (including paid) users;
• ensuring the safety of information and library institutions and the safety of information and library collections as part of the national and world cultural heritage;
• formation and enhancement of the information culture of society, sustainable interest in national history and culture, enhancement and promotion of a reading culture;
• staffing information and library institutions with qualified specialists.

The adoption of this decree expands the range of services in the country, including access to electronic resources and holding cultural and educational events, as well as improving staff qualifications and introducing modern methods of user service. In addition, these changes not only contribute to the development of the information society and economic growth by attracting investment in education and culture, but also promote the formation of a literate and informed society, which is an important step in the development of the country.

The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated December 14, 2020 approved the National Program for the Development and Support of a Reading Culture for 2020-2025, which includes the publication of quality books that meet the spiritual, educational, artistic and aesthetic needs of the population; supporting the activities of publishers and artists, publishing children's literature; translation of the best examples of national and world literature; simplification of the organization of book sales; improving the delivery system for newly published books and distribution of information sources; expansion of international cooperation in the field of online ordering of foreign work, their delivery and distribution.

In turn, it should be noted that within the framework of the “Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy, special attention is paid to the popularization of masterpieces of Uzbek and world literature. The country's leadership strives to instil in citizens a love of reading and ensure access to libraries and information services for everyone.

The Strategy “Uzbekistan - 2030” puts forward such main goals as increasing the number of young book lovers to five million, the annual creation of 100 works of art and 50 books for children and adolescents, the publication of the multi-volume book “Uzbek adabiyoti khazinasidan” (“From the Treasury of Uzbek Literature”), the 100-volume book “Jakhon Bolalar Adabiyoti Durdonalari” (“Pearls of World Children’s Literature”) in Uzbek, as well as the digitalization of a book fund of almost 40 million books.

On November 28, 2023, there was signed the Presidential Decree “On measures to implement the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, aimed at creating a system for translating books popular in the world into Uzbek, that contribute to increasing the intellectual and scientific potential of the younger generation.

At the same time, within the framework of the “Olympiad of Five Initiatives”, the following 5 projects in the field of reading and intellectual games are annually implemented: “Young Reading Family”, “Poetry Competition”, “Young Reader”, the intellectual game “Zakovat” and the project “Example of Foreign Languages”. These projects increase the interest of young people in reading books and help expand logical thinking and knowledge through intellectual games.

The “Young Reader” and “Young Reading Family” competitions are important events held to promote reading, the spiritual enrichment of youth, and increase their intellectual potential. This competition serves to increase interest in books among young people and expand their knowledge and horizons.

Also, within the framework of the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, the Agency for Youth Affairs will have to work on acquiring rights to use works from authors, translating them into Uzbek, and preparing for printing and publishing books on the basis of a state order and at the expense of the State budget (with the exception of books, published for state higher educational institutions).

Two stages have been established for translation into Uzbek and the publication of popular books in the world. First: a preliminary list of books is formed annually by the Expert Council. Second: the preliminary list is posted in the information systems of the Agency for Youth Affairs for selection by the population by voting, and thus the final list is formed.

The list of books published annually must include at least 20 percent of popular science works. The rights to the works prepared for publication will belong to the Agency for Youth Affairs, which will provide them free of charge to publishing houses.

It is also planned to create and ensure the continuous operation of a special mobile application that accumulates literature in the Uzbek language and provides the population with free access to a wide range of information. On the recommendation of the Expert Council, the works will be distributed to information and library institutions (including libraries of public and administration authorities), and electronic versions will be donated free of charge to the Alisher Navoi National Library of Uzbekistan and the relevant institutions of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan for wide use by readers.

The necessary spiritual, legal, material, and technical basis has been created in the Republic to develop children's literature and improve the quality of textbooks and teaching aids. The country's publishing houses have increased the publication of works by authors of world and Uzbek children's literature. In accordance with a number of documents adopted to promote book reading, systematic measures are being taken in all regions to popularise literature among children and adolescents. Over the past four years, a number of presidential decrees and government resolutions have been adopted to guide the country's publishing, printing, and bibliographical information institutions.

