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.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev familiarized himself with the proposals on improving the quality of pre-school and school education and the system of professional development of teachers.
Students' interest in subjects and their academic performance largely depend on the knowledge and skill of teachers. Therefore, necessary conditions are being created for teachers' professional development and the system of knowledge assessment is being improved.
The responsible persons reported on the developed proposals in this sphere.
It was noted that a new certification system based on advanced technologies has been introduced. More than 190 thousand teachers took part in it, 51 thousand teachers were promoted to the new category based on the results.
It was emphasized that it is necessary to constantly stimulate the increase in the number of professional and self-educated teachers in schools.
It was proposed to increase the salaries of teachers with the highest and first qualification category from September 2025.
It was instructed to develop and implement a separate professional development program for teachers who have not been certified and do not have sufficient experience.
In this process, it is necessary to make full use of the possibilities of professional development centers and teacher training colleges. To this end, based on the experience of the Presidential Schools, a system of professional development for the heads and teachers of kindergartens and schools will be organized at the Abdullah Avloni National Research Institute with a frequency of every 5 years.
A task has been set to transfer 11 pedagogical colleges in the regions under the authority of the Centers of Professional Development and attract trainers from abroad.
It was informed that kindergartens and schools, technical schools and "Barkamol Avlod" school will be established on the basis of teacher training colleges with low workload.
In order to disseminate best practices, the evaluation system of Presidential Schools was introduced in 500 schools last year. As a result, student achievement in these schools increased from 53 percent to 59 percent. A bonus of up to 40 percent has been set for school leaders and teachers of high-performing schools.
In this regard, starting from the new school year, this evaluation system will be applied in another 1,000 schools. They will be assigned to 182 specialized schools and 500 schools that have tested the system.
Also 270 schools will be equipped with interactive whiteboards, 365 schools will be provided with computer classes.
The presentation also considered a proposal to establish the National Institute of Pedagogy of Education on the basis of the Research Institute of Pedagogical Sciences of Uzbekistan named after Kary-Niyazi. The new institute will be entrusted with the tasks of strengthening makhalla-parents-school cooperation, creating educational literature for parents and children, and scientific research of didactic views of the Jadids. Activity of the Academic Council on 5 specialties will be organized, as well as training of personnel in master's and doctoral studies.
In addition, the issues of introducing international methods in the schools of sportsmanship of Bakhodir Jalolov and Oksana Chusovitina, improving the quality of education and training were touched upon.
The head of state gave instructions on improving the quality of teachers' training, organizing a fair system of evaluation and incentives.
TASHKENT, January 14. /Dunyo IA/. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Olimjon Abdullaev held a meeting with the Ambassador of Latvia Reinis Trokša, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.
According to the MFA, the main agenda of the meeting was to discuss expanding cooperation in the field of external labor migration.
During the talks, the topics of organized labor migration of citizens of Uzbekistan to Latvia, simplification of the visa regime, creation of a legal framework in the field of labor migration and establishment of joint educational institutions and centers, as well as attracting specialists from Latvia to train potential labor migrants were discussed.
The parties noted the importance of strengthening cooperation between the relevant agencies of the two countries in protecting the rights of labor migrants and confirmed their readiness to further develop bilateral relations in the field of external labor migration.
OPEN CALL
The Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan invites you to participate
at the X Tashkent International Biennale
of Contemporary Art,
which will be held from 14 to 18 October 2024 in the city of Tashkent (Uzbekistan). Can take part in the Biennale artists of various areas of contemporary art and present your work on the topic
“Art and World”.
In addition to the main exhibition, the biennale will host a number of artistic and cultural events, such as exhibitions, lectures and master classes, an international conference, and a tour of the cities of Uzbekistan.
All expenses of foreign participants for their stay (meals, internal transportation, accommodation) in Tashkent, except for flights,
will be covered by the Organizing Committee.
Applications for participation in the Biennale are accepted until August 15, 2024 via Google form:
https://forms.gle/aUEMyfrsyQUsrp7b7
(detailed information is given in the attachment to this letter)
*Organizers have the right to make changes to the event program
*Application requirements
X International Biennale of Contemporary Art
(Tashkent, Uzbekistan, October 14-18, 2024)
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Age: |
No limits |
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Country of residence: |
No limits |
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Field of Art: |
All fields of art, Fine and Contemporary Arts |
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Financial Conditions: |
All expenses of foreign participants for their stay (meals, internal transportation, accommodation) in Tashkent, except for flights, will be covered by the Organizing Committee. |
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Application order: |
Applications for participation in the Biennale are accepted only via Google form: |
Requirements for Art Works
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Executor: |
For participation, ArtWork could have one or more authors |
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Material: |
No limits |
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Selection critiries: |
The works made during the last 2 years should be submitted to the competition. In terms of theme and content, they should correspond to the thematic focus of this Biennale, be executed at a high professional level, be conceptual, and carry innovative processes of contemporary art. |
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The procedure for providing information about creative work to the Organizing Committee: |
1) Detailed information of the Art Work will be provided to the Organizing Committee by filling appropriate graph in the online Google form; 2) All Author’s Art Works should be collected in one PowerPoint presentation file (electronic format). The presentation must include only names and photos of the work. 3) Author’s ArtWorks should be provided from four angles; 4) Photo criteries: -Format: JPEG (JPG) or PDF -Minimum resolution: 2048 × 1080 pixels -Maximum size: 2 MB 5) Received works will be checked by the Organizing Committee, and selected Art Works for Biennale would be provided to the authors. |
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Delivery method to the venue of Biennale : |
1) Applicants from Uzbekistan: transportation of the Art Work to the venue of Biennale and back to destination carried out by the participant itself ; 2) Applicants from other countries: transportation of the Art Work to the venue of Biennale and back to destination must be carried as participants baggage (cost of the baggage should be included to the amount of the ticket) |
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Requirements for the weight of the work(s), already packed (for foreign participants): |
up to 15 kg |
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Requirements for the size of packed work (for foreign participants): |
up to 1 cu.m.
