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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Over the past few years, Central Asia and the Caucasus have emerged as some of the fastest-growing regions in technology and innovation. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan are increasingly strengthening their positions on the global startup map, attracting international investors, technology companies, and entrepreneurs. One of the key platforms bringing together the region’s innovation ecosystem has become the international INMerge summit.

What is INMerge?

INMerge is an international innovation summit that brings together startups, investors, corporations, government representatives, and technology communities from across Central Eurasia. Over the past five years, the project has evolved from a relatively small corporate gathering into one of the region’s leading technology forums.

Today, INMerge hosts participants from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Türkiye, and other countries. Discussions focus on investment, artificial intelligence, startup development, digital infrastructure, and cross-border collaboration. Most importantly, however, the forum helps transform networking opportunities and ideas into real partnerships, projects, and investment deals.

In 2026, INMerge expanded beyond a single-city format by launching a regional Roadshow initiative. Ahead of the main summit, the team is organizing a series of events across key locations in the region. One of the central stops became Tashkent — a city that clearly demonstrated how rapidly Central Asia’s role in the global technology landscape is evolving.

Today, the three countries are shaping a new regional ecosystem, where each contributes its own strategic strengths.

Uzbekistan is now considered one of the fastest-growing tech markets in the region. Over the past year, venture investment volumes increased more than fivefold, the number of startups doubled to over 950, and Tashkent entered the world’s top 100 startup ecosystems for the first time. The country is actively opening up to international investors and steadily becoming a new destination for technology-driven businesses. Uzbekistan is already home to two unicorns.

Kazakhstan continues to focus on infrastructure development and a systematic approach to building its startup ecosystem. The country is developing a large-scale $1 billion fund of funds and has spent several years consistently creating conditions that allow startups to scale not only domestically, but internationally as well. Kazakhstan has also produced two unicorns.

In 2024, IT Park Uzbekistan and Astana Hub took another important step toward regional integration by launching the Central Asian Innovation Hubs initiative. The platform opened access for Central Asian startups to joint programs, international venues, and global accelerators. Today, Azerbaijan is increasingly exploring participation in this ecosystem, gradually contributing to the formation of a unified technological space connecting Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Azerbaijan, in turn, is becoming a platform that connects different markets and innovation communities. Baku was recently named Startup City of the Year, while INMerge Ventures became one of the country’s first locally registered venture capital funds. The city is now emerging as a hub for dialogue between corporations, investors, and technology teams from across the broader region.

At INMerge, this evolving dynamic is described as an “innovation corridor.” It is not simply about neighboring countries collaborating — it is about creating a shared ecosystem where ideas, technologies, investments, and talent can move freely across borders.

From Local Startups to the Global Stage

For startups today, building a product is no longer enough. Founders also need access to investors, strategic networks, and international markets. This is why platforms like INMerge are becoming increasingly important across the region.

One of the clearest examples is the startup competition held in Tashkent. Winners receive not only visibility and recognition, but also the opportunity to present their projects at the final summit in Baku before international investors and major corporations. This model helps connect local ecosystems into a larger regional network, giving young startups a real opportunity for international growth.

The final stage of INMerge will take place on October 8–9 in Baku, bringing together startup founders, investors, corporate leaders, and government officials who are actively shaping the future of Central Eurasia’s innovation economy.

A region that until recently remained outside the global technology spotlight is steadily becoming a new center of growth. And today, INMerge is playing a key role in accelerating that transformation.

It is worth noting that one of Uzbekistan’s greatest achievements since independence has been ensuring peace, interethnic harmony, and mutual understanding among its multinational population. In particular, the wise national policy developed in our country in recent years is based on the key idea: “Multinationality is the wealth of Uzbekistan”.

         It should be emphasized that cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey is currently gaining increasing significance in both quantitative and qualitative terms. Relations between the two countries, as a truly new stage of strategic cooperation, clearly demonstrate that historically and today, the Turkish and Uzbek peoples are truly fraternal peoples, not only in ethnic origin but also in spirit. Despite all the changes in historical development, these two fraternal peoples are steadily and diligently strengthening their national statehood, implementing the necessary reforms to remain competitive in a rapidly changing world. In this context, Turkey’s developed industry, achievements in agriculture, tourism potential, extensive statehood experience, and the growing natural interest of Turkish investors in the Uzbek market are of great importance to our country.

         This closeness and commonality of approaches are the most reliable guarantee that the development of cultural and humanitarian ties between Uzbekistan and Turkey will continue to strengthen and deepen in the future, for the benefit of the Uzbek and Turkish peoples.

         In particular, this is due to the age-old bonds of friendship, brotherhood, and mutual understanding between the Uzbek and Turkish peoples, as well as the similarity of culture, religion, and traditions of the peoples of both countries. This also demonstrates that these relations have deep historical and cultural roots, which provide a solid foundation. Moreover, culturally and historically, these two countries played a central role in the development of the civilization of the Turkic peoples. Therefore, at the 7^th summit held in Baku on October 15, 2019, Uzbekistan’s accession to the Cooperation Council of Turkic-Speaking States as a full member was highly praised and greeted with enthusiasm by all participating states. It is no exaggeration to say that this event not only strengthened the spirit of brotherhood in the Turkic world but also led to the emergence of a new regular cooperation format between Ankara and Tashkent.

