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Uzbekistan and Georgia: From historical friendship to a strategic partnership
📅 02.07.2026
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a state visit to Georgia on July 2-3
Bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Georgia are underpinned by profound, centuries-old historical ties, and are undergoing a systematic, dynamic evolution across the political, economic, cultural and humanitarian spectrums in the contemporary era.
Two nations are bound not only by ancient trade routes but also by a comprehensive cooperation firmly anchored in mutual respect, trust, and a profound alignment of strategic interests. In recent years, high-level exchanges, substantial expansion of trade and economic ties and intensification of cultural exchange have successfully elevated bilateral relations to a qualitatively new and historic milestone.
Diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Georgia were established on August 19, 1994. Since then, the political dialogue between the two sovereign states has consistently and progressively advanced. In September 1995, Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation was signed, serving as the foundational legal instrument underpinning bilateral relations.
In recent years, regular engagements between Heads of State and Government have substantially enhanced the foundation of bilateral political trust. In particular, between 2022 and 2025, a profound impetus was imparted to the expansion of comprehensive cooperation through reciprocal official visits by the Prime Ministers of both nations, high-level presidential dialogues, sessions of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission and institutionalized political consultations between the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs.
On March 5th, 2025, President of Uzbekistan received a high-level delegation led by the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, who arrived in our country on an official visit. During the meeting, the sides comprehensively reviewed matters pertaining to the further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation across the trade, economic, investment, transport, logistics, tourism and cultural dimensions. It was noted with profound satisfaction that institutional contacts at the parliamentary and governmental levels of the two nations have intensified significantly.
Inter-parliamentary cooperation is likewise undergoing a consistent and progressive evolution. Concurrently, an inter-parliamentary cooperation group dedicated to fostering relations with the Parliament of Georgia functions actively within the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis. Furthermore, representatives of Georgia routinely participate as international observers in the presidential and parliamentary elections conducted within Uzbekistan.
A free trade regime operates between the two nations, serving as a catalyst for the sustained growth of reciprocal trade turnover. Over the past five years, the volume of bilateral trade has increased two and a half times, accompanied by a rise in the number of joint ventures and a substantial expansion in the volume of cargo transportation.
Furthermore, a digital bank established with the participation of Georgian investors is operating successfully within Uzbekistan.
Furthermore, in June 2025, “Made in Uzbekistan” National Exhibition was organized in Tbilisi, featuring the active participation of over one hundred premier Uzbek enterprises representing the textile, electrical engineering, pharmaceutical, food processing, mechanical engineering and other pivotal industrial sectors.
Matters of transit, transport, and logistical interaction occupy a distinctive place within the architecture of bilateral cooperation. In June of the current year, the official opening ceremony of the modernized Baku - Tbilisi - Kars railway was hosted in the city of Akhalkalaki. In the strategic perspective, the seamless integration of this transport corridor with the construction of the China - Kyrgyzstan - Uzbekistan railway will substantively reinforce the comprehensive transit potential of our respective nations.
Cultural cooperation between Uzbekistan and Georgia is likewise anchored in rich, enduring traditions. Cinema days, cultural festivals, as well as institutional events in the spheres of science and education, are organized on a regular basis.
In the preceding year, Days of Uzbek Culture and Cinema were successfully hosted in Tbilisi, while in the current year, Days of Georgian Culture were celebrated with grand success in Tashkent.
One of the enduring symbols of the profound bonds of friendship uniting the two sovereign states is a central avenue in the capital of Uzbekistan, which proudly bears the name of the eminent Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, alongside a monument erected in his honor.
Concurrently, in 2025, by the decree of the Tbilisi City Assembly, a prominent central park in the capital of Georgia was officially named after the great Uzbek poet and thinker Alisher Navoi. This monumental gesture stands as a vivid testament to the deep, reciprocal reverence that both nations possess for each other's rich history and cultural heritage.
Today, direct air services operating on the Tashkent - Tbilisi and Tashkent - Batumi routes serve to further catalyze the robust expansion of tourism and business linkages between the two nations.
At present, approximately four thousand citizens of Georgian heritage reside in Uzbekistan. Furthermore, since 1994, the Georgian Cultural Center “Megobroba” ("Friendship") has successfully functioned in Tashkent, contributing significantly to the preservation and promotion of their distinct cultural identity.
It should be noted that the relations between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Georgia trace their roots back to deep antiquity. Ancient authors historically documented the existence of trade linkages between Khwarazm and Colchis, which were actively maintained along Amu Darya river and across the Caspian Sea.
Following the establishment of the Great Silk Road, particularly from the 6th century onward, one of the most critical commercial routes connecting the Caucasus and the Byzantine Empire traversed through Samarkand, Bukhara and Khwarazm. Furthermore, in Shota Rustaveli’s renowned 12th-century epic poem, Knight in the Panther's Skin, explicit reference is made to Khwarazm. This compellingly demonstrates that deep-seated historical, cultural and trade linkages actively existed between Georgia and Central Asia as early as the Middle Ages.
In subsequent periods, representatives of the Georgian people likewise took an active part in the public life of Uzbekistan, among whom were prominent entrepreneurs, architects, scientists, cultural figures and medical professionals. Distinct symbols of the enduring friendship between the two nations include the entrepreneur George Tsintsadze, under whose initiative the renowned “Colosseum” Theater was constructed in Tashkent, as well as Academician Edvard Rtveladze, who rendered an monumental contribution to the development of archaeological science in Uzbekistan.
The scientific heritage of Academician Edvard Rtveladze merits profound and distinctive attention. Hundreds of his scholarly works dedicated to the comprehensive history of Uzbekistan and the thorough examination of Great Silk Road, alongside groundbreaking research that successfully established the precise location of the ancient settlement in the Surkhandarya region, have garnered widespread international acclaim and constitute a monumental contribution to global historical science.
In conclusion, it should be emphasized that amidst the complexities of the contemporary international landscape, relations between Uzbekistan and Georgia continue to systematically evolve on the basis of unwavering mutual trust, open dialogue, and pragmatic cooperation. The steadfast political will of the Leaders of the two states, the dynamic expansion of economic and humanitarian linkages, and a rich historical heritage serve as a solid foundation for the further reinforcement of the mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations.
There is no doubt that such large-scale interaction, regular engagements, and constructive dialogue will continue to facilitate the expansion of comprehensive cooperation in the fields of trade, transport, investments, tourism, culture, and other domains, thereby forging a reliable foundation for the further progressive development of Uzbek-Georgian relations.
Dunyo IA
Tashkent brings together leaders and key deals in Polymer Market of Central Asia
📅 11.09.2026
September 22-24th, 2026, traditional Plastex Uzbekistan 2026 exhibition will be held in the capital of Uzbekistan
More than 250 companies and brands from Austria, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, China, Latvia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Uzbekistan have confirmed their participation in the exhibition.
Organizers: international exhibition company Iteca Exhibitions and its partner ICA Eurasia Group.
Every autumn, Plastex Uzbekistan brings together equipment manufacturers, raw material suppliers, processors, engineers and executives from the polymer industry in Tashkent. As the only specialized plastics industry exhibition in Uzbekistan, it annually showcases the latest developments in the chemical and polymer sectors.
