Uzbekistan is a country of youth. According to statistical data, about 60% of Uzbekistan's population is under the age of 30. Thus, over 18 million residents of Uzbekistan are young people, and by 2040 this number could reach 25 million. This creates unique opportunities and specific challenges for the state in terms of providing education, employment, and social integration for the youth. On February 21 of this year, a Presidential Decree approved the State Program for the implementation of the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy in the Year of Support for Youth and Business. It outlines a number of tasks aimed at addressing the problems faced by young people and realizing their potential.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has prioritized creating favorable conditions to ensure the rights and interests of the younger generation. This includes providing them with access to quality education, meaningful employment opportunities, and avenues to realize their talents and abilities. Significant efforts have been made in this direction as part of state policy.

A vivid confirmation of this is the adoption and consistent implementation of over 100 legislative acts concerning this sphere within a short period. The inclusion of specific articles on the rights and interests of the younger generation in the updated Constitution of Uzbekistan undoubtedly opens new opportunities for further strengthening the legal framework and elevating practical work in this area to a new level.

During the past period, a completely new vertical management system for working with youth has been established.

In all neighborhoods (mahallas) of the country, youth leaders are active. Thanks to this system, over 100 different opportunities have been created for youth within the neighborhoods.

A system called the "Youth Notebook" has been established, through which over 1.1 million young people have received assistance across
25 different areas totaling 1.3 trillion UZS. Specifically, tens of thousands of students from low-income families have had their tuition fees covered under fee-based contracts.

The number of higher educational institutions in the country has almost tripled, reaching 199, and enrollment has increased from 9 to
38 percent. This expansion opens up extensive opportunities for youth to acquire modern knowledge and professions.

In the country, 210 youth industrial and entrepreneurial zones have been established, with 2,500 projects implemented amounting to 4 trillion UZS. As a result, the number of young entrepreneurs has doubled, surpassing 200,000.

In recent years, more than 750 young people who make a significant contribution to the prosperity of the Motherland have received state awards.

It is heartening that the youth of the country are effectively utilizing the opportunities provided and inspiring with their achievements in various fields.

For further effective implementation of State youth policy in Uzbekistan, it is necessary to continue effective reforms to create a solid organizational, legal and institutional framework.

First of all, work will continue to develop new constitutional norms on the rights of young people in existing legislation.

At the same time, in the coming period, special attention will be paid to the qualitative execution of tasks defined in the State Program on the implementation of the Strategy "Uzbekistan - 2030" in the Year of Support for Youth and Business.

Thus, every region, ministry and department has begun to introduce a new approach to work with young people. The improvement of scientific and analytical work on the study of youth problems and the training of promising personnel is considered relevant.

Today, rapid measures are being taken to increase the number of young people learning foreign languages under the "Ibrat Farzandlari" project
to 1 million, and the number of young readers under the "Mutolaa" program up to 1.5 million. Additional infrastructure is being built in the regions for this purpose. At the same time, special attention should be paid to the creation of broader conditions for the meaningful organization of leisure activities and the realization of young people's talents and abilities.

Thus, the systemic reforms carried out in Uzbekistan have led to significant achievements in the field of education and the spiritual, intellectual, physical and moral development of young people. The increase in the number of educational institutions, the improvement in the quality of education, the active participation of young people in scientific and cultural events, and the implementation of social projects - all this is evidence of positive changes and the strengthening of the foundations for the harmonious development of the younger generation.

Bekzod Jurabayev,
Chief scientific researcher of the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Chairman of the Council of Young Scientists of the Institute

The text of the article is in Uzbek.

In the modern system of international relations, stable and long-term cooperation between states is based, above all, on political will and trust at the highest level. Relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Turkey have consistently developed based on an open, sincere, and trusting dialogue established between the heads of state. This political trust creates a solid foundation for public diplomacy, including deepening fraternal ties between the cities.

In recent years, high-level meetings, regular political dialogue, and strategic agreements between the presidents of Uzbekistan and Turkey have elevated relations between the two countries to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Mutual trust and political support from the heads of state have resulted in concrete and practical results in trade, economic, investment, cultural, humanitarian, and educational spheres.

From this perspective, public diplomacy is becoming an important component of Uzbek-Turkish relations. It strengthens official interstate agreements at the public level and deepens trust and mutual understanding between peoples. Particularly between two fraternal nations with shared historical roots, a common language, and spiritual values, public diplomacy is a natural and indispensable process.

In this context, the Uzbekistan-Turkey Friendship Society functions as an important institutional platform for the development of public diplomacy. Cultural events, scientific and educational conferences, youth and women’s initiatives organized by the society contribute to strengthening mutual trust and friendship between the two peoples. This activity promotes public support for priority areas established at the level of heads of state.

At the same time, fraternal relations between cities are one of the most effective and practical forms of public diplomacy. Fraternal relations established between the cities of Uzbekistan and Turkey strengthen political trust at the local level and create a favorable environment for economic and cultural cooperation. The Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World participate in this process as important international structures coordinating and systematically developing relations between cities. 

Brother cities cooperation, which has historical significance in Uzbek-Turkish relations, includes ties between the cities as Bukhara – Izmir, Bukhara – Malatya, Samarkand – Sakarya, Tashkent – Ankara, and Khiva – Bolu. Cultural and humanitarian projects, educational and tourism programs, as well as investment initiatives implemented within the framework of this cooperation serve to achieve the strategic goals set by the leaders of the two countries at the local level.

It should be noted that cooperation between cities has not only cultural or economic significance but also an important political content. Trust and cooperation established at the local level ensure the stability and continuity of interstate relations. This demonstrates the significant role of public diplomacy in strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Turkey.

