As the most important task of judicial reform being implemented in the Republic of Uzbekistan, important work is being carried out to ensure constitutional human rights and freedoms, strengthening the authority of the judiciary, which is considered an important guarantee of effective protection of human rights and to ensure the true independence of the courts.

Also, further expansion of the population’s access to justice within the framework of the principle “New Uzbekistan - New Court” requires accelerating the reform of the judicial system and introducing advanced international standards into the field. We can also observe confirmation of this in the corresponding positions of our state in the ratings of international organizations. Thus, according to the results of the Rule of Law Index ranking for 2022 (worldjusticeproject.org), Uzbekistan took 78th place out of 140 countries with an indicator of 0.50 points, of which 75th place in terms of civil justice and 65th in terms of criminal justice.

The fact that the update of the Constitution on the basis of generally recognized principles and norms of international law is enshrined in the preface of the updated Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan is a clear expression of recognition of the supremacy of generally recognized international law.

Article 15 of the Constitution determines that international treaties of the Republic of Uzbekistan, along with generally recognized principles and norms of international law, are an integral part of the legal system of Uzbekistan. According to part four of this article, if an international treaty of Uzbekistan establishes rules other than those provided for by the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan, then the rules of the international treaty of the Republic of Uzbekistan are applied.

Article 17 of the Constitution especially emphasizes that the Republic of Uzbekistan is a full-fledged subject of international relations; it is established that international law is based on generally accepted principles and norms. The application by courts of generally accepted principles and norms of international law is permitted in cases where existing laws contradict these international principles and norms.

Article 11 of the Constitution states that the system of state power of Uzbekistan, which is considered a full-fledged subject of international relations, is based on the principles of separation of powers into legislative, executive and judicial. It should be especially noted here that in accordance with Article 131 of Chapter XXIII, dedicated to the judiciary, the judicial system and the procedure for the activities of courts in the Republic of Uzbekistan are determined by law; the creation of emergency courts is not allowed.

In accordance with Article 1 of the law “On Courts” in the new edition (2021), the judicial power in Uzbekistan operates independently of the legislative, executive powers, political parties, and other public associations. Judicial power is exercised only by the courts. It was established that no other bodies or persons have the right to assign powers to the judiciary.

Article 2 of this law defines the judicial system, which consists of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan; Supreme Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan; military courts; Courts of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, regional and Tashkent city courts; Administrative Court of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, administrative courts of regions and the city of Tashkent; interdistrict, district, city courts for civil cases; district and city courts for criminal cases; interdistrict, district, city economic courts; interdistrict administrative courts. It has been established that in the Republic of Uzbekistan specialization of judges by category of cases can be carried out, but the creation of emergency courts is not allowed.

As noted in Article 4 of this law, the main tasks of the court are to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens, state and public interests, rights and legally protected interests of legal entities and individuals guaranteed by the Constitution and other laws, international treaties of Uzbekistan, as well as international acts on human rights entrepreneurs. The activities of the court are aimed at ensuring the rule of law, social justice, civil peace and harmony, that is, it indicates that it is implemented in accordance with international agreements and international human rights instruments.

It is worth noting that in recent years, important documents have been adopted to ensure the compliance of the judicial system of our country with generally recognized international standards. These include such important historical documents as decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On measures to further reform the judicial and legal system, strengthen guarantees of reliable protection of the rights and freedoms of citizens” (2016), “On measures to radically improve the structure and increase efficiency of the judicial system of the Republic of Uzbekistan" (2017), "On measures to further improve the judicial system and increase confidence in the judiciary" (2020), "On measures to radically improve the system of financing the activities of the judiciary" (2021), decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated January 28, 2022 “On the development strategy of the new Uzbekistan for 2022 - 2026”, Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated January 16, 2023 “On additional measures to further expand access to justice and increase efficiency of the courts."

The Decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated January 16, 2023 “On additional measures to further expand access to justice and increase the efficiency of the courts” provides for:

in order to ensure the effective use of resources involved in the implementation of judicial activities, on the basis of advanced foreign experience, transfer the powers to consider certain categories of civil, economic and administrative offenses to the relevant administrative bodies:

determine the procedure for completing cases of certain categories of criminal, civil, economic and administrative offenses in lower courts;

What is relevant is that issues such as reconciliation of parties in civil and economic cases, development of reasonable proposals for the widespread introduction of the institution of mediation are raised.

It is appropriate to recognize here that the main idea and provisions of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” have found their full expression in the updated Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which is considered the basis of our national legislation.

It is known that the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” consists of a preamble and a total of 30 articles, and if all its provisions are sequentially considered, then one can note the consistency and consistency of the content with the provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan on human rights. For example, you can notice the similarity between the contents of Article 3 of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”, which reads: “Every person has the right to life, liberty and security of person” and Article 25 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan: “The right to life is the inalienable right of every person and is protected by law. Encroachment on human life is a grave crime.”

Also, the rule that “no one shall be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment” in Article 5 of the Declaration corresponds to the second paragraph of Article 26 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan “No one shall be subjected to torture, violence, other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment." One may also note the reflection of the provision of Article 9 of the Declaration that no one shall be arrested, detained or persecuted without cause in the second paragraph of Article 29 of our Constitution “No one shall be subjected to arrest, detention, detention, detention or other restriction freedom except on the basis of the law" and in the third paragraph - "When detained, a person must be explained in a language he understands his rights and the grounds for detention"

Article 10 of the Declaration enshrines the right of every person to demand an independent and impartial court and its reflection in international legal acts to which the Republic of Uzbekistan has acceded inspires confidence that only an independent court can protect the rights of every citizen through an impartial and open consideration of the case in court. In this regard, it should be noted that the reforms carried out on the basis of the Action Strategy for the Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2017-2021, put forward at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, taking into account international standards, laid the foundation for democratization and liberalization of the judicial and legal sphere, ensuring genuine independence of the judiciary, protection of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens.

In order to improve the judicial system and ensure the independence of the courts, one of the important steps was the creation of the Supreme Judicial Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Supreme Court and the Higher Economic Court were merged, the activities of the Supreme Court were improved, the Economic Courts were reorganized into economic courts, 71 inter-district, district (city) economic courts were empowered to hear cases in the first instance. The first term of work as a judge is five years, then ten years and an indefinite term. The powers of the courts to independently resolve their financial, logistical and technical issues were withdrawn from the judiciary and transferred to the Supreme Court, which led to the independence of the courts from the executive authorities and ensuring their independence. The institution of returning a criminal case to the court for additional investigation was abolished, thereby putting an end to unnecessary censorship, and people were spared unnecessary confusion and nervousness. It was strictly established that a person’s guilt in committing a crime should be based only on evidence proven in court, that is, it was strictly forbidden to make decisions based on rumors and assumptions. In order to fully ensure fair justice, verify the legality, validity and fairness of court decisions, an audit authority was created.