Among the new exhibitors are companies that will present their solutions to Uzbek industry professionals for the first time. “Koenig & Bauer Kammann GmbH (Germany)” has been a leading manufacturer of fully automated screen-printing machines for the decoration of plastic containers for more than 70 years. “Definitive Innovation (Italy)” is a reliable partner in advanced solutions for dosing, mixing, filtration, storage, pneumatic conveying and industrial automation technologies. “PLAS MEC S.R.L. (Italy)” enjoys worldwide recognition as a leading manufacturer of mixing systems for PVC, plastics, masterbatches, powder coatings, engineering plastics and other high-quality materials. “TERMOKAR MAKİNA (Türkiye)” offers highly efficient chillers and heat-exchange solutions for industries including plastics, rubber, medical, pharmaceutical, food and automotive manufacturing. Local manufacturing will be represented at the exhibition by “NOVOPLAST TPE (Uzbekistan)”, a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomers and products made from them.
Visitors will be able to explore modern equipment for plastics production and processing, polymer raw materials and specialty additives, moulds and dies, auxiliary equipment, as well as solutions for the packaging and recycling industries.
One of the key advantages of Plastex Uzbekistan remains its practical exhibition format. Visitors will have the opportunity to see equipment in operation, receive consultations from company representatives and discuss technical issues directly with manufacturers and suppliers.
Since 2025, Plastex Uzbekistan has been held jointly with “4P Central Asia”, bringing together the printing, packaging, plastics and polymer sectors. This format expands the exhibition and enables industry professionals to explore solutions from several interconnected sectors during a single visit.
Chemical and polymer industry remains one of the priority areas of Uzbekistan’s industrial modernization. Growing polymer production and processing are creating sustained demand for modern equipment, raw materials and technologies. In this context, Plastex Uzbekistan serves as an important B2B platform for international equipment and raw material manufacturers, chambers of commerce and industry associations. It provides an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the current needs of the Uzbek market, assess prospects for localization and exports and establish direct contacts with key industry enterprises.
For official delegations, the exhibition is of practical interest as a tool for assessing the investment and trade potential of the polymer industry - both from the perspective of the Uzbek market and in the context of advanced global technologies showcased at the exhibition by leading international manufacturers.
Dunyo IA
Cities of the Future and the Strategy of New Uzbekista
📅 18.05.2026
The 21st century is increasingly being referred to as the era of cities. Today, urbanization extends far beyond the domestic policies of states. The quality of the urban environment directly influences countries’ investment attractiveness, economic resilience, and ability to adapt to climate challenges. Cities are increasingly becoming platforms for international cooperation, technology exchange, and the promotion of new models of sustainable development. In this era, cities are turning into a new diplomacy, a new economy, and a new form of global influence.
It is under these conditions that the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum is taking place in Baku under the theme “Housing for All: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities.” This representative summit is dedicated to finding solutions to the global housing crisis, which today affects nearly 3 billion people.
It is symbolic that the global discussion on the future of cities is being held in one of the most dynamically transforming cities of Eurasia. Hosting the forum in Azerbaijan reflects the growing importance of the Caspian–Central Asian region as a new center of infrastructural, logistical, and urban development.
Over recent years, this vast region has gradually transformed not only into a major transport hub connecting East and West, but also into a space of large-scale urban transformation.
Baku itself has in recent years become a notable example of modernization in urban infrastructure, transportation systems, and public spaces. Additional significance is attached to Azerbaijan’s policy of restoring and modernizing liberated territories, where particular attention is paid to the concepts of “smart” and “green” cities.
Most cities and countries across Eurasia are changing rapidly. Central Asia is experiencing one of the most significant spatial transformations of recent decades. Population growth, the expansion of urban agglomerations, and increasing pressure on infrastructure require fundamentally new approaches to urban development.
All these processes are unfolding amid intensifying climate challenges. The consequences of the Aral Sea desiccation, water scarcity, and rising temperatures make urban resilience not only an environmental issue, but also a matter of the region’s long-term security.
According to the International Energy Agency, modern buildings consume around 30% of global energy and account for approximately 26% of global emissions. As a result, by the middle of the century more than 1.6 billion urban residents may face water shortages and climate-related risks. Close international cooperation in the sphere of sustainable urban development is becoming an inevitable paradigm.
It is therefore no coincidence that the urban agenda plays a prominent role in Uzbekistan’s development. In recent years, the development of urban environments, infrastructure, and housing construction has become one of the key priorities of the New Uzbekistan strategy. In the country, the construction process is viewed as the foundation for long-term economic growth, sustainability, and quality of life.
The participation of the President of Uzbekistan in the World Urban Forum reflects the country’s aspiration to integrate more actively into global urban policy. Of particular importance is the republic’s participation in the international exhibition Urban Expo, where the “New Tashkent” project, the “Yangi O‘zbekiston” residential complexes, and large-scale reforms in urban planning and housing policy are being presented.
Urbanization has become one of the key pillars of the New Uzbekistan strategy. According to forecasts, the country’s population may increase from 38 million to 50 million people over the next 15 years. Under these conditions, the development of cities, housing, and infrastructure becomes a matter of the state’s strategic future.
In recent years, Uzbekistan has been implementing the largest infrastructure and housing modernization program in the region. According to the Address of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan, over the past nine years the country has constructed 210 million square meters of residential and non-residential facilities. In 2025 alone, multi-apartment residential buildings with a total area of 8.1 million square meters were commissioned, amounting to approximately 135,000 apartments.
Particular attention is being paid to the development of regions and small cities. Uzbekistan is pursuing a more balanced model of urbanization that предусматривает the development not only of the capital, but also of regional centers. An important element of the new urban policy is the environmental agenda. The country is introducing principles of “green” construction, expanding urban greening initiatives, and implementing the nationwide “Clean Air” project aimed at improving air quality.
The main symbol of the new era of urbanization is becoming the “New Tashkent” project — a modern next-generation megapolis with sustainable infrastructure, green areas, digital services, and a modern transport system. At the first stage, the project envisions infrastructure for 600,000 residents, while after full completion the population of New Tashkent may reach 2 million people.
“New Tashkent” demonstrates the country’s development priorities and redefines the very philosophy of the urban environment in Central Asia. The reforms initiated by the Leader of Uzbekistan have already transformed the country’s cities into a factor enhancing the nation’s international competitiveness.
At the forum, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented his own comprehensive vision of what the cities of the future should become under conditions of rapid urbanization, climate challenges, and technological change. Traditionally, the Head of State addressed not only the national agenda, but also pressing issues concerning the global future of the modern urban environment.
One of the key initiatives is the idea of “balanced urbanization,” which implies the harmonious development not only of megacities, but also of small and medium-sized cities. At a time when the world’s largest cities are facing infrastructure overload, housing shortages, and deteriorating environmental conditions, this approach is becoming increasingly relevant.
In essence, this concerns the formation of a fairer and more sustainable model of urban development, where opportunities for comfortable living are created not only in capitals, but also in the regions.
Special attention has also been paid to the digital transformation of the urban environment. In particular, the initiative to establish a network of “smart and safe cities” for the exchange of technologies, advanced solutions, and experience in the fields of artificial intelligence, digital governance, and urban security appears highly relevant.
Against the backdrop of rapid technological advancement, such an initiative appears especially timely and reflects the country’s aspiration to participate more actively in shaping the new global technological agenda.
A separate topic of discussion was the climate resilience of cities. In the context of the intensifying climate crisis, there is a growing demand for promoting the principles of “green” urbanization and expanding environmental standards.
All these proposals are particularly relevant for Central Asia, where issues of water, ecology, and urban sustainability are already becoming matters of the region’s long-term security.