In conclusion, public diplomacy in Uzbek-Turkish relations is an important factor that builds on, complements, and strengthens the trusting political dialogue between the heads of state. Within the framework of the priority areas identified by the heads of state, work carried out at the city level in cooperation with the Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World will contribute to the further strengthening of friendship, trust, and cooperation between the two fraternal peoples.

Zokir Abidov,

Chairman of the Brother Cities Alliance 

Amid growing water scarcity and climate instability in Central Asia, Uzbekistan and Finland are implementing a unique form of scientific cooperation that combines digital innovation with sustainable water resource management.

In 2021, the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at the rational development of natural resources through advanced technologies. Today, this project stands as an example of scientific diplomacy that unites European expertise with Uzbekistan’s potential.

From Paper Maps to Digital Models.

For many years, hydrogeological maps of Uzbekistan existed only in paper form. Within the framework of the joint project, they were digitized using the ArcGIS platform, creating a unified national groundwater database. This digital transformation enables specialists to monitor aquifer conditions, analyze water balances, and forecast the impacts of climate change.

Finnish experts conducted a series of training programs for Uzbek specialists, introducing modern methods of digital mapping and data processing. This strengthened the professional capacity of the sector and laid the foundation for scientifically grounded and transparent water resource management.

Scientific Practice: Experimental Site in Akhangaran.

An experimental site was established in the Akhangaran district of the Tashkent region, where joint research teams conducted geophysical studies and developed digital models of groundwater flow. The obtained data help predict groundwater levels, plan water supply systems, and identify areas vulnerable to drought.

The use of the MODFLOW software package made it possible to create models that provide scientifically based solutions for water resource allocation — particularly important for regions with limited water reserves.

European Partnership for Climate Resilience.

Cooperation with Finland is part of a broader European agenda aimed at supporting climate adaptation and sustainable development in Central Asia. By combining European technologies with Uzbekistan’s scientific resources, the project demonstrates how international partnerships can strengthen ecological security and water stability.

The results of the joint work were published in the journal Water (Scopus) under the title “Assessing Climate Change Impacts on Groundwater Recharge and Storage Using MODFLOW in the Akhangaran River Alluvial Aquifer, Eastern Uzbekistan.”

Furthermore, new areas of cooperation have opened — with the University of Padua (Italy) in geological risk monitoring, and with the Belarusian Scientific and Production Center for Geology in groundwater observation.

Looking Ahead.

The joint project between Uzbekistan and Finland is more than a transfer of technology — it represents a step toward creating a new culture of rational water use and responsible climate action. The establishment of a national digital hydrogeological database will become a key element in the country’s environmentally sustainable development.

As Europe and Central Asia continue to strengthen cooperation in water, energy, and climate, the Uzbek-Finnish project serves as a model of how scientific initiatives can deliver tangible environmental and social benefits.

Over the past five years, the open dialogue between the President of Uzbekistan and entrepreneurs has evolved from a new feedback format into a stable mechanism of economic policy. Its importance is defined not only by the number of appeals received or proposals voiced. The main result has been a consistent transition from removing individual barriers to changing the rules of doing business themselves – in taxation, lending, access to land and infrastructure, export support, digitalization of services, and protection of entrepreneurs’ rights.

The logic of the five meetings held so far is clearly reflected in their dynamics. The first dialogue in 2021 focused on removing the most urgent post-pandemic restrictions and restoring trust between the state and the private sector. The second established a categorized approach to businesses and territories. The third set the goal of helping companies grow from microbusiness to small business, from small to medium-sized and large enterprises. The fourth expanded access to capital, land, energy, and markets. The fifth focused on legalizing entrepreneurial activity, developing digital financial services, simplifying tax administration, supporting startups, and protecting investments.

It is important to note that entrepreneurship indicators are the result of the full range of economic reforms, not only the annual meetings. However, the open dialogues have become the platform where business problems are translated into specific decisions, and their practical implementation is reviewed at the next meeting.

As Uzbekistan approaches the upcoming sixth dialogue, scheduled for August 2026, the country has a fundamentally different business climate from the one with which this process began.

2021: The First Dialogue

The first open dialogue took place on August 20, 2021. At that time, entrepreneurship was emerging from a difficult pandemic period, and businesses needed affordable financial resources, predictable taxation, simplified exports, protection of property, and reduced administrative pressure.

More than 15,000 appeals were received before the meeting, and about half of them were resolved on the spot. Following the discussion, the President outlined seven main areas of work and proposed holding the open dialogue annually. August 20 was designated as Entrepreneurs’ Day.

One of the central issues was access to financing. To strengthen banks’ resource base, $600 million was allocated through the Fund for Reconstruction and Development, and Eurobonds worth about $417 million were placed in the national currency. Foreign-currency loans of around 6,000 entrepreneurs, totaling about $1 billion, were converted into the national currency. This reduced currency risks for borrowers and expanded opportunities for long-term local-currency lending.

Conditions for microfinance organizations were simplified, while in the tax sphere the reduction of the tax burden and simplification of administration continued. For exporters, a mechanism was introduced to refund 80% of VAT within 7 days instead of 60 days, without additional inspections.

Significant changes also affected exports and logistics. Enterprises exporting goods with high added value were given the opportunity to receive compensation for up to 50% of transport costs for deliveries to neighboring countries and up to 70% for deliveries to the EU. The requirement for repeated national certification of a number of types of equipment, components, and raw materials already certified in countries with advanced quality control systems was abolished.

In regulation, more than 40 duplicating control functions were eliminated. The digitalization of permitting procedures expanded, while the process of receiving subsidies was transferred to a Single Window system.

As a result, by August 2022, the number of exporting enterprises reached 7,500, while total exports grew by 30%. In the first seven months of 2022, exporters received about $14.2 million in transport subsidies, and the geography of exports expanded by another 32 markets. A total of 15,800 land plots were put up for online auction, while more than 54,000 vacant land plots with a total area of over 22,000 hectares were entered into the YerElectron system.