         At the 8^th Summit of the organization, held in Istanbul on November 12, 2021, its name was changed to the Organization of Turkic States. The Summit also approved the concept of the Turkic world through 2040. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed holding the first summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Uzbekistan in 2022. The proposal was accepted, and the next, 9^th summit of the organization was held in Uzbekistan in November 2022.

         It is important to emphasize that in 2022, the leaders of the two countries celebrated the 30^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the 5^th anniversary of the establishment of a strategic partnership. Our view is supported by the agreement to strengthen cooperation on reforms in Uzbekistan, implement public-private partnership mechanisms, and deepen partnerships in science, education, art, cinema, tourism, and information.

         Furthermore, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. M. Mirziyoyev is actively implementing a large-scale reform program aimed at expanding Uzbekistan’s economic opportunities and improving the well-being and living standards of the population. The success of this policy, to some extent, depends on elevating our country’s effective relations with its international partners to a qualitatively new level. The special attention is deserved that Uzbekistan is responding to fundamental global changes with a new, proactive, pragmatic, and constructive foreign policy.

         The goals of modernizing our country’s economy and enhancing its global competitiveness require strengthening cooperation with foreign partners in industrial cooperation, studying the experience of developed countries, and attracting large-scale foreign investment and high technology. In this regard, notable that the economic development strategies of Uzbekistan and Turkey can complement each other in a number of important areas. This is due to the fact that Turkey is among the 20 largest economies in the world and has achieved high results in such important sectors for Uzbekistan as tourism, textiles, automotive manufacturing, construction, and food processing.

         Especially, Turkey’s textile and jewelry industries are among the top five in the world. Forty-four Turkish building contractors are among the world’s top 250 construction companies. This ranks Turkey second only to China, one of the world’s leading economies. While the country’s food industry has successfully entered Western markets and strengthened its position there, the Turkish automotive industry is on the cusp of transitioning from conventional automobile production to mass production of domestically produced electric vehicles. This once again confirms that Turkey is an important economic partner for us. Laying the foundations for a completely new export-oriented economic development model in the New Uzbekistan requires systemic changes across all economic sectors and further strengthening ties with reliable external partners with whom industrial cooperation can be developed in these sectors.

         Thus, in recent years, in a historically short period of time, a solid foundation has been laid for revolutionary changes in Uzbek-Turkish relations that will last for centuries — important programmatic plans have been developed and decisive practical steps have been taken. There is no doubt that this development of relations will further enhance the prestige of Uzbekistan and Turkey on the international stage, ensure stable economic growth in both countries, the socioeconomic well-being of their peoples, and the full realization of their creative potential.

         Turkey and Uzbekistan are actively developing not only bilateral relations but also cooperation in multilateral formats. Participation in the Organization of Turkic-Speaking States is also an important component of international cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey.

         Currently, Uzbekistan has created ample opportunities for citizens of more than 130 different nationalities to actively participate in socioeconomic, political, legal, spiritual, and educational life, to recognize their national identity, and to preserve their ethnic values. Also, interethnic harmony and religious tolerance, national unity and solidarity are envisaged, and, above all, the upbringing of a harmoniously developed generation that understands its national identity based on a rich historical and spiritual heritage, national values, customs and traditions, possesses a high sense of national pride and has a worldview formed on the basis of universal human values, modern technology, and scientific achievements.

         Currently, in the New Uzbekistan, unity and mutual understanding are the main principles of policy in the sphere of interethnic relations, aimed at maintaining unity and harmony in society, where an important aspect is not only protecting the interests of various ethnic groups but also shaping a civic identity based on respect and consideration for the rights of others.

         In the area of ​​interethnic relations, Decree No. DP-52 of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan as of March 19, 2025, “On measures to advance to a new stage in strengthening nationwide unity and relations with compatriots abroad”, was adopted. In this decree, the harmonization of interethnic relations in society and the formation of a unified civic identity through strengthening friendship, mutual solidarity, tolerance, and unity in society are defined as one of the priority tasks for strengthening national harmony and ties with compatriots abroad.

         The Committee is designated as the authorized republican executive body implementing state policy in the area of ​​interethnic relations, supporting compatriots abroad, and coordinating the activities of state bodies in this area.

         The Committee’s primary objectives are: harmonizing interethnic relations, forming a unified civic identity by strengthening friendship, mutual solidarity, tolerance, and unity in society; strengthening the involvement of all nationalities and peoples living in Uzbekistan in national development by ensuring their rights and legitimate interests; developing socio-cultural and friendly ties with foreign countries through public diplomacy; supporting the mobilization of the socio-economic potential of compatriots abroad for the development of our Homeland; and systematically analyzing issues of national unity among the people of Uzbekistan and compatriots abroad in the name of common societal goals.