Importantly, today Uzbekistan is not limiting itself merely to discussing global challenges, but is striving to offer its own solutions. The large-scale reforms being implemented in the country, the construction of “New Tashkent,” and the promotion of modern approaches to urban development are gradually shaping a new image of Uzbekistan — a state ready not only to adapt to global changes, but also to participate in shaping the cities of the future.
This is precisely why it is becoming increasingly evident that, in the future, Uzbekistan is ready to become one of the international platforms for seeking constructive solutions on issues of global urbanization, sustainable development, and the formation of a new urban architecture for the 21st century.
In conclusion, it should be noted that the modern world is increasingly entering an era of global competition among cities, infrastructures, and quality of life. It is cities that in the coming decades will determine economic resilience, investment attractiveness, and the technological level of states. Against this backdrop, Central Asia is gradually turning into one of the new spaces of large-scale urban transformation in Eurasia.
By implementing the strategy of New Uzbekistan, our country is already shaping its own model of a modern, sustainable, and people-oriented city of the future. Large-scale reforms, infrastructure development, the promotion of the “green” agenda, and the “New Tashkent” project demonstrate the aspiration not only to adapt to global changes, but also to become one of the centers shaping the new urban architecture of the region.
Author: Guli Nizamova, Leading Research Fellow at the Center for Foreign Policy Studies and International Initiatives
Uzbekistan recognized as the safest of 121 countries worldwide
📅 29.07.2024
TASHKENT, July 28. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan took 1st place in the ranking of the safest countries in the world "Safety Perception Index 2023", which includes 121 countries, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.
According to Uzbektourism, the rating indicates that the level of danger to the life and movement of citizens in Uzbekistan is minimal.
The five safest countries also included the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Norway and Estonia.
Of the Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan took 14th place, Tajikistan – 17th, Kyrgyzstan – 26th.
Guinea, Sierra Leone and Mali took the lowest place in the rating.
The "Safety Perception Index" focuses on five factors: food and water, violent crime, adverse weather conditions, mental health and safety in work settings. These factors serve as an important basis for the formation of an image that will become the basis for the security rating of countries.
The fact that Uzbekistan is in first place in this ranking creates the basis for the unhindered arrival and departure of foreign tourists to our country.
On September 8–10th, Tashkent to gather International Textile Industry Professionals
📅 15.08.2026
The capital of Uzbekistan will host the 17th Central Asian International Textile Machinery Exhibition – CAITME 2026. It will inaugurate the traditional Global Textile Days week.
CAITME is a major event for Central Asia's textile and garment industries and, according to an independent audit, the largest specialist exhibition of its kind in the CIS. The exhibition plays an important role in equipping and uprading the region's textile and garment sector, helping manufacturers increase productivity, adopt advanced technologies and strengthen their competitiveness in the international markets.
This year, the exhibition will bring together 250 companies and brands from 17 countries. Germany will be represented by its National Pavilion, while companies from Austria, India, Italy, China, Turkiye, the USA, Switzerland and other leading textile-producing countries will also take part. Registration of participants is in full swing.
As in previous years, the exhibition will feature recognised global leaders in textile machinery manufacturing and suppliers of advanced technologies from Europe and Asia, including Rieter, Uster, Novibra, SSM, Spindelfabrik Sussen, Toyota, Muratec, Truetzschler, Saurer, Picanol, Santoni, Terrot, Habasit, MHMS, Vandewiele NV, Karl Mayer, Staubli, IRO, Biancalani, Ferraro, Epson, Zimmer Austria, Mario Crosta, Itema, Lafer, Motex Di Modiano Guido, Salvade`, Simet, Dettin, Sclavos, Effe, Mahlo, Lonati, Shima Seiki, Andritz Küsters, Brückner, Carl Schmale, Sossna, Texpa, Thies, Groz-Beckert KG, Kaeser Kompressoren, Schott & Meissner, Textima, Tetas, Temsan, Lakshmi Machine Works, Lakshmi Card Clothing, Precitex, Kansai, Brazzoli, Eliar, Guven Celik, West Global, CTMTC, Hengyi, Leadsfon, Rifa, Yingyang, Baoyu, Dyestar, NF Kimya, Eksoy, Deniz Kimya and many more.
Uzbekistan is represented by leading industry players.
A highlight of the exhibition will be the innovative TextileExpo Uzbekistan Sourcing Hub Project, which will take place on September 9th. For the first time in Uzbekistan, textile manufacturers and buyers from retail chains, factories and specialist companies will be able to hold direct business-to-business negotiations in a digital format using Artificial Intelligence.
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1nBUkXzHeF1F5lU-CGzZOI4CrmzOFfbZD
Dunyo IA
Tashkent
Uzbekistan Pioneers Unique Social Protection System in Central Asia
📅 25.07.2025
Uzbekistan is undergoing a large-scale transformation of its social protection system, aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens and enhancing the effectiveness of social services. A key driver of this process is the national development strategy “Uzbekistan – 2030”, which focuses on the comprehensive and high-quality modernization of the country’s social policy.
In recent years, Uzbekistan has introduced innovative approaches to supporting vulnerable groups, including low-income families, the elderly, persons with disabilities, victims of violence, women in difficult situations, and children deprived of parental care.
Reforms are being implemented both at the legislative level and through specific programs and projects. A significant milestone was the establishment in 2023 of the National Agency for Social Protection (NASP) under the President of Uzbekistan – the only consolidated, ministerial-level body of its kind in the region, responsible for coordinating the implementation of a new generation of social policy.
Unlike neighboring countries, where social functions are divided among several institutions, Uzbekistan has integrated all components of social protection into a single digital system managed by NASP. This has improved coordination, efficiency, accountability, and has led to real improvements in the lives of vulnerable population groups.
In 2021, Uzbekistan ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The country offers a range of benefits to companies and organizations that employ individuals with disabilities. Many institutions, streets, and bus stops across the country are gradually being adapted to accommodate people with disabilities.
A key focus of the reforms is the development of “Inson” Social Services Centers, established in 208 districts and cities across the country. These centers operate on a one-stop-shop model and provide over 100 types of social assistance, including psychological and legal counseling, food assistance, and targeted aid for 12 categories of citizens, such as persons with disabilities, low-income families, and the elderly.
All centers are fully digitized, integrated with state systems, and operate on an individualized support model. Each citizen undergoes a needs assessment and receives a personalized support plan with ongoing guidance through the recovery or reintegration process.
In every makhalla (community unit), social workers are assigned based on a tiered “region–district–makhalla” structure, according to the number of families and individuals in need.
In the second quarter of the year 2025, 1.787 million applications were submitted to “Inson” Centers. Of these, 1.204 million were processed, while 496,200 are under review. The most in-demand services include compensation for gas and electricity costs, child benefits, support for low-income families, and access to health resorts for seniors and persons with disabilities.
The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, enacted by Presidential Decree on September 23, 2024, addresses issues of social orphanhood and care for children deprived of parental care. It focuses on the creation of conditions as close as possible to a family environment and on an individual approach to each child. Accordingly, measures have been developed to place such children in foster care and provide them with social services. In particular, priority is given to preserving the family setting when placing a child in foster care. The main forms of placement are guardianship, custody, or adoption. Placement in a specialized institution is considered only as a measure of last resort.
Children with difficult life situations are temporarily placed in family orphanages within “Inson” Centers before being placed in foster care. Each child is assigned an individualized development plan, with records managed through the “Social Protection” system, which tracks both identified orphans and families willing to foster.
In this way, “Inson” Centers serve as legal representatives for such children, safeguarding their interests, monitoring living conditions, the use of support provided, and ensuring caretakers fulfill their obligations.