2022: The Second Dialogue

The second open dialogue took place on August 22, 2022. Before the meeting, more than 12,000 appeals were received. Entrepreneurs were mainly concerned with issues related to financing new projects, working capital, connection to infrastructure, allocation of land, tax administration, and inspections.

The main decision of the dialogue was the categorization of businesses. Enterprises were divided by annual turnover: up to about $83,000 as microbusinesses, up to about $834,000 as small businesses, and up to about $8.3 million as medium-sized businesses. This made it possible to apply differentiated regulatory and support measures based on the scale, financial capacity, and stage of development of each enterprise. As a result, smaller companies no longer had to bear the same regulatory burden as larger businesses.

Starting in 2023, a single turnover tax rate of 4% was introduced for microbusinesses, replacing the previous range of 4% to 25%. For enterprises moving to the general taxation regime as their turnover increased, a twofold reduction in profit tax for one year was introduced. This measure helped 370,000 entrepreneurs move to the next stage of development.

Another major decision was the reduction of the VAT rate to 12% from January 1, 2023. At the same time, about $167 million of debt arising from the application of increased tax rates on unused buildings and land plots was written off.

The categorization of districts and cities according to business conditions was also important. Territories were divided into five groups, for which different regimes of taxation, subsidies, interest compensation, guarantees, and infrastructure connection began to be formed. Special tax, credit, and financial conditions were introduced in 60 districts of the republic.

A principle was also established under which a decision to allocate land or property to an entrepreneur can be canceled only by a court. In addition, criminal liability for violating trade rules was abolished.

By August 2023, the results of the second dialogue were already reflected not only in regulatory acts but also in measurable indicators. State support measures began to depend on the scale of a company and the conditions of a territory, while business growth no longer automatically meant a sharp increase in the regulatory burden.

2023: The Third Dialogue

The third open dialogue was held on August 18, 2023. It announced the creation of a comprehensive system for training entrepreneurs, preparing projects, providing financing, and finding new markets and partners.

Fourteen small business centers were established in each region with the aim of helping 150,000 small business entities get on their feet, moving 25,000 companies into the medium-sized category, and creating 250,000 permanent jobs.

To support the transition from small to medium-sized business, an industrial mortgage system was launched, providing businesses with ready-made production facilities. The program “New Uzbekistan: A Country of Competitive Products,” which previously covered 100 leading exporters, was expanded to 500 enterprises. The state moved from general export support to targeted work with companies capable of entering new markets and introducing international standards.

By August 2024, more than 700 issues, initiatives, and new projects proposed by entrepreneurs had been supported. An additional about $667 million was allocated, while another about $1.5 billion was directed to industry, agriculture, services, and entrepreneurial infrastructure.

The turnover of entrepreneurs grew by 25% over the year and reached about $82.2 billion. The number of medium-sized enterprises with turnover from about $834,000 to $8.3 million doubled, while the number of large companies with turnover above about $8.3 million exceeded 2,200, also roughly doubling compared to the previous year.

Joint work by the tax, banking, and financial-economic systems at the level of mahallas and clients helped 16,000 previously loss-making enterprises earn about $542 million in profit in half a year. The number of enterprises in categories “A” and “B” in the entrepreneurship rating increased by 91,000, while another 170,000 companies moved out of the lowest “D” category.

The level of business sustainability was especially telling: the share of enterprises operating for more than three years reached 76%, while the number of such active entities approached 300,000 for the first time.

2024: The Fourth Dialogue

The fourth open dialogue took place on August 20, 2024, in Nukus. During the year, the government, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Business Ombudsman, and khokims worked with entrepreneurial initiatives on a permanent basis. As a result, a number of effective economic measures were adopted.

The amount of microcredit was tripled to about $25,000, while collateral was no longer required for part of the loan up to about $8,300. Work began on preparing a law on Islamic finance, which was estimated as a source of an additional $5 billion in resources. VAT on land purchased through auctions was abolished. Installment payment terms for land were set at up to 3 years in Tashkent and regional centers, up to 5 years in other regions, and up to 10 years in districts of the fourth and fifth categories.

For industrial enterprises, the procedure for paying for electricity and gas when consumption limits were exceeded was softened. To launch the production of new types of domestic products based on long-term orders, $100 million was allocated.

As a result, by August 2025, 1,600 microenterprises had increased their turnover above about $834,000 and moved into the medium-sized category. Another 143 microenterprises exceeded turnover of about $8.3 million and became large businesses, while 122 small enterprises also entered the large business category.

In 2024 alone, 16 types of licenses and permits were abolished, which, according to estimates, saved entrepreneurs about $29.2 million.

By the time of the fifth dialogue, more than 600 startups were operating in the country. In the first seven months of 2025, they attracted $264 million in foreign investment, four times more than in the whole of 2024.

2025: The Fifth Dialogue

The fifth open dialogue took place on August 20, 2025, in New Tashkent. In preparation for the dialogue, meetings and consultations were held with almost 7,000 entrepreneurs representing 26 sectors. In addition, more than 13,000 appeals and initiatives were received through call centers.

The main result of the five-year cycle was that hundreds of entrepreneurial initiatives had already been enshrined in legislation. The agenda of the fifth meeting focused on further reducing the cost of doing business and supporting the transition from the informal sector to the legal economy.

The largest changes affected 300,000 individual entrepreneurs and 5.5 million self-employed people. A special legal regime was introduced for them until 2030, with digital services from registration to reporting, remote biometrics, electronic wallets for salary payments, and a universal QR code for accepting payments.

In addition, starting from January 1, 2026, individual entrepreneurs and self-employed people with annual turnover of up to about $83,000 pay turnover tax at a rate of 1% instead of 4%. Thus, the tax burden for businesses with turnover of up to about $83,000 was reduced by 3 to 4 times.