         The Committee has taken significant steps to develop cooperation with the USA, Canada, China, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and several other countries to elevate the consistent implementation of state policy toward compatriots living abroad to a new level.

         Currently, the Committee implements state policy aimed at ensuring interethnic harmony and tolerance in society and supporting the mobilization of the socio-economic potential of compatriots abroad for the development of our country. It also establishes friendly international relations, strengthens friendship with civil societies in foreign countries, and implements a “public diplomacy” mechanism with 157 national cultural centers, 43 friendship societies located in the republic, as well as with more than 60 brother cities, and nearly 100 societies of compatriots abroad.

         Enormous opportunities have been created for the preservation, presentation, and development of national identity, language, traditions, customs, history, and culture of various nationalities. Furthermore, the role of national cultural centers, established by representatives of various nationalities living in our country is of particular importance in strengthening cultural cooperation between the New Uzbekistan and foreign countries.

Specifically, Turkish National Cultural Centers were established in Bukhara in 1991, in Tashkent - in 1992, and in 1997, the Turkish National Cultural Center of Uzbekistan.

         Since 1997, the primary focus of the Turkish National Cultural Center of Uzbekistan (chairman Umar Ibrahimov Salmanov) has been the revival of the Turkish language, culture, traditions, and customs. To this end, the Center has established a Council of Elders, a Women’s Council, a Youth Wing, and a department for working with sports clubs and ensembles.

         Currently, three folklore ensembles operate under the auspices of the Center: Sevinch, Anadolu, and a women’s folklore group.

 In 1999, under the direction of Mikail Suleymanov, an honorary member of the Turkish National Cultural Center of Uzbekistan, the MIKO Comedy Theater was founded. The performances were shown in Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan. These theatrical productions are primarily aimed at strengthening unity, solidarity, and harmony among representatives of different nationalities.

         A number of representatives of Turkish nationality have been awarded state awards for their contribution to strengthening interethnic harmony, mutual understanding, and friendship in our country.

         The first information about the arrival of Turks in Uzbekistan was found in the diary of the Spanish ambassador González de Clavijo. Written sources mention Turkish musicians at the court of the Temurid Shahrukh. There is information that Turkish merchants and artisans settled in the territory of modern-day Uzbekistan in the late Middle Ages to engage in trade and crafts.

         When did the Turks arrive in Uzbekistan? We pondered this question for a long time, examining over 100 sources. The results yielded varied answers. The first representatives of the Turks settled in the territory of modern-day Uzbekistan, in the lands of Akhsi, which corresponds to the territory of today’s Namangan Region, when Turkic peoples migrated from the Yenisei River to the state known today as Turkey. The second group arrived during the reign of Amir Timur, in the 1400s.

         In 1992, the number of Turks living in Uzbekistan was 21,000, while today it has exceeded 50,000.

         Currently, our citizens of Turkish nationality living in Uzbekistan actively participate in the political, economic, social, and cultural life of the republic, making a worthy contribution to the development and progress of the state.

         The visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Turkey ushered in a new era in the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, based on mutual trust and expressing a desire for long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation for the benefit of our peoples.

         Official visits by the leaders of the two countries contribute to strengthening political dialogue and demonstrate a fruitful practical partnership. To further develop bilateral cooperation, the parties discussed in detail priority areas for further expansion of their partnership, including in areas such as trade and economics, investment, transport, textiles, energy, agriculture, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

         Furthermore, in accordance with the Action Plan for 2026-2027 signed between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and Turkey, the most effective cooperation aimed at ensuring sustainable development and prosperity based on lasting security has been established.

         It is noteworthy that the first part of the book by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, “Modernity and the New Uzbekistan
 is entitled “Humanity’s Chosen Path of Sustainable Development”. The fact that it reflects the priority criteria for human development in the 21st century and the noble global goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development confirms our aforementioned ideas.

         Overall, the primary and most important factor in maintaining socio-political stability in Uzbekistan is the ability to ensure unity and national harmony among its multi-ethnic population. It should be noted separately that national understanding and national unity, which are strengthening day by day in our society, serve the cohesion processes on an ethnic and cultural basis among representatives of all nationalities living in Uzbekistan.

Saodat Tilovberdievna Davlatova

Head of Department of the Committee on interethnic relations and compatriots abroad of the Republic of Uzbekistan,

Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor

The text of the article is in Uzbek language!

Dear compatriots!

I cordially congratulate you, the multinational people of Uzbekistan on the coming New Year 2025.

Despite the difficult situation in the world, the outgoing year has been prosperous for our country.

Thanks to the selfless labor, socio-political activity of our people, the idea of New Uzbekistan is becoming a reality.

The past elections to the Oliy Majlis and local councils have reaffirmed that we have entered a new stage of democratic reforms.