During his visit to the “Inson” Social Services Center in Tashkent’s Shaykhantahur district, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized: “This is a place where every persons concerns are taken care of and where they strive to make people happy. Through such a system, social justice and human dignity are established in our society”.
Special attention in Uzbekistan is given to families raising children with disabilities. As part of a public-private partnership, a specialized center “Imkoniyatlar Olami” (“World of Opportunities”) was created to provide services to children from birth to three years of age. Previously, such infants were exclusively under the care of their parents, and were admitted to specialized institutions only from the age of three. Now, if a risk of disability is identified during pregnancy, expectant mothers can receive help and counseling here, which will strengthen the care of the child. Psychological support is also provided.
Starting March 1, 2025, a day care services for children with disabilities aged 3 to 18 began operating under a public-private partnership model. It offers a wide range of services – social, rehabilitative, educational, and more. The initiative by NASP aims to support children’s social adaptation and enables parents, previously unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities, to return to employment.
A pilot project in Tashkent – the private kindergarten “Wunderkind” in the Yashnabad district successfully operates such a day care service, offering pedagogical, social, and rehabilitative care for children with special needs.
Another example is Family-type home No. 1 in the Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It currently houses nine children – seven with various medical conditions (Down syndrome, dysplasia, anemia, heart defects), and two without. Education and care are customized: three attend specialized kindergartens, three go to general kindergartens, and three are home-schooled.
The home emphasizes individualized care, love, and a nurturing environment that replicates family life. Caregivers follow development plans and integration programs tailored to each child’s needs and capabilities.
“Children choose their meals and even help prepare them, fostering responsibility and independence”, one caregiver noted.
Currently, nine such homes operate across Uzbekistan – five in Tashkent, two in Kashkadarya, and two in Samarkand.
In accordance with the Presidential Decree “On measures to expand the scope of social services provided to individuals in need of care”, the “Step Towards an Active Life” program is being implemented. Under this initiative, adults with disabilities or those requiring constant care receive free social services through vouchers. These include home-based care, supervision, assistance with hygiene, meals, and psychological support.
An example of the program’s implementation is a center located in the Nodirabegim makhalla of Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It has capacity for nine people and currently serves seven. The center is staffed by five experienced professionals.
Iroda Khamidova, a primary school teacher at Wunderkind:
“Our special day care center for children with disabilities, designed for nine children, currently serves seven. Two caregivers and an assistant are assigned to them. The center operates five days a week for nine hours a day and includes a psychological service.
Educators focus on building essential skills such as holding a spoon or expressing creativity with a pencil. The center was established under a Presidential initiative to support children with special needs.
Here, we’ve created all necessary conditions, including a psychologist’s office where not only children but also parents receive consultations and moral support. Seeing their child in a safe and attentive environment reassures them”.
Farhod Kamilov, Chief Specialist of NASP’s Department for the Development of Medical and Social Services for Persons with Disabilities:
“From March 1, 2025, we launched a pilot day care service in seven regions of Uzbekistan, including Tashkent.
By October 1, we plan to expand the service nationwide. Agreements with entrepreneurs in all districts have already been signed as part of public-private partnerships.
Currently, the day care program covers 1,200 children. We believe it is essential to raise public awareness about their specific needs.
Territorial NASP offices operate psychological, medical, and pedagogical commissions. They conduct comprehensive assessments of children with special educational needs and recommend the most suitable path – inclusive, special, or day care service.
It is important to understand that day care is not an educational institution; it focuses solely on caregiving and development. The entrepreneur provides 9-hour daily care, allowing parents to work or do other things.
With mutual agreement, it may be extended up to 12 hours, but the child must always return home to their family.
Our main goal is to reduce, or ideally eliminate, the need for residential care institutions. That is why these day care services were created. Our main goal is to reduce or ideally prevent the placement of children in long-term institutional care. It is with this purpose that such day care services have been established”.
Dunyo IA
Central Asia and Azerbaijan: Prospects for a Common Transport Area
📅 21.07.2026
Amid the transformation of global supply chains and rapid geopolitical shifts in the world economy, the formation of sustainable and secure transport corridors connecting Asia and Europe has become particularly crucial. In this context, cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan in the transport and logistics sector is becoming a key factor in ensuring regional trade stability, diversifying transport routes, and deepening economic integration across the Eurasian space.
Central Asia and Azerbaijan are united by a centuries-old history, culture, religion, and shared values. Today, this unified historical and cultural space is also emerging as a geoeconomic region of growing strategic importance. Due to its geographical location, Azerbaijan serves as a bridge connecting Central Asia via the Caspian Sea to the South Caucasus, Turkey, and European countries. In turn, the countries of Central Asia provide Azerbaijan with access to the dynamically growing markets of China and South Asia. This very complementarity creates a solid foundation for long-term cooperation in transport and logistics.
The seventh Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, held on November 15–16, 2025, in Tashkent under the chairmanship of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, was of historic significance for the institutional development of regional cooperation. One of the most important outcomes of the summit was the admission of Azerbaijan as a full-fledged member of this format. This accession, unanimously supported by all heads of state, resulted in the formation of a new "Central Asia and Azerbaijan" cooperation framework.
The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (the Middle Corridor) is central to this cooperation. In recent years, attention to this route has grown steadily: by the end of 2025, the total volume of freight traffic along the Middle Corridor exceeded 4.7 million tons.
This route is particularly significant for Uzbekistan. Over the past five years, the volume of Uzbek freight transported via the Middle Corridor has doubled, reaching 1.3 million tons by the end of 2025. While the share of goods transported along this corridor to and from EU countries was 12% in 2021, this figure rose to 28% by 2025.
To increase the freight volume along the Trans-Caspian Transport Route to 1.5 million tons, the joint Working Group holds regular meetings to discuss measures for expanding capacity and increasing freight traffic across the Caspian Sea, as well as the acquisition of vessels.
At the same time, to enhance the appeal of international transport corridors passing through its territory and to establish alternative transport routes linking Central Asia with the Eurasian transport network, Uzbekistan is implementing a number of strategically important infrastructure projects. The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway construction project, being carried out with the active participation of Uzbekistan, holds a special place among them.
According to expert calculations, this route will form the shortest corridor from China to Europe and the Middle East, reducing the distance by 900 kilometers and cargo delivery times by 7-8 days. It is expected that after the project's launch, cargo traffic along this route, including through the Middle Corridor, will increase sharply.
Pending the completion of the railway, Uzbekistan is developing this corridor by organizing freight transport along the "China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan" route using the existing international highway network.
The international multimodal route "Asia-Pacific Region – China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan – Turkmenistan – Azerbaijan – Georgia – Turkey – Europe" (CASCA+) is being actively developed as an effective mechanism for coordinating cargo flows. In 2025, container shipments along this route reached 6,722 TEU, a 47% increase compared to 2024. The annual provision of tariff preferences of up to 70% by the participating railway administrations contributes to the steady growth in the volume of mutually beneficial transport.
Furthermore, the establishment in 2024 of the "Eurasian Transport Route" association, with the participation of the railway authorities of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and Tajikistan, has created an institutional platform for the prompt removal of logistical barriers along this corridor.
Another promising transport artery is the "Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan" international transport corridor, which shortens the distance from European and CIS countries to Indian Ocean ports by up to 1,000 kilometers compared to existing corridors and creates a new dimension of regional interconnectivity.
