The upcoming visit of the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, to Uzbekistan on March 26–27 is set to provide additional momentum to Uzbek-Tajik relations, which have demonstrated steady positive dynamics in recent years.

Today, bilateral ties are on the rise, experiencing the best period in their history. Tashkent and Dushanbe have successfully resolved long-standing issues, creating a solid foundation for a transition to a qualitatively new stage of engagement. While cooperation was previously characterized as episodic and largely dependent on opportunistic factors, it has now acquired a systemic, multi-level, and strategic nature.

The consistent and far-sighted policies of the two heads of state have played a pivotal role in this process. Regular and trust-based contacts between Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Emomali Rahmon have contributed to the renewal of the entire system of interstate relations, imparting a resilient internal dynamic.

Since 2017, the leaders of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have held over 40 meetings, underscoring a shared political will for the consistent development of cooperation. The logical culmination of this course was the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations in 2024, which institutionalized the long-term strategic character of their interaction. The upcoming negotiations are expected to consolidate achieved results and define new benchmarks for the partnership.

This atmosphere of trust has been reinforced by a robust institutional framework. Regular consultations between foreign ministries, expanded cooperation across line agencies, and the effective work of the Intergovernmental Commission form a stable architecture for bilateral engagement. The inter-parliamentary dimension has also strengthened significantly: the cooperation group established in 2020 provides essential support for initiatives and oversees their implementation.

The intensive political dialogue is naturally reflected in the economy, which serves as a barometer of profound structural changes. Since 2017, bilateral trade turnover has increased nearly fourfold – from $237 million to over $900 million by the end of 2025 – demonstrating sustainable growth. Furthermore, the trade structure is evolving: alongside traditional commodities, the share of high-value-added products, such as textiles, construction materials, electrical engineering, and machinery, is increasing. This indicates a transition to a more diversified model of economic engagement aimed at reaching the $2 billion mark in the medium term.

Simultaneously, the focus is gradually shifting from trade to investment and industrial cooperation. Since 2017, the number of enterprises with Tajik capital in Uzbekistan has grown more than 13 times, reaching 343. Uzbek business is also actively expanding in Tajikistan, where approximately 70 companies currently operate, reflecting the growing mutual trust within the business community.

As part of this cooperation, the Uzbek-Tajik Interregional Investment Forum was launched in 2021. In the same year, a joint investment company was established with an authorized capital that subsequently increased more than fourfold – from $12 million to over $50 million. This has provided a financial base for implementing major projects in industry, energy, agriculture, healthcare, banking, and construction.

The development of modern border infrastructure is of substantial importance for further integration. Specifically, the creation of a trade and logistics hub at the "Fotekhobod – Oybek" border crossing will enhance the efficiency of trans-border trade. Concurrently, the Urgut district is being developed as a comprehensive transport, logistics, and trade hub, capable of transforming border areas into centers of economic activity.

Ongoing projects include the establishment of trade, logistics, and medical complexes, as well as a logistics center with a capacity of up to 100 heavy-duty trucks per day. In parallel, efforts are underway to simplify customs procedures. The construction of the Samarkand–Urgut railway line will be a significant step toward reducing transport costs and enhancing regional connectivity.

Equally indicative is the transformation of cooperation in the water and energy sector – traditionally one of the most sensitive issues in the region. Moving away from past competition, the parties are consistently building a pragmatic model that accounts for mutual interests, implementing joint projects to modernize irrigation systems and develop hydropower. This approach demonstrates that even the most complex issues can serve as a basis for sustainable cooperation and development.

The most profound changes are occurring in the cultural and humanitarian sphere. Expanding contacts between citizens, the growth of mutual travel, and the development of cultural and educational exchanges are forming a shared humanitarian space where interstate ties have acquired a new quality.

The liberalization of travel regulations has revitalized tourism cooperation. In June 2022, the Tashkent–Dushanbe passenger train was launched; regular bus routes between Tashkent–Khujand and Kokand–Shaidon were resumed; and air connectivity has expanded, currently reaching 16 flights per week.

As a result, 2.7 million citizens of Tajikistan visited Uzbekistan last year alone, reflecting a high level of mutual trust and openness. Political agreements are increasingly translating into the practical reality of daily interaction.

This process is further bolstered by the historical and ethno-cultural proximity of the two nations. The presence of significant Tajik communities in Uzbekistan and Uzbek communities in Tajikistan makes this cooperation a natural extension of established social and cultural ties. In this context, the humanitarian dimension has become a key factor in the stability of the allied relationship.

Against this backdrop, the upcoming visit of Emomali Rahmon to Tashkent is intended not only to consolidate achieved milestones but also to set new strategic directions for future engagement. Its outcomes will undoubtedly be reflected in concrete projects and initiatives that will further strengthen the bilateral partnership and enhance the resilience of the entire region.

Modern Central Asia is becoming a space of sustainable growth and mutual trust. The countries of the region demonstrate a strong commitment to building balanced relations with global partners, prioritizing practical initiatives in trade, energy, transport, and innovation. One of the key formats shaping this new architecture is the “C5+1” platform, which unites the Central Asian states and the United States.

Regional Consolidation: Dialogue Based on Equality and Pragmatism

In recent years, the “C5+1” format has evolved from a diplomatic mechanism into an effective platform for coordination and implementation of joint projects. The latest ministerial meeting in Samarkand, attended by the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, demonstrated a high level of trust and a shared focus on tangible results.

Key topics on the Samarkand agenda included food security, climate resilience, development of green and digital economies, diversification of transport corridors, and deepening industrial cooperation.

Following the meeting, memorandums were signed on decarbonization and digitalization of customs procedures - a step that paves the way for harmonized trade rules, easier exports, and increased investment inflows into the region.

Central Asia: From Fragmentation to an Integrated Economic Space

The figures speak for themselves: the total foreign trade turnover of Central Asian countries has reached $220 billion, almost doubling since 2017, while mutual investments have grown 5.6 times. The region’s combined GDP increased by 40% over the past five years to exceed $406 billion.

These indicators reflect not only growth but also a qualitative shift - from isolated initiatives to a coordinated regional development strategy.

Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan: Industrial and Logistics Core

The Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan partnership exemplifies a new model of integration. Between January and August 2025, mutual trade reached $3.03 billion, up by 15%. Projects exceeding $7 billion are under implementation across engineering, agriculture, construction, and energy sectors. Over 1,100 enterprises with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan, creating jobs and new export niches.

Uzbekistan - Tajikistan: Transport and Energy Bridge

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are rapidly strengthening railway and energy cooperation. In 2024, cargo traffic between the two countries reached 10 million tons, while regular passenger flights and a joint investment company with a $100 million capital were launched. These are not just numbers - they represent an architecture of trust that enables joint industrial and agricultural clusters.

Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan: Corridors of Growth

Cooperation with Turkmenistan is expanding in energy, logistics, and industry. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.14 billion, and the Shavat - Dashoguz border zone is evolving into a hub of trade and joint manufacturing. A localization project for repairing Turkmen wagons in Andijan is a vivid example of practical industrial integration.

Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan: A “Roadmap” for the Future

The interstate program until 2030 and the Border Regions Council ensure steady progress. From January to August 2025, trade turnover approached $600 million, while Uzbekistan’s exports grew by nearly 80%. New logistics routes are being developed to reduce transport costs and enhance business competitiveness.

“C5+1” as a Catalyst for Development

Participation in the “C5+1” framework gives regional integration new depth - aligning national interests with global sustainability trends.

The United States and regional partners are building long-term cooperation in green energy, resilient supply chains, infrastructure modernization, and human-capital development.

Special attention is given to unified standards for digital trade, environmental management, and logistics technologies, making Central Asia a vital link in Eurasian value chains.

Benefits for the Region and Uzbekistan

For Central Asia, the “C5+1” format provides:

• Investment and technology: opportunities to attract foreign partners for renewable energy, raw-material processing, and digital transformation;
• New markets: expanded export opportunities through unified customs and trade standards;
• Energy security: development of interconnected grids and energy-storage infrastructure;
• Human capital: education, internships, and exchanges with leading global companies.

For Uzbekistan, the advantages are clear:

• Expanded export potential through access to new transport routes;
• Technology localization and industrial partnerships with neighbors;
• Institutional stability and strengthened position as a regional integrator;
• Inflow of direct investment supported by uniform rules and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Conclusion: From Geography to the Economy of the Future

Central Asia is steadily transforming from a “crossroads of geography” into a region of synergy. The “C5+1” format has become a framework connecting the efforts of regional and global partners into a unified development strategy - based on trust, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth.

The first quarter proved highly favorable for Uzbekistan’s economy. Economic growth reached 8.7%, inflation fell to its lowest level in recent years, investment hit a record high, and exports continued to expand steadily.

Economic Growth Dynamics

The pace of economic growth achieved by Uzbekistan in the first quarter exceeded the expectations of international institutions. The Asian Development Bank had projected 6.7% growth for the first quarter. The World Bank initially forecast 6.0%, but revised it upward to 6.4% in April. The IMF also raised its forecast in April from 6.2% to 6.8%.

In practice, Uzbekistan’s economy grew by 8.7%. GDP in current prices amounted to $36.9 bn. The forecast closest to the actual result came from the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (Uzbekistan), which projected first-quarter growth of up to 7% at the beginning of the year.

The strongest growth was recorded in construction, where gross value added increased by 15.0%. The services sector expanded by 8.8%, retaining its position as the largest segment of the economy. Industry grew by 8.0%, while agriculture increased by 5.1%.

Significant gains were also seen in oil refining, up 29.5%. In light industry, apparel and textile production rose by 15.3%, while knitwear output increased by 26.9%. In automotive manufacturing, production expanded by 12.5%, including buses by 64.7% and trucks by 46.6%. Within services, the highest growth rates were recorded in education, up 22.5%, and financial services, up 22.4%.

An important contribution to overall growth also came from measures aimed at reducing the shadow economy. Its share declined from 24.8% to 22.9%, while legalized business activity supported higher recorded growth figures.

Another major factor behind accelerated growth has been the country’s active market reforms, which were recognized this year in the Index of Economic Freedom, where Uzbekistan rose by 14 positions and entered the category of moderately free economies for the first time.

Overcoming Inflationary Challenges

External pressures continue to affect domestic price formation. Global oil prices have risen by 40% since the beginning of the year. Geopolitical tensions have disrupted logistics corridors, increasing transportation costs for trade flows by 25–30%. As a result of these disruptions, imports of cattle into Uzbekistan fell by half in the first quarter, creating risks for food security.

To stabilize food prices, the government introduced partial reimbursement of air freight costs for imports of breeding livestock and meat products. It also approved the import of 100,000 breeding sheep and goats from Mongolia with compensation of 50% of transport costs.

Since the beginning of the year, Uzbekistan has actively implemented a new system of inflation management and price stability. For all responsible officials and regional governors, the key task for 2026 has been defined as maintaining stable prices for essential food products and keeping annual inflation below 6.5%.

As a result of these measures, despite external pressures, the inflation environment improved significantly in the first quarter. Consumer prices rose by 1.93% in January–March. In March alone, monthly inflation stood at 0.6%, while annual inflation fell to 7.1% for the first time, compared with 10.34% a year earlier.

Budget Policy and Regional Development

Thanks to such dynamic economic growth, Uzbekistan’s State Budget revenues also increased steadily in the first quarter, rising by 35% year-on-year. Tax revenues grew by 24%, while customs revenues increased by 20% compared with the same period last year.

Funds retained by local budgets rose by 21%. In addition, land sales and privatization processes generated an extra $47.1 mn for local budgets. At the same time, $90.6 mn were transferred from the republican budget to local budgets to support the regions. As a result, district-level local budgets retained $115.3 mn, nearly 4.2 times more than the $28.5 mn recorded in the same period last year.

This demonstrates the continued and consistent policy course toward expanding the financial autonomy of the regions, helping unlock local potential and support dynamic regional development.

Investment Outlook

Investment activity in Uzbekistan reached a record level in the first quarter. Capital investment and development projects totaled $12.85 bn, up 41.5%. Foreign direct investment increased by 45.7% to $8.84 bn. During the quarter, 1,508 new projects worth $1.185 bn were launched, creating around 28,000 new jobs.

In the first quarter, investment volumes exceeded $50 mn in 50 cities and districts, while in 21 of them the figure surpassed $100 mn, indicating broader regional investment activity. By source of foreign investment, China ranked first with $6.4 bn, followed by Russia with $1.1 bn, Türkiye with $975 mn, the UAE with $824 mn, and Germany with $342 mn.

Overall, in 2026 Uzbekistan plans to implement 125 projects with the participation of international financial institutions and foreign state financial organizations, attracting $5.1 bn. In the first quarter alone, $947 mn in foreign loans had already been mobilized from these sources, exceeding forecast targets by 120%. These projects have already delivered tangible results in infrastructure development and improved living standards.

The next important step in attracting investment may be the listing of state assets on international markets. Speaking at the meeting, the President announced that 30% of state assets worth $2.4 bn would soon be placed on international stock exchanges for the first time. This is linked to the establishment of the National Investment Fund and the transfer of management of 13 strategic enterprises to Franklin Templeton.

The country’s overall target for this year is to attract $53 bn in foreign investment. Officials were also instructed to introduce an AI-based platform that would provide optimal project recommendations for specific regions. Investors and consulting companies will be granted access to the platform through a one-stop-shop mechanism.

Growing Export Potential

Total exports of goods and services maintained strong growth momentum in the first quarter, reaching $5.8 bn, up 26% year-on-year, or by $1.2 bn. Export growth was recorded in 147 districts and cities across the country. As a result, the total number of exporting enterprises reached 4,000.