New high-tech industrial complexes, infrastructure and logistics networks, roads and railroads have been built in the country, business, IT and tourism spheres are developing. The incomes and quality of life of the population are increasing.

Our skillful dehkans and farmers, clusters have harvested rich crops. The whole country is being improved.

Kindergartens and schools, universities, cultural and sports facilities are being built. Thousands of our compatriots are welcoming the New Year in new homes.

Our energetic, enterprising young people are achieving success in all spheres. Their record achievements at the Olympic and Paralympic Games have opened a new page in the history of national sport.

The role and influence of civil society institutions, including the mahalla, are being strengthened. The sphere of spirituality and enlightenment is developing. Our country's initiatives of global significance are receiving broad support.

Uzbekistan's authority in the international arena as a competitive country and a reliable partner is growing.

All this has become possible thanks to sustainable development, the atmosphere of friendship and harmony in our society.

On this festive evening, I express my sincere gratitude to you, my dear ones, to all our people-creators for your conscientious labor and service to the Motherland.

Dear friends!

We have declared 2025 the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy.

Our main goal is to create a sustainable balance between the economic system and our environment. We will create even greater business opportunities.

We will resolutely continue to work to ensure the inviolability of private property and actively attract foreign investment.

The focus will be on the social sphere, increasing wages, pensions, scholarships and benefits.

We will mobilize all forces and opportunities to bring up our children harmoniously developed, with modern knowledge and professions.

We will increase attention to the development of science, education, health care, culture, art and sports.

We will continue to prioritize the care of veterans, women and youth, as well as improving the effectiveness of social protection.

We will raise to a new level the work on strengthening the potential of our Armed Forces, support for servicemen and their families.

In a word, all together, united, we will act to realize the main principle - “In the name of man, in the name of his happiness!”.

Dear friends!

Once again, I sincerely congratulate you - our compatriots abroad, as well as partners and friends of Uzbekistan around the world - on this wonderful holiday.

I wish you health, happiness, prosperity and well-being to every family, to our beloved Motherland!

May all our good dreams and hopes come true!

May our native Uzbekistan prosper!

Happy New Year to you, my dear ones!



Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

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

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

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

Climate as a New Test of Connectivity

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

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

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

Uzbekistan: The Data Confirm the Urgency of Action

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

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

Cities as a New Frontline of Climate Adaptation

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

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

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

A New Emphasis: Adaptation as a Practical Development Agenda

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

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

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

Why Central and South Asia Must Adapt Together

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

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

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

Termez as a Place for Climate Partnership

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

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

What the Termez Dialogue Can Deliver

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

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

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

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

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

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

From a Common Challenge to Shared Resilience

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

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

D.R. Ziganshina, SIC ICWC | 20 May 2026

Exactly one year ago, on January 29, 2025, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. During his visit, he provided a series of recommendations and directives regarding the incorporation of scientific and innovative projects developed by more than two thousand domestic and international researchers into the exhibitions of the Center.

It was truly a historic visit. Over the past year, the construction of the Center has been fully completed. Specialists and designers from more than 40 countries were involved in enhancing the Center’s activities and enriching its exhibitions. All of them were united around a megaproject initiated and guided by the vision of the President.

In September 2025, the Head of our State, from the high podium of the United Nations, announced the completion of the construction of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan and its imminent opening. Since then, the internal content of the exhibitions has become even more comprehensive. The Center has evolved into a unique space that captures the attention of the global community. Today, visitors from around the world, as well as leaders of states and international organizations, engage with the Center’s work, its scientific projects dedicated to civilizations, prominent figures and discoveries, openly acknowledging its significance.

The world is experiencing a period of profound civilizational transformation. Technological advancement often outpaces moral reflection, while global crises – ranging from geopolitical conflicts to the erosion of cultural identity – increasingly raise questions about humanity’s capacity for dialogue. In circumstances where religion is sometimes used as a tool for conflict, and culture becomes a dividing line, the need for new platforms that can restore the constructive essence of inter-civilizational dialogue is especially urgent.

It is in precisely this historical moment, in the heart of Eurasia – on land where great civilizations and empires arose, where trade routes, religions, scientific schools, and cultures have intersected for millennia – that the unique Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has been established. Its creation is no coincidence and is not motivated by transient considerations; it is a direct reflection of the strategic vision of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

As early as 2017, speaking from the podium of the United Nations, the President addressed the global community with a call to restore the true place of Islamic civilization in world history, emphasizing that the foundations of sacred Islam lie in enlightenment, science, and humanistic values and that extremism and ignorance can be countered through knowledge and culture.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, during his visit to the under-construction Center of Islamic Civilization, expressed high international appreciation for this initiative, noting:

“Your President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is a great and respected leader who consistently promotes the ideas of dialogue, enlightenment and mutual respect from the high podium of the United Nations”.

These words reflect the understanding that has already taken hold within the international community: under the leadership of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has become an active participant in shaping contemporary history.