The development of this route in harmony with existing transport arteries will lay the groundwork for a new multimodal transport corridor spanning a significant part of the Eurasian region:
"South Asian countries (Pakistan, India) – Afghanistan – Uzbekistan – Kazakhstan – Azerbaijan – Georgia (Black Sea ports) – European Union".
In addition to infrastructure connectivity, digital integration in the transport sector is also consistently advancing between the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. In this respect, the introduction of the e-Permit system, initiated by Uzbekistan, has been of great practical significance. This system allows for the electronic exchange of permits for international road freight. Notably, this system will be launched between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in 2025, which will simplify administrative procedures for carriers, accelerate customs clearance, and reduce human error.
It is noteworthy that the world's first implementation of an electronic permit exchange system occurred in 2021 between Uzbekistan and Turkey. In the following years, this initiative was gradually expanded: the system was implemented with Kazakhstan in 2024, will be with Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan in 2025, and with Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and China in 2026. This demonstrates that Uzbekistan is becoming one of the countries pioneering best practices in digitalizing international transport processes, not only regionally but also on a global scale.
In conclusion, the strategic partnership between the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan in the transport and logistics sector not only connects the regions but also ensures the stability of freight supply chains across the entire Eurasian space. Azerbaijan's full accession to the Consultative Meetings format, the active implementation of major railway projects, the widespread adoption of digital solutions, and the strengthening of institutional mechanisms are creating a solid foundation for a unified transport space. This, in turn, facilitates the seamless integration of the region's countries into global supply chains and further strengthens the positions of Central Asia and the South Caucasus within the international transit system.
Sh. Akhmedov, Leading Specialist at the Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Issues under the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Changing economic priorities of Uzbekistan reshape its engagement with the CIS
📅 22.09.2026
For Uzbekistan, Commonwealth of Independent States primarily represent a set of practical mechanisms, including the free trade regime, mutual recognition of documents and standards, visa-free movement of citizens, and agreements on transit and transportation. These mechanisms have a direct, everyday impact on business operations and household incomes.
Speaking at the CIS Summit in Dushanbe in October 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev described the member states as “our natural partners.” In this context, cooperation within the CIS is not viewed as an alternative to other foreign policy priorities, but rather as one of the pillars of the country’s economic diplomacy.
In 2025, Uzbekistan’s GDP grew by 7.7%, while exports reached $33.8 billion, an increase of 24%. CIS countries accounted for approximately one-third of Uzbekistan’s foreign trade. This share has remained broadly unchanged for several years, despite the rapid expansion of economic ties with other regions.
In October 2024, trade turnover within the Commonwealth was reported to have increased by 16%. By the end of the year, it had grown by a further 11%. In 2025, it reached $27.4 billion, representing an increase of more than 20%.
This stability is driven not by the inertia of established ties, but by rational economic considerations. CIS markets are familiar to Uzbek businesses: standards are broadly comparable, language barriers are limited, logistics networks are well established, and goods enjoy duty-free access. With a combined population of approximately 250 million, the Commonwealth generates sustained demand for fruit and vegetables, textiles, automobiles, electrical equipment, chemicals and services. For companies entering foreign markets for the first time, the CIS represents the least risky destination.
This is precisely why the Commonwealth serves as a launchpad for Uzbek businesses. Having gained export experience in neighbouring countries, companies are better positioned to enter more complex markets. Russia and Kazakhstan remain Uzbekistan’s principal partners within the CIS, followed by Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Belarus. At the same time, China - which has become Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner - Türkiye and the Republic of Korea are also among the country’s top five trading partners, confirming the multi-vector nature of Uzbekistan’s foreign economic policy.
Importantly, Uzbekistan ceased to be a passive participant in the Commonwealth long ago. Since 2017, it has restored its active presence within CIS institutions, joined more than twenty sectoral bodies and signed 24 multilateral agreements.
This policy culminated in Uzbekistan’s first chairmanship of the CIS in 2020. The guiding objective established at the time to “gradually advance cooperation to a qualitatively new level” - has shaped the country’s subsequent engagement within the Commonwealth.
At CIS summits, the President of Uzbekistan has put forward more than one hundred initiatives, most of them designed to address specific barriers. Tashkent has consistently advocated the operation of the free trade area “without exemptions or restrictions,” the expansion of green corridors, the development of e-commerce and broader access to public procurement.
In 2025, the President stressed that “it is important to expand mutual market access in our countries.” He proposed establishing a rapid-response mechanism under the CIS Economic Council to address changes in market conditions and called for the accelerated removal of technical barriers.
This is directly linked to Uzbekistan’s national objective of increasing exports to $67 billion by 2030. Harmonised requirements, digital document exchange, mutual recognition of certificates and faster border clearance can transform geographical proximity into a sustainable competitive advantage for Uzbek goods. This is particularly important for small businesses, for which the cost of administrative procedures often exceeds the tariffs themselves.
The significance of the Commonwealth, however, extends beyond trade flows to include labour migration. Remittances, which amounted to approximately $18.9 billion in 2025, account for a substantial share of household incomes. Their geographical distribution is becoming more diversified: between 2022 and 2025, remittances from Kazakhstan increased by 24.5%, from the United States by 50%, from the Republic of Korea by 2.1 times, from Türkiye by 2.5 times and from the European Union by 2.4 times. As a result, migration-related income is becoming more resilient to fluctuations in individual labour markets.
The quality of this process depends on an effective legal framework. As early as 2020, Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed creating a unified mechanism for recognising migrant workers’ documents and developing a programme for their social and legal protection. The economic rationale is clear: recognised qualifications and transparent employment arrangements increase workers’ earnings and allow them to bring accumulated skills and expertise back into the national economy.
These efforts are complemented by humanitarian cooperation, which helps build the human capital required for future development. In 2025, Uzbekistan initiated a new agreement on the recognition of diplomas and proposed holding a CIS Youth Forum in Khiva, together with the establishment of a Youth Innovation Laboratory. For a country where the average age of the population is approximately 30 and the population increases by around 750,000 people annually, access to educational and professional opportunities has direct economic significance.
The physical connectivity of markets is equally important. Uzbekistan is landlocked and separated from seaports by the territory of at least two countries. Logistics costs therefore have a direct impact on the competitiveness of its exports. Since most traditional transport routes pass through CIS countries, simplifying transit and harmonising customs procedures is not a matter of protocol, but a practical necessity measured in delivery times and production costs.
This issue has been a consistent feature of Tashkent’s proposals since 2020. In 2025, the President proposed establishing information and logistics centres integrated with all modes of transport, called for greater private investment in infrastructure and suggested holding a CIS Conference on Public-Private Partnerships in Transport in Uzbekistan.
The benefits of these measures extend beyond transit revenues. Linking the North–South and East–West corridors and securing access to ports on the Baltic, Black and Caspian seas would diversify transport routes and transform Uzbekistan into a connecting hub between Eurasian markets.
Reliable logistics also attracts warehouses, dry ports and export-oriented production facilities along major transport routes, thereby contributing to the development of the country’s regions.
Energy cooperation also deserves particular attention. CIS countries are connected through shared gas and electricity networks. For an economy with rapidly growing demand, this provides greater energy security and access to infrastructure whose reconstruction from scratch would require enormous investment. Uzbekistan is implementing programmes with its partners in conventional and renewable power generation, including the construction of a nuclear power plant. In 2025, it also proposed a Programme for the Innovative Development of the CIS Energy Sector. Similar considerations apply to food security, as a common market helps mitigate seasonal fluctuations in supply.