In particular, exports of natural uranium amounted to $402.6 mn, up 95%. Exports of non-ferrous metals reached $248.7 mn, doubling year-on-year. Oil and gas exports totaled $160 mn, up 15%.

Positive dynamics were also observed in manufacturing. Textile exports reached $731 mn, up 18%. Exports of construction materials totaled $304 mn, rising by 75%. Jewelry exports reached $214 mn, up 54%.

Agricultural and food exports also posted solid growth. Fruit and vegetable exports reached $320 mn, up 12%. Food exports totaled $282 mn, surging by 120%. Strong momentum was also seen in services, where exports reached $2.2 bn, up 35% year-on-year, or by $573 mn.

The geography of exports continues to expand. In January–March, previously non-exported goods worth $162 mn across more than 140 product categories were supplied for the first time to 86 countries, including the United States, Austria, Belarus, Poland, South Korea, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan.

Despite these achievements, external market challenges continue to affect exporters. The President noted that over the past six months, due to changing conditions among foreign partners, 908 entrepreneurs with signed contracts worth $3.6 bn had still been unable to begin exports.

Support for Entrepreneurship

Active support for small and medium-sized businesses continued in the first quarter. This year, $11.5 bn is being allocated through banks for this purpose. In the first quarter, entrepreneurs received $2.9 bn in credit resources, including $659 mn under state support programs. A total of 21,000 microprojects were implemented, helping raise incomes for 52,000 residents.

At the same time, certain shortcomings remain. Not all districts and cities are equally effective in converting loans into permanent jobs, and the differences are considerable. To address this issue, the President emphasized the need to use AI tools in credit allocation and instructed banks to launch an “AI Consultant” platform.

The meeting also discussed optimization of government administrations and the creation of new business spaces. Since many central and busy streets in district centers are occupied by state institutions, 19 districts and cities have already begun relocating government offices into unified administrative centers, with vacated premises transferred to businesses. Scaling up these measures nationwide would free up 5 mn m2 of space for business activity.

Social Policy

A strong social policy and active measures to reduce poverty and promote employment continued in the first quarter.

Permanent jobs were provided to 167,000 people, while 737,000 citizens received assistance in creating additional income sources and improving their living standards. An important contribution came from formalizing 241,000 previously informal workers, giving them access to social protection, financial services, and stable employment.

Special attention in social policy is being given to low-income families. A total of 105,000 support services were delivered to 86,000 vulnerable families, including employment assistance, training, business start-up support, and income generation. Under women’s support programs, 26,000 women were employed, while youth support programs benefited 58,000 young citizens.

To accelerate development in territories facing difficult socio-economic conditions, $297 mn were allocated from the republican budget. Additional support of $329 mn was also directed to areas granted the status of “New Image of Uzbekistan.”

These policies continue to contribute to lower poverty and higher living standards. Poverty fell to 5.0% in the first quarter, while unemployment stood at 4.7%. According to forecasts, both indicators may decline further to 4.3% by mid-year.

Significant attention is also being paid to social infrastructure and improving living conditions with the active participation of international financial institutions. In the first quarter, 89 km of drinking water networks, 8.2 km of sewerage networks, and 40 km of roads were built.

These measures are creating a sustainable foundation for further poverty reduction, stronger employment, higher welfare, and better living conditions across all regions of Uzbekistan.

Perspectives

It is useful to compare Uzbekistan’s first-quarter growth performance with the global economy and other countries.

In its April forecast, the IMF lowered projected global growth from 3.3% in January to 3.1% in April. Growth in advanced economies is expected at 1.5–1.6%, while developing economies are projected at above 4%. US growth is forecast at 2.0–2.1%, while Europe is expected to remain the weakest region, with UK growth revised downward to 0.8%.

The IMF identified India as the fastest-growing major economy, with projected growth of 7.3%. Yet Uzbekistan’s first-quarter growth exceeded even that figure, reaching 8.7%. This reflects the soundness and effectiveness of ongoing reforms, as well as strong and responsive economic management, where emerging challenges are addressed without delay.

Uzbekistan is expected to maintain high growth momentum in 2026. Real GDP growth is projected in the range of 8.3–8.7%, with services rising by 9.1%, industry by 8.7%, and construction by 11.5%.

At the same time, despite these positive results, the President noted that there is no room for complacency. Against the backdrop of intensifying global rivalry, the world economy will no longer be as stable as before. This requires special focus in the current year on sustaining growth, containing inflation, creating jobs, expanding exports, and improving the quality of investment.

Khurshed Asadov, Deputy Director of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms under the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Хуршед Асадов, ЦЭИР

Samarkand Forum of the Asian Development Bank
In the Context of Contemporary Challenges and Historical Significance

In early May, Samarkand hosted the 59th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank under the theme “Crossroads of Progress: Advancing the Region’s Connected Future.” The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, outlined key priorities for further cooperation with the ADB.

The forum brought together more than 4,000 experts from over 100 countries, including representatives of foreign governments, international financial institutions, leading banks, and major corporations. The central topics of discussion included digital and green transformation, climate resilience, supply chain development, and food security.

Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank: Effective Partnership

Uzbekistan joined the ADB in 1995. Over the past 30 years, the Bank has become a reliable strategic partner for the country. The current portfolio of joint projects has reached nearly $16 billion. Uzbekistan has become the Bank’s largest partner in the region by operational volume and ranks among the top 10 countries globally in terms of ADB operations.

In August 2024, the ADB launched a new Country Partnership Strategy for Uzbekistan for 2024–2028. This five-year strategy focuses on supporting the transition to a green economy, enhancing private sector development and competitiveness, and stimulating investment in human capital, in line with the national development priorities outlined in the “Uzbekistan–2030” strategy.

ADB financing across sectors is distributed as follows: transport – $3.1 billion; energy – $2.9 billion; water supply, sanitation, and urban services – $1.4 billion; agriculture and water resources – $0.9 billion.

Through effective cooperation with the ADB, more than 1,400 km of railway lines and 1,700 km of roads have been modernized. Over 4,000 km of water supply networks have been completed, and around 750 educational institutions have been upgraded. In 2025, a record annual commitment volume exceeding $1.4 billion was achieved.

New Cooperation Program with Uzbekistan

During the Samarkand forum, a new partnership program between Uzbekistan and the ADB through 2030 was adopted. It envisages the implementation of projects totaling $12.5 billion, including infrastructure development, support for reforms, private sector growth, and public-private partnerships.

Key components include: infrastructure financing – $2.6 billion; results-based lending – $2.2 billion; budget support for reforms – $3.3 billion; multitranche financing facilities – $350 million; partial credit guarantees – $250 million; direct private sector financing – $2 billion; PPP projects – $1.7 billion.