Thus, bibliographical information services play a critical role in ensuring public well-being by providing citizens with easy access to information, knowledge, and culture. In addition, the development of digital services, collaboration with communities, and the use of new technologies strengthen the role of libraries as centres of learning, information, and communication. This helps to enhance the capabilities of people and stimulates their desire for education. The development of the potential of information and library services contributes to lifelong learning, self-improvement, cultural and spiritual enrichment of the population. This is of crucial importance for modern society.

Ramzidin Nuridinov

Expert of the Development Strategy Center.

The current transformation of global supply chains and the search for sustainable alternative routes between Asia and Europe are bringing issues of transport connectivity to the forefront. In this context, the development of reliable corridors running through Central Asia and the South Caucasus takes on strategic importance, becoming a key factor in ensuring the sustainability of regional trade, diversifying transport routes, and strengthening economic integration across Eurasia.

Uzbekistan and Georgia occupy complementary geographical positions at the crossroads of key Eurasian routes. For Uzbekistan, a landlocked country, Georgia serves as a vital maritime gateway to Europe via its Black Sea ports. In turn, for Georgia, the partnership with Uzbekistan opens up access to the rapidly growing markets of China and South Asia. This complementarity forms a solid foundation for long-term transportation and logistics cooperation.

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) plays a central role in this cooperation, with Uzbekistan and Georgia playing a particularly important role. By the end of 2025, steady growth was recorded: the volume of Uzbek cargo transported along this route doubled, reaching 1.2 million metric tons. These results confirm the corridor’s growing popularity and its emergence as a viable alternative to traditional transport routes between the East and the West.

A positive trend is also evident in bilateral freight traffic. By the end of 2025, the total volume of freight traffic between Uzbekistan and Georgia stood at 146.8 thousand metric tons, an increase of 5 percent. Exports grew by 27 percent to 53,400 metric tons, while imports rose by 26 percent to 71,500 metric tons.

Rail transport showed the highest growth rates. In 2025, the volume of rail freight traffic between the two countries reached 53,1 thousand metric tons, an increase of 56 percent. Exports grew by 71 percent, imports by 65 percent, and transit shipments by 49 percent, indicating significant untapped potential in this sector.

The key instrument for increasing rail freight traffic between the two countries and transit through them is the CASCA+ international route, which connects countries in the Asia-Pacific region—China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and Europe. To develop this route, Uzbekistan has established a Coordination Committee, and the parties have designated logistics companies responsible for organizing transit container trains.

As part of this route, the railway administrations of the participating countries are granted annual tariff preferences of up to 70%, which leads to an increase in mutually beneficial freight volumes. In addition, on June 8–9 of this year, another six-party meeting was held among the participating countries, resulting in the signing of a protocol to increase freight volumes along the CASCA+ corridor.

Air service is also developing rapidly. Regular flights operate on the Tashkent–Tbilisi and Tashkent–Batumi routes. In 2025, Uzbek airlines operated 608 scheduled and charter flights to and from Georgia, a 12 percent increase over the previous year. In the first five months of 2026, the number of flights doubled compared to the same period last year, reflecting growing mutual interest and the strengthening of humanitarian ties between the peoples of the two countries.

The strategic outlook for cooperation is shaped by major railway projects being implemented with Uzbekistan playing a leading role. The construction of the “China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan” railway creates the shortest overland route from China to Central Asia and, via the Caspian Sea, to the South Caucasus. In turn, the Trans-Afghan Railway project (“Uzbekistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan”) opens a direct route to the markets of South Asia.

Integrating these projects with existing transport corridors through the countries of the Caucasus and Central Asia will strengthen their interconnectivity and efficiency. Thus, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Georgia is taking on the character of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the interconnectedness of Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Sh. Akhmedov, Leading Specialist at the Center for the Study of Transportation and Logistics Development Issues under the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and Turkey are consistently developing bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the fields of ecology and environmental protection, paying special attention to the exchange of experience, the introduction of modern technologies, and the professional development of specialists.

Representatives of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan regularly participate in seminars, training courses, and other events organized by international structures in the Republic of Turkey. Such cooperation formats serve to strengthen professional ties and adopt advanced approaches in the field of environmental management.