The existing foundation creates opportunities for more advanced forms of cooperation. The principal source of future growth lies in moving beyond a predominantly trade-based model towards deeper industrial cooperation, since Uzbekistan’s exports to CIS countries still largely consist of primary processed goods.
The objective of the next stage is to create greater added value within Uzbekistan—that is, to transform the nature of economic relations. Several of Tashkent’s proposals serve this purpose, including a Comprehensive Programme of Industrial Cooperation, the idea of placing joint production at the centre of the Commonwealth’s agenda, measures to encourage mutual investment, and a CIS Innovative Industry Forum to be held alongside INNOPROM. The President of Uzbekistan has noted the existence of “numerous examples of successful industrial cooperation.” The main task now is to replicate these successes on a broader scale.
Several promising areas are already apparent.
First, the agro-industrial sector: deep processing of fruit and vegetables, storage facilities, and cooperation in seed production and veterinary services. Uzbekistan possesses a substantial raw material base, while its partners have processing and packaging technologies that can increase the final value of products.
Second, mechanical engineering, electrical equipment and construction materials. Uzbekistan is interested not so much in importing finished products as in establishing highly localised joint ventures. This format facilitates technology transfer, engineering skills development and job creation—benefits that cannot be achieved through conventional supply arrangements alone. Promising areas include components for transport equipment and agricultural machinery, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and advanced materials.
Third, digital solutions and payment infrastructure capable of reducing the costs of cross-border trade. Following the Artificial Intelligence Forum held in Samarkand in August 2025, Uzbekistan proposed an action plan to deepen cooperation on digitalisation and establish a CIS Venture Platform.
The necessary financial resources are available. According to the CIS Executive Committee, citing UNCTAD data, foreign direct investment inflows into CIS countries amounted to $23.2 billion in 2023, while outward investment reached almost $32.5 billion. To channel these resources into production, Uzbekistan proposed a roadmap to support special economic and industrial zones, along with measures to facilitate industrial cooperation projects. The interregional level is particularly promising, as it allows the practical needs of businesses to be identified more quickly.
It is also important that such projects extend beyond the bilateral dimension. Uzbekistan is located at the heart of Central Asia and maintains well-established ties with all its neighbours. A joint venture based in Uzbekistan gains direct access to a rapidly growing regional market of approximately 85 million people—a compelling argument in favour of localising production in the country.
Such cooperation is becoming a natural driver of the objectives set out in the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy: accelerated industrialisation, export growth and higher household incomes. The Commonwealth remains one of the practical instruments for achieving these goals—not the only one, but one that is operational and well established. As Uzbekistan’s economy becomes more sophisticated, its expectations of the CIS are also evolving—from basic market access to the development of integrated production chains.
This transition represents the principal opportunity for future cooperation. Dynamic economic growth, an expanding domestic market and an active investment policy provide a solid foundation for a new quality of engagement. As President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has emphasised, the decisions being taken should serve “the well-being and prosperity of our countries and peoples.” This remains the key measure of the effectiveness of multilateral partnership.
Alexey Kustov,
Chief Research Fellow
Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies
under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The first meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia to take place in Termez from May 19 to 21
📅 16.05.2025
The first meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, dedicated to the theme "Building a Common Space for Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," will be held in Termez on May 19-21, 2025. This meeting is expected to be attended by representatives of the foreign policy agencies of Central and South Asian countries, which are becoming the focus of world politics, as well as representatives of specialized UN organizations, international and regional organizations such as the CIS, the SCO, the CICA, and leading specialists and experts in relevant fields.
Central and South Asia have long been connected by reliable trade routes and have served as a bridge between the countries of the Middle East, Europe, and China. The peoples of this region share historical and civilizational commonalities, having repeatedly existed within common state associations in the past, as well as within a single political, economic, and humanitarian space. Over many centuries, relations between the two regions have been strengthened by numerous migration flows, intensive trade exchanges, rapid dissemination of scientific ideas, and cultural cross-pollination.
As a result of the spread of Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam in these regions, unique ethnocultural associations formed, which left a deep mark on human history.
The incorporation of the peoples of this region into such states as the Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms, the Turkic Khaganate, Khorasan and Transoxiana, the Ghaznavid, Timurid, and Mughal empires had a great influence on their historical, cultural, and political development. Common customs, traditions, lifestyles, and holidays were formed; spiritual values were created in Persian, Turkish, and Arabic. Medieval cities such as Bukhara, Samarkand, Termez, Balkh, Herat, Ghazni, Agra, and Delhi were shared centers of science.
The mutual competition of colonial powers negatively affected the traditional ties, trade, and cultural exchange of the peoples of Central and South Asia. Trade and economic relations in South Asia changed, and local supply systems, main industries, and economies became dependent on supplies from outside the region. This development weakened the traditional cultural ties between South Asia and Central Asia.
Today, jointly addressing existing problems that threaten peace and stability in the region is one of the important factors in the social, cultural, and economic development of these countries. Therefore, the renewal of their close historical ties is becoming increasingly relevant. Taking the above into account, the Termez Dialogue on the Connectivity between Central and South Asia is being organized.
The location chosen for the dialogue is connected to the geostrategic position of this city, situated at the crossroads of Central and South Asia, or at the intersection of interregional connectivity routes. Termez has long been a center of trade, economy, and crafts, serving as a link between the vast regions of Central and South Asia. Therefore, from a geopolitical perspective, the city can be considered a "natural bridge" connecting Central and South Asia, the most suitable place for bringing the peoples of the region closer together through its historical location and cultural heritage.
Currently, the countries of Central and South Asia represent a territory of global significance, with a population of more than 2 billion people and great educational potential. The region is experiencing high demographic growth, with the majority of the population consisting of young people, and there are enormous opportunities for realizing intellectual potential. While the population of South Asian countries is about 2 billion people, the number of people living in Central Asia is about 82 million, and the population of Central Asian states is growing year by year. The countries exhibit a "disparity in literacy levels." For example, among the leading countries of Central Asia, the average adult literacy rate is 99 percent, while in South Asia it is 74 percent.
One of the pressing problems is the uneven quality of education, insufficient coverage of preschool and higher education, especially among girls and residents of remote areas. In South Asia, youth unemployment remains high, and in some countries, this figure exceeds 40 percent. At the same time, the employment rate of women is one of the lowest in the world. In addition, the infrastructure of educational systems is not sufficiently developed, and the shortage of specialists and teacher qualifications also creates a number of problems.
In this context, cooperation in the field of science and education is becoming increasingly relevant. Scientific cooperation in the context of digitalization and geopolitical instability will allow for maintaining dialogue between academic circles. At the same time, limited academic mobility and weak coordination between scientific communities significantly hinder the development of states' potential in science, innovation, and technology.
In this regard, it is necessary to encourage joint research and innovation work, the organization of scientific and educational internships, experience exchange programs, the development of startups, and the holding of competitions.
The adoption of a joint program of academic and research exchanges under the auspices of UNESCO is becoming relevant. It is also necessary to launch an online platform between universities and research structures of the countries of Central and South Asia.
This will contribute to the creation of a sustainable regional network of scientific diplomacy, the formation of a common agenda in the field of education and technology, and the emergence of a unified scientific space.
The above-mentioned steps will serve as a powerful tool for the development of scientific diplomacy, which will facilitate interaction between the countries of the two regions.
From this point of view, the integration of intellectual resources in Central and South Asia, strengthening cooperation in the field of education, and developing cooperation platforms to improve the quality of education are important for the future of the region. The transformation of demographic potential into human capital is the main condition for sustainable development, economic growth, and a worthy place in global competition for both regions. In this regard, the development of education as one of the priority areas of regional cooperation, the development of partnerships for the exchange of experience and training of personnel in various countries is most relevant.