Priority Areas Outlined by the President

In his address, the President of Uzbekistan emphasized the need to introduce new mechanisms and approaches for sustainable development amid global economic challenges and rapid technological change.

First, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are transforming virtually all sectors. By 2040, AI is expected to increase global trade volumes by an additional 40%. The adoption of open AI models is therefore essential in key sectors such as education, healthcare, water management, environmental protection, and food security. Uzbekistan proposed developing a dedicated ADB-led program to scale AI adoption in developing countries and announced its accession to the Bank’s “Digital Highway for Asia” initiative, including the establishment of a regional coordination center in Tashkent.

Second, the expansion of digital technologies and AI is driving a sharp increase in energy demand. By 2030, electricity consumption by data centers is projected to rise by 2–3 times compared to current levels. Only countries capable of providing affordable and reliable green energy will remain competitive globally. Uzbekistan identified green energy development as a strategic priority and acknowledged ADB support for the “Central Asia–Europe” green energy corridor aimed at expanding clean energy exports.

Third, ensuring the connectivity of transport systems and the stability of logistics corridors is becoming increasingly critical. Changes in global logistics routes have already led to transport cost increases of up to 30% for Central Asian countries, with delivery times extended by several weeks. In this context, the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway project is of particular importance. Uzbekistan proposed establishing a “Digital Customs and Logistics Alliance” within the CAREC framework.

Fourth, according to international experts, demand for critical minerals will increase sixfold by 2040. Uzbekistan possesses significant reserves of copper, tungsten, molybdenum, magnesium, graphite, vanadium, titanium, and other resources. To ensure deep processing and production of high value-added goods, Uzbekistan proposed joining the ADB’s “From Critical Minerals to Production” program.

Fifth, climate change and desertification pose serious challenges to Central Asia. The ADB is implementing its Climate Action Plan through 2030, allocating at least 50% of its annual financing to climate-related projects. Uzbekistan proposed launching a regional “Green Belt of Central Asia” initiative to complement national afforestation efforts in the Aral Sea region.

Sixth, amid global instability, demand for safe travel destinations is growing. Central Asia has strong potential in pilgrimage, cultural, gastronomic, ethnographic, extreme, and medical tourism. Uzbekistan proposed creating a “Central Asia Tourist Ring” to integrate regional tourism offerings.

To advance these initiatives, Uzbekistan aims to fully utilize ADB financial instruments, including mobilizing private capital, and proposed establishing an Innovative Platform for Financing Regional Projects.

Transformation of ADB Operations

The implementation of these initiatives requires a transformation of the ADB’s institutional model. In response to global economic shifts, rapid technological change, and increasing interdependence, the Bank is shifting its focus toward sustainability, regional integration, and future-oriented infrastructure.

A key direction is the expansion of investments in next-generation infrastructure, including cross-border energy networks, electricity trade, and digital infrastructure such as internet connectivity and data transmission networks.

Another major shift is the transition from financing predominantly national projects to prioritizing regional systems. This includes integrating energy systems, developing regional electricity markets, and advancing digital integration across Asia.

These priorities are reflected in two major initiatives announced at the Samarkand forum, totaling $70 billion through 2035, aimed at energy system integration, cross-border electricity trade, digital corridors, data centers, and broadband expansion across Asia and the Pacific.

A significant announcement was also the launch of the “Critical Minerals-to-Manufacturing Financing Partnership Facility,” covering the full value chain from exploration and resource mapping to the production of final goods, including chemicals, batteries, renewable energy components, electronics, as well as recycling and reuse.

For Uzbekistan, this approach is particularly relevant, as the country is already developing value chains based on its mineral resources. The ADB program is expected to accelerate this process significantly.

Overall, the transformation of the ADB reflects a shift toward supporting systemic resilience and regional markets. This includes three key transitions: from individual projects to integrated economic systems; from national to regional focus; and from development support to long-term economic sustainability.

As a result, the ADB is evolving from a project financing institution into a coordinating platform for regional economic connectivity, strengthening its role in Asia’s integration amid the formation of competing global economic blocs.

Conclusion

The 59th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Samarkand was of significant importance not only for Uzbekistan due to its international prestige and the adoption of a new cooperation program, but also for the entire Asia-Pacific region.

The forum marked the launch of two major initiatives and the new “From Critical Minerals to Production” program, reflecting the Bank’s updated strategy aimed at enhancing economic stability and regional consolidation in Asia.

Holding the forum in Samarkand is symbolic. Historically a crossroads of trade and culture between East and West, the city once again serves as a focal point for shaping the region’s future.

It was here that initiatives and decisions were announced that may influence the development trajectory of all Asia, reinforcing Samarkand’s role as a platform for dialogue and strategic vision.

Viktor Abaturov,
Center for Economic Research and Reforms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sultonmurod Ozodov, CERR

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on measures for ensuring population’s employment and poverty reduction based on new approaches.

This year it’s planned to ensure employment of 5.2 million citizens and bring out of poverty 1.5 million people. For the first time 60 districts and cities will become territories free of poverty and unemployment. 

Jointly with mahalla bankers it’s planned to ensure constant employment for 1.5 million people and attract more than 2 million citizens to businesses. For this purpose it’s planned to allocate a total of 120 trillion soum of credit resources for small business projects. 

Based on best foreign practices, new approaches to poverty reduction will be introduced in 32 areas. In particular, solar power plants with a total capacity of 107 megawatts will be built in 300 complex mahallas, and members of low-income families will be hired to operate them on a cooperative basis.

In 123 districts, low-income citizens will be offered work on the creation of forest and nursery lands on 20 thousand hectares, as well as the cultivation of medicinal plants. They will be paid a subsidy of 375 thousand soums for every 100 trees planted.

In places with tourism potential it is planned to open guest houses and catering outlets, and at a number of post offices - e-commerce centers, where representatives of low-income families will also get jobs.

A total of 6.472 mahallas in 2025 will implement projects based on new approaches, which will help lift 210 thousand people out of poverty.

Special attention will be paid to remote villages with particularly difficult conditions. In them, the Association of Mahallas of Uzbekistan will take measures to foster a spirit of entrepreneurship, reduce dependency and support labor activity of low-income families.

The Head of State reiterated that 2025 will be decisive in reducing unemployment and poverty, and gave instructions to ensure a systematic and targeted approach to the implementation of the presented measures.

The Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction is tasked with strictly monitoring the implementation of these tasks. Each initiative and each activity will be entered into an electronic platform with subsequent verification of the created jobs on the tax base.

The importance of organizing training for the staff of local khokimiyats and “ mahalla seven”, as well as promotion of best practices was also noted.

At the invitation of the of President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on January 13 President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev departed to this country with an official visit. 

In accordance with the program negotiations at the highest level, as well as bilateral meetings with the heads of leading organizations, companies and banks of the UAE will be conducted in the Emirates’ capital of Abu Dhabi. 