According to Presidential Decree No.214 of November 14, 2025, the principle of “Starting a business in 15 minutes” is introduced from January 1, 2026. Under this approach, when registering a business, an entrepreneur immediately receives an electronic digital signature, a bank account, the ability to formalize a lease, register a cash register, and submit the necessary notifications. This further simplifies the start of entrepreneurial activity and makes opening one’s own business more accessible.

It is important to note that 2025 data show that 493,000 enterprises were operating in the country, while 82,400 new enterprises were created during the year. The share of small business amounted to 52.2% of GDP, 36.6% of exports, and 28.5% of industrial production. In construction, its share reached 75.6%; in trade, 83%; and in services, 47.2%.

These figures show that entrepreneurship has become one of the pillars of Uzbekistan’s economy, accounting for a significant share of production, trade, construction, services, and exports. The scale of the private sector that has been formed creates a solid foundation for the further expansion of business activity, higher competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth in Uzbekistan.

Conclusion

The five open dialogues have formed a new tradition of interaction between the state and the business community. Its key feature is continuity: each new year begins with an assessment of already implemented decisions and then expands the horizon of new tasks.

During this period, many effective and useful decisions for business development have been adopted. However, the main outcome lies not so much in the number of measures taken as in the formation of a stable class of entrepreneurs capable of creating jobs, investing, introducing new technologies, and competing in foreign markets.

The sixth dialogue will be important precisely as the next stage of this trajectory. It is expected that particular importance will be attached to decisions that help introduce artificial intelligence and digital technologies into business, train managerial and engineering personnel, improve energy efficiency, implement international standards, and create competitive national brands.

If these expectations are translated into measurable decisions and implemented with the same continuity as in previous years, the open dialogue format will continue to perform its main function: turning the accumulated experience of entrepreneurs into a practical development program for the entire economy.

Khurshed Asadov,

Deputy Director of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms

The development of trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Belarus, expansion of bilateral trade, enhancement of export potential, and strengthening of investment ties remain among the key priorities of economic relations between the two countries. Consistent efforts undertaken in this direction are contributing to the diversification of export markets, improvement of logistics chains, and expansion of cooperation between the business communities of both nations.

Against this backdrop, the Belagro–2026 International Agricultural Exhibition and Fair, one of the largest international events in the agricultural sector, was held in Minsk, Republic of Belarus, from 1 to 6 June 2026. An official delegation of the Republic of Uzbekistan participated in the exhibition, holding a series of meetings and negotiations focused on expanding trade and economic cooperation, increasing exports, strengthening investment partnerships, and implementing joint projects in the agricultural sector.

Within the framework of the exhibition, the National Pavilion of Uzbekistan, organized by UZAGROSTAR HOLDING, showcased a wide range of agricultural and food products produced in Uzbekistan. The pavilion was visited by Rahmatulla Nazarov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Republic of Belarus; Yuriy Shuleyko, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus; and Aleksandr Yakovchis, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food of the Republic of Belarus. During the visit, the parties discussed the quality and export potential of Uzbek agricultural products, as well as their prospects in the Belarusian market.

The exhibition also served as a platform for meetings with leading Belarusian retail chains, importing companies, and wholesale market operators. Discussions focused on establishing systematic supplies of Uzbek agricultural products to Belarus, expanding the range of exported goods, increasing bilateral trade volumes, and strengthening direct cooperation between Uzbek exporters and Belarusian importers.

In particular, meetings with the management of the Noviy Lebyajiy wholesale market in the Minsk district explored opportunities for exporting fresh fruits, vegetables, and processed agricultural products under long-term contracts, establishing sustainable B2B partnerships, and creating dedicated trading areas for Uzbek producers.

Special attention was also devoted to cooperation in the livestock sector. Following negotiations with the Belarusian organization Belplemjivobyedineniye, a cooperation agreement was signed to supply high-yield pedigree cattle to entrepreneurs in the Samarkand region of Uzbekistan. The agreement represents a practical continuation of ongoing efforts aimed at improving breeding programs and increasing livestock productivity.

Furthermore, the delegation visited the Ozerco-Logistik trade and logistics center in the Minsk district to study Belarus's experience in developing logistics and customs infrastructure. The visit provided valuable insights into international cargo storage and redistribution, digital logistics systems, and customs clearance procedures, creating new opportunities for exchanging best practices in export logistics.

In the area of investment cooperation, a meeting with the leadership of the Mogilev Regional Executive Committee resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between MARAQAND MEAT LLC of Uzbekistan and the Mogilev Regional Executive Committee on establishing a modern livestock production complex in Belarus. The memorandum establishes a legal framework for expanding bilateral investment cooperation and implementing joint projects in the agro-industrial sector.

The Uzbek delegation also visited advanced agricultural enterprises in the Vitebsk region, where they exchanged experience on the development of intensive livestock farming, efficient farm management, strengthening the feed base, introducing digital agricultural technologies, and implementing joint investment projects.

Over the past five years, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has undergone a qualitative transformation, evolving into an effective mechanism for interregional cooperation.

The stability and effectiveness of this format are largely determined by the degree of development of its institutional architecture. Within the OTS, this architecture features a multi-tiered structure, comprising the Council of Heads of State, the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, the Committee of Senior Officials, the Council of Elders and the Secretariat of the organization.

A powerful impetus to the development of the association was provided by the adoption in 2021 of the “Turkic Vision – 2040” strategy, which became the conceptual foundation for the formulation of sectoral roadmaps, action plans, and a system of long-term milestones. The implementation of this strategy has manifested most visibly in the areas of transport digitalization, customs procedures, investment cooperation, and educational exchange.

Special attention should be paid to the activities of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA), within the framework of which efforts have intensified to harmonize legislative approaches in the fields of trade, transport regulation and humanitarian cooperation.