One of the significant stages of cooperation was a meeting with a delegation from "OSTIM Energik," a company specialized in clustering technologies in renewable energy and ecology under Turkey’s Middle East Industry and Trade Center (OSTIM). During the negotiations, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation on air purification systems, the construction of water treatment facilities, the development of renewable energy sources, as well as the processing of domestic and agricultural waste.

Within the framework of developing practical cooperation, a business trip was organized for a delegation from the State Center for Ecological Expertise under the Committee. The goal was to study advanced foreign experience in the field of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), including modern methods of ecological expertise and monitoring.

Additionally, a joint event was held in Tashkent with the participation of the Turkish company "Cengiz Group" regarding the reduction of the number of vehicles and the strengthening of environmental control over them. This initiative was aimed at reducing pollutant emissions and increasing environmental responsibility in the transport sector.

A distinct direction of cooperation is related to the development of scientific and educational ties. Partnerships have been established between the Turkish State Meteorological Service and the Hydrometeorology Research Institute of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Faculty of Ecology at Ege University in Izmir and the Central Asian University for the Study of Environment and Climate Change. This cooperation is directed towards retraining specialists and enhancing their professional skills in environmental protection and climate research.

The active cooperation between the two countries continues on international platforms as well. Within the framework of the climate forum held in Samarkand on the theme "Global Climate Challenges and Central Asia – Solidarity for Common Prosperity," a youth session was held with the participation of Turkish representatives. This constituted a significant contribution to shaping a new generation of environmental leaders.

The participation of the Ecology Committee delegation, led by Aziz Abduhakimov, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues and Chairman of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change, in the "Zero Waste" international forum organized by the "Zero Waste Foundation" in Istanbul was also a significant milestone. During the forum, global approaches to waste reduction, the development of a circular economy, and the introduction of sustainable consumption principles were discussed.

Furthermore, a delegation from the Forestry Agency under the Committee visited the Mugla province and the city of Antalya to study Turkey’s best practices in forestry, sustainable forest resource management, and the prevention of ecosystem degradation.

In conclusion, the cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey in the field of ecology and environmental protection is of a systemic and multifaceted nature, covering technological, scientific, educational, and institutional directions. The implementation of joint initiatives serves to introduce modern environmental solutions, increase the stability of natural ecosystems, and strengthen international partnership in the interests of sustainable development.

Makhmud Khaydarov,

Chief specialist Department of international cooperation and rankings of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change

The analysis covers the key thematic and semantic emphases of the President’s speech, the structure of core concepts and their interrelations, priority directions of state policy, as well as the strategic benchmarks for the country’s socio-economic development in 2026.

On 26 December 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered his Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan. Experts of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) conducted a linguistic content analysis of the President’s speech.

The analysis was carried out using modern linguistic methods and is aimed at identifying semantic priorities, key concepts and their connections. A word cloud and diagrams were also prepared to visually demonstrate the priority directions of state policy.

Analysis (from the original language)

In total, the President used 9,135 words in his Address. The creation of a word cloud made it possible to visualize the most significant themes and gain a deeper understanding of the priorities and directions of the country’s socio-economic development.

Figure 1. Most frequently used words in the President’s Address (26.12.2025)

The linguistic analysis showed that the most frequently used key words included “mahalla” – 49 times, “aholi” (population) – 35 times, “iqtisodiyot” (economy) – 28 times, “bozor” (market) – 26 times, “loyiha” (project) – 25 times, and “technology” – 22 times (Fig. 1).

Words such as “ta’lim” (education), “natija” (result) and “daromad” (income) were each used 20 times; “tadbirkor” (entrepreneur) and “sanoat” (industry) – 19 times each; “suv” (water) – 18 times; “elektr” (electricity) and “hudud” (territory) – 17 times each; “yoshlar” (youth), “infratuzilma” (infrastructure) and “qurilish” (construction) – 16 times each.