*The cost of baggage is no compensated by the Organizing Committee of Biennale |
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Additional conditions: |
1) Participant is responsible for the quality of packed work and safety of the Art Work before unpacking at the destination in Uzbekistan; 2) Organizers are responsible for safety of the work for the period of Biennale; 3) Organizers are responsible for the quality of packed work and safety of the Art Work after unpacking at the destination after shipping it back to the country of destination. 4) Art works could be sold on a commercial basis after performing in the Biennale, regarding the agreement of each side. |
*The organizers have the right to make amendments
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim!
Honorable chairman!
Distinguished heads of delegations!
I would like to extend my deep gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty the King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud for hosting this important summit today on the most urgent and painful issue on the global political agenda - the problem of Palestine.
Regrettably, since the historic meeting in Riyadh in 2023, the scope of this unfair and violent war has further widened.
Despite the resolute efforts and urges of the international community, flagrant violation of international norms and resolutions continues to this day.
We are all dismayed by the fact that now the flames of war encompass Lebanon as well.
As my colleagues have noted in their statements, these devastating and horrific attacks, which have caused the deaths of thousands of innocent children, women and the elderly, are turning into the darkest page of the new history of humanity.
One cannot watch without broken heart how social infrastructure facilities, schools, hospitals, mosques and even entire cities are turning into ruins, leaving millions of civilians homeless and doomed to hunger and disease.
Worst of all, as we all can see, this tragedy on the international arena is being approached through double standards.
This dramatically increases the potential for spillover of the war and poses a serious threat to international security.
Dear participants of the summit!
Uzbekistan fully supports all practical initiatives aimed at addressing the Palestinian-Israeli problem through peace and diplomacy.
In this regard, we believe that today's Summit will demonstrate common political will and unity, develop effective global and regional mechanisms and specific solutions, and swiftly put them in practice.
In first place, here we are referring to the need to drastically increase the role and influence of the United Nations and the Security Council in addressing this long-standing conflict.
Immediate cessation of military action, provision of safe humanitarian corridors and, most importantly, the initiation of peace negotiations should be at constant focus of this universal international structure.
Second. On November 15, the long suffering Palestinian people will celebrate their National Day - the Declaration of State of Palestine.
I am confident that this nation with an ancient and rich history has every right to establish an independent and free state within the borders of 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
In this regard, we fully support the activities of the Global Alliance for Implementation of the Two-State Solution, organized at the initiative of Saudi Arabia.
Third. In order to prevent an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Palestine and Lebanon, we need to expand the scope of assistance from our countries and within the framework of leading international organizations.
We support increasing the necessary assistance to the activities of UNRWA and other United Nations institutions, which have great experience.
In this regard, we express our readiness to provide free medical care to war-affected Palestinian children and women in Uzbekistan's hospitals.
We also intend to discuss the issue of extending practical assistance to the Palestinian people at the forthcoming GCC-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand next year.
Fourth. As part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, we should attach greater attention to ensuring the sanctity and preservation of the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque and other unique historical and cultural sites in Jerusalem.
Dear heads of delegations!
I hope that our extraordinary meeting today will be a big step towards addressing the Middle East problem.
I pray to Allah Almighty to bestow peace and tranquility upon the world and further strengthen the unity of our Ummah.
Thank you for your kind attention.
Dear forum participants!
Dear guests!
I sincerely congratulate you, all those who make a worthy contribution to the development of the holy religion Islam, on the opening of the international scientific-practical conference dedicated to the study of the scientific heritage of the great muhaddis Imam Termezi in the homeland of outstanding Muslim scholars - in Uzbekistan.
It is gratifying that today's authoritative forum is attended by renowned specialists in the field of Islamic studies - prominent scholars and ulema, experts and researchers. In your person we see the continuers of the good traditions of the great thinkers who are the pride of the Muslim world - Imam Bukhari and Imam Termezi.
May the Almighty bless you, I wish you happiness and prosperity!
Dear friends!
Speaking about our outstanding ancestors-scientists, bright representatives of the Islamic world of the Middle Ages, we, of course, among the first names of Hazrat Imam Termezi.
We are rightfully proud of this incomparable person, the favorite disciple of the great Imam Bukhari, who was honored with the high rank of Sultan of Muhaddis, who has been glorifying our region for twelve centuries with his undying works and high human qualities.
Imam Termezi is recognized in the world as one of the six great muhaddis, his collection of hadiths is among the most revered and reliable sources, and the Muslim Ummah bows before the name of this outstanding man.
Another practical expression of such recognition is the fact that the topic for discussion at today's conference was the unique works of Imam Termezi “Ash-Shamoil al-Muhammadiyya” and “Sunani Termiziyya”, as well as important issues concerning the scientific heritage of the Ulema Termezis and its relevance today.