A significant impetus to the development of the OTS was provided by the active engagement of Uzbekistan in the organization's work. In the subsequent period, Tashkent became one of the key drivers in modernizing the OTS agenda. At the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the promotion of projects in transport connectivity, industrial cooperation, digital transformation, and investment collaboration intensified. It is with the invigoration of Uzbek participation that many experts associate the organization's transition from a declarative stage to a phase of practical institutionalization.

The 2022 Samarkand Summit provided an additional symbolic and political impetus, during which decisions were made to establish the Turkic Investment Fund and institutionally expand the economic agenda. This stage solidified the evolution of the OTS toward forming a fully-fledged geo-economic space while preserving its cultural and historical foundation.

Concurrently, economic cooperation is steadily establishing itself as a key pillar of the OTS development. The combined demographic potential of the organization is estimated at approximately 178 million people, a significant portion of whom comprise a young, able-bodied population. The nominal GDP of the member states exceeds USD 1.8–1.9 trillion, while their total foreign trade turnover surpasses USD 1.1 trillion.

In recent years, interregional trade has demonstrated steady positive dynamics. According to estimates by the OTS Secretariat, mutual trade turnover among member states reached USD 22–23 billion, nearly doubling compared to the figures at the beginning of the decade.

Uzbekistan plays a notable role in this process. By the end of 2025, the Republic's trade volume with OTS countries exceeded USD 9 billion, whereas in 2019, this figure stood at approximately USD 4.2 billion. Thus, over a six-year period, the trade turnover has practically doubled.

A prime example is the Uzbek-Turkish industrial cooperation. The number of enterprises with Turkish capital participation in Uzbekistan has surpassed 2,000, while the total volume of joint investment projects is estimated at over USD 5 billion. A significant share of these projects is concentrated in the textile industry, building materials manufacturing, electrical engineering, and the food industry.

The specific significance of this interstate association is driven by its geo-economic location. The member states of the organization are situated at the strategic intersection of transport arteries linking East Asia, the South Caucasus, the Middle East and Europe.

Its central element is the Middle Corridor, which connects China, Central Asia, the Caspian region, the South Caucasus, Türkiye and onwards to European markets. Over the past three years, the route has demonstrated steady cargo traffic growth. By the end of 2025, shipment volumes along the corridor exceeded 4.5 million tons, whereas in 2021, they stood at less than 1 million tons.

A key driver of this growth has been the comprehensive modernization of port infrastructure. For instance, following its reconstruction, the Baku International Sea Trade Port now possesses the capacity to handle up to 15 million tons of cargo annually, including up to 100,000 containers, with future expansion potential reaching 25 million tons.

The acceleration of delivery timelines is of equally vital importance. While cargo transportation from China to Europe along this route previously required 40–50 days, the digitalization of document flows (e-CMR), the unification of pre-arrival customs declaration procedures, and infrastructure modernization have successfully reduced this timeframe to 18–23 days.

The creation of a trans-regional "green energy corridor" is emerging as a highly promising avenue of cooperation, envisaging the export of electricity generated from renewable sources in Central Asia and the South Caucasus toward Europe. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have intensified their coordination regarding the synchronization and construction of the necessary power transmission infrastructure.

At the same time, in the context of accelerating global digitalization, technological development is acquiring not only economic but also strategic importance, forming the foundation for enhancing the efficiency of interstate cooperation, modernizing industry, and strengthening infrastructural connectivity.

The combined volume of the digital economy of the member states already exceeds $110 billion, while the average annual growth rate of the sector in a number of countries stands at 12–18%, which is significantly higher than the global growth rates of traditional industry.

The strengthening of the OTS digital development track was reflected in the agenda of the informal summit held on May 15, 2026, in Turkistan, where artificial intelligence and digital development served as the central theme. This highlighted the organization's transition toward treating technological transformation as a high-priority area of strategic cooperation.

Uzbekistan is likewise demonstrating accelerated digital modernization. By the end of 2025, the country's export of IT services exceeded $1 billion, representing a nearly fivefold increase compared to 2020. Hundreds of companies operate through a network of specialized IT Parks, serving external markets, including the OTS member states. Within the framework of regional cooperation, the Republic actively promotes initiatives for the unification of digital services and the development of joint educational programs in high technology.

However, the effectiveness of these processes is largely determined not only by economic but also by humanitarian factors. In this regard, the OTS possesses a unique advantage, as it is built upon a deep historical and cultural commonality, linguistic proximity, and a shared civilizational heritage among the member states.

A pivotal role in this process is played by a network of specialized institutions, among which the International Turkic Academy, TURKSOY, TURKPA, and the Turkic Universities Union hold particular significance, ensuring the comprehensive development of humanitarian, scientific and educational cooperation.

These structures provide coordination for scientific research, the development of joint educational initiatives, the promotion of cultural heritage, and the expansion of inter-societal engagement.

Special attention is dedicated to the development of academic integration. Since 2025, dozens of academic exchange programs, including joint master's and doctoral tracks, have been implemented within the framework of inter-university cooperation among the OTS states. The number of students participating in educational mobility between the countries of the organization increases annually by an average of 18–22%.

A notable contribution to this process is made by leading universities, such as the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Ankara University, Samarkand State University, and the Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, which serve as key centers for personnel training and scientific support for integration processes.

Separate attention of the member states is directed toward expanding tourism potential. The cumulative tourism flow among the OTS states has increased by more than 35% over the past five years. A significant impact was delivered by the development of joint tourist routes, including pilgrimage, historical-cultural, and ethnographic programs.

In this context, "Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" program and the granting of this status to cities such as Khiva, Aktau, Turkmenbashi, and Shusha have contributed to a significant intensification of tourism exchange within the format.

Another factor driving tourism development has been the formulation of a unified tourism product, "Tabarruk Ziyorat," aimed at developing religious and educational tourism among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye.