The analysis of two-word expressions showed that the phrase “Markaziy Osiyo” (Central Asia) was used eight times; “aholi daromadi” (household income), “qishloq xo‘jaligi” (agriculture) and “yangi bosqich” (new stage) – seven times; “yangi texnologiyalar” (new technologies) and “Toshkent shahri” (city of Tashkent) – six times each. Expressions such as “Davlat xizmatlari” (public services), “xorijiy investitsiya” (foreign investment) and “yangi tizim” (new system) were used five times, while “dual ta’lim” (dual education), “ish o‘rni” (jobs), “viloyat markazlari” (regional centers) and “tuman byudjeti” (district budgets) were used four times each.
Among three-word combinations, the most frequent expressions included “the next five years” – nine times; “based on dual education” – four times; and “water-saving technologies” and “water, electricity” – three times each.

Thus, the analysis shows that at the core of state policy are the mahalla, public welfare, and the transition to a new stage of development based on economic and technological transformation, with clearly defined strategic objectives for the next five years.

Thematic structure of the speech

The diagram below shows the distribution of the speech’s vocabulary by key directions, where the content is grouped into nine main thematic blocks.
The diagram clearly demonstrates that technological development and human interests, implemented at the level of the mahalla, are at the center of state policy. The ultimate goal of all reforms is to ensure public welfare through sustainable economic growth (Fig. 2).

Figure 2. Distribution of words by thematic areas in the structure of the speech

Interconnection of development directions

The analysis highlights key words that demonstrate the interconnection between various directions of Uzbekistan’s state policy in the coming years.
The transition of the economy to a technological and innovation-based growth model is a central element of state policy and implies a shift away from a raw-materials model toward high-tech industry. This direction is closely linked with such concepts as “investment,” “technology,” “market,” and “product.”

The block on economic growth and welfare reflects the key outcomes of reforms, including the increase of the economy to $145 bn and a twofold reduction in poverty over the past three years. It is directly associated with the concepts of “population,” “economy,” “mahalla,” and “services.”

The social foundation of reforms is built through the development of the mahalla and social solidarity. This direction is associated with “mahalla,” “youth,” “society,” and “values.”

Structuring vocabulary by thematic areas shows that the core of the President’s speech is technological modernization of the economy and a human-centered governance model based on the “mahallabay” system.

It emphasizes the interconnection between economic growth, improvement of public welfare and the development of local infrastructure, as well as priorities such as strengthening human capital, expanding employment and increasing the efficiency of public administration.

Figure 3. Interconnection of development directions

Among the highlighted semantic blocks are also tasks related to stimulating domestic demand, developing the housing and tourism sectors, modernizing the transport system, increasing productivity in agriculture and introducing water-saving technologies.

Special emphasis is placed on the “green” agenda, including the development of renewable energy, expansion of the “Yashil Makon” (“Green Space”) initiative, and strengthening resilience to climate risks.

In the foreign policy dimension, the analysis highlights Uzbekistan’s openness, strengthening of good-neighborly relations, and integration into the global economic system.

The linguistic analysis confirms that the idea at the core of the President’s speech is built around the triad “inson qadri – mahalla – farovonlik” (human dignity – mahalla – welfare), where the goal of reforms is sustainable growth, improved quality of life, and the further strengthening of Uzbekistan’s position.

Ilyos Rabbimov, CERR

CERR Public Relations Service

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At the end of May, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will take part in the upcoming summit of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in Astana.

In recent years, the participation of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in events of the Eurasian Economic Union has become an important element of the country’s foreign economic strategy, aimed at expanding practical cooperation, strengthening trade and economic ties, and developing sustainable mechanisms of regional interaction. Against the backdrop of global economic transformation, increasingly complex logistics routes, and growing competition for investment resources, the Eurasian direction is gaining particular importance for Uzbekistan.

As noted by the President of Uzbekistan during a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in 2025, “in the context of growing fragmentation of global markets, the increasing complexity of supply chains, and shifts in the allocation of investment resources, the deepening of pragmatic and mutually beneficial cooperation with the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union is of fundamental importance for us”. This position reflects Uzbekistan’s commitment to building sustainable and long-term economic ties across the Eurasian space.