Dear participants of the conference!
In recent years, a great work has been carried out in our country to study and popularize the invaluable heritage of many of our thinkers-theologians who made a great contribution to the development of the Islamic religion, to honor their memory, to improve the places associated with their life and activities, including Imam Termezi.
It should be noted that a magnificent memorial complex has been erected in his honor in Sherabad district of Surkhandarya province, and an international research center, a specialized Islamic secondary school and an Islamic institute have been opened in the city of Termez bearing his name.
These institutions, together with the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the Centre for Islamic Civilization, the Hadith Scientific School and other religious educational and research organizations, are studying the rich heritage of Imam Termezi in a comprehensive and in-depth manner. In particular, works of the thinker are published, scientific researches, books and artistic works are dedicated to him.
I hope that after familiarizing yourselves with the work carried out in this direction within the framework of the conference, you will express your opinions and proposals on further activation of cooperation in this field.
We, the heirs of great scientists, emphasizing that Islam is a religion of peace, goodness and humanism, on the way of realization of good hopes and aspirations of mankind, consider it our most important duty to jointly enrich this incomparable spiritual treasure and preserve it for future generations.
I express my deep gratitude to the scientists and ulema of our country and to you, dear guests, to all figures of science who show real dedication for such a noble goal.
The doors of the leading research and educational institutions of Uzbekistan are always open for you.
Greeting you once again from the bottom of my heart, I wish you health, new achievements in your scientific and creative activities, and a successful conference.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev,
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
In the modern world, freedom of speech and information is a key element of a democratic society.
Uzbekistan is actively moving towards strengthening the constitutional rights of citizens in this important area, striving to create favorable conditions for the free exchange of information and development of the information society.
The country remains firmly committed to further improving the system of ensuring human rights, freedoms and legitimate interests. The efforts made by the country's leadership in this direction are holistic, sustainable and irreversible.
The following key aspects of state policy in areas of obtaining and disseminating information:
Firstly, creating conditions for free expression of opinions, independent and safe work of the media. Freedom of speech and press are fundamental principles of a democratic society. Uzbekistan strives to ensure pluralism of opinions and prevent any form of censorship, which contributes to the development of an open and informed society.
For this purpose, the necessary legal frameworks have been formed and are being improved in accordance with international standards and recommendations. To date, the country has adopted more than 10 relevant laws, among them - “On guarantees and freedom of access to information”, “On the openness of the activities of public authorities and management”, “On the media”, “On the principles and guarantees of freedom of information” , “On the protection of the professional activities of a journalist”, “On informatization”, etc.
Under Uzbek legislation, journalists are guaranteed personal inviolability in the performance of their professional duties and may not be prosecuted for publishing critical material.
In addition, to further liberalise media activities and ensure the rights of journalists, in 2018, the legislation clarified the legal status of journalists and guarantees of freedom of journalistic activity, as well as the procedure for accreditation of foreign media representatives in the country in accordance with modern requirements.
Mechanisms have also been established for government support of the mass media (provision of privileges on taxes, other compulsory payments and tariffs, preferences, provision of government subsidies, grants and social orders, as well as social support for editorial staff).
The consistent expansion of conditions and opportunities for media outlets is also reflected in their quantitative characteristics. From 2016 to date, their total number has increased by 49 per cent, reaching 2,200. At the same time, the total share of non-state media in the country is over 60%. Alongside traditional media, online publications are also developing rapidly, the number of which has reached 716, and their audience is steadily growing.
It is important to note that in 2023, a number of issues of ensuring freedom of information were enshrined at the level of the country’s Basic Law. Thus, the new version of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, adopted at a national referendum, outlines guarantees for the state to ensure free activity of the media, as well as responsibility for interference in the work of the media.
Another main difference of the new version of the Constitution in terms of freedom of information is the specification of the legal conditions under which restrictions on the search, receipt, use and dissemination of information can be introduced.
Similar provisions were identified in the Basic Law earlier, but were not detailed, which could lead to ambiguous interpretation and be used to unjustifiably restrict the rights of citizens.
The 2023 amendments establish that restrictions can only be imposed on certain grounds and only to the extent necessary. This represents a significant step forward in ensuring that restrictions on the right to seek, receive and disseminate information are transparent, legal and proportionate. These measures help strengthen the rule of law, protect the rights and freedoms of citizens and increase public confidence in government institutions.
A new provision has also been introduced into the country's Constitution guaranteeing free access to the Internet. Thus, the state at the constitutional level confirms its obligations to create all the necessary conditions for this, including in the context of supporting the processes of active digital transformation of the country and expanding the range of online services provided to the population.
Secondly, ensuring unhindered and equal access to information, including strengthening the accountability of government bodies to society. This includes expanding access to data on the work of government agencies and socially significant information in general. Availability of information allows citizens to be better informed, make informed decisions and actively participate in public life.
Openness and transparency in the activities of government agencies remain one of the key indicators of the effectiveness of the system of public control, ensuring continuous dialogue between the state and citizens, minimizing bureaucracy and combating corruption. It is the full implementation of this aspect that will reflect the principle laid down by the Head of State: “It is not the people who serve the state bodies, but the state bodies should serve the people”.