Looking ahead, the OTS possesses significant potential for further strengthening as a space for practical cooperation.

Crucial importance in this context will be attached to the deepening of economic cooperation by reducing non-tariff barriers and digitalizing trade and customs procedures, the further development of transport and logistics connectivity - primarily within the framework of the Middle Corridor - the expansion of technological collaboration focused on the development of the digital economy and joint innovation platforms, as well as the strengthening of expert-analytical, academic and educational interaction.

On the whole, deepening cooperation across key areas will serve to strengthen the role of the OTS as one of the most promising frameworks ensuring the development and resilience of Central Asian nations.

In this context, the informal OTS summit held in Turkistan stands as a crucial milestone in advancing this agenda, reaffirming the commitment of the member states to expanding practical cooperation and defining new benchmarks for joint development, primarily in digital transformation and technological collaboration.

Historical Background

The history of Uzbek - Finnish relations dates back to the early 1990s, when Finland became one of the first countries to recognize the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan - on 30 December 1991. Just two months later, on 26 February 1992, diplomatic relations were officially established, marking the beginning of a new chapter based on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to technological progress.

The first high-level visits in 1992 laid the foundation for political dialogue. During that year, Uzbekistan took part in the signing ceremonies of the OSCE Helsinki Final Act and the Paris Charter. In October of the same year, Finnish President Mauno Koivisto paid an official visit to Tashkent, further consolidating the partnership. Since then, cooperation between the two countries has developed steadily across political and economic spheres.

Legal and Institutional Framework

Today, the legal framework governing Uzbek-Finnish relations comprises eight active documents, including two interstate and six intergovernmental agreements. These include the 1992 Agreements on Mutual Protection of Investments and on Trade, Economic, and Technological Cooperation, as well as treaties on air and road transport (1996 and 1997) and agreements on avoiding double taxation and on customs cooperation.

New initiatives reflecting the modern stage of partnership are under consideration - such as a draft agreement on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic passports, a memorandum on cooperation in environmental protection, and a protocol on consultations between the foreign ministries.

Cooperation Priorities: Technology, Ecology, and Innovation

Finland, recognized globally as a leader in innovation, sustainable development, and green technologies, serves as a valuable model for Uzbekistan in its transition toward a digital and energy-efficient economy.

In 2017, a business delegation of nine Finnish companies specializing in engineering, agribusiness, telecommunications, and logistics visited Uzbekistan to participate in the AgroWorld Uzbekistan international exhibition. This visit gave new impetus to direct business-to-business engagement.

In April 2019, Tashkent hosted a delegation led by Mikko Koiranen, Deputy State Secretary of Finland for Foreign Economic Relations. The delegation included 29 representatives from leading companies and organizations - such as Nokia Siemens Networks, ABB, Wärtsilä, Uponor Infra, Tikkurila, ISKU, and Airbus Defense and Space. Discussions focused on implementing Finnish technologies in Uzbekistan, joint energy and raw material processing projects, and opportunities in smart cities and water management.

Later, in November 2019, Antti Koskelainen from the Finnish export credit agency Finnvera visited Tashkent, marking an important step toward deeper financial and investment cooperation. Meetings with the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Finance, and the Agency for State Asset Management addressed mechanisms for crediting and insuring Finnish export operations in Uzbekistan.

Trade: A Threefold Growth in One Year

Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Finland continues to expand. The two countries enjoy Most-Favored-Nation trade status, and regular meetings of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation (five sessions to date, the latest held in Tashkent in February 2023) ensure a dynamic dialogue.

Trade turnover has shown remarkable growth in recent years: from USD 48.45 million in 2020 to USD 151.7 million in 2024 - an increase of over threefold. This upward trend reflects intensified business ties and growing interest among Finnish companies in the Uzbek market.

Investment and Business Cooperation

Finland is viewed in Uzbekistan not only as a trading partner but also as a source of innovation and investment. Currently, 14 enterprises with Finnish capital operate in Uzbekistan - four joint ventures and ten with 100% foreign ownership - active in sectors such as electronics, software, energy, agriculture, food processing, chemicals, and telecommunications equipment.

Finnish businesses are showing strong interest in renewable energy, waste recycling, eco-construction, water management, and sustainable agriculture. Uzbekistan, in turn, offers attractive conditions for investors - tax incentives, developed industrial infrastructure, and access to a 75-million-strong Central Asian market.

Finland’s Economic Potential: Opportunities for Partnership

Finland is one of Europe’s most advanced and innovative economies, known for its high living standards, sound macroeconomics, and strong industrial base. In 2024, its GDP exceeded USD 320 billion, with GDP per capita around USD 58,000. The economy is well-balanced, with services accounting for over 70%, industry 27%, and agriculture 2.5%. Inflation remains one of the lowest in Europe - around 3% - ensuring a stable and predictable business environment.

For Uzbekistan, cooperation with Finland opens wide-ranging opportunities for industrial, investment, and technological partnership, including:

• Energy: joint projects in renewable energy, smart grids, and energy storage; development of solar panel and wind equipment manufacturing.
• Water and Environment: Finnish expertise in water purification, waste processing, and efficient water management, particularly relevant for agriculture and urban infrastructure.
• Engineering and Electronics: creation of joint ventures in industrial equipment, automation systems, and telecommunications.
• Construction and Green Materials: Finnish participation in energy-efficient building projects, production of eco-friendly insulation and finishing materials, and smart home systems.
• Education and Science: joint engineering and IT education programs, establishment of research laboratories, and introduction of dual education models based on Finnish experience.
• Agro-Industry: cooperation in precision farming, agricultural digitalization, and production of eco-friendly export-oriented goods.

Finland’s experience in sustainable development and digital transformation makes it a strategic partner for Uzbekistan’s “green economy” agenda and industrial modernization. At the same time, Uzbekistan - with its abundant natural resources, young workforce, and expanding domestic market - offers Finnish companies favorable conditions for localization and regional expansion.