The Eurasian Economic Union is one of the largest integration associations in the post-Soviet region, established on the basis of the Customs Union and the Common Economic Space. The Union began functioning on 1 January 2015, following the entry into force of the Treaty on the EAEU, signed by Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia, later joined by Armenia and Kyrgyzstan.

The modern stage of interaction between Uzbekistan and the Eurasian Economic Union dates back to 2019, when the Republic began a comprehensive review of expanding cooperation with the bloc. On 11 December 2020, Uzbekistan officially obtained observer status in the EAEU, enabling the country to participate in the meetings of the Union’s bodies, establish a structured dialogue with the Eurasian Economic Commission, and study the practical mechanisms of the integration association’s functioning.

Since then, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EAEU has taken on a stable, systematic, and practice-oriented character. An interagency working group on cooperation with the Union was established, a mechanism of regular consultations with the Eurasian Economic Commission was put in place, and a Memorandum of Cooperation between the government of Uzbekistan and the EEC was signed. Subsequently, the parties moved on to the implementation of joint three-year cooperation plans covering trade, industry, transport, the financial sector, and digital technologies.

Uzbekistan’s participation in EAEU high-level events has also intensified. Since 2021, the President of Uzbekistan has regularly participated in meetings of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, while government representatives have taken part in the work of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council. This demonstrates the progressive development of cooperation and the growing interest of both sides in expanding practical engagement.

In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has demonstrated steady positive dynamics. The Eurasian space remains one of the most important directions of the Republic’s foreign trade. By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with EAEU countries exceeded USD 20 billion, while the share of the Union’s member states in the country’s total foreign trade reached almost one quarter of overall external trade turnover.

Uzbekistan is also participating in a number of sectoral initiatives and projects within the EAEU framework. These include the development of e-commerce, the digitalization of rail freight transportation, the implementation of the “Eurasian Agroexpress” project, and cooperation on the climate agenda. These areas contribute to reducing logistics costs, simplifying cross-border trade, and enhancing the connectivity of transport corridors across the Eurasian space.

At the current stage, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Eurasian Economic Union is gradually moving to a qualitatively new level, encompassing not only trade and economic relations, but also digital transformation, technological cooperation, and the development of joint infrastructure. One of the key priorities is the removal of existing barriers and the creation of more efficient mechanisms for economic interaction.

An important component of the current stage of engagement is the development of digital integration. Uzbekistan is interested in the harmonization of digital platforms, the expansion of electronic commerce, and the introduction of modern data exchange mechanisms. Such an approach corresponds both to the goals of improving the efficiency of foreign trade and to the broader objective of building a modern and interconnected economic infrastructure across the Eurasian space.

Within a relatively short period of interaction in the status of an observer state, the parties have succeeded in establishing stable mechanisms of dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, and moving toward the implementation of concrete sectoral and infrastructure projects.

For Uzbekistan, the Eurasian direction remains an important element of its strategy for economic modernization, industrial cooperation, and the strengthening of transport and logistics connectivity. At the same time, the Republic continues to adhere to a model of flexible and pragmatic participation in integration processes, guided primarily by national economic interests and the principle of mutual benefit.

In the context of the transformation of the global economy, intensifying competition for markets, and changing global logistics routes, cooperation with the EAEU is viewed by Tashkent as one of the instruments for ensuring sustainable economic growth, expanding export opportunities, and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy. For this reason, Uzbekistan intends to further strengthen practical cooperation with the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union, develop new areas of collaboration, and maintain a constructive dialogue on key issues of regional development.

Dunyo IA

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

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

Introduction: The Significance of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s participation in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly

The participation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this September held profound political and historic significance not only for our country but for the entire region. Speaking from this prestigious platform, which gathers heads of state from across the globe, Uzbekistan raised critical issues including sustainable development, combating climate change, ensuring food security, and the efficient management of water resources.

Through his address at the United Nations, a premier global institution, our President further solidified Uzbekistan’s international standing and reputation as a proactive and responsible state. Notably, by showcasing the ecological and innovative initiatives being implemented in the Aral Sea region, Uzbekistan demonstrated its openness to global cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Another significant aspect of this participation is the integration of Uzbekistan’s international environmental initiatives into the global political agenda, highlighting the Aral Sea region as an open platform for advancing climate technologies.