The work carried out by the Republic of Uzbekistan in this regard is becoming increasingly systematic. Thus, in addition to the current Law on Openness in the Activities of State Authorities and Government Bodies, a number of normative acts have been adopted since 2018 and up to the present time aimed at radically improving the work of the press services of State bodies and raising the status of press secretaries to the level of deputy head of department.
Increased requirements were set for the heads and employees of information services of state bodies, including timely and comprehensive coverage of key events and decisions within the work of their departments, as well as prompt response to requests from journalists and the public.
At present, the combined staff of the press services of ministries and departments includes 778 press secretaries and more than 500 employees.
In addition, the Agency of Information and Mass Communications, together with the press secretaries of government agencies, has created a mechanism for promptly responding to citizens' appeals, as well as critical and widely discussed news items in the media. As part of this work, more than 10,000 responses and expert opinions on the identified materials were published in the media, social networks and messengers.
The new version of the Constitution also obliges public bodies to act in a transparent and open manner. This means that all significant decisions and actions of public institutions must be publicly justified and documented. Authorities are obliged to publish regular reports on their activities and inform the public about important initiatives and programmes.
In 2021, in accordance with the Presidential decree, the possibilities of public control over the activities of government agencies were expanded. A list of socially significant information to be published as open data was approved, government bodies and organizations developing data, as well as the procedure for their publication were clearly defined.
The practice of determining indicators of openness and assessing it based on advanced international standards has been successfully introduced. The corresponding national Openness Indexes were published for 2022 and 2023.
At the same time, in 2022, liability was established for violating the legislation on the openness of the activities of public authorities and management, including for non-disclosure of socially significant information, failure to comply with the deadline and procedure for publication, or falsification of information.
Thirdly, protecting the rights of citizens to privacy and personal data. In the era of digital technology and big data, government policy is aimed at ensuring the security of citizens' personal information and preventing its misuse. This includes the development and implementation of legal regulations and technical solutions to protect personal data.
These issues are regulated by the relevant Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Personal Data” dated July 2, 2019. In particular, it regulates the need to ensure the collection, systematization and storage of personal data of citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the country in order to suppress the risks and threats of their leakage and misuse.
At the same time, it should be noted that the new version of the Constitution also enshrines the right to protection of personal data as a personal right of the individual. Consequently, their processing is allowed only with the consent of the individual. From now on, the Basic Law creates a direct possibility for citizens to demand correction of inaccurate data and destruction of data collected illegally or no longer having legal grounds, i.e. to realise the established international practice of the so-called ‘right to be forgotten’.
Such amendments are designed to promote the protection of privacy, increase trust in data processing systems, reduce risks and abuse, develop the digital economy and comply with international standards. Together, these measures create the conditions for a more transparent, secure and sustainable society in the digital age.
At the same time, the development of the population's information literacy remains an important factor in the formation of an effective and self-regulated national media environment against the background of various global challenges. The need to meet the needs of citizens for quality content and improve critical thinking skills has been repeatedly emphasised by the President of Uzbekistan.
The relevance of this task is confirmed by the fact that disinformation is recognised as one of the main short-term global threats, according to an expert report by the World Economic Forum. In addition, a long-term study of media consumption in Central Asia, conducted by the United States Agency for International Development and the non-governmental organisation Internews, shows an increase in the share of citizens in Uzbekistan who lack basic skills in working with information on the Internet (from 3% in 2021 to 25% in 2023).
Uzbekistan continue the country's course of strengthening openness and to develop fruitful and constructive international co-operation in the area of freedom of speech and the press with a view to turning the media into a real ‘fourth estate’. This will certainly create the necessary conditions for the creation of an informed, safe and progressive society ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Aziz Yengalychev,
Chief Researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The evolution of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has attracted particular attention from the international expert community, especially in the context of sustainable development, where Uzbekistan’s accession in 2019 became a catalyst for creating new opportunities for joint progress among Turkic countries.
Originally established on October 3, 2009, as the Cooperation Council of Turkic-Speaking States, the organization has undergone significant institutional evolution and was officially renamed the Organization of Turkic States at the 8th Summit in Istanbul on November 12, 2021. This decision reflected not only the deepening interaction among member states but also their shared aspiration to develop a collective approach to contemporary risks and challenges related to the sustainable development of the Turkic world—a role in which Uzbekistan soon assumed a prominent position.
Uzbekistan’s policy within the OTS has been primarily manifested in the economic sphere, where deeper integration has become not only a sign of growing mutual trust but also a practical foundation for jointly ensuring stability and sustainable development.
By 2024, mutual trade among OTS member states exceeded $45 billion, and the combined GDP of the five member states reached $1.9 trillion, demonstrating increasing economic interdependence. According to data from the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with OTS countries grew from $3.34 billion in 2016 to $9.4 billion in 2023, reaching $10 billion by 2024—nearly triple the figure from seven years earlier.
This dynamic growth in economic ties has not only strengthened mutual interest among OTS countries in regional stability but also laid a solid foundation for a new approach to security—one actively promoted by Uzbekistan in its foreign policy.
An analysis of initiatives put forward by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at OTS summits confirms Tashkent’s consistent and systematic approach to strengthening regional security. In place of the traditional military-political dimension, Uzbekistan advocates a model in which security is understood as the outcome of sustainable development, interconnectedness, and long-term, structured cooperation.