President of Uzbekistan will also participate in the activities of the international summit “Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week”. 
In the framework of the visit, the Head of our state will visit Dubai, where he will hold a meeting with Vice President, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Emir of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Today, global demand for water resources is steadily increasing. In this context, the rational use of shared water resources in Central Asia is one of the key factors in ensuring regional security, stability, and sustainable development.

The constructive proposals and practical initiatives put forward by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed at addressing global environmental challenges—particularly water security—are widely supported by countries across the region. In this regard, the introduction of modern irrigation technologies is considered the most effective solution for improving water-use efficiency in agriculture. These technologies not only help conserve water but also reduce costs related to fertilizers, fuel, and labor, while increasing agricultural productivity.

From the early stages of reforms in New Uzbekistan, enhancing the culture of water use has been elevated to the level of state policy. The “Uzbekistan–2030” Development Strategy identifies the widespread introduction of water-saving technologies across all irrigated lands as a top priority.

In his Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan, the President emphasized the importance of this issue, noting that a total of 3.3 trillion UZS will be allocated in 2026 for the implementation of water-saving technologies (approximately $275 million).

Analysis shows that since 2019, the state support mechanism—including subsidies for the adoption of water-saving technologies—has proven effective and has significantly encouraged clusters and farmers.

As a result, between 2019 and 2025:

• drip irrigation was introduced on 664,000 hectares,
• sprinkler irrigation on 124,000 hectares,
• other modern irrigation methods on 73,000 hectares,
• water-saving irrigation using flexible pipes and film-lined furrows on 124,000 hectares,
• and 1.6 million hectares were laser-leveled.

As a specialist in this field, I can confidently say that water-saving irrigation methods—particularly drip and sprinkler systems—are becoming increasingly popular among farmers.

On February 3 of this year, a presentation was held before the President focusing on improving water efficiency and expanding the use of water-saving technologies. Additional measures to scale up these efforts were discussed.

In particular, by 2028 it is planned to introduce water-saving technologies on an additional 930,000 hectares, increasing the total coverage to 3.5 million hectares, or approximately 80% of all irrigated land.

The adoption of these technologies will ensure more reliable water supply, especially for regions facing water scarcity. Reforms aimed at strengthening state support in this area are being consistently advanced.

In accordance with the Presidential Resolution dated February 5, 2026, new incentive mechanisms are being introduced for agricultural producers.

Specifically:

• the target is to expand water-saving technologies to 3.5 million hectares by 2028;
• drip irrigation will be introduced on 220,000 hectares,
• sprinkler irrigation on 110,000 hectares,
• and laser land leveling will be carried out on 600,000 hectares.

In 2026, commercial banks will allocate 2.6 trillion UZS in loans, while 800 billion UZS will be provided as subsidies.

A system for continuous professional development based on the experience of Xinjiang (China) will also be introduced.

Starting from 2027:

• water-use tax rates and subsidies will be differentiated based on water availability;
• a 1.25 coefficient will be applied for subsidies in water-scarce regions;
• and a doubled tax rate will apply where water-saving technologies are not implemented despite stable water supply.

From April 1, 2026, the use of traditional irrigation methods on subsidized lands where water-saving technologies have already been introduced will be considered unauthorized water use and will result in financial penalties.

In Uzbekistan, human capital development remains a priority. Under the “School of Water Specialists” initiative, 10,000 agricultural workers will be trained this year, and 358 specialists will undergo training abroad.

In addition, starting from the 2026/2027 academic year, higher education institutions will enhance training programs in this field, incorporating international best practices.

In conclusion, efforts to ensure the rational use of water resources, expand the adoption of water-saving technologies, and deepen sectoral reforms are reaching a new level.

Today, the time has come to elevate water conservation into a true nationwide value.

Dauranbek Kdirbaev,
Ministry of Water Resources

Head of the Department for the Implementation

Prezident Shavkat Mirziyoyev 19-sentabr kuni atrof-muhitni muhofaza qilish va turizm sohalaridagi takliflar taqdimoti bilan tanishdi.

Hozirgi kunda havoni musaffo saqlash, ekologik hodisalarning ta'sirini kamaytirish tobora dolzarb bo'lib bormoqda. Shu bois bu borada ikkita dastur ishlab chiqildi.

Birinchisi - Chang bo'ronlariga qarshi kurashish va ularning oqibatlarini yumshatish bo'yicha 2024-2030-yillarga mo'ljallangan milliy dasturdir. Bu hujjatda “Yevro-4” standartidan past toifadagi yoqilg'ini sotish va undan foydalanishni bosqichma-bosqich to'liq taqiqlash nazarda tutiladi. Buning uchun Buxoro va Farg'ona neftni qayta ishlash zavodlari yuqori sifatli yoqilg'i ishlab chiqarish bo'yicha modernizatsiya qilinadi.

Ikkinchisi - Toshkent shahrida atmosfera havosi sifatini yaxshilashga qaratilgan chora-tadbirlar dasturi bo'lib, unga ko'ra, kelgusi 5 yilda poytaxtimiz va unga tutash Toshkent viloyati tumanlarida 441 gektar “yashil belbog'” va bog'lar tashkil qilinadi.

Sanitar tozalash ishlarini tartibga solish maqsadida mavjud markaz negizida Chiqindilarni boshqarish va sirkulyar iqtisodiyotni rivojlantirish agentligini tuzish taklif etilmoqda. Sanitar tozalash korxonalarining samaradorlik ko'rsatkichlariga qarab, uchta toifaga ajratgan holda reyting tizimi joriy qilinadi.

Yangi quriladigan, balandligi 12 metrdan yoki umumiy maydoni 500 kvadrat metrdan ortiq bo'lgan binolarni loyihalashtirishda unga tutash hududlarning kamida 25 foizini ko'kalamzorlashtirish talabi qo'yiladi. Shuningdek, atrof-muhitga zarari ko'p sanoat korxonalari ham “yashil belbog'”lar barpo etish majburiyatini oladi.

Ekologik huquqqbuzarliklarning oldini olish, bu borada jamoatchilik nazoratini kuchaytirish masalalariga ham e'tibor qaratildi. Faol va jonkuyar insonlarni rag'batlantirish maqsadida “O'zbekiston Respublikasida xizmat ko'rsatgan ekolog” faxriy unvonini ta'sis etish taklifi bildirildi.

Atrof-muhit bilan bog'liq bo'lgan masalalar bo'yicha qarorlar qabul qilish jarayonida jamoatchilikning axborot olish imkoniyati, ishtiroki va odil sudlovga erishishish imkoniyati to'g'risidagi Orxus konvensiyasiga qo'shilish masalasi ko'rib chiqildi.