One of the important problems of the judicial reform system is the new system for training qualified and mature judges and judicial staff. Increasing the population's trust in judicial institutions by the Supreme Council of Judges, ensuring the stability of justice and the rule of law, serves to transform the court literally into a “Fortress of Justice” and improve the level of justice.

The introduction of the institution of a plea agreement and its implementation in the criminal procedural legislation of our country is also an important factor in increasing the protection of human rights, freedoms and legitimate interests recognized in international law.

In accordance with the Decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated January 28, 2022 “On the new development strategy of Uzbekistan for 2022-2026”, about 300 laws were adopted in 2017-2021, more than 4 thousand resolutions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan aimed at fundamental reforming all spheres of state and public life in five priority areas of development of our country.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in his report dated December 7, 2019, “The supremacy of the Constitution and laws is the most important criterion for a legal democratic state and civil society,” dedicated to the 27th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, especially noted “ensuring the true independence of the courts is our highest priority. We must not allow the courts to be influenced by certain officials. In this regard, it is necessary to strengthen responsibility for interference in court cases or pressure on the court.”

The issue of ensuring compliance of the judicial system of Uzbekistan with generally accepted international standards will continue to remain relevant. In addition, practical measures are ongoing to harmonize national legislation with international legal standards in the field of human rights. After all, constitutional reforms today require an approach to constitutional norms, which are the main legal criterion that determines the value of a person in the life of our society, taking into account modern realities and international legal standards.

Ayub Muhammadiev, professor of the Department of Civil Law Sciences of the University of Public Security of the Republik of Uzbekistan, doctor of Law

In an era characterized by growing disunity among global powers, the strategies employed by so-called “middle” states in forging stable regional relations present promising solutions for achieving international peace and cooperation. Uzbekistan, a Central Asian nation situated at the heart of the historic Silk Road, and Finland, a Nordic state with a unique experience as a neutral border state during the Cold War, exemplify how a consistent commitment to dialogue can contribute to regional stability amidst the complexities of global relations.

Geographically separated, these countries have developed strikingly similar approaches to ensuring sustainable development, peace, and stability in their regions. They address key regional security challenges by strengthening multifaceted and mutually beneficial good-neighborly relations with their neighbors. Additionally, they engage in multilateral, long-term partnerships with interested countries and organizations.

While Uzbekistan and Finland have been shaped by different historical contexts, these experiences have contributed to the development of a shared diplomatic philosophy centered around stability, cooperation, sovereign equality, mutual respect, and multilateral interaction.

Central Asia, a region steeped in ancient history, has long been a cultural and historical hub. Centuries ago, it was a unified space where politics, economics, and culture intertwined seamlessly. As one of the cradles of human civilization, Central Asia boasts a rich tapestry of history and a vibrant cultural heritage that has shaped universal values. These values emphasize cooperation over confrontation, tolerance over imposition, and the belief that the well-being of neighbors is intrinsically linked to one’s own.

Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has consistently championed a policy of regional interaction. This policy, which gained prominence under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2016, became a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. Tashkent’s “diplomatic offensive” to enhance intra-regional cooperation became one of the most significant policy changes that transformed relations in modern Central Asia.

Tashkent’s unprecedented focus on dialogue and building trust with neighboring states has transformed Uzbekistan into the primary organizer of cooperation in the region. It has advocated for the development of multilateral interaction mechanisms, spanning various domains such as water resource management, transport corridor expansion, industrial cooperation, border demarcation, and regional security.

The positive impact of these policy changes has reverberated throughout the entire region. After 2016, economic cooperation witnessed a remarkable surge, leading to a nearly doubling of the total GDP of Central Asian states from $273 billion to $520 billion. Trust and strengthened ties between countries have facilitated a 4.5-fold increase in intra-regional trade, soaring from $2.4 billion to $11 billion. Moreover, the number of tourists visiting the region has doubled, further boosting its appeal.

The collective openness and enhanced stability have become attractive factors for third countries, resulting in a significant increase in the region’s foreign trade. This growth has seen a remarkable rise of over 200 percent, from $112 billion to $253 billion.

Finland’s diplomatic traditions were shaped by its unique position at the crossroads of Eastern and Western “spheres of influence.” Its vulnerable geographical location drove its pursuit of interaction and stability.

Finland consistently advocates for strengthening friendly relations with all countries, particularly its neighbors, and fostering ties within Nordic cooperation structures like the Nordic Council, the Council of Ministers of the Nordic Countries, and the Nordic Investment Bank.

This approach is reflected in Finland’s active involvement in the OSCE with aims to enhance dialogue and trust.

Finland’s 2025 OSCE chairmanship, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, holds symbolic significance. It exemplifies Finland’s commitment to building bridges, fostering dialogue, and cultivating trust, aligning with its dialogue-based foreign policy. Finnish diplomacy consistently emphasizes the importance of strengthening common positions and approaches among states, reflecting Finland’s consensus-oriented diplomatic style, which Uzbekistan shares as well.

It’s worth noting that both countries adhere to the same fundamental principles of international law. Respect for national sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and the inviolability of borders serve as practical guidelines shaping Uzbekistan and Finland’s foreign policy, regional behavior, and international positioning.

Tashkent’s approaches to regional interaction resonate with Helsinki’s priorities for cooperation with the Nordic and Baltic countries. Uzbekistan’s efforts in resolving border disputes and collaborating on water resources in the region mirror Finland’s approach to peacebuilding and fostering cooperation.

Furthermore, both countries have established themselves as advocates of results-oriented cooperation. They are pragmatic architects of projects that create mutual benefits and strengthen regional stability and interregional connectivity.

Under the leadership of President Sh. Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan is actively promoting the development of transport infrastructure within Central Asia and with neighboring regions, including the West, East, and South. For instance, the development of the “Middle Corridor” (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) has led to a remarkable six-fold increase in cargo shipments along it over four years, from 2020 to 2024, reaching a substantial volume of 4.5 million tons. Tashkent is also actively involved in the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and is promoting connectivity between Central and South Asia.