The address of the President of Uzbekistan from the United Nations podium laid the intellectual and scholarly foundation for the Center, both as a monumental architectural complex and as a fundamentally new humanitarian model of global significance. Within this model, Islam is presented through the history of great civilizations where scientific revolutions occurred, universities and academies were established, libraries and laboratories were created and the foundations of medicine, philosophy, art and scientific thought were formed.

Thanks to the President’s personal political will, strategic vision and consistent leadership, the idea of creating the Center of Islamic Civilization has been realized on an unprecedented scale, in terms of scope, content and international significance. A unique civilizational complex has been established, uniting a next-generation museum, advanced research infrastructure, a modern library, national and international archives on the history of Central Asian civilizations, digital humanities technologies and a broad network of global scientific and cultural cooperation.

The project also received high praise from the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev:

“This is a large-scale and unique facility. It is a scientific, tourist and ethnocultural project. I agree with the President of Uzbekistan: Center of Islamic Civilization can become a shared platform for research in this important field”.

According to global experts, Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is not merely an infrastructure project or a symbol of cultural policy. It represents a deliberate civilizational response by the leader of Uzbekistan to contemporary global challenges. For the first time in the history of the Islamic world, such a large-scale permanent platform for genuine inter-civilizational dialogue has been created.

Uzbekistan has assumed a historic and spiritual mission - not by issuing declarations, but by establishing a real, world-class intellectual space to counter distorted interpretations of Islam and Islamic civilization.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, emphasized:

“Visiting the Center of Islamic Civilization, established at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, we were once again convinced of the country’s leadership’s deep commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and spiritual values of the Uzbek people. In the context of rising Islamophobia, the opening of the Center carries special significance. It vividly demonstrates that Islam is a religion of creation, humanism, tolerance, friendship and brotherhood”.

Experts and policymakers unanimously note that this project has become a humanitarian shield against radicalism and distorted perceptions of Islam - a shield built on knowledge.

A particularly important aspect of the Center’s activities is the repatriation of cultural heritage. By the directive of the President, special state and diplomatic mechanisms were established to ensure systematic cooperation with the world’s leading auction houses - Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Bonhams - as well as with major museums and private collectors. As a result, around two thousand rare artifacts have been returned to the country, including manuscripts of Ibn Sina, works of Al-Biruni, Timurid-era miniatures and masterpieces of Islamic art.

This achievement represents a tangible restoration of Central Asia’s civilizational memory and the historical justice of the region.

President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, upon visiting the exhibitions, noted:

“Visiting the Center of Islamic Civilization left a profound impression on me. Many of humanity’s scientific and cultural achievements originated here. Unfortunately, the world does not always recognize that fundamental works in algebra and medicine emerged on this land. This visit inspired me and strengthened my confidence in Uzbekistan’s tremendous potential”.

Experts emphasize that the President of Uzbekistan shapes the future with the same consistency with which he restores the past. For this reason, the Center was conceived from the outset as a dynamically evolving system - an international scientific platform, a media space and a publishing and educational hub.

President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, after his visit, stated:

“I was struck by an impression I have never experienced anywhere else. Three thousand years of history are presented in a modern and compelling way. Here, one truly feels history - it is impossible to remain indifferent”.

Today, Center of Islamic Civilization is becoming an intellectual hub of the modern world, much like Bayt al-Hikma in Baghdad, Academy of Al-Ma’mun in Khwarazm and Ulugh Bek madrasa in Samarkand once shaped the development of science.

Center represents a new type of civilizational institution for the 21st century. Historical knowledge is combined with digital technologies, manuscripts become global digital resources, the museum acquires the characteristics of a scientific laboratory and national heritage becomes a foundation for international dialogue and mutual understanding.

In conclusion, it is appropriate to cite the words of the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić:

“I have never seen a center like this anywhere. It is built in a modern and very expressive architectural style. I have learned a great deal here and will certainly return. I would tell my fellow citizens: dear friends, I made a big mistake by not coming here earlier. Please visit Uzbekistan as soon as possible”.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov

Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan

TASHKENT, July 28. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan took 1st place in the ranking of the safest countries in the world "Safety Perception Index 2023", which includes 121 countries, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

According to Uzbektourism, the rating indicates that the level of danger to the life and movement of citizens in Uzbekistan is minimal.

The five safest countries also included the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Norway and Estonia.

Of the Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan took 14th place, Tajikistan – 17th, Kyrgyzstan – 26th.

Guinea, Sierra Leone and Mali took the lowest place in the rating.

The "Safety Perception Index" focuses on five factors: food and water, violent crime, adverse weather conditions, mental health and safety in work settings. These factors serve as an important basis for the formation of an image that will become the basis for the security rating of countries.

The fact that Uzbekistan is in first place in this ranking creates the basis for the unhindered arrival and departure of foreign tourists to our country.

In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) has expanded steadily, acquiring strategic significance. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties between the two nations but also serves as a foundation for the formation of a unified digital space across Central Asia.