This approach is embodied in the following strategic directions, covering key aspects of contemporary security:
First, Uzbekistan was among the first in the region to propose cooperation in responding to systemic threats. During the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020), Tashkent proposed establishing a permanent mechanism for epidemiological surveillance, a coordination group under the OTS Secretariat, and partnership arrangements with the World Health Organization (WHO).
Following the earthquake in Türkiye (March 2023), Tashkent initiated the creation of an OTS platform for practical cooperation on disaster prevention and response, as well as the development of a multilateral agreement on risk reduction and the establishment of a Natural Disaster Monitoring Center in Tashkent.
All these measures aim at early warning, reducing vulnerability, and enhancing collective resilience—key elements of preventive security.
Second, Uzbekistan advances sustainable development through deeper economic interconnectivity.
In transport, Uzbekistan proposed joint use of the multimodal corridor “Tashkent–Karakalpakstan–Aktau–Baku–Tbilisi–Kars–Istanbul,” implementation of a “single window” system and “green corridors” along the Trans-Caspian route, and full digitalization of road transport through the eTIR system. In 2022, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan became the first countries to successfully carry out a transport operation using electronic eTIR carnets.
In food security, Uzbekistan proposed developing a multilateral agreement on supply systems and cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
In the environmental sphere, Tashkent proposed establishing a Turkic environmental protection body headquartered in the Aral Sea region, forming an Environmental Council, and adopting a “Turkic Green Energy Transition” concept.
All these initiatives create an infrastructure-economic foundation for security, reducing dependence on external shocks and strengthening regional autonomy.
Third, Tashkent’s key contribution lies in promoting the institutionalization of the OTS. At the Samarkand Summit (November 2022), Uzbekistan proposed creating dedicated ministerial-level committees on energy, IT, healthcare, and other sectors.
Later, Uzbekistan initiated hosting the headquarters of strategically important OTS bodies in Tashkent, including the Emergency Response Center, the Council of Railway Administrations, the Turkic Investment Bank, the Research Center for Human Capital Development, and the Academy of Space Research.
During Uzbekistan’s OTS Chairmanship (2022–2023), over 100 events were held, and new cooperation platforms were established, including the Organization of Trade Unions of Turkic States and the Institute for Drought Prevention.
These measures enhance joint preparedness and rapid response capabilities to contemporary challenges, strengthen trust among member states, and support sustainable development.
Fourth, alongside deepening cooperation in humanitarian, economic, and legal spheres, Uzbekistan consistently develops avenues of interaction related to coordinating responses to threats to regional stability.
For example, at the Shusha Summit in July 2024, Uzbekistan proposed formulating unified OTS approaches to the Afghan issue in light of the new regional realities. Such initiatives reflect Tashkent’s commitment to consolidating foreign policy positions and developing a coordinated strategy on the most sensitive issues of regional stability.
Thus, Uzbekistan’s initiatives within the OTS form a comprehensive, prevention-oriented model of sustainable development, in which humanitarian, economic, environmental, and political components are viewed as interdependent. Tashkent’s approach not only aligns with current trends in international relations but also creates conditions for strengthening the strategic autonomy of the Turkic world amid global fragmentation.
However, it should be noted that this model is not developed in isolation. On the contrary, it is organically complemented by the OTS’s external openness and its aspiration to integrate into the international architecture of relations through cooperation with key global and regional institutions. This helps avoid duplication, enhances the legitimacy of OTS initiatives, and aligns them with international standards.
In this process, Uzbekistan plays a significant role by consistently promoting synergy between the OTS and multilateral platforms, particularly in epidemiological, environmental, and humanitarian areas.
The OTS maintains especially close cooperation with the United Nations and its specialized agencies. Uzbekistan’s 2021 initiative to establish a Turkic environmental body under UN auspices, headquartered in the Aral Sea region, directly integrates regional efforts into the global environmental agenda.
Proposals for cooperation with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) (2022) and collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) (2020) further demonstrate the desire to leverage the UN’s expertise and institutional capacity to implement homegrown security mechanisms.
Additionally, Tashkent initiated partnerships with the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) in the context of establishing the Natural Disaster Monitoring Center (2023), underscoring the OTS’s commitment to the principles of sustainable development and preventive security enshrined in the UN 2030 Agenda.
Simultaneously, the OTS is expanding its international presence: in 2024, the organization obtained observer status in the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), submitted similar applications to the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and strengthened ties with the EU and OSCE through its European office in Budapest. At the Budapest Informal Summit (May 2025)—the first ever organized by an observer country—the Budapest Declaration was adopted, reaffirming the OTS’s commitment to combating terrorism, cyber threats, and organized crime.
This foreign policy orientation is also confirmed by assessments from international analytical circles.
According to an analytical report by the Global Security Research Center at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), the OTS demonstrates a unique model of regional cooperation that combines cultural identity with pragmatic measures to reduce vulnerability to transboundary threats. Experts from the “AIR Center” (Azerbaijan) note that for Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, the OTS has become a strategic shield against external threats and a platform for asserting independence.
Thus, the OTS not only strengthens the collective resilience of its member states to external challenges but also creates a space for developing joint approaches to implementing projects aimed at the sustainable development of Turkic countries.
In this regard, Uzbekistan consistently promotes a comprehensive, prevention-oriented model for addressing risks and factors undermining sustainable development, in which traditional threats are complemented by non-traditional challenges—from pandemics and natural disasters to destructive ideologies. Particular emphasis is placed on building trust through humanitarian diplomacy, youth initiatives, cultural rapprochement, and institutional cooperation.