Economic cooperation and environmental protection are additional pillars of Uzbekistan’s regional strategy. These aspects play a crucial role in Uzbekistan’s environmental programs, particularly in mitigating the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster.

Finland, following a similar pattern of project-oriented cooperation, has been an active participant in initiatives of the Nordic Council and the Barents Euro-Arctic Council. These initiatives encompass cross-border cooperation in environmental protection, innovation, and people-to-people contacts. Finland also promotes initiatives of the Trans-European Transport Network and Arctic connectivity.

Known for its leadership in environmental protection, Finland actively participates in cross-border economic projects with partners from the Nordic and Baltic countries.

Alongside their close cooperation with countries in their respective regions, Uzbekistan and Finland pursue a policy of strategic multilateralism. Both countries actively participate in various regional and global institutions, reflecting their shared views that modern challenges require collective responses. They believe that “middle powers” can exert effective influence through institutional engagement.

Since 2016, Uzbekistan has significantly increased its involvement in regional organizations, primarily the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), and various United Nations bodies.

Additionally, the “Central Asia +” (C5+1) platform, now comprising over 10 partner countries and organizations, actively promotes interregional cooperation. Notably, the inaugural “Central Asia – European Union” summit held in April 2025 resulted in an agreement on “deep and comprehensive cooperation” between the two regions.

Finland’s international engagement, while having a longer history, also follows a similar pattern of active institutional participation. As a member of the European Union since 1995 and multiple international organizations, Finland maintains its traditional interactions with regional structures in Northern and Baltic Europe.

As the international landscape becomes increasingly intricate, Uzbekistan and Finland encounter similar challenges that test their historically established unique diplomatic approaches.

Uzbekistan faces the primary challenge of sustaining the momentum for deepening regional partnership and intensifying cooperation with external actors amidst escalating geopolitical tensions, environmental threats, and economic shocks.

From Uzbekistan’s perspective, responding to the changing geopolitical landscape and the economic transformation needs of Central Asia requires strengthened cooperation, both among Central Asian countries and between regions.

Finland’s challenge lies in finding a balance between its commitments within the EU and NATO and its traditional role as a mediator in building consensus and dialogue, particularly in organizations like the OSCE, where it continues to promote “strengthening dialogue and trust.”

Overall, Uzbekistan and Finland exemplify successful regional cooperation based on a consistent commitment to dialogue and interaction. Despite their distinct geographical and historical contexts, both countries have adopted similar foreign policy approaches focused on conflict prevention, institutional engagement, and pragmatic regionalism.

In an interconnected world characterized by great power rivalry, the diplomatic approaches of Uzbekistan and Finland serve as a reminder that sustainable security and prosperity are achieved through dialogue, cooperation, and practical collaboration, rather than diktat, isolation, or empty rhetoric.

And unsurprisingly, these foreign policy approaches positively impact the lives of their citizens. It’s not a coincidence that Finland consistently ranks as the “happiest country in the world” for the eighth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report. Similarly, Uzbekistan leads in the level of happiness among Central Asian countries in the same ranking.

Sharif Akhmedov,

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

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

On June 20, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a video conference call on training engineering personnel and improving the performance of higher educational institutions.

In today's competitive world, our country, relying on domestic resources, is moving towards industrial development. Every year 3 thousand industrial enterprises are put into operation, about 150 thousand jobs are created.

This year, projects worth 21 trillion soums will be implemented within the framework of state investment programs. Also, projects with foreign and regional investments worth 37.5 billion dollars are planned for this year.

Accordingly, the state pays great attention to science, education and innovation. For example, over the past four years, 2.2 trillion soums have been allocated to 1,727 practical, innovative, fundamental and startup projects. Spending on research and development has doubled.

However, the results in this area and the number of highly qualified engineers are still insufficient. There is a gap between higher education institutions and industry.

That is why rectors of technical universities were also invited to the meeting.

The head of state first of all dwelt on the problems in this sphere.

The 36 state technical higher educational institutions annually graduate 67 thousand specialists. However, the programs and specialties in these universities do not meet the requirements of manufacturers. As a result, 60 percent of engineers do not work in their specialty.

Higher educational institutions are limited to fundamental research, and practical developments for the economy are very rare. Hundreds of startups and innovative projects in engineering fields remain on paper.

In foreign universities there are such specialties as "value engineering", "comparative engineering", "reverse engineering". In our technical universities, these areas are not developed. As a result, industries have to spend a lot of money on training their employees abroad or attract specialists from abroad.

Although the coverage of higher education has increased 5 times in the last seven years, the interest of young people in engineering and technical specialties is very low. Some equipment of universities and scientific laboratories is outdated. Many professors and teachers are disconnected from practice. Rectors do not visit enterprises, do not familiarize themselves with new technologies, do not study equipment and machines.

Over the last four years, the number of research contracts of universities has tripled. Revenues from them have increased 6 times. However, the implementation of the results of scientific developments into production is slow. Not everyone is equally successful in patenting their inventions.

The President presented new initiatives to develop this area.

Now training and research processes in technical areas will be completely changed based on the best practices. 36 universities and their branches will be gradually consolidated, leaving a total of 20 technical universities. They will completely switch to the dual system of education.

Specialties that are not in demand in the labor market will be reduced. Some departments will be merged. The functions of dean offices to serve students will be digitalized. Based on foreign experience, a "Registrar's Office" will be created.

Each university will establish cooperation with prestigious technical universities of developed partner countries such as Germany, Japan, China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Singapore.

Based on the chain "industry-enterprise-university", each university will be assigned an industrial partner.

All engineering universities will open departments at their partner enterprises and introduce dual education. At the same time, the enterprises will allocate funds to equip the departments, stimulate teachers and students. Student internships and graduate training will be fully organized at partner enterprises.

Thirty-two sectoral councils will be established in the system of ministries and enterprises. They will determine priority directions of scientific research in technical fields together with institutes and will be customers of these researches.

Also at the first stage, higher engineering schools will be opened in 10 universities. Two-year applied master's degree programs will be implemented in them, and candidates will be selected by order of manufacturers. Enterprises will financially support the establishment and equipping of laboratories in higher engineering schools. The state will also provide highly qualified engineers-technologists. If every minister, industry leader, rector, professor and teacher feels deep sense of responsibility and works hard, we will definitely achieve this," Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

The status of pilot production enterprises of universities will be legislated. They will be granted privileges applicable to IT park residents. At least 60 percent of the employees of the subsidiaries will be doctoral candidates and students.