Ma'muriy javobgarlik to'g'risidagi kodeksga qurilish maydonlarida atmosfera havosini muhofaza qilish talablariga rioya qilmaslik bo'yicha modda kiritish maqsadga muvofiqligi aytildi. Shuningdek, daraxtlarni kesish va qasddan quritish, daryo o'zanlaridan noqonuniy qum-shag'al qazib olish, chiqindilarni belgilanmagan joylarga tashlash kabilar uchun jarimalarni oshirish va qat'iylashtirish choralari ko'riladi.

Vazirlar Mahkamasining 2019-yil 27-maydagi qarori bilan respublikada ekologik markirovkalash tizimi joriy etilgan. Endi ISO 14024 xalqaro standartiga muvofiq, “Yashil belgi” nomi ostida mahsulot va xizmatlarni ixtiyoriy ekologik markirovkalash yo'lga qo'yiladi. 2 ming 336 ta xo'jalik yurituvchi subyektlarda avtomatik monitoring stansiyalari, chang-gaz tozalash uskunalari va suv tozalash inshootlarini o'rnatish bo'yicha tarmoq jadvallari tasdiqlanadi.

Ekologiya vazirligi huzurida jamoatchilik nazorati ostida boshqariladigan va yuridik shaxs maqomiga ega bo'lmagan “Yashil xayriya jamg'armasi” tashkil etiladi. Elektron xarid ilovalarida “Yashil to'lov” ixtiyoriy ustama turi ochiladi.

Sohadagi yana bir muammo yovvoyi hayvonlarni asrash bilan bog'liq. Ularni xonadonlarda boqish huquqiy jihatdan tartibga solinmagan. Shu bois endi yovvoyi hayvonlarni uy sharoitida, sirk va shapitolarda saqlash hamda tomoshalarda foydalanish taqiqlanadi. Jismoniy shaxslar ixtiyoridagi hamda sirklarda saqlanuvchi bunday jonzotlar hayvonot bog'laridagi reabilitatsiya markazlariga, okeanariumlar, pitomnik va ilmiy-tadqiqot muassasalariga topshirilishi belgilanmoqda.

Taqdimotda tibbiy turizmni rivojlantirish chora-tadbirlari ham muhokama qilindi.

Shu maqsadda O'zbekiston bu yo'nalishda Markaziy Osiyoning “chorlovchi nuqtasi” sifatida targ'ib qilinadi. “Tibbiy xizmatlar mehmondo'stligi” dasturi amalga oshiriladi. Tibbiy va sog'lomlashtirish muassasalari faoliyati rag'batlantirilib, ularning yagona reyestri ishga tushiriladi. Mehmonxonalar kabi yulduzli sanatoriylar faoliyati yo'lga qo'yiladi.

Davlatimiz rahbari bular bo'yicha hujjat loyihalarini puxta ishlab chiqish va ijrosini samarali tashkil etish bo'yicha ko'rsatmalar berdi.

The year 2025 marked a stage of qualitative renewal and consolidation of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy positions. Amid a complex and ambiguous international environment characterized by rising geopolitical tensions, the transformation of global institutions, and intensifying competition for resources and markets, Uzbekistan, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, consistently pursued an open, pragmatic, active, and proactive foreign policy. This approach not only helped preserve the stability of external relations but also infused them with new substantive content aligned with the country’s long-term interests and domestic development priorities.

As emphasized by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in his Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people on December 26, 2025, “in recent times the country has been becoming an international platform for dialogue where global issues are discussed.”

As an integral part of the large-scale socio-economic reforms underway in the country, the diplomatic strategy of New Uzbekistan was aimed at creating favorable external conditions for economic modernization, attracting foreign investment and tourists, expanding export potential, and strengthening humanitarian and cultural ties. The foundations of this foreign policy course remained the principles of openness, equal partnership, mutual respect, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, and strict adherence to international law.

Political dialogue at the highest level with prominent world leaders has reached a new stage and become regular. New agreements have been reached with the leaders of the United States, China, Russia, France, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia and a number of Arab states. In 2025, the number of bilateral meetings at the level of heads of state and government exceeded 55, which indicates a growth in mutual trust with foreign partners.

A similar trend was observed in the development of intensive high-level political dialogue. Throughout the year, high-level Uzbek delegations carried out 172 visits to 93 countries, covering virtually all key regions of the world. Representatives of ministries, agencies, and regional administrations also played a substantial role in shaping the international agenda. With the support of diplomatic missions, they undertook around 300 official visits to more than 50 countries, bringing foreign relations to a more practical and results-oriented level.

Acting as an active host, Uzbekistan has become one of the centers of world diplomacy. This is clearly demonstrated by the fact that the country has hosted forums, assemblies and conferences of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the United Nations Civil Service, the UNESCO General Conference, the International Climate Conference, the Tashkent Summit of the countries of the region and a number of other major events. Our country has hosted over 120 high-level foreign delegations, as well as about 300 delegations from regional authorities of foreign states. These contacts have contributed to the development of interregional cooperation, the establishment of direct links between business circles and the expansion of the legal framework for cooperation.

Central Asia traditionally occupies a special place in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy strategy. In 2025, this priority received further institutional development. Uzbekistan chaired the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, with the chairmanship implemented for the first time on the basis of a comprehensive standalone program. Its agenda covered economic cooperation, transport connectivity, environmental issues, rational use of water resources, and humanitarian exchanges.

The organization of more than twenty major events and the holding in Tashkent of a summit of Central Asian leaders—historic in its outcomes and chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev—became the culmination of regional diplomacy for the year. These developments confirmed the region’s aspiration to deepen mutual trust and pursue joint development.

Today, we can say with confidence that our vast region is becoming a unified, fully-fledged player in world politics for the first time in a long time. This is evidenced by the growing attention of the international community and the changed perception of the region on the global stage. A striking example is the development of the ‘Central Asia Plus’ formats, which in 2025 were filled with new concrete practical content. The summits with the European Union, China, Russia, the United States and Japan clearly demonstrated the region's increased role in global politics and strengthened its position as an area of stability, predictability and mutually beneficial cooperation.

An important direction of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy in 2025 was the further expansion of its geographical reach. Alongside traditional partners in the CIS, Europe, and Asia, contacts with countries in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South America were intensified. The first-ever bilateral high-level engagements with Slovakia, Serbia, Jordan, Paraguay, and several other states testified to the consistent expansion of Uzbekistan’s international presence. As a result, the total number of countries with which Uzbekistan maintains diplomatic relations reached 165.

Against this backdrop, several events of strategic significance had a profound impact on Uzbekistan’s foreign policy positioning in 2025. The signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the European Union and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Brussels marked a transition in relations with the EU to a qualitatively new level. The agreement established a solid legal framework for deepening political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, attracting investment, and developing cooperation in sustainable development, the green economy, and digitalization, while also reflecting the high assessment by European partners of Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms.