In the context of regional stability, Uzbekistan advocates for unified approaches to the Afghan issue, supports counter-terrorism and anti-organized crime efforts, and initiates mechanisms for collective crisis response.
The adoption of the Charter of Turkic Peace at the 11th OTS Summit in Bishkek, along with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s proposal at the same forum to sign a Treaty on Strategic Partnership, Eternal Friendship, and Brotherhood among Turkic States, became pivotal factors in shaping a long-term architecture of trust and shared responsibility.
Overall, Uzbekistan’s initiatives within the OTS represent a comprehensive strategy aimed at creating an alternative model for ensuring sustainable regional development, grounded in the cultural-historical commonality and economic interconnectedness of Turkic countries.
Alisher Kadyrov,
the head of the Department of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
In recent years, systematic work has been carried out to create a continuous chain of comprehensive support for the development of entrepreneurship in our country. As a result of the measures implemented and important decisions made over the last seven years, a new generation of entrepreneurs of New Uzbekistan has emerged.
In particular, BMB HOLDING is one of the major subjects of private entrepreneurship, playing an important role in the economic life of our country, and gaining strong positions not only in the domestic, but also in the international market.
On the eve of the 33rd anniversary of independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Dunyo information agency talked to Bekzod Mamatkulov, the founder of BMB HOLDING.
– Mr. Mamatkulov, in recent years BMB HOLDING has gained a great reputation not only in Uzbekistan, but also among the international business community. Today, the Holding effectively works in the areas of providing consulting services on investment projects, developing international business and trade relations, attracting foreign investments, export-import exchange, introducing innovative technologies, creating modern agro-industrial clusters. We would like to start our conversation with the organization of the Holding and the history of its development.
– After his election as President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev put on the agenda of our state’s policy such important issues as increasing economic potential, attracting investments and, most importantly, supporting entrepreneurs to bring the country to a new stage of development.
In this sense, the opportunities created for entrepreneurs have radically changed my life goals and made me want to test my potential in business.
We generated our first income through services. Developing business plans and providing consulting services was our first source of income. Later we bought land in Arnasay district of Jizzak region to implement our agricultural projects. We planted mung beans and peas as secondary crops here. The first attempts were successful. The agricultural products we grew gave better results than we expected. For the first time we were able to export our crops abroad. In particular, we started selling agricultural products to Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Later, we had a plan to supply cotton and grain to the state on a contract basis, and we gradually expanded our financial capacity, making a profit from it.
In 2017, during the visit of the Head of state to Jizzakh region, our project to create a food cluster in Arnasay district was presented. At the meeting, the President emphasized that he would support us, like all businessmen, and expressed great confidence in us. Such attention and support of the President of the country gave us additional strength. After that, there was a desire to further expand our business activities, to test ourselves in new industries, to develop and implement joint projects with foreign partners.
In particular, in 2018, we were among the first to create the largest cotton cluster in the country. Thanks to the attention of the management and creation of favorable conditions for doing business, we created a cluster for growing medicinal plants, namely saffron. Later we organized a fruit and vegetable cluster. This big project, in turn, enabled us to set up a system of sorting, packing and deep processing of fruits and vegetables. Thus, having passed through various stages of business, our small project has now formed into BMB HOLDING. At present the Holding unites 30 enterprises. They employ more than six thousand people across the country.
– It is no secret that today the Holding realizes investment projects of international and national level. As an entrepreneur and a person who knows the business environment in foreign countries, how do you assess the investment environment in Uzbekistan? Are there aspects that do not satisfy you, are there factors that are obstacles for business?
– In the process of building New Uzbekistan, the creation of a favorable investment environment for entrepreneurs has become one of the main goals of the reforms of the Head of our state. The adoption by the President of Uzbekistan of a number of decrees and resolutions aimed at supporting entrepreneurs is yielding results today.
Improvement of tax legislation, creation of the possibility of free currency conversion, reforms in the sphere of private property and a number of other positive changes related to these spheres have played their important role, and entrepreneurs are now considered as the driving force of the country’s economy. In 2020-2022, despite the fact that the coronavirus pandemic worldwide had a large negative impact on the economies and the global investment environment, Uzbekistan’s economic growth rates remained stable and its investment attractiveness continued to grow.
The fact that the inflow of foreign investments into the country has increased significantly testifies to the confidence of international business in the economic reforms in our country. Active diversification of the economy is an important achievement that has opened new opportunities for investors in all sectors, starting with industry.
Now, if we talk about the factors that are obstacles for business, aspects that do not satisfy entrepreneurs, I will tell the truth openly: at the level of the government, reforms are being implemented very intensively, positive changes are taking place. But when you go to the lower level of the system, there are still cases of inattention and carelessness somewhere. I believe that such shortcomings will be eliminated.
– We know that BMB HOLDING is engaged in the production and export of a wide variety of agricultural products. In particular, the organization headed by you has achieved great success in saffron cultivation. Today saffron grown in Uzbekistan is becoming popular in many regions of the world. Tell me, when did you come up with the idea of establishing such a complex sphere as saffron cultivation in Uzbekistan and why did you choose this particular project?