From next year, state grants for projects in technical areas will be increased fourfold. Partner organizations of universities will also be allowed to act as founders of enterprises.

Hokims of regions and heads of industries will be able to directly provide universities with orders for scientific and production projects up to 10 billion soums.

A system of allocating at least half a percent of the cost of investment projects for scientific activities will be introduced.

It has been determined to organize national contests "Best Idea", "Best Project" and "Best Invention" in engineering fields. Teachers, students and practicing engineers will be able to participate in them. The prize for the first place is an electric car.

Also 10 best participants, authors of ideas, projects and inventions will be sent for internship to such countries as Germany, Japan, China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Singapore.

The meeting continued in the format of an open dialog. Industry leaders, scientists, rectors and engineers expressed their opinions on the development of science and education in engineering.

It was assigned to draft a relevant decree based on the proposals.

- We need highly qualified engineers-technologists like air for the accelerated development of the economy. If every minister, industry leader, rector, professor and teacher feels deep sense of responsibility and works hard, we will definitely achieve this," Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

Uzbekistan has been undergoing a transformational journey since it changed political leadership in 2016. The nation is implementing extensive reforms aimed at spanning anti-corruption measures, business climate enhancements, judicial reforms, improving labour conditions, administrative efficiency, protection of human rights, and good governance.

Central to these reforms is a comprehensive anti-corruption agenda bolstered by strong laws and strategic plans. Reforms have targeted diverse sectors, with a focus on improving public administration, ensuring quality public services and information access, and overhauling the judiciary. Over the recent years Uzbekistan has made significant efforts to help its people feel confident that leaders in the national public and private sectors operate in a transparent and ethical way.

As we know, international standards in this area focus on the following elements, which are intended to increase effectiveness of prevention and combating corruption:

• Imposing additional restrictions for civil servants;
• Increasing transparency in the private sector, e.g. identifying beneficial owners;
• Strengthening the role of financial intelligence units in combating corruption;
• Strengthening corporate and individual liability for corruption offences;
• Supporting collective action initiatives.

In line with the abovementioned standards, since the adoption of the law on anti-corruption in 2017, Uzbekistan has doubled its efforts to prevent corruption in the public sector and has widened international cooperation to achieve this end. Since coming to power in 2016, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has taken steps to liberalise the Uzbek economy and denounce corruption.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has begun liberalising the economy, which has started to attract significant investments from China and the EU and contributed to Uzbekistan’s strong economic growth. In particular, Presidential Decree of 2017 took steps to tackle the shadow economy by permitting the free purchase and sale of currency and the use of international mechanisms to set currency conversion rates. This decree eradicated the decades old “black market” where the difference between actual and official conversion rates was around 50%.

In 2020, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev established a new Anti-Corruption Agency via President Decree No.6013 and launched a mandatory online public procurement platform. The Anti-Corruption Agency is tasked with studying researching corruption, engaging with civil society, and enhancing transparency.

The number of arrests and prosecutions of public officials for corruption has increased. According to Prosecutor General’s Office, for example in 2022, there were a total of 3,116 convictions of public officials, of which 110 officials were from the national agencies, 264 from provincial agencies and 2,742 from city and district state bodies. The majority of these cases related to embezzlement (2,103), abuse of position (265), fraud (243) and bribery (169).

The fight against corruption has become a priority area of state policy in Uzbekistan. This can be seen in the conceptual regulatory acts adopted in recent years in this area, on the example of administrative reforms aimed at preventing corruption. The country has established an effective mechanism of countering corruption, including efficient normative-legal base and institutional foundations. More than 70 regulatory acts aimed at combating corruption in all sectors of state and public construction have served as a solid basis for the implementation of these reforms.

The Law on Combating Corruption, adopted in 2017 soon after Mirziyoyev came to power, is the main legal basis for countering corruption in Uzbekistan. The law requires state employees to inform their supervisors about corruption offences they may be directly or indirectly involved in and is meant to ensure protection for whistleblowers. Further, the law grants media outlets the right to request information on corruption offences from state agencies. It also envisages the mandatory examination of regulations being drafted by ministries and other state agencies to ensure they do not create new opportunities for corruption.

Information on state procurement is posted on the website www.d.xarid.uz. The open data portal (data.gov.uz), the registered database of legal entities and commercial entities (my.gov.uz) and other platforms play an important role today in ensuring the principles of openness and transparency and public control, which are the most effective tools for combating and preventing corruption. Licensing and permitting procedures have also been radically improved to completely improve the business and investment climate, remove unnecessary bureaucratic barriers and outdated regulations.

According to the National Database of Legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan, other important legislative acts in the area of anti-corruption include:

• the Constitution (last amended in May 2023)
• the Criminal Code
• the Law on public civil service
• the Law on public procurement
• the Law on public-private partnerships
• the Law on distributing legal aid information and ensuring access to it
• the Law on the openness of state authorities and administration
• the Law on e-government
• the Law on public control
• the Law on countering legalisation of income derived from criminal activities, financing of terrorism and financing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (last amended in January 2019), which provides a legal framework for anti-money laundering.

The Civil Service Law, which entered into force in 2022, forbids civil servants from accepting gifts, from engaging in business activities and from opening foreign bank accounts or purchasing real estate abroad. It also introduces a system of mandatory declaration of civil servants' assets and income.

Under Article 7 of the 2017 Law on Combating Corruption, state agencies responsible for implementing the law on combating corruption include the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) established in 2020, General Prosecutor’s Office, the State Security Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, and the Department on Fighting Economic Crime under the General Prosecutor’s Office.

There is also a National Council on Combating Corruption and its territorial bodies that aim to coordinate the efforts of all the relevant institutions and develop state anti-corruption programmes. The ACA serves as the working body of the Council, which is headed by the Chair of the Senate. The ACA has a preventive mandate authorising it to request state agencies to provide documentation on their expenditure of public funds, sales of state assets and public procurement as well as on their investment projects and implementation of state programmes. It can also consider appeals of citizens and legal entities on corruption issues and conduct administrative investigations into corruption offences, the results of which should then be shared with law enforcement bodies.

Uzbekistan is a signatory to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) as well as to the Istanbul Anti-Corruption Action Plan, which is the main subregional initiative in the framework of the OECD Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Central Asia (ACN). Uzbekistan has recently become a member of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities.