During the visit, the initiatives concerning the Aral Sea region received significant attention from the international community.

During his address at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, our President paid special attention to the environmental disaster in the Aral Sea region and the ongoing initiatives aimed at mitigating its consequences. This issue has garnered significant focus from the international community, reaffirming that the Aral Sea crisis is recognized not only as a regional challenge but also as a global environmental concern.

Uzbekistan’s initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a hub of sustainable development and innovation has received strong support from international partners. In particular, significant opportunities were highlighted for implementing joint projects in areas such as green energy, water-saving technologies, ecotourism, and the restoration of biodiversity.

Thus, the raising of the Aral Sea issue on the prestigious platform of the United Nations during the visit served as a significant political and practical foundation for strengthening global cooperation and attracting increased attention from international donors and organizations.

Transforming the Aral Sea region into a hub for global climate technologies.

The challenges arising from the desiccation of the Aral Sea serve as a profound lesson for the entire world. In response, Uzbekistan aims to transform the Aral Sea region into a “global laboratory” by implementing advanced practices in green energy, water-saving technologies, biodiversity restoration, and climate change adaptation.

Such an approach not only addresses regional challenges but also offers an effective model for the international community. The projects being implemented in the Aral Sea region can subsequently serve as a replicable framework for other areas facing the impacts of climate change.

On May 18, 2021, during the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, our President put forward the initiative to designate the Aral Sea region as a hub for ecological innovations and technologies. This proposal received enthusiastic support from the United Nations and the international community, and was unanimously adopted by all member states during the General Assembly plenary session. This resolution underscores Uzbekistan’s consistent and steadfast commitment to addressing the Aral Sea crisis and mitigating associated risks through a principled and effective approach.

The Aral disaster and its lessons for humanity.

The Aral Sea disaster is recognized worldwide as one of the greatest environmental catastrophes in human history. Once the fourth-largest lake in the world by surface area, the Aral Sea has almost completely dried up over the past half-century. This tragic development has dealt a severe blow to the regional climate, biodiversity, public health, and economy.

The drying up of the Aral Sea stands as a vivid example of human intervention that was not in harmony with nature. Excessive and inefficient use of water in irrigation, coupled with ineffective irrigation systems and planning errors, led to this major environmental disaster.

This tragedy underscored the necessity for humanity to use natural resources efficiently and wisely, highlighting the importance of developing water supply and agriculture solely based on sustainable technologies. At the same time, it clearly demonstrated that ensuring environmental security requires global solidarity and close international cooperation.

The imperative of sustainable development in the region.

The Aral Sea region today represents one of the most critical challenges for environmental, social, and economic sustainability in Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian region. The limitations of natural resources, issues related to water supply, ongoing desertification processes, and declining living standards underscore the urgent need to implement a comprehensive sustainable development strategy in this area.

The necessity for sustainable development in the Aral Sea region is grounded in several key factors. Primarily, environmental security remains a pressing concern: frequent dust storms, soil degradation, and the loss of biodiversity pose direct threats to public health and the quality of life. Additionally, economic considerations are paramount, as the modernization of agriculture — the main source of income for the local population — requires the adoption of water-saving and innovative technologies.

Ensuring social sustainability requires a comprehensive set of measures aimed at creating new employment opportunities, increasing household incomes, and mitigating the risks of environmental migration. Furthermore, given that the challenges in the Aral Sea region transcend regional boundaries and hold global significance, addressing them necessitates reliance on international cooperation and partnership.

Opportunities of the Aral Sea region as an international innovation hub and platform for cooperation.

It is widely recognized that Uzbekistan has undertaken extensive and positive national efforts to combat the adverse environmental and public health impacts caused by the drying up of the Aral Sea. Since the early years of independence, the population of the White Aral Sea region has consistently felt the substantial support of the Uzbek government. The Government of Uzbekistan remains committed to paying continuous attention to the social welfare of the communities residing in the Aral Sea area.