Continuing its course toward expanding and deepening engagement with key global centers of power, Uzbekistan steadily developed relations with the United States. A landmark event in this regard was the successful outcome of the “C5+1” summit held in Washington in November, which brought together the leaders of the United States and the Central Asian states. Uzbekistan’s role in this format has been widely recognized by international experts and policymakers as that of a key initiator of regional cooperation and a responsible partner of the United States in the areas of sustainable development, security, economic interaction, and humanitarian ties.

Equally significant was the participation of the President of Uzbekistan in the session of the United Nations General Assembly. The head of state’s address from the UN’s main international platform reaffirmed the country’s commitment to multilateralism, peaceful dialogue, and the collective search for solutions to pressing global challenges.

In 2025, four resolutions initiated by Uzbekistan were adopted by the UN General Assembly, reflecting the country’s priorities in sustainable development, regional security, and humanitarian cooperation. In addition, Uzbekistan was elected to several authoritative UN bodies, underscoring the growing trust of the international community.

A historic event of the year was the holding of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand. For the first time in forty years, this forum took place outside Paris, representing unprecedented recognition of Uzbekistan’s cultural, historical, and civilization significance. For several days, Samarkand became a global platform for dialogue on education, science, and culture, strengthening the humanitarian dimension of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy and its image as a center of intercivilizational interaction.

Alongside active political diplomacy, economic diplomacy developed dynamically in 2025, firmly establishing itself as one of the key instruments of the country’s foreign policy. Systematic work within the framework of “Ministry of Foreign Affairs — diplomatic missions — sectoral agencies — regions” yielded tangible results in attracting foreign investment and expanding external economic ties. Over the first ten months of the year, USD 34.4 billion in foreign investment was mobilized with the support of diplomatic missions.

The effectiveness of Uzbekistan’s economic policy received high praise from international financial institutions and rating agencies. In 2025, Fitch Ratings and S&P upgraded the country’s sovereign credit rating from “BB-” to “BB,” while Moody’s revised its outlook from “stable” to “positive,” reflecting growing confidence in the economy and the sustainability of ongoing reforms.

The intensification of foreign economic activity also contributed to the growth of trade indicators. Over the first eleven months of 2025, Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover reached USD 72.7 billion, with exports amounting to USD 30.8 billion—an increase of USD 6.6 billion compared to the same period of the previous year. A significant reduction in the trade deficit was the result of targeted efforts by diplomatic missions to diversify markets and promote domestic products abroad.

Tourism, as an element of “soft power,” played an important role in shaping Uzbekistan’s positive international image in 2025. Over eleven months, the country was visited by 10.7 million foreign tourists, with more than one million foreign visitors welcomed each month on average. Active participation in international exhibitions, large-scale promotional events abroad, and the hosting in Tashkent of the first “Central Asia–European Union” Tourism Forum helped strengthen Uzbekistan’s position as one of the most promising tourist destinations in the region.

Considerable attention was also devoted to protecting the rights and interests of Uzbek citizens abroad, an important humanitarian dimension of foreign policy. From January to September 2025, more than 385,000 consular actions were carried out, including the return of unlawfully confiscated documents and the recovery of unpaid wages, alongside the implementation of programs facilitating the return of compatriots to their homeland. In parallel, digital consular services were improved, the geography of visa-free and simplified entry for Uzbek citizens was expanded, and cooperation with diaspora communities was strengthened.

In summary, the outcomes of 2025 clearly demonstrate that Uzbekistan’s foreign policy has reached a high level of maturity, consistency, and effectiveness. The country not only strengthened its positions on the international stage but also successfully leveraged diplomatic instruments to support domestic development, enhance investment attractiveness, and improve the quality of life of its citizens. Uzbekistan concludes the year with an expanded network of partnerships, a robust legal and contractual framework, and a clear vision for the future—remaining open to the world and looking ahead with confidence and optimism.

Dunyo IA

Over the past eight years, relations between Uzbekistan and Türkiye have undergone a profound qualitative transformation, evolving from traditionally friendly ties into a full-fledged strategic partnership with a strong economic, investment, and industrial dimension. While the period prior to 2017 was largely characterized by inertia, the launch of large-scale reforms in Uzbekistan marked a decisive shift in bilateral relations toward practical cooperation focused on trade, investment, and joint manufacturing.

A key role in this transformation has been played by the political will and personal engagement of the leaders of both countries - President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Regular high-level dialogue has provided Uzbek-Turkish relations with stability, strategic coherence, and a long-term economic horizon.

Political Foundations as a Driver of Economic Convergence

Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1992; however, a turning point came in October 2017 with the signing of the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership in Ankara. This step laid a solid institutional foundation for the rapid expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation.

In 2018, the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council was established in Tashkent under the co-chairmanship of the two presidents. Its meetings in 2020, 2022, and 2024 became key platforms for aligning priorities in trade, investment, industry, transport, and interregional cooperation. Over time, political dialogue has evolved from declarative engagement into a practical instrument supporting concrete economic initiatives and project-based decisions.

Trade: Scale, Structure and Institutional Incentives

Türkiye is firmly among Uzbekistan’s largest trading partners. In 2020, bilateral trade turnover amounted to USD 2.1 billion, reaching USD 3.02 billion by the end of 2025.

Uzbekistan’s exports to Türkiye are predominantly industrial in nature, comprising non-ferrous metals and metal products, textiles, services, plastics, and food products. Imports from Türkiye consist mainly of mechanical and electrical equipment, chemical products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and metal structures, reflecting Türkiye’s role as a key source of industrial technologies and equipment.

A significant qualitative step forward was the signing of the Preferential Trade Agreement in 2022, which entered into force in 2023. In 2025, the parties began expanding the list of goods covered by preferential treatment, creating additional incentives for trade diversification and deeper industrial cooperation.

Investment Cooperation: From Presence to Systemic Engagement

Investment cooperation is one of the most dynamically developing areas of bilateral relations. In 2024, the volume of Turkish investments utilized in Uzbekistan reached USD 2.2 billion, while in January-November 2025 it increased to USD 3.2 billion. A total of 2,137 enterprises with Turkish capital operate in Uzbekistan, including 496 joint ventures and 1,641 wholly Turkish-owned companies.

These enterprises are active in textiles and furniture manufacturing, construction, trade, transport, logistics, and services. Importantly, a substantial share of them is export-oriented, strengthening Uzbekistan’s integration into regional and global value chains.

Industrial Cooperation: Transition to Joint Manufacturing

In recent years, Uzbek–Turkish cooperation has increasingly shifted from traditional trade toward industrial partnership. Turkish companies are actively involved in establishing production facilities across Uzbekistan’s regions, introducing modern technologies, management standards, and export-oriented business models.

Regular meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, accompanied by business forums, result in detailed roadmaps comprising dozens of measures covering industry, energy, logistics, and regional projects. This approach forms a solid foundation for sustainable industrial partnership.

Interregional Cooperation: Localized Economic Engagement

Active interregional interaction has become an essential element of the new partnership model. In 2024, targeted visits by delegations from the Fergana, Khorezm, Namangan, Navoi, Samarkand, and Jizzakh regions, as well as the city of Tashkent, were held to various regions of Türkiye.