It should be emphasised that each regulatory legal act in Uzbekistan is being developed based on the principle – “legislation free from corruption”, systemic preventive measures in the practice of combating corruption are being strengthened, and the public oversight is supported by establishing interaction mechanisms with civil society institutions.

The mentioned and other measures have contributed to improving the fight against corruption in the country. This has also been evidenced in better positions of the country in international rankings. According to international governance indices, Uzbekistan has been improving its efforts to curb corruption. In recent years the country improved its ranking Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) by 42 positions. In 2023 alone the country improved its ranking there by 5 positions.

To sum up, we can conclude that Uzbekistan’s path towards creating effective financial, legal and institutional mechanisms of countering corruption has given its results. Although, it should also me noted that fighting against corruption is not merely a task for several years. It is an ongoing process and the government of Uzbekistan remains committed to take new steps for ensuring the success of its anti-corruption reforms in line with the international standards in this field.

Nilufar Doniyorkhodjaeva

Head of Department

Development Strategy Center

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Inno innovative training and production technopark in Almazar district of the capital.

This technopark was established three years ago. Innovative ideas and inventions for the development of industrial sectors are developed here. In order to train young people in modern professions, cooperation with higher educational institutions has been established. Every year seminars and workshops are held with the participation of about 15 thousand students and pupils.

There are more and more such innovation centers in our country. Industry, energy and information technologies are developing, new complexes are being launched. They require engineers and technicians with up-to-date knowledge and qualifications.

The activity of higher engineering schools established at Tashkent State Technical University, Bukhara Institute of Engineering and Technology, Tashkent State Transport University, Fergana Polytechnic Institute, Tashkent Architecture and Construction University and Tashkent University of Information Technologies has been presented to the President.

The decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 2, 2024 sets a number of tasks in this direction. In particular, according to the decree, the organizational and managerial activities of higher education institutions that train personnel in engineering and technology are being improved. The existing training programs are being studied and fundamentally changed in accordance with modern technologies and the requirements of employers.

The head of our state was informed about it.

At the first stage, higher engineering schools will be opened at 10 institutions of higher education. The supervisory board of the schools will include not only scientists, but also representatives of partner enterprises.

Two-year master's degree programs will be implemented in these schools, candidates will be selected on the basis of manufacturers' orders. In the first year, students will design new products on the orders of enterprises, conduct scientific research and study in in-depth modular programs. In the second year, they will test at enterprises technological processes related to the creation of prototypes of new products.

The President paid attention to the practical applicability and effectiveness of scientific research in higher educational institutions. It was noted that the attention paid to the education system should be really embodied in scientific achievements.

The head of state also familiarized himself with the inventions and advanced developments of researchers. In particular, energy-efficient devices, a cooling system protecting transformers from overheating under load, chemical reagents important for the oil and gas industry, modern approaches in construction, including road construction, engineering projects for hydraulic structures and modern solutions in the field of information technologies were presented.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been informed of the work being done in the spiritual and educational sphere.

The main priority of transformations in multi-ethnic Uzbekistan is the comprehensive protection of the rights and freedoms of all its citizens. And one of the inalienable rights is freedom of religion. Therefore, all conditions are being created in our country so that believers can perform rituals and observe religious traditions.

It is worth emphasizing that the policy of New Uzbekistan in this area is receiving great recognition not only among our people, but also among the international community.

Thus, if in the early years of Uzbekistan's independence the number of compatriots honored with the holy pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina could be counted on fingers, these days more than 15 thousand Uzbeks are performing the sacred rites.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev's greeting to our people on the occasion of Kurban Hayit, his conversation with Chairman of the Muslim Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Khaliknazar on the pilgrimage of our compatriots have become one of the brightest pages of this year's Hajj season.

In a short period of time, Uzbekistan has created a comprehensive system of training qualified personnel in the religious and educational sphere. In order to study and popularize the rich scientific heritage of our scholars, research centers have been launched. Examples of this are the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the Mir Arab Higher Madrasa, the School of Hadith Studies, and the international research centers of Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, and Imam Moturidi. Large-scale renovation and improvement of Imam Bukhari memorial complex is underway.

During today's meeting it was emphasized the necessity of wider study and propaganda of works of these great thinkers among the population, especially among the youth. Since it is in them that the true meaning of Islam, enlightening ideas of the Muslim religion are laid down. And it is especially actual now, in our troubled time, when all over the world various forces try to distort the essence of religion and to lead young people off the true path.

It was noted a great role in this work and those who now make pilgrimage in sacred Mecca. The pilgrims have recently made an appeal, where they expressed their readiness to contribute to the spiritual education of the younger generation in their districts, in their mahallas.

Also at the meeting, the head of state stressed that an important role in these processes should be played by the Center of Islamic Civilization, the activities of which will serve to widely acquaint our people and foreign guests with the invaluable heritage of ancestors, to promote the ideas of enlightened Islam. At present, scientists-historians and theologians are working on filling the activities of the center with new content.

Information about further plans of the center's activity was heard.

On November 18, the first session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan after the elections was held in Tashkent.

It was attended by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The session was opened by Chairman of the Central Election Commission Zayniddin Nizamkhodzhaev.

The National Anthem of the Republic of Uzbekistan was played.

Temporary Secretariat of the first session, Counting Commission and temporary group on control over the use of electronic vote counting system were elected. The agenda was approved. The CEC Chairman presented information on the results of the elections to the Legislative Chamber.

On the proposal of the Council of Representatives of Political Parties, deputies elected Nuriddin Ismoilov to the post of Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis by secret ballot.

Then the chairmanship of the session passed to the Speaker. Deputy Speakers were elected. The factions of five political parties were registered. Ten committees of the Legislative Chamber were established in accordance with their agreed proposals.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed the session.

At the beginning of his speech, the Head of State congratulated the deputies on their election, emphasizing that this is the embodiment of high trust and respect of our people.

It was emphasized that the current parliamentary elections have entered the history as being the first ones held in accordance with the updated Constitution. This process was conducted for the first time under a mixed electoral system.

As a result of the elections, 150 deputies were elected to the Legislative Chamber. Among them were 57 women and 11 young people under 35 years of age. Overall, the composition of the lower house was renewed by almost 60 percent.

The activities of the Chamber over the past five years were discussed. During this period, the Constitution has been updated and more than 130 new laws have been adopted, which is 1.5 times more than in the previous period.

The President also drew attention to the issues that remained out of parliamentary attention. For example, the share of laws with direct action and clear enforcement mechanisms remains low. Parliamentary and deputy control is still not effective enough. The activity of deputies in constituencies is mostly limited to organizing meetings, answering complaints and questions.