A Robust Legal Framework

The legal foundations of bilateral cooperation were established in the early years of independence and have been progressively refined since. Agreements and memoranda concluded in the areas of electrical and postal communications, cross-border telecommunications services, radio frequency coordination, and space research have created a solid basis for bilateral relations. Notably, a new agreement on radio frequency usage signed in 2025 is contributing to the harmonised development of shared digital infrastructure.

Digital Economy: Growth and Investment

Cooperation in the digital economy has intensified considerably in recent years. The number of IT Park residents with Kazakhstani capital has reached 67, with export services valued at USD 2.8 million rendered in 2025 and 755 new jobs created. The number of companies exporting services to the Kazakhstani market has reached 155, with total export volume amounting to USD 17.6 million and a combined workforce of 4,600 employees — a clear indicator of growing mutual trust and an increasingly favourable business environment.

The Central Asian Innovation Hubs platform, established through the cooperation of the region's leading technology parks, has elevated the regional startup ecosystem to a new level, enabling hundreds of startups to access international markets.

Startups and Global Integration

Special attention is being devoted to startup support within the framework of bilateral cooperation. Both countries' startups are actively participating in such prestigious events as ICT Week Uzbekistan and GITEX Global. Kazakhstani and Uzbekistani startups have attracted new investment through participation in international acceleration programmes held in the United States, the UAE, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Forty startups participated in the Draper University, AlchemistX, and Silicon Valley Residency programmes.

One hundred startups under the Central Asian Innovation Hubs umbrella participated in major international conferences, including the AI Forum in Kazakhstan, Eurasia Technology Week in Turkey, Machines Can See Summit in the UAE, GITEX in Germany, and London Tech Week in the United Kingdom.

More than 20 companies with Uzbek capital are currently operating among Astana Hub residents, including Oson, Billz, Sales Doctor, IT Academy for Engineers, Verifix, Smartup, Iman, Uysot, Smartcast, Tezbor, Platma, and BITO.

The opening of the Khan Tengri Innovation Hub in Shanghai has broadened market entry opportunities for regional startups in China.

On 3 October 2025, the Kazakhstan Market Entry global acceleration programme was launched during the Digital Bridge 2025 international conference, with 10 startups from the Republic of Uzbekistan presenting their projects on stage. The programme is being conducted in partnership with Astana Hub as an exchange initiative, under which 10 Kazakhstani startups are actively developing their products in the Uzbekistani market through the Digital Startup Awards acceleration programme.

The Digital Startup Awards — one of the region's most prominent initiatives with a total prize fund of USD 1 million — brought together startups from Central Eurasia, including Kazakhstan and other regional markets, through its incubation, acceleration, and Best Startup Project competition components. Upon completion of the programme, 14 startups successfully completed the acceleration track and 15 completed incubations. Based on results achieved and expansion potential, IT Park Ventures invested up to USD 50,000 per startup in SAFE format for acceleration participants, and up to USD 10,000 for incubation participants on the same terms.

Telecommunications: Strengthening Interconnectivity

In the field of telecommunications, direct communication channels have been established between major operators of both countries, enabling the efficient exchange of international telephone and internet traffic. Operators including Uzbektelecom JSC, Kazakhtelecom JSC, Jusan Mobile JSC, TransTeleKom JSC, and TNS-Plus LLC are facilitating the exchange of international direct and transit telephone and telegraph traffic. Additionally, a system for sharing data on the IMEI codes of mobile devices is being introduced between the two states — a significant measure in ensuring information security and combating the circulation of unauthorised devices.

Artificial Intelligence: Forward-Looking Cooperation

Cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence is progressing consistently. Scientific and research ties have been established with the Institute of Artificial Intelligence at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. Specialists from both countries are engaged in joint work on personnel training, the development of research laboratories, and the creation of innovative solutions.

Digital Government: Cross-Border Collaboration

On 17 December 2025, agreements were reached to launch a pilot project on tourism data exchange, building on Memoranda of Understanding signed between the UN ESCAP and both the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

On 13 March 2026, a meeting held at the Digital Government Project Management Centre between UN ESCAP, Korea's National Information Society Agency (NIA), and Kazakhstan's NITEC JSC announced the successful completion of the first phase of the project. During this phase, the legal and technical frameworks for cross-border data exchange among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Korea were developed, and data-driven analyses were prepared demonstrating their value in decision-making processes. Results pertaining to the activities and consumer behaviour patterns of Korean tourists in Uzbekistan proved particularly significant.

Upon the successful completion of subsequent phases, the project envisions expanding data exchange to other priority sectors and establishing a unified intergovernmental data-sharing platform among Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and the Republic of Korea — an initiative that will drive the development of cross-border digital cooperation and enhance the efficiency of both public and commercial services.

Information Security and Infrastructure

Efforts are under way within the framework of cooperation memoranda to develop e-government systems, digital platforms, and public data management systems. The transition of digital television broadcasting to enable the rollout of 4G and 5G networks in the 700 MHz band is being implemented in a coordinated manner across Central Asia.