The countries of the region, in particular India and other South Asian countries, have in recent decades been occupying an increasingly prominent place in the world community in the field of science, technology, and innovation. Information technology, aeronautics, pharmaceutical production, and artificial intelligence are rapidly developing in India. For example, in 2014, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history as the first Asian country to launch an artificial satellite into Mars orbit. In 2023, as part of the "Chandrayaan-3" project, a successful landing on the Moon's surface was achieved. These results demonstrate the country's independent and innovative capabilities in the scientific field.
In the field of information technology, India has become one of the world's largest IT outsourcing centers. Cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai have become major hubs for Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Oracle, and many other multinational corporations. Every year, millions of specialists in technical and technological fields are trained in the country. Among India's higher education institutions are prestigious scientific centers like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Science (IISc), which also rank highly in global ratings. It's worth noting that scientific research in artificial intelligence, bioengineering, quantum computing, and cybersecurity is widespread in the country.
Pakistan is also making progress in science, especially in nuclear energy and military technologies. Centers such as COMSATS University and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) play a crucial role in the country's scientific development. In particular, government programs are being implemented to strengthen international cooperation in IT and cybersecurity.
In Bangladesh, alongside the textile and light industry, information technology is developing rapidly. Based on the "Digital Bangladesh" strategy, the country has widely implemented e-government, digital, and distance learning services. In 2021, over 120 IT parks were established in Bangladesh, demonstrating the country's commitment to digitalizing its economy.
Afghanistan's scientific and technological potential remains limited, and issues related to political stability are hindering its development. Nevertheless, some universities and educational institutions in the country, particularly Kabul University, participate in scientific projects with the support of various international educational organizations.
In this context, developing a joint strategy for digital connectivity between Central and South Asia is crucial. Adopting such a document will create significant opportunities for stimulating trade and investment, improving access to education and healthcare, strengthening regional cooperation, and increasing competitiveness on the global stage.
Coordinating efforts of Central and South Asian countries to widely implement the digital economy will contribute to improving digitalization processes in all spheres of life. Moreover, this will advance the implementation of the SDG initiative to ensure safe Internet access for the population and will open up great opportunities for education and medical services.
Overall, deepening digital connectivity between Central and South Asia will bring significant economic and social benefits to both regions, create a solid foundation for expanding trade, economic, energy, and transport links, and enhance the competitiveness of the region's states on the global arena.
In general, the Termez Dialogue is an important initiative that contributes to elevating the interaction between Central and South Asian states to a new level in the process of today's geopolitical and civilizational transformations. This dialogue, particularly in the fields of education, science, and new technologies, will stimulate, consolidate, and expand the intellectual potential of the two regions. This is because in both regions, the majority of the population consists of young people who show high interest in education, are capable of scientific research, and quickly adapt to digital technologies.
Today, countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have achieved world-class successes in information technology, biotechnology, nuclear physics, medicine, and artificial intelligence, while Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and other Central Asian countries are also taking active measures to update scientific infrastructure, expand international cooperation, and implement modern educational projects. The Termez Dialogue is a unique opportunity to combine this experience and achievements, establish student and scholar exchanges, create joint research centers, and develop startups and innovative platforms in IT and STEM.
This dialogue has great historical significance in ensuring regional stability, creating a foundation for peace, progress, and intellectual development through science and education. The states of Central and South Asia have the potential to become the leading intellectual center in the entire Eurasian space based on the principle of mutual trust and shared future, integration in the spheres of education and science.
Uzbekistan – the land that glorifies peace, tranquility, and stability
📅 10.09.2025
At present, Uzbekistan is entering an entirely new stage of development, which is vividly demonstrated by the comprehensive reforms being carried out in all spheres. Profound transformations in domestic and foreign policy, socio-economic life, cultural and spiritual-educational fields are reflected in the lifestyle of our people.
At the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and based on the unity of the people, the “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy was adopted, serving as a solid legal and practical foundation for national renewal. The reforms implemented under this program create conditions for improving the well-being of citizens and ensuring the sustainable development of the state and society.
In recent years, special attention has been paid in our country to strengthening the atmosphere of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation among various religious confessions, supporting intercultural dialogue, and ensuring peace and harmony, which has been widely recognized by the international community.
It is noteworthy that on 19 September 2017, at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in New York, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward an initiative which found its practical embodiment in the adoption, at the following session of the UN General Assembly in 2018, of a special resolution entitled “Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance”. The draft prepared by Uzbekistan was unanimously approved by all UN member states.
This resolution gained particular significance as it placed education and enlightenment at the forefront as an effective means of countering global threats – extremism and terrorism – especially at a time of growing intolerance and uncompromising attitudes towards representatives of different religions and beliefs.
As a logical continuation of this work, in 2022 the international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” was held with the aim of implementing the principles and provisions of the resolution “Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance”, as well as achieving the goals of the National Human Rights Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, approved in 2020.
The main outcome of this meeting was the adoption of the “Bukhara Declaration,” which supplemented earlier declarations adopted in Marrakesh, Mecca, Jakarta, Potomac and Punta del Este. This document became an important contribution of Uzbekistan to strengthening the ideas of religious tolerance and interethnic harmony at the international level.
It is important that this dialogue has become a regular tradition: on 10–13 September of this year, the second international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” is scheduled to take place in Tashkent and Samarkand.
This forum represents an integral part of the international community’s efforts to ensure freedom of religion and to strengthen interfaith dialogue, as well as a demonstration of Uzbekistan’s readiness to actively promote at the global level its firm adherence to international obligations in the field of human rights and freedoms.
It should be emphasized that while in many parts of the world fundamental rights – to life, education, work, self-realization, and freedom of religion – are being violated, in Uzbekistan representatives of more than 130 nationalities and 16 confessions live peacefully on the basis of tolerance. The ability of people of different faiths to freely and safely perform their religious rites is a key factor of social stability.
Currently, there are 2,373 registered religious organizations in Uzbekistan, of which 2,174 are Islamic and 199 are non-Islamic. Over the past eight years, 130 religious organizations have been registered, including 3 higher and 1 secondary special Islamic educational institutions, 105 mosques and 25 non-Islamic organizations of various confessions.
The legal foundation for these transformations is the Concept of State Policy on Ensuring Freedom of Conscience of Citizens and in the Religious Sphere, adopted by the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. 1037 of 25 February 2025.
The Concept affirms the right to freedom of conscience and the constitutional principle of the secular nature of the state, and defines the goals, objectives, principles and priority directions of state policy in the religious sphere. It was developed on the basis of the rich national-historical experience of statehood and universal values, and is aimed at ensuring a stable environment for the progressive development of Uzbekistan’s multiethnic and multi-confessional society on the basis of democracy, secularism, freedom, equality, social justice and solidarity.
Within a short period, major scientific and educational institutions were established, such as the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, international research centers named after Imam Bukhari, Imam Maturidi, Imam Termizi, Bahauddin Naqshband, the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan, the School of Hadith Studies in Samarkand, and the Mir Arab Higher Madrasa in Bukhara.
These institutions contribute significantly to ensuring a healthy spiritual environment in society, educating the younger generation as modern-minded individuals worthy of their great ancestors, in line with the noble universal idea “Enlightenment against Ignorance”.
If in 2017 the country had only 3 higher (1 Islamic and 2 non-Islamic) and 9 secondary special religious educational institutions, today their number has reached 16, of which 6 are higher institutions.