The Head of State outlined his vision of the new tasks ahead of the Legislative Chamber.

In particular, it was proposed to create public councils under each committee with the participation of representatives of civil society to strengthen the dialogue.

It is important to establish not only control and requirements in the work of parliamentary committees, but also close cooperation with ministries. It is also necessary to strengthen party and fractional discipline.

The President emphasized that lawmaking, primarily, should be aimed at solving urgent problems of society, and put forward a number of legislative initiatives. Among them are the construction of modern residential buildings replacing outdated ones, guaranteeing the protection of citizens' funds allocated for housing construction, support for private education and investors in the energy sector, introduction of compulsory health insurance, creation of a legal framework for franchising, capital market and startups, and relations arising in the field of artificial intelligence.

In order to boost the opposition, it was proposed to increase the number of guaranteed rights of the parliamentary opposition from 3 to 6, including giving it the positions of one committee chairman and two deputy committee chairmen, as well as additional rights to submit questions within the framework of the “government hour” and parliamentary inquiries.

Particular attention was paid to the need to transition to a system of broad, high-quality parliamentary control. In particular, in accordance with the updated Constitution, the control over the execution of the State Budget is the exclusive competence of the Legislative Chamber. In this regard, it is necessary to strengthen the work of the Chamber in this direction, including the introduction of the practice of submitting all reports of the Government on the State Budget to the Chamber only together with the audit report provided for by the Budget Code.

- A deputy is a servant of the people, a model for all, a person with a high level of political culture and knowledge, who sincerely loves his homeland. Our people, all of us, above all rely on you to strengthen peace, mutual understanding and harmony in the family, mahalla and society, to educate the youth in the spirit of patriotism, to defend the interests of Uzbekistan in the international arena, - said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Heads of political party factions and deputies addressed the session. The President supported their views, urged the deputies to work harder and be closer to the people.

- The voice of a deputy is the voice of the people. If you consider every issue concerning the fate of the country and first of all see our hardworking, generous and noble people in front of you, if you act thinking not only about today, but also about peace and happiness of future generations, then our people will be satisfied with you, - emphasized the Head of State.

The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis adopted resolutions on the agenda.

In the context of rapidly changing global economies, transport and logistics are becoming more than just infrastructure elements, but crucial instruments of economic and geopolitical influence. Against this backdrop, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is gradually emerging as one of the most promising platforms for regional cooperation in Eurasia. The development of transport and transit links, which are now becoming the foundation for the economic integration of the Turkic countries, holds a special place in the Organization's activities.

In this regard, the informal summit of the OTS, which will take place on May 14-15 this year in Turkestan (Republic of Kazakhstan), will be positive step in further strengthening the position of the Organization, deepening cooperation and uniting the efforts of all Turkic states.

Transport as the basis of a new Eurasian architecture

Today, the member states of the OTS interact in more than 40 areas – from economics and energy to digital technologies and artificial intelligence. However, transport sphere is gradually becoming the main driver of integration.

This is due to the unique geographical location of the Turkic countries. The region is located at the intersection of major international routes connecting Europe, Central Asia, China, the Middle East, and South Asia. A new Eurasian logistics system is effectively emerging, in which the OTS’s member states play a key link between East and West.

Amid the transformation of global supply chains and growing competition between international transport routes, the states of the region are striving not only to strengthen their own infrastructure but also to create a unified transit and logistics space.

Formation of a common transport policy

In recent years, a solid legal framework has been created within the OTS, which enshrines the strategic importance of this area in documents such as «Turkic Vision 2040» and «OTS Strategy for 2022–2026».

The 2022 Samarkand Summit was of particular significance, as it saw the signing of «Agreement on International Combined Freight Transport among the Governments of the Member States of the OTS» and «the Transport Connectivity Program». These documents ushered in a new era of cooperation among Turkic countries in the near future and established specific mechanisms for its implementation.

An important step was the introduction of the e-CMR system in 2026, which allows for the electronic transfer of transport documentation. This significantly simplifies transportation, reduces bureaucratic procedures, and expedites the passage of goods across state borders. At the same time, cooperation is developing in the digitalization of customs processes, the implementation of electronic permits, and the unification of transit procedures.

Institutional strengthening of cooperation

In recent years, the OTS has been consistently developing an institutional framework for transport integration, moving cooperation from a political and declarative level to a practical level. Regular meetings of the competent authorities of the Organization’s member states play a key role in this process.

Thus, at the meeting of OTS Transport ministers in April 2026 in Bishkek, the focus was on the development of transport corridors and the removal of border crossing barriers. Essentially, this is about creating a more coordinated regional transport system capable of increasing the competitiveness of OTS routes amid growing freight flows between Asia and Europe.

Meetings of heads of railway administration, held since 2022, serve a similar function. At the October 2025 meeting in Bishkek, issues of digitalization of transportation management and improving the efficiency of rail service were discussed. This demonstrates the desire of the OTS countries to unify transport procedures and reduce logistics costs within the region.

An additional step toward institutionalization was the creation of the Alliance of Logistics Centers and Cargo Carriers within the OTS in Tashkent in 2024. The establishment of this structure demonstrates a shift toward deeper business involvement in transport integration processes.

Transport corridors as a strategic basis for the integration of OTS countries

One of the key areas of the OTS's transport strategy is the creation of a unified space of transport connectivity, centered on the development of international corridors linking East and West, as well as North and South Eurasia.

The «Middle Corridor», connecting China and Europe via Central Asia and the South Caucasus, is particularly important in this system. Against the backdrop of the transformation of global logistics, geopolitical instability, and the desire of states to diversify trade routes, this corridor is becoming one of the most promising transport arteries in Eurasia.

While the volume of traffic along this route remained relatively limited in 2020, by 2025 it exceeded 5 million tons, an increase of almost sixfold. This demonstrates the gradual transformation of the «Middle Corridor» from an alternative route into an important element of the global transport system.

Moreover, the corridor's significance extends far beyond its purely transit function. For the OTS’s member states, its development means strengthening trade and economic ties, expanding access to external markets, attracting investment, and increasing the resilience of national economies to external challenges. In the long term, the «Middle Corridor» is seen as the foundation for the development of a new model of Eurasian connectivity.

A key element of this strategy is the implementation of the «China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan» railway project, which is already considered one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Central Asia. Construction of the highway, which includes 50 bridges and 29 tunnels with a total length of approximately 120 kilometers, is estimated to cost approximately $4.7 billion.