ICT cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan today carries strategic importance not only for both nations, but for the entire Central Asian region. Joint initiatives in digital economy, the startup ecosystem, artificial intelligence, and telecommunications are accelerating innovation-driven development across the region. This partnership will undoubtedly serve as a key driver in the formation of a unified digital space and the enhancement of global competitiveness.

Starting from the 2021/2022 academic year, the dual education system, which has proven effective in the German education system, was introduced in Uzbekistan. This new form of education allows young people to apply theoretical knowledge obtained in educational institutions in practice simultaneously.
Initially, the legal basis for introducing and improving this form of education in Uzbekistan was created. The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On Education" (No. ORQ-637) dated September 23, 2020, Article 15, specifies dual education as a separate form of education. Article 17 of the same law defines dual education as follows:
"Dual education is aimed at providing learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies, with the theoretical part taking place in educational institutions and the practical part at the learner's workplace."
Additionally, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has paid attention to the systematic development of the dual education system based on German experience. In particular, the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On Measures for the Development of Education, Science, and Innovation in the New Period of Development of Uzbekistan" (No. PF-6108) dated November 6, 2020, stipulated the introduction of practice-oriented educational programs in vocational educational institutions starting from the 2021/2022 academic year.
As a result, new mechanisms for training competitive personnel have been introduced in Uzbekistan by organizing education in harmony with labor activities for specific job positions in the economic sectors and companies (organizations), based on the real needs of the labor market.
In collaboration with experts from the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), specific rules and procedures for organizing dual education have been developed. The Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 163 dated March 29, 2021, "On Measures to Organize Dual Education in the Vocational Education System," was adopted.
This resolution approved the regulation on organizing dual education in the vocational education system, consisting of four chapters. Currently, students are admitted to dual education programs based on the requirements of this regulation. In the initial year, more than 2,000 students were admitted to colleges and technical schools for dual education in fields such as preschool education, railways, and construction. The demand for mid-level specialists prepared through this form of education has led to the expansion of dual education.
Employers now have the opportunity to select and hire the best specialists in this education system. In the 2022/2023 academic year, nearly 45,000 young people were admitted to vocational educational institutions for dual education. In addition to the previously mentioned fields, dual education has been introduced in information technology, light industry, agriculture, and services.
Currently, about 13,000 students are receiving dual education in 234 vocational educational institutions across Uzbekistan. These students are supervised by 3,144 qualified mentors from companies and organizations, who develop their practical skills directly at the workplace.
Moreover, dual education is particularly prominent in areas such as automotive technical service, agriculture, preschool education, light industry, and services. Over 3,600 companies and organizations in Uzbekistan participate in dual education.
For instance, the Asaka Agrotechnology Technical School in Andijan region has established cooperation with "UzAvto Motors" JSC, a major automobile manufacturer in Uzbekistan, for training mid-level specialists through dual education. As a result, more than 500 students are being trained in specialties such as "Welding Technology and Equipment," "Automobile Assembly and Testing," "Mechanical Engineering Technology," and "Automobile Technical Service and Repair."
In recent years, significant work has been done to develop the vocational education system in Uzbekistan with foreign partners such as the European Union, German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), UNESCO, and the Swiss Embassy in Uzbekistan.
For example, two technical schools in the agricultural sector received four tractors, 42 relevant technical equipment, 72 computers, and two refrigerators for storing agricultural products, with a total value of $700,000.
Additionally, 15 pilot educational institutions selected by GIZ were equipped with sewing machine sets (21 sewing machines, 6 overlocks, 6 interlocks, 3 zigzags, 3 embroidery machines), 9 cutting tables, ironing equipment, and 3 multifunctional digital "smartboards." The Almazor Light Industry College was equipped with modern equipment for a practice room in the "Computer-Aided Design" (CAD) direction, including 12 special tablets for designing and modeling, 12 computers, 1 presentation screen, and 1 plotter.
Furthermore, 109 pedagogical staff members were trained in Germany and Switzerland. Additionally, 750 teachers were trained in entrepreneurial skills based on German methodology with the support of German foreign donors.
Under the GIZ "Vocational Education for Economic Growth in Central Asia (PECA V)" grant project, six pilot educational institutions were selected for training mid-level specialists in the fields of bread, bakery, confectionery, and pasta production, as well as logistics.
Within this project, the material and technical base of the Yangiyul Agrotechnology Technical School, Samarkand Tourism and Service Technical School, Tashkent State Agrarian University, and Bukhara Engineering Technology Institute were strengthened.
Equipment for 34 items was delivered to the Yangiyul Agrotechnology and Samarkand Tourism and Service Technical Schools.
In collaboration with Germany, 70 modular education programs for dual education have been developed. Additionally, the "Concept for the Introduction and Further Development of Dual Education in Uzbekistan" and a "Guide for Developing Educational Standards Based on Professional Standards for Dual Education" were prepared.
To ensure that graduates of vocational educational institutions are self-employed in the future, i.e., set up their own businesses, it is crucial to teach them and introduce new methodologies into the educational process. In this regard, the "Basics of Business" subject was developed in collaboration with the German "German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation" organization and introduced into practice.
Moreover, to increase the attractiveness of the vocational education system in Uzbekistan and to provide students with in-depth foreign language training, one of the priority directions is to ensure the competitiveness of mid-level specialists in the domestic and foreign labor markets.
In particular, one-year special German language courses were organized in 33 vocational educational institutions. Currently, 773 students in technical schools in the medical field are being taught in these German language courses.
A one-year program for teaching German was developed and introduced into these courses based on advanced German experience and methodologies. To provide students with educational materials, 6,000 copies of modern textbooks for levels A1, A2, B1, and B2 were purchased from Germany and delivered to educational institutions based on the recommendations of the Goethe Institute.
The system for training professional and qualified mid-level specialists for state-significant sectors and industrial enterprises is being systematically improved by providing the labor market in Uzbekistan with mid-level specialists with modern professional skills.
The Presidential Decree No. PQ-200 dated July 3, 2023, "On Measures for the Effective Organization of State Management in Higher Education, Science, and Innovation within the Framework of Administrative Reforms," stipulated the introduction of a system for year-round admission of students to dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of companies and organizations. This has given a significant impetus to the development of this form of education.
Additionally, due to the increasing demand for mid-level specialists in job positions created based on regional socio-economic development programs, the need arose to organize year-round dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of organizations.
The Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 647 dated December 7, 2023, "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Resolutions of the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Introduction of a System for Year-Round Admission of Students to Dual Education in Vocational Educational Institutions," created the opportunity to organize year-round dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of organizations.
Despite the fact that only two months have passed since the adoption of this resolution, more than 750 students have already been admitted to dual education based on the existing needs of over 20 companies.
Furthermore, from now on, free short-term advanced training courses will be organized annually for the voluntary improvement of the pedagogical skills of mentors assigned from organizations to dual education.
Additionally, by the 2024/2025 academic year, an electronic platform will be created to determine the current and prospective needs of the labor market for mid-level specialists. An electronic system for signing contracts between organizations willing to train mid-level specialists and vocational educational institutions will be introduced.
As a result of the reforms implemented to develop the dual education system in Uzbekistan, the coverage of dual education will reach 50,000 students by the end of this year. Furthermore, by the beginning of the new academic year, 100 professions will be selected, and professional standards will be developed based on the experiences of Germany, Switzerland, and Great Britain. The demand for professions will be aligned with the needs of employers.