Today, the Aral Sea region serves as an international innovation hub, playing a crucial role in promoting sustainable development in an area severely affected by ecological crisis. Through scientific, innovative, and practical projects, the center actively advances comprehensive work in key sectors including environmental protection, water resource management, agricultural technologies, energy, climate adaptation, and international cooperation.

In order to enhance the activities of the Center and further develop ecological and innovative technologies in the Aral Sea region, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center was transferred under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in accordance with Presidential Decree No. PQ-171 dated May 31, 2023.

In accordance with Presidential Decree No. PQ-5202 dated July 29, 2021, a modern laboratory, business accelerator training center, and technopark building, valued at 12.4 billion Uzbek soms, were completed and commissioned in 2024 within the Center’s premises. The laboratory is equipped with a plant seed gene bank and serves as a crucial scientific and innovative platform for preserving biodiversity in the region, protecting both native and introduced species, and achieving high efficiency in agricultural practices.

Currently, efforts are underway to commence full-scale operations at the facility, enrich the gene bank with an extensive seed collection, organize scientific research, and enhance the expertise of local specialists. This initiative not only supports sustainable agricultural development in Uzbekistan but also plays a crucial role in ensuring food security amid climate change and advancing international scientific cooperation across the entire Central Asian region.

Over the past period, the Center has established effective cooperation with a range of international and local organizations, as well as research institutes, in conducting scientific research and implementing projects. In particular, agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed with over 70 foreign and domestic entities. Currently, 20 scientific-practical and innovative projects with a total value of 23.9 billion Uzbek soms are being carried out. These projects encompass alternative green energy, aquaculture, intensive horticulture, medicinal plant cultivation, resource-saving technologies, and social programs.

The Center’s activities are primarily focused on improving the living standards of the population, introducing and developing salt- and drought-tolerant crops, and implementing resource-efficient technologies. At the same time, it carries out scientific-practical and innovative initiatives aimed at restoring ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and enhancing the quality of life in collaboration with leading international organizations. Among these partners are the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA, UAE), the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (China), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and other prestigious institutions.

The “Samanbay” (24.3 hectares) scientific-production site in Nukus district and the “Moynoq” (106 hectares) site in Moynoq district serve as the primary experimental and testing bases of the Center. At these sites, experimental research and monitoring activities are being conducted in cooperation with foreign and local organizations. Additionally, the Center hosts joint laboratories established in partnership with international collaborators, as well as its own in vitro, soil, water, and plant biotechnology laboratories. These infrastructures support the deepening of scientific research carried out in the experimental fields and enhance the effectiveness of ongoing studies.

Each of the ongoing projects is aimed at creating long-term solutions for the Aral Sea region. Thanks to its innovative approach and international cooperation, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center is gradually becoming the primary platform in Central Asia for scientific research, technological development, and sustainable development.

In its future plans, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center aims to ensure environmental sustainability by implementing innovative eco-technologies, including desertification control measures and smart agriculture solutions.

Simultaneously, to strengthen scientific research activities, plans have been made to establish modern laboratories, a business accelerator, a training center, a technopark, experimental sites, and data analysis centers.

The Center aims to implement large-scale joint projects by further expanding cooperation with international organizations. Additionally, one of the Center’s priority directions is developing programs focused on fostering innovative ideas, creating startups, and enhancing professional skills for farmers, entrepreneurs, local communities, youth, and women.

Conclusion

The Strategic significance of the initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a global hub for climate technologies.

The initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a global hub for climate technologies holds strategic significance not only on a regional scale but also worldwide. Its core essence lies in ensuring environmental sustainability, conserving water resources, mitigating desertification processes, and restoring biodiversity.

At the same time, the introduction of solar and wind energy, modern irrigation systems, and innovative technologies will open broad avenues for the development of a green economy in the region. This initiative will strengthen cooperation with international organizations such as the United Nations and the Green Climate Fund, creating new employment opportunities for the local population and enhancing overall prosperity.

Most importantly, the Aral Sea region’s experience will serve as an effective model in addressing climate change and water resource challenges on a global scale in the future.