The project will significantly reduce freight delivery times between China and Europe, strengthen Central Asia’s transit potential, and enhance the integration of the OTS’s transport system. Essentially, this creates a new strategic route capable of transforming the region's logistics configuration.

Equally important is the development of the «Trans-Afghan Corridor», which opens OTS countries to the markets of South Asia, with a population of approximately 1,9 billion and a combined GDP of approximately $3,5 trillion. For Central Asian states, this creates opportunities to diversify foreign trade, expand export routes, and reduce transportation costs. At the same time, the Trans-Afghan route has the potential to become a factor in the economic stabilization of the region by boosting trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.

Uzbekistan as a Driver of Transport Integration in the OTS

Since the Republic of Uzbekistan joined the Organization of Turkic States in 2019, transport and logistics cooperation has become a key focus of the country's foreign economic strategy within the Organization. Against the backdrop of the transformation of global supply chains, the growing importance of alternative Eurasian routes, and increased competition among international transport corridors, Tashkent has consistently promoted initiatives aimed at creating a unified transport and transit space for the OTS.

The initiatives of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, play a key role in advancing this agenda. He views transport connectivity as a key factor in regional integration and economic development. At the OTS summit in Turkey in 2021, the head of state emphasized the need for systemic cooperation in transport and transit, effectively marking a shift to a more comprehensive approach within the Organization. This agenda received significant impetus at the 2022 Samarkand Summit, where Uzbekistan advocated for the development of multimodal routes and the implementation of the e-TIR, e-Permit, and e-CMR electronic systems.

Uzbek logistics centers Universal Logistics Services (Tashkent), Akhtachy (Andijan), and Termez Cargo Center (Surkhandarya) joined the «Sister Ports» initiative, marking a practical step toward integrating Uzbekistan’s transport infrastructure into the regional logistics network.

At the summit in Astana in 2023, Uzbekistan again emphasized the diversification of transport routes and the development of the «Middle Corridor», which, in the current geo-economic environment, is acquiring strategic significance as an perspective route between Asia and Europe. At the same time, Tashkent promoted for the expansion of transport routes connecting OTS countries with the markets of China, South Asia, and Europe.

A logical continuation of this line of action was the initiatives announced at the OTS summit in Bishkek in November 2024. The focus was on optimizing transit tariffs, simplifying border procedures, creating joint logistics mechanisms, and transitioning to electronic document management.

In May 2025, at the informal OTS summit in Hungary, Uzbekistan supported for the accelerated implementation of «single-window» systems and «green corridors» along the Trans-Caspian route. At the summit in Gabala in November 2025, special attention was paid to enhancing the competitiveness of the «Middle Corridor», modernizing infrastructure, and other areas. Particular importance was placed on linking this route with the «China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan» railway project and the «Trans-Afghan Corridor», which effectively creates a new system of transport connectivity across a vast region.

The International Forum on Multimodal Transportation held in Tashkent on November 12, 2025, was a practical confirmation of Uzbekistan's growing role in the OTS’s transport agenda.

Overall, the Turkic countries are already demonstrating a willingness to move beyond the idea of ​​partnership to the creation of a unified interconnected space. Joint infrastructure projects, the development of interregional corridors, the digitalization of logistics, and Uzbekistan’s active role in promoting these processes form the foundation of a new transport architecture within the OTS.

Sarvar Kamolov,

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

During one of his visits to the Kashkadarya province, President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, emphasized the profound wisdom and exemplary value embedded in the literary works dedicated to our historical figures. In particular, he highlighted the significance of texts related to Amir Temur, most notably the Temur tuzuklari (Institutes of Temour), which he identified as a critical source for understanding our national heritage. The President stressed again the necessity of comprehensive scholarly engagement with this text, recognizing it as a testament to the intellectual and statecraft traditions of the Uzbek people.

The Temur tuzuklari commissioned by Amir Temur, occupies a prominent place in the historiography of world civilization. Its significance is multifaceted. First, the authorship is attributed to a statesman of exceptional strategic and intellectual capacity, and the text has remained a subject of sustained scholarly interest. Second, the clarity of the work’s prose enhances both its accessibility and its continued relevance. Third, the work was produced in a period marked by geopolitical realignments and intellectual developments that would later contribute to the European Renaissance. Finally, Amir Temur’s enduring stature within a multipolar global order, all of these factors emphasize the broader historical value of the text, which continues to engage both academic and general audiences.

Temur tuzuklari is a very simple yet deeply meaningful and richly substantive work. To write such a piece, the author must possess a broad worldview, have personally experienced the heavy footsteps of history and the hardships of building an immense state, and must have attained the status of a noble figure who could easily fathom the world, deeply understand history and geography, be well-versed in ethnonymy, toponymy, and be capable of drawing profound conclusions about life, the flow of the world, and the paths of existence, a figure at the level of a wise philosopher. In other words, the Turon saltanati (Turanian kingdom) was the creation of Amir Temur. He referred to himself as the “Sultan of Turan”. In 1391, these words were inscribed in Old Uzbek on stone in Dasht-i Kipchak Steppe. That empire was built through the arduous labor of our forefather, and its institutions did not emerge spontaneously, but arose from pressing necessity (emphasis by the author). Temur tuzuklari came about as a vivid expression of all of this.

Only an individual of Amir Temur’s stature, who, as the historian Nizomiddin Shomiy described, attained perfection and high rank through his own mature effort and determined striving,” and who had acquired firsthand experience in the art of empire-building, could have created the Tuzuklar. The authorship of such a piece lies solely within the capacity of such a figure; there can be no room for doubt in this regard. In fact, a close reading of the Temur tuzuklari reveals the expansive intellectual breadth of its author.

Another important point: it would be illogical, a fundamental error, to suggest that this intellectually rich and thematically mature work, which has been the subject of scholarly inquiry for six centuries and continues to attract global interest, was authored by an anonymous writer and merely “presented” to Amir Temur, with authorship later attributed to him as a gesture of “flattery”. Such speculation lacks credibility. Moreover, Major William Davy, Persian secretary to the Commander in Chief of the Bengal Forces, was the first translator of the Tuzuklar into English, emphasizing that Amir Temur was the genuine author of the work.

The composition of the Tuzuklar appears to have been an iterative process, spanning several years and undergoing multiple revisions, abridgments and expansions.