– During President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visits to Kashkadarya region in 2017, the issue of cultivation of medicinal plants in mountainous and foothill regions, development of this sphere in our country and export of valuable medicinal plants to the world market was prioritized. The leader of our country also inquired why it is impossible to grow saffron in Uzbekistan despite all conditions, and gave a special instruction to develop this industry. During the President’s visit to Jizzakh region, we made a detailed presentation of our saffron cultivation project. Having familiarized himself with the project, the Head of state expressed his full support to it and instructed the responsible persons to implement the program as soon as possible.
However, it was not easy to realize this project at first. When implementing this business idea, first of all, we deeply studied the demand and supply in the domestic and foreign markets, opportunities and prospects for its implementation in the conditions of Uzbekistan, our own potential in this area, as well as a number of other factors. In 2020, we started to implement the project in pandemic conditions. At first, it took a lot of patience and hard work to find specialists, to bring saffron bulbs suitable for our climate from Europe and to get the desired harvest. In the first year we planted saffron bulbs on 55 hectares of land. The high demand for the harvest and the experience gained stimulated further development and expansion of the project. Today saffron is grown on 400 hectares of land. In the next three years, it is planned to increase the area of saffron plantations to 1,000 hectares and produce 20 tons of pure saffron products per year.
At the beginning of 2024, the product BMB Za’faron for the first time in our region received the USDA Organic certificate, an environmental certificate developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which allowed Uzbek saffron to enter the American markets. After several years of in-depth analytical research, Uzbek saffron grown in the Bakhmal district received the appropriate permission to export to Chinese markets according to the conclusion of the Uzbek-Chinese interdepartmental commission.
– Indeed, a lot of experience in saffron cultivation has been accumulated in recent years. At the same time, what countries’ experience do you think should be studied and implemented in order to grow a competitive product that meets the requirements of international standards and markets?
– In agriculture, each product is grown using a specific method. Such countries as Italy, Austria, South Korea, USA, and Saudi Arabia have enough experience in saffron cultivation. Of course, we study the experience of countries with climatic conditions close to ours and exchange experience with industry experts. I can say that we have mobilized all possibilities to get more crops and export them abroad. The increase in exports, in turn, contributes to increasing the inflow of foreign currency into Uzbekistan and ensuring economic stability.
To bring our national products to the world market and increase their competitiveness, the most important factors are, first of all, quality, then price and, of course, matching production capacity to demand. We have taken these aspects into account in our work and projects, especially in saffron cultivation.
– In Uzbekistan, on the initiative of the Head of our state, an open dialog with entrepreneurs is held annually. Tell me, what impact do these efforts have on the activities of the Holding headed by you?
– It would not be an exaggeration to say that the adoption of a number of resolutions and decrees on creation of favorable business environment and healthy competition in our country, comprehensive support for entrepreneurs, further liberalization of tax policy have served to eliminate the problems that have arisen for many years and hindered the free activity of entrepreneurs.
Thanks to the political will of the President of Uzbekistan, the organizational and legal foundations for the development of the industry have been strengthened, and the attention to entrepreneurs has changed dramatically. Most importantly, all this has already started to yield positive results.
In addition, an open dialog between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and entrepreneurs has been established. In my opinion, there is no other country in the world that has such a format.
I can confidently say that the open communication of the Head of state with the business community, which has now become a tradition and is held annually, serves as an important factor in the formation of a new competitive class of entrepreneurs in New Uzbekistan.
I visit many countries for work. In particular, my friends-partners in Italy, Germany, the United States, Austria and other countries highly appreciate the annual dialog of the President of Uzbekistan with entrepreneurs. It is no secret that people look at us with envy when they see the personal attention of the Head of state to the development of business in our country. In fact, it is a great achievement for both sides — the President meets with businessmen, listens to their systemic problems, finds solutions and solves them. Therefore, today all businessmen are looking forward to meeting with the President. This meeting has also become an important forum for businessmen to assess their activities for the year and determine plans for the future. The speeches of our country’s leader at the meeting and important initiatives aimed at further development of the industry, removal of existing obstacles, provision of benefits to entrepreneurs serve as a program for further expansion of businessmen’s activities.
I would like to give an example based on my experience. Before dialoguing with the President, I note in my notebook the issues we face in our work. Listening to the President, I always get comprehensive answers to all my questions based on deep analysis.
– In August 2022, by the decree of the President of Uzbekistan, you were awarded the “Faol Tadbirkor” sign, and in 2023 — the “Dustlik” order. Recall those moments when your entrepreneurial activity was highly appreciated by the leadership of our country.
– Before answering, I have to say one thing. Before coming to business, I worked in state and public organizations for more than 15 years. I never received even a certificate of honor, let alone a state award. Today, the leader’s focus is on people who have sincerely worked for the development of our dear country — Uzbekistan. In recognition of our work, in 2022, I was awarded the “Faol Tadbirkor” sign. In 2023, I had the honor to receive the “Dustlik” Order from the esteemed President. These are not just awards given to me, they are recognition of the work of thousands of dedicated people working in the Holding’s system. Such a high appreciation gives our team more confidence and motivation, and gives us great strength to realize the goals we have set for ourselves.
– The direction of economic diplomacy is becoming increasingly important in attracting foreign investment to Uzbekistan, finding new partners and exporting national products abroad. In this regard, does the Holding, which you head, use the opportunities of diplomatic missions of our country in foreign countries? How satisfied are you with the work of our country's embassies in this direction?