This format enables a shift from framework agreements to concrete investment projects, creates direct B2B and B2G communication channels, and contributes to a more decentralized and resilient architecture of cooperation.

Transport and Logistics as Pillars of Trade and Investment

The expansion of trade and industrial cooperation naturally increases the importance of transport and logistics interaction. Türkiye is viewed by Uzbekistan as a key logistical gateway to European and Mediterranean markets, while Uzbekistan is becoming an important hub for Türkiye’s access to Central Asia.

The development of rail and road transport, along with intensive air connectivity - up to 97 regular flights per week across eight routes - enhances business mobility, supports investment activity, and strengthens economic integration between the two countries.

Prospective Areas of Cooperation: Converging Interests

The established economic core of Uzbek–Turkish relations provides a basis for a new phase of cooperation, shifting from quantitative growth to deeper structural and technological integration.

Localization and joint development of industrial production remain key convergence points. Uzbekistan offers industrial zones, resources, and a growing domestic market, while Türkiye contributes technology, design, managerial expertise, and access to external markets.

The textile and light industry is evolving toward the production of finished branded goods and contract manufacturing for international retail chains. Mechanical engineering and electrical equipment sectors are creating prerequisites for the establishment of assembly and production facilities. The agro-industrial complex offers opportunities for deep processing and joint exports of food products.

A separate strategic direction is the joint entry into third-country markets, where the combination of Uzbekistan’s production potential and Türkiye’s trade and logistics infrastructure creates substantial competitive advantages.

Overall, over the past eight years Uzbekistan and Türkiye have built a resilient model of strategic partnership based on trade, investment, industrial cooperation, interregional engagement, and transport connectivity. Trade turnover exceeding USD 3 billion, multi-billion-dollar investments, and thousands of joint enterprises testify to the maturity and long-term nature of bilateral relations.

Mashrab Mamirov,

On 4-6 June, Tashkent will host the second meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia under the theme: “Peace, Connectivity, and Resilience: Shaping the Foundation for Shared Prosperity”.

Established in 2025 as a permanent international platform, the Termez Dialogue is intended to facilitate the practical advancement of the initiative put forward by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed at strengthening interconnectivity between Central and South Asia. This initiative has received broad international support and was enshrined in a special resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 11 July 2022.

The current meeting is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the Head of our State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan in partnership with the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

The forum will bring together more than 150 representatives of political, business, and expert communities, as well as international and regional organizations from Central and South Asia, Europe, the CIS, the South Caucasus, the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, and the Americas. This underscores the inclusive and open nature of the Termez Dialogue as a comprehensive international platform for developing joint approaches to strengthening connectivity, trust, and sustainable development across the Eurasian space.

Partners and participants of the Dialogue include the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), as well as leading think tanks, research institutions, and peacebuilding organizations, including the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the Center for Progressive Reforms, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the Berghof Foundation, PeaceNexus, Search for Common Ground, Georgetown University, and other organizations.

The forum programme includes a high-level plenary session on the theme: “Political Dialogue and Economic Connectivity as Pillars of Sustainable Development in the CICA Region”, as well as two special thematic sessions dedicated to joint climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability, and to deepening cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

The event will also feature expert and academic discussions, as well as side events devoted to regional security, expanding engagement with Afghanistan, including the development of the Afghanistan–Uzbekistan–Pakistan dialogue, strengthening transport and logistics connectivity, fostering regional trust, and advancing a common sustainable development agenda. Particular attention will be paid to issues of Central Asian regional identity, as well as to expanding youth cooperation in the fields of peacebuilding and sustainable development.

The forum programme also envisages off-site sessions. Participants of the Dialogue are scheduled to visit Termez, where they will have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the modern trade, economic, and logistics infrastructure supporting cooperation with South Asian countries, including the operations of the Airitom International Trade Center and the international logistics hub Termez Cargo Center, as well as experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the ancient city.

The third day of the Dialogue will take place in Samarkand, where delegates will explore the unique civilizational heritage of the Samarkand Renaissance, which historically served as a bridge between East and West, North and South.

The meeting is expected to conclude with the adoption of a Communiqué intended to reaffirm the commitment to strengthening trust, advancing constructive cooperation, and promoting sustainable connectivity between Central and South Asia.

Dunyo IA

On February 21, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Shavkat Mirziyoyev a meeting was held on strengthening military security and defense capacity of the state.

The meeting was attended by members of the Security Council, heads of ministries and departments within the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan, commanders of military districts, as well as the chairmen of the Jokargy Kenges and the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, regional and Tashkent city khokims, as well as responsible persons of local authorities in the videoconference format.

At the beginning of the meeting, the adopted measures on strengthening the country's defense capacity and their results were reviewed, certain shortcomings in this work were pointed out.

It was noted that the national army is being equipped with modern weapons and equipment, the level of combat and moral-psychological training of servicemen has significantly increased. 

In view of international experience and the analyses carried out, new combat units have been formed to prevent and eliminate internal and external threats, and the organizational structure of the troops has been optimized.

It was underlined that the creation of a new system of modernization and modern equipment of the army continues - the defense industry is developing and additional enterprises have been set up. The Armed Forces of Uzbekistan have established bilateral military cooperation with more than 20 countries and successfully participated in more than 400 joint exercises.

The infrastructure of higher military schools within the Armed Forces has been completely modernized, their curricula and methodology brought in line with modern requirements. 

The social and legal protection of servicemen and their families has been strengthened. In particular, about 30,000 families have been provided with housing, and more than 2,000 children of servicemen have received benefits when enrolling in higher educational institutions. 

Military administrative sectors, government and public organizations are involved in creating favourable conditions for homeland defenders. Attention to the issues of educating young people in the spirit of patriotism and initial pre-conscription military training in schools is being intensified.

The meeting identified priority tasks for 2025 and subsequent years. 

The need to consider contemporary armed conflicts, existing threats to national security and the peculiarities of the theater of military operations when planning for the further development of the army was emphasized. 

It has been indicated that artificial intelligence, robotic systems, missiles, drones and means of countering them are widely used in today's regional conflicts. In this connection, it has been instructed to create new units in the armed forces to combat drones, use robotic equipment, air defense, and cyber structures utilizing artificial intelligence technologies.

The Supreme Commander-in-Chief emphasized the need to further improve the combat readiness of the army, raise the level of combat training, create a unified automated troop management system using artificial intelligence technologies, as well as introduce dual training in military education and training of military personnel. 

Priority tasks have been set to improve the activities of the “Corps of Master Sergeants”, which is the backbone of the army, further develop the defense industry, provide social support to servicemen and their families, educate young people in the spirit of patriotism and involve them in military sports.

Reports and proposals by the Minister of Defense, commanders of military districts and other responsible persons were heard at the meeting.