The Arab historian Mazhar Shihab, as cited by Ubaydulla Uvatov, affirms that “Amir Temur began recording his memoirs long before he assumed power”. This observation suggests that Temur maintained a long-standing interest in documenting his thoughts and experiences and that he may have been reluctant to delegate such a task to others, either  out of concern for accuracy or due to the absence of individuals he deemed suitably qualified.

The Temur tuzuklari, enriched with wisdom, also offers invaluable insight into Amir Temur’s character. The text depicts him as a champion of justice, committed to truth, loyalty, and the well-being of his people. He is portrayed as magnanimous, fearless, and principled ruler. He bravely strives to uphold the rights of the oppressed against the tyrants, for he knows that a country may endure with disbelief but cannot tolerate oppression.

Alisher Navoi, a contemporary of Amir Temur’s legacy, begins the seventh chapter (majlis) of his work “Majalis un-Nafais” (The Assemblies of the Refined) with the name of Amir Temur Kuragon. Navoi portrays the Sahibkiran as an intellectual and a man of high spirituality, awarding him the most prestigious place among the “refined souls”.

Navoiy also recounts a remarkable episode that illustrates the Sohibqiron’s powerful memory. When a long-sought criminal–Xoja Abdulkadir Marogi, famous composer, musician, the Qur’an reciter–was finally brought before Amir Temur, the man began reciting the Qur’an in a melodious voice. Moved by the recitation, Temur’s wrath softened and he forgave the offender. Deeply affected, the Sohibqiron then recited a line of poetry in response.

Navoiy was astonished by this poetic line. The Sohibqiron had recited the fourth line of a rubai (quatrain) composed by the renowned Sufi poet and sheikh Abusaid Abulxayr, who had lived about four centuries earlier. Amir Temur had become enamored with this verse and had committed it to memory. This incident reveals not only his deep appreciation for poetry but also his exceptional memory and reverence for spiritual literature. These are precisely such moments that justify the inclusion of Temur’s name in “Majalis un-Nafais”.

Amir Temur was deeply invested in ensuring the accuracy and truthfulness of the work being produced. In this context, the guidance, instructions, demands, advice, and reflections he directed toward the authors, reflecting his intellectual acuity and refined cultural sensibilities, are particularly compelling and merit close scholarly attention.

One thing appears particularly striking: for nearly two centuries after Amir Temur’s death, no information can be found regarding Tuzuklar or its fate. The work seemed to have been engulfed in a darkness of neglect and oblivion.

“The 'Tuzuk-i-Timuri” (Temur Tuzuklari) was a high document of the empire and a state secret; such a document exists in only one, at most two copies, kept in strict confidentiality and secrecy.

Major Davy once wrote the following about Boburnoma: “The book of Baburnama, too, remained in the shadows of neglect and forgetfulness until nearly the middle of the reign of Bobur’s grandson, Emperor Akbar (1566–1605), when it was finally translated from Chagatai Turkic into Persian. Until that time, no one in either Asia or Europe had questioned the authenticity of Babur’s memoirs. Nevertheless, this work, like Tuzuklar, eventually faced a similar degree of scholarly neglect.

An essential scholarly and cultural imperative now rests with leading institutions, including the International Amir Temur Public Foundation, the State Museum of the History of the Temurids, the Al-Beruniy Institute of Oriental Studies of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, Institute of History of the Academy of Sciences and the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, as well as with the broader intellectual community: namely, to locate the original manuscript of the “The 'Tuzuk-i-Timuri” - Temur tuzuklari, subject it to rigorous academic scrutiny, and reintegrate this foundational text into the corpus of the nation’s cultural and historical legacy.

The recovery of the authentic manuscript, an unparalleled artifact that reflects the political thought and historical consciousness of a pivotal epoch, would constitute a landmark achievement in the advancement of Uzbek historiography and civilizational self-understanding.

        Muhammad ALI

                              Chairman, International Amir Temur Public Foundation

                                      Distinguished Writer of Uzbekistan, Professor

The head of our state familiarized himself with the presentation on the development of master plans of districts and cities.

This task was set at the video conference call dedicated to priority tasks in the economy, which took place on January 16 this year. The responsible persons presented information on the work done, as well as the expected results from the implementation of master plans.

During this time master plans were developed for 14 districts and cities. They provide for the construction of 759 apartment buildings, 22 shopping centers and more than 800 service facilities.

In addition, 136 more master plans are planned based on driver areas in 112 neighborhoods.

For example, 38 high-growth neighborhoods need to build sufficient housing, public spaces and recreational parks.

In 20 districts with high tourism potential, there is an opportunity to increase the flow of tourists by 2.5 times by increasing the number of hotels and developing ecological, hunting, medical, sports and extreme tourism.

More than 400 motels, campgrounds, canteens, stores and car services can be created in 68 districts, through which main roads pass.

In general, thanks to the projects based on master plans, 40 thousand jobs are expected to be created, as well as annual budget revenues of 350 billion soums.

The head of our state emphasized the need to accelerate the creation of convenient infrastructure, shopping and entertainment places, as well as high-income jobs for the population.

The task has been set to create a vertical system of development and monitoring of master plans.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was given a presentation on measures to further develop the jewelry industry, support jewelry production and sales, and increase exports of finished products.

Our country has a huge potential for increasing production and export of jewelry.

As the head of state noted, only 6 percent of gold mined in the country is processed, and exports of its products amount to only 78 million dollars, so it is important to create jewelry zones with special conditions for entrepreneurs, to review the provision of raw materials, training of specialists, production chain and sales system.

In this regard, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry have developed relevant proposals.

In particular, it is planned to improve the activity of the Uzbekzargarsanoati association, expand its powers and reorganize the management system.

In order to support manufacturers of the industry, it is proposed to apply the benefits provided for members of the Association "Uzbekzargarsanoati" to individual entrepreneurs - manufacturers of jewelry, who are members of the Association "Uzbekzargarsanoati".

The possibility of establishing a zero rate of customs duty and value added tax on equipment, packaging and marking materials that are not produced in Uzbekistan and used in the jewelry industry for the period up to October 1, 2026 is being studied.

The issues of creation of special jewelry centers including production, exhibition and trade areas were considered. Information was provided on the placement of pilot projects in Tashkent and Namangan region.

The issue of increasing the volume of jewelry exports was discussed. It was proposed to establish a zero rate of customs duty for export of jewelry made in our country to the United States of America under the GSP system.

The head of state instructed to finalize the presented measures and work out a program for the development of domestic jewelry production for the period up to 2027.