– Frankly speaking, it used to be impossible to meet with diplomats. If you went abroad and wanted to meet with the Ambassador of our country, he would not accept businessmen. This is an open statement. The Ambassador only dealt with politics. Thanks very much to our President, he brought the diplomats’ attention to the economy as well. This, of course, has opened wonderful conditions and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Openness in this sphere, in turn, has become an important step for entrepreneurs in finding foreign partners and attracting investment.
Today, the diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan in foreign countries play a very important role in the activities of the Holding Company, and we feel their support at every stage of realization of our numerous projects. The introduction of the position of Advisor to the Ambassadors of Uzbekistan on economic issues has been very useful for us entrepreneurs. It should be noted that BMB HOLDING has established close relations of economic cooperation with embassies of foreign countries in Uzbekistan, in particular with diplomatic missions of Russia, China, USA and a number of European countries such as Poland, Austria and Latvia.
In a word, the role of diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan and foreign countries in our country is very important in effective realization of the company’s projects.
– Today BMB HOLDING operates in the field of cultivation and production of agricultural products. Our readers are also interested in the future plans of the Holding.
– Our plans for the near future are huge. In particular, the work on establishment of deep processing of agricultural and fruit and vegetable products, and the launching of textile factories in Syrdarya region is in full swing. We also want to implement projects in the field of medicine. Our first project in this direction will be the creation of a health center in Navoi region in 2025. Also, a chain of restaurants and hotels “Zafaron” will be launched in Tashkent city and Tashkent region.
Along with this, we plan to implement the project “Energy-efficient technologies and equipment for production, mining and processing of natural decorative stone” worth 50 million US dollars together with the organization Toksel Makina from Turkey.
– Our last question may be off-topic, but many people are also very interested in this area. We would like to ask about your projects in sports, especially in soccer. What are your goals in soccer and futsal? Also, please, provide information about BMB HOLDING brand ambassadors in the sphere of chess.
– This is an interesting question. BMB HOLDING considers the development of sports in our country, especially soccer and futsal, as one of the main directions of its activity. The Holding was one of the sponsors of Sogdiana soccer club in 2021 and Lokomotiv soccer club in 2022. Since 2023, our Holding has been one of the sponsors of the professional soccer league of Uzbekistan.
At the same time, the BMB PROFESSIONAL FUTSAL CLUB team started its activity in the system of the Holding. A number of famous local and Brazilian futsal players were invited to the team. For the last two years the team won the Cup of Uzbekistan and the Super Cup of Uzbekistan. Today the basis of our team is made up of futsal players playing in the national team of Uzbekistan on mini-football.
On June 30, on the occasion of Youth Day in Uzbekistan together with the Agency for Youth Affairs within the framework of the project of the brand ORRO ROSSO in Milan (this brand is currently the official partner of the Italian soccer club Milan and Monza) we organized a trip to our country of four famous former players of the soccer club Milan, world and European champions Dida, Sergino, Panucci and Zaccardo. I believe that the visit of famous soccer players to Uzbekistan has served to increase the interest and activity of our youth in sports.
As you know, the Futsal World Cup will be held in our country from September 14 to October 6 this year. BMB HOLDING as the main partner organization is preparing for this futsal holiday.
Besides, BMB HOLDING actively supports talented young chess players. Recognizing them as the face and ambassadors of the Holding, we call them brand ambassadors. In particular, FIDE Master of Sports Humoyun Bekmurodov won a silver medal at the X Chessable Sunway Sitges International Chess Festival 2023 held in Barcelona (Spain), and also won the Dubai Police Global Chess Challenge tournament held in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) on May 3-13 this year.
Another of our young chess players is Umida Omonova, a student of the International Chess School, world champion in blitz and rapid, FIDE Master of Sport, member of the Uzbekistan national team, holder of the state award named after Zulfiya, brand ambassador of BMB HOLDING. She also won the 18th round of the Uzbekistan Championship held in April this year.
Another thing is that BMB HOLDING mobilizes all its capabilities and potential in the direction of further prosperity of New Uzbekistan, which is being built under the leadership of the Head of state, improvement of welfare of our people and development of the Motherland.
- Thank you for taking the time to talk to us.
- Thank you.
Dunyo IA
May 13. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan has nominated its candidacy for the Chair of the UN Tourism Comission for Europe (CEU) for the 2025–2027 term.
This marks the first time in its history that Uzbekistan has put forward a candidate for this prestigious position, underscoring the country’s growing engagement in global tourism affairs and the high level of trust it has earned within international tourism bodies.
The UN Tourism Comission for Europe consists of 41 member countries from Europe as well as Central and Western Asia. It plays a pivotal role in shaping tourism policy across the region, promoting regional cooperation, and advancing sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
The 71st meeting of the Commission will be held on June 4–6, 2025, in Baku, Azerbaijan. During this session, elections are scheduled to take place for the Chair of the CEU for the 2025–2027 term.
Uzbekistan’s nomination for this position is viewed as recognition of the country’s consistent reforms in the tourism sector, its practical efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, and its contribution to the development of sustainable and inclusive tourism.
If elected, Uzbekistan intends to promote new initiatives aimed at positioning Central Asia as a unified tourism destination, developing cross-border routes, widely implementing digital solutions, and enhancing regional dialogue within the framework of the United Nations World Tourism Organization.