Utkirjon Alijonov
Head of the Department for the Development
of the Vocational Education System,
Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation

A comprehensive monitoring of key business activity indicators across Uzbekistan’s regions points to growth across all major metrics.

Based on operational data from the Tax Committee, Customs Committee, Central Bank, and the Uzbek Republican Commodity Exchange, the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) continues to monitor business activity across the regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

As of March this year, tax revenues demonstrated steady positive momentum, increasing by 54% compared to the same period last year.

The most notable growth in revenues was recorded in the Navoi, Syrdarya, Tashkent, and Khorezm regions, as well as in the city of Tashkent, where average growth rates reached 33%.

Personal income tax revenues rose by 15.2%, property tax revenues by 10.7%, and land tax revenues by 33.8%.

Customs revenues increased by 19.5%. The highest growth rates were recorded in the Navoi region, up 77.6%, and the Namangan region, up 64.2%.

Stable positive dynamics were also observed in the Fergana and Samarkand regions, as well as in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, where revenues increased by an average of 32%.

Analysis of foreign economic indicators shows that merchandise exports rose by 30%. The strongest export growth was recorded in the Navoi region, up 71.4%, and the Tashkent region, up 52.4%. Export growth was also observed in the Samarkand region (30.6%), Namangan region (29.3%), and Bukhara region (27.2%).

At the same time, lending activity expanded significantly. During the reviewed period, the volume of loans issued by commercial banks increased by 9.1%. The highest growth was recorded in the Samarkand region (+69.5%). In the Bukhara, Khorezm, Fergana, and Tashkent regions, lending growth averaged more than 43%.

The active development of the private sector is also reflected in a substantial increase in the number of newly established business entities. In March this year, 22,443 new enterprises were registered. The largest numbers were recorded in the Tashkent region (2,276), Khorezm region (2,035), Samarkand region (1,854), Fergana region (1,626), and the city of Tashkent (4,759).

Trading volume on the Uzbek Republican Commodity Exchange increased by 20.8%. The highest growth in exchange activity was recorded in the Syrdarya region, where activity rose by 68.4%. Additional strong growth was observed in the Syrdarya, Bukhara, Navoi, Namangan, and Surkhandarya regions, as well as in the city of Tashkent, where average growth reached 33%.

Sultonmurod Ozodov, CERR