A Look Ahead

The partnership between Uzbekistan and Finland goes beyond traditional economic cooperation. It stands as an example of how innovation and sustainability can form the foundation of long-term, mutually beneficial relations. Joint projects in digitalization, green energy, and education are paving new avenues for the exchange of expertise, technologies, and investments.

Finland regards Uzbekistan as a reliable partner in Central Asia, while Uzbekistan views Finland as a strategic ally in advancing its “smart growth” model and building a knowledge-based economy.

The synergy between Finland’s pragmatic northern experience and Uzbekistan’s dynamic eastern development creates a powerful foundation for further strengthening bilateral relations - grounded in trust, innovation, and mutual respect.

The XII Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians will be held on September 4–6^th, 2026, in the city of Samarkand, under the theme “Restoring Human Rights, Justice and Dignity for All in Fragile Times”.

The XII Global Conference is expected to convene approximately 300 delegates representing 183 countries, 15 international organizations and around 50 permanent observers.

Event program includes six thematic sessions, during which the participants will address pressing issues pertaining to the status and rights of youth in the contemporary world. Specifically, particular attention will be devoted to protecting the rights of young people amid conflicts and digital transformation, expanding their political rights and opportunities, ensuring economic rights and youth employment, as well as preventing violence against women and youth.

Conference agenda envisages innovative and interactive working formats, including breakout discussions, training sessions, and dialogue forums. This approach is designed not only to facilitate a substantive exchange of views but also to foster the development of professional contacts among young parliamentarians from different countries.

An essential component of the conference will be the convening of the Third Global Forum on Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The participants will review the role of parliaments and inter-parliamentary interaction in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, alongside opportunities to enhance youth contributions toward implementing the global agenda.

Following the conference, the adoption of a final document is expected, which will contain recommendations and joint approaches of young parliamentarians on the core issues of the event's agenda.

Official working sessions of the conference will take place on September 4–5^th. The third day, September 6^th, will be dedicated to a cultural program organized by the parliament of the host country.

Annual IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians was established in 2014. The conference mechanism is aimed at enhancing the role of young parliamentarians and expanding youth participation in parliamentary activities, formulating recommendations that reflect youth perspectives on the IPU’s activities and agenda, as well as broadening opportunities for networking, strengthening solidarity and developing the capacity of young people.

IPU initiative to support youth participation in political life dates back to 2010, when the resolution “Youth participation in the democratic process” was adopted at the 122^nd Assembly of the organization in Bangkok. The document underscored the necessity of full and active participation of youth and youth organizations in democratic processes at local, national, regional and international levels.

In furtherance of this initiative, IPU established the Forum of Young Parliamentarians in 2013 - an official, permanent body aimed at quantitatively and qualitatively enhancing youth participation within parliaments and the activities of the IPU.

To date, eleven Global Conferences of Young Parliamentarians have been convened, addressing a broad spectrum of pressing issues, ranging from youth participation in politics and democracy to digital transformation, climate change, education, employment and gender equality.

Dunyo IA

Samarkand

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

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

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

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

Uzbekistan is represented by leading industry players.                    

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

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

                                                                                      Dunyo IA

                                                                                      Tashkent

Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), jointly with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), surveyed more than 5,000 entrepreneurs from all regions of the country.

Study assesses the business environment and the effectiveness of entrepreneurship support measures, while developing proposals to further improve business conditions and promote private sector development.

Private businesses accounted for the majority of respondents (93%). By type of activity, wholesale and retail trade had the largest representation (43%), followed by services (30%), industry (17%), construction (8%), and agriculture, forestry and fisheries (2%).

The sample covers enterprises with varying levels of business experience. Almost one in four has been operating for more than 10 years (24%), more than a quarter for 5–10 years (28%), around a quarter for 3–5 years (26%), and one in five for 1–3 years (20%).

Survey results show that enterprises use a variety of tools to improve efficiency. One in three enterprises has adopted several digital solutions (33%), a comparable share uses artificial intelligence in at least two areas (30.4%), and almost one in four applies energy-saving solutions (23.2%). Enterprises are also introducing new products and technologies and revising their production and business processes to reduce costs.

Combined use of several measures is associated with stronger business performance. Among companies that have implemented at least three efficiency improvement measures, more than half report increased demand for their products and services (54.1%). Such enterprises are 4.1 times more likely to reduce costs, while the share of companies recording wage growth of more than 10% is 2.1 times higher.

Enterprises that have implemented at least three efficiency improvement measures also demonstrate greater investment activity, with more than half planning to increase investment in the following year (57.8%).

However, the comprehensive application of efficiency improvement tools has not yet become widespread. Approximately one in nine enterprises has implemented three or more measures (11.6%), while more than a quarter use none of the measures examined (28.5%).

By sector, three or more measures are implemented by 13% of enterprises in both industry and services, followed by trade (11%), construction (9%), and agriculture (8%). Regional differences are more pronounced. The comprehensive set of measures is most widely applied in Tashkent city (18%), while the corresponding figures are considerably lower in the Samarkand (4%), Bukhara (3%), and Syrdarya (2%) regions.

The survey results indicate the widespread use of basic digital solutions among enterprises (94%).

More than half of enterprises use artificial intelligence in one form or another (60%). AI is most commonly applied in marketing and sales (24%), production process optimization (15%), accounting and financial analysis (14%) and chatbots (13%).

At the same time, around one-third of enterprises use AI directly in production, logistics and financial processes (31%), indicating considerable scope for its further practical application.

Almost every second enterprise uses customer relationship management systems (CRM) to organize sales and customer engagement (48%). CRM systems are most widely used in the services sector (54%). Digital business analytics tools are used by only one in seven enterprises (14%). Nearly half of private enterprises do not use such systems, while more than a quarter are unaware of these digital solutions.