Director of the Aral Sea International Innovation Centre under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

B.S.Khabibullaev

An expert from the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, commented to Dunyo IA on the outcomes of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s working visit to the United States, which took place from February 17 to 19:

- The visit of the President of Uzbekistan to the United States, which took place as part of his participation in the first meeting of the Board of Peace, was not just another diplomatic event, but a logical continuation of the strategy of pragmatic and mutually beneficial dialogue with Washington built over recent years. It demonstrated a shift from symbolic political interaction to systemic coordination in security, economics, trade, and humanitarian exchanges.

This visit marked the culmination of an intensive partnership over the past six months. Meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the C5+1 summit, participation in events in Davos, and the signing of the Charter of the Board of Peace, as well as personal contacts between the two leaders, have fostered a stable dynamic of political dialogue. This fifth summit in six months demonstrates that relations have entered a phase of regular strategic communication, with each meeting reinforced by concrete agreements.

The visit’s busy business program confirmed its practical nature. During his stay in the United States, the head of state held talks with representatives of the American administration, financial institutions, and business circles, including the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the International Development Finance Corporation, the American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce, as well as the heads of major companies such as Traxys, Valmont Industries, Gulf Oil, Aviagen, John Deere, BlackRock Financial Markets Advisory, Oppenheimer, and others. Following the signing of bilateral documents, the parties solidified agreements in priority areas such as the agro-industrial complex, critical minerals, financial market development, improving the investment climate, and the creation of an investment platform.

Discussions with the US Trade Representative and the Secretary of Commerce deserve special attention. During these talks, the need to intensify work within the framework of the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement between the countries of Central Asia and the United States was emphasized. This gave cooperation not only a bilateral but also a regional dimension, strengthening Uzbekistan’s position as a coordinator of economic processes in the region.

Viewed historically, the current stage’s foundation was laid back in 2018 during Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s first official visit to Washington, when agreements worth over $4.8 billion were signed. This package signaled Uzbekistan’s systemic openness to international businesses. In 2021, the Strategic Partnership Dialogue was established, and its subsequent expansion testifies to the institutionalization of bilateral relations. The invitation of the Uzbek leader to the G20 summit in Miami, personally initiated by US President Donald Trump, further confirmed the country’s strengthening international status and recognition of its growing role on the global agenda.

The economic dimension of cooperation is demonstrating steady growth. While trade turnover stood at $408 million in 2018, it consistently exceeded $1 billion by the end of 2024-2025. The current three-year Economic Cooperation Program, worth $35 billion, reflects the long-term nature of the parties' intentions. At the same time, the structure of interaction is undergoing a qualitative change: the emphasis is shifting from trade operations to the implementation of investment and production projects.

Today, flagship American companies such as Air Products, General Electric, General Motors, Boeing, Honeywell, and John Deere are actively operating in Uzbekistan. The $8.7 billion package of agreements signed at the C5+1 summit, including a contract for 22 Boeing aircraft, investments in the critical minerals sector, and projects in the agro-industrial sector, confirms the practical focus of the dialogue.

The transformation of the export structure is particularly revealing: services now account for approximately 86% of Uzbek exports to the US, with the IT sector remaining the key driver. Of the 800 active digital services exporters, 448 target the US market, accounting for 45% of all industry exports. This demonstrates that the partnership is gradually becoming more high-tech, moving beyond traditional commodity-based models.

The humanitarian dimension of cooperation is no less important. Academic exchange is expanding, the number of joint research projects is growing, and the integration of Uzbek specialists into international educational networks is strengthening. Currently, 40 Uzbek universities are implementing partnership programs with more than 25 US universities. Webster University’s Tashkent branch and the American University of Technology, established jointly with Arizona State University, are successfully operating. Thus, a long-term intellectual infrastructure for strategic partnership is being formed.

Overall, the current stage of relations between Uzbekistan and the United States is characterized by a transition from symbolic declarations to systemic coordination on issues of regional security, sustainable development, investment policy, and technological modernization. These achievements confirm that Uzbekistan is steadily establishing itself as a key US partner in Central Asia.

Dunyo IA