Social media has become a standard channel for promotion and customer engagement for more than four out of five enterprises (80.9%). More than half of enterprises have established online sales (58.8%), although the share of enterprises selling more than half of their products online remains relatively small (9%). Digital payment systems are used by one in four enterprises (25%).

The sectoral breakdown reveals differences in how digital tools are used. In services, CRM systems are the most widely used (54%), while this sector also records the highest adoption rates for artificial intelligence (68%), online sales (67%), and social media (87%).

In industry, CRM systems (49%) and artificial intelligence (60%) are widely used, alongside online sales (61%) and social media (81%).

In trade, digital payment systems are relatively more widespread (31%). More than half of enterprises also use artificial intelligence (55%) and online sales (54%), while over three-quarters use social media (77%).

In construction, social media is the most widely used digital tool (80%). More than half of enterprises use artificial intelligence (55%) and online sales (51%), while 43% use CRM systems.

In agriculture, digital payment systems are relatively widespread (30%). At the same time, 43% of enterprises use artificial intelligence, 49% have established online sales, and 66% use social media.

Findings show that further opportunities to improve enterprise efficiency are associated with the broader adoption of modern technologies and management solutions, the modernization and automation of production, development of digital sales channels and improvements in energy efficiency.

The stronger performance of enterprises that use these tools comprehensively demonstrates the importance of their consistent adoption for productivity growth and greater investment activity.

Technological modernization represents a separate area of opportunity for enterprises. The survey results indicate a relationship between the introduction of new products and technologies, increased demand and investment activity.

At the same time, 51% of enterprises still have scope for further technological modernization through upgrades and the introduction of new products, services and innovations.

The further spread of digital solutions also depends on the conditions for their implementation. According to entrepreneurs, digitalization could be supported by improved internet infrastructure (13%), greater availability of qualified specialists (10%) and lower financial costs associated with technology adoption (9%).

The need for skilled personnel is also confirmed by the broader findings of the study, with enterprises reporting shortages of specialists with various qualifications, including IT professionals and engineering and technical personnel.

Overall, the survey results show that further improvements in business efficiency require a transition from the use of individual digital tools to their direct integration into production and management.

CERR’s findings are consistent with the results of World Bank research. Enterprise-level data show that the most significant productivity gains occur when companies move beyond basic access to digital technologies and adopt more advanced solutions, including cloud services, management systems, analytics, and artificial intelligence. Digital payments and online sales alone have a limited impact unless accompanied by changes in internal business processes.

Realizing the considerable untapped potential for technological modernization depends primarily on developing managerial and digital competencies, training qualified personnel, and shifting from supporting access to technologies toward their practical adoption by enterprises.

This approach is also consistent with contemporary research on economic growth, which links long-term productivity gains to the diffusion of new knowledge and its practical application (2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences; Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion and Peter Howitt).

Accordingly, further business support measures should focus on expanding the practical adoption of technologies in enterprises’ production and management processes.

Dunyo IA

Namangan is one of Uzbekistan’s regions with a rich centuries-old history. The area has been continuously inhabited for more than two thousand years. The Namangan region was established as an administrative unit in 1941. Today, its population exceeds three million people. The area covers 7,900 km², and its administrative centre is the city of Namangan. The city is located at an altitude of about 450 metres above sea level.

Namangan is one of the most densely populated regions of Uzbekistan. As a result, public life is highly active, and economic, cultural, and educational processes are developing dynamically. The annual International Flower Festival is especially well known.

The Flower Festival was first held in Namangan in August 1961 as a flower exhibition. In 2018, it received international status, and since then it has attracted participants and guests from various countries. Today, it has become one of Uzbekistan’s largest international cultural celebrations.

This year marks the 65th anniversary edition of the festival. Over the years, the event has gained recognition not only in the country but also internationally.

The festival attracts significant interest not only from residents of Uzbekistan but also from neighbouring countries, as well as international experts and specialists. Preparations for the event are currently in full swing.

According to organisers, around 1 million foreign tourists from more than 50 countries and over 7 million local visitors are expected this year. The 50-day festival will include more than 150 cultural, educational, and entertainment events.

A key feature of this year’s festival may be its inclusion in the Guinness World Records. A process is currently underway to set a record for the largest-scale flower planting within a month. The process is being monitored for transparency by a representative of the organization in the UAE, Kanzy Defrawy, in accordance with international standards.

The festival will run from 24 May to 12 July. Its programme includes gala concerts, drone shows, car parades, open-air symphony concerts, fashion weeks, exhibitions, and international forums on tourism, investment, and business.

As part of the preparations, around 5 million seasonal flowers have been planted across the city and districts, giving the region a bright and festive appearance.

The opening ceremony will take place on 24 May at Babur Park in Namangan. On this day, a flower-decorated car parade will be held through the city streets, and in the evening a concert featuring local and international artists will take place at the amphitheatre of the “New Uzbekistan” Park.

Throughout the festival, daily programmes will include theatre performances, puppet shows for children, handicraft fairs, workshops, and regular concerts in parks.

In late May and early June, several major events are planned, including a symphony concert, a retro music evening, “Fashion Days” shows, a lavender festival, and a concert by Yulduz Usmonova. A drone show is also scheduled for 1 June.

Sports enthusiasts will be able to enjoy wrestling competitions, motocross events, international tournaments, and ethnosport games.

The festival will also host international conferences on biodiversity, artificial intelligence, tourism, and economics, highlighting its scientific significance.

In addition, gastronomic festivals, youth environmental campaigns, competitions, and special programmes for children are planned.

The festival will conclude on 12 July with a closing and award ceremony at the “New Uzbekistan” Park.

In summary, the International Flower Festival in Namangan is not only a celebration of flowers but also a large-scale international event that combines culture, art, sport, and science.

Dunyo IA