To further develop this sphere and elevate it to a new stage, a Presidential Decree “On measures to further strengthen guarantees of the right of citizens to freedom of conscience and to bring reforms in the spiritual-educational sphere to a new level” was signed. This document was positively received not only by representatives of the religious-educational sphere, but also by the wider public.
It is also worth noting that in recent years anniversaries and events of non-Islamic confessions have been held at a high level, alongside Islamic ones. These include the 145th (2017) and 150th (2021) anniversaries of the Russian Orthodox Church Diocese of Tashkent and Uzbekistan, the 120th anniversary of the Armenian Apostolic Church (2023), the 25th (2018) and 30th (2023) anniversaries of the Bible Society of Uzbekistan, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah (2017), the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab (2019), and the 100th anniversary of the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha (2022). These events are vivid examples of peace and tolerance in our country.
At the same time, special attention has been paid to enabling believers of various religions to make pilgrimages abroad. In particular, nearly 500,000 citizens have performed Hajj and Umrah, and more than 10,000 people have visited holy sites in Israel, Russia, Georgia, Turkey and other countries.
In conclusion, it should be noted that for thousands of years Uzbekistan has been an integral part of the Great Silk Road, making a worthy contribution to the development of world civilization. Trade, science and cultural centers here have always flourished, while tolerance, hospitality and respect for representatives of different cultures have been key factors of progress.
Today, the traditions and customs of different peoples in Uzbekistan continue to develop in harmony. The consistent policy in the spiritual-educational sphere pursued under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev serves as an important foundation not only for ensuring peace, stability and harmony in our country, but also for their promotion globally.
The broad participation of representatives from different countries in the upcoming second international forum “Dialogue of Declarations” is clear evidence of the high international recognition of Uzbekistan’s state policy in ensuring freedom of religion and interfaith harmony.
Davronbek Maksudov,
First Deputy Chairman
of the Committee on Religious Affairs
of the Republic of Uzbekistan
ACADEMY OF ARTS OF UZBEKISTAN. OPEN CALL
📅 08.07.2024
OPEN CALL
The Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan invites you to participate
at the X Tashkent International Biennale
of Contemporary Art,
which will be held from 14 to 18 October 2024 in the city of Tashkent (Uzbekistan). Can take part in the Biennale artists of various areas of contemporary art and present your work on the topic
“Art and World”.
In addition to the main exhibition, the biennale will host a number of artistic and cultural events, such as exhibitions, lectures and master classes, an international conference, and a tour of the cities of Uzbekistan.
All expenses of foreign participants for their stay (meals, internal transportation, accommodation) in Tashkent, except for flights,
will be covered by the Organizing Committee.
Applications for participation in the Biennale are accepted until August 15, 2024 via Google form:
https://forms.gle/aUEMyfrsyQUsrp7b7
(detailed information is given in the attachment to this letter)
*Organizers have the right to make changes to the event program
*Application requirements
X International Biennale of Contemporary Art
(Tashkent, Uzbekistan, October 14-18, 2024)
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Age: |
No limits |
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Country of residence: |
No limits |
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Field of Art: |
All fields of art, Fine and Contemporary Arts |
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Financial Conditions: |
All expenses of foreign participants for their stay (meals, internal transportation, accommodation) in Tashkent, except for flights, will be covered by the Organizing Committee. |
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Application order: |
Applications for participation in the Biennale are accepted only via Google form: |
Requirements for Art Works
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Executor: |
For participation, ArtWork could have one or more authors |
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Material: |
No limits |
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Selection critiries: |
The works made during the last 2 years should be submitted to the competition. In terms of theme and content, they should correspond to the thematic focus of this Biennale, be executed at a high professional level, be conceptual, and carry innovative processes of contemporary art. |
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The procedure for providing information about creative work to the Organizing Committee: |
1) Detailed information of the Art Work will be provided to the Organizing Committee by filling appropriate graph in the online Google form; 2) All Author’s Art Works should be collected in one PowerPoint presentation file (electronic format). The presentation must include only names and photos of the work. 3) Author’s ArtWorks should be provided from four angles; 4) Photo criteries: -Format: JPEG (JPG) or PDF -Minimum resolution: 2048 × 1080 pixels -Maximum size: 2 MB 5) Received works will be checked by the Organizing Committee, and selected Art Works for Biennale would be provided to the authors. |
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Delivery method to the venue of Biennale : |
1) Applicants from Uzbekistan: transportation of the Art Work to the venue of Biennale and back to destination carried out by the participant itself ; 2) Applicants from other countries: transportation of the Art Work to the venue of Biennale and back to destination must be carried as participants baggage (cost of the baggage should be included to the amount of the ticket) |
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Requirements for the weight of the work(s), already packed (for foreign participants): |
up to 15 kg |
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Requirements for the size of packed work (for foreign participants): |
up to 1 cu.m.
*The cost of baggage is no compensated by the Organizing Committee of Biennale |
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Additional conditions: |
1) Participant is responsible for the quality of packed work and safety of the Art Work before unpacking at the destination in Uzbekistan; 2) Organizers are responsible for safety of the work for the period of Biennale; 3) Organizers are responsible for the quality of packed work and safety of the Art Work after unpacking at the destination after shipping it back to the country of destination. 4) Art works could be sold on a commercial basis after performing in the Biennale, regarding the agreement of each side. |
*The organizers have the right to make amendments
Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan: Environmental cooperation emerges as a key pillar of the strategic partnership
📅 28.07.2026
Today, environmental protection and climate change have become one of the most promising and dynamic areas of strategic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. Both countries have identified the transition to a green economy, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals as key priorities of their national development agendas. Consequently, environmental cooperation between the two countries has expanded steadily in recent years, not only at the bilateral level but also within regional and international frameworks.
Environmental cooperation between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan is based on the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection, signed in Baku on 11 September 2008. To elevate bilateral cooperation to a new qualitative level, the two sides are currently drafting a new intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in the field of environmental protection. The agreement is expected to provide a solid institutional framework for harmonizing the environmental policies of both countries and facilitating the implementation of long-term joint initiatives.
In recent years, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have significantly strengthened cooperation through environmental diplomacy. In December 2023, during a meeting of ministers from the member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), held on the sidelines of COP28 in Dubai, participants discussed the efficient use of natural resources, sustainable development, and the circular economy. The meeting marked an important milestone in advancing dialogue between the environmental authorities of the two countries.
A major step forward in bilateral environmental cooperation came in 2024 during COP29 in Baku. The first-ever meeting of environment ministers from the member states of the Organization of Turkic States was held at the Uzbekistan National Pavilion. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a declaration aimed at strengthening cooperation in the fields of ecology and environmental protection.
During COP29, the Asian Development Bank launched the regional From Glaciers to Farms programme. The initiative is designed to mitigate the impacts of glacier melt across Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Pakistan, promote integrated water resources management, and enhance the resilience of agriculture and social infrastructure. The programme envisages mobilizing USD 3.5 billion in investments over the period 2025–2034.
Environmental cooperation extends well beyond intergovernmental dialogue. During 2023–2024, young environmental activists from Azerbaijan actively participated in the International Eco Camp held in Samarkand. The initiative promotes environmental awareness among young people, facilitates the exchange of experience and strengthens regional cooperation.
In 2024, a delegation from the Press Service of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan visited Uzbekistan to learn about the work of the Press Service of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change. The visit took place within the framework of the First Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Media Forum and contributed to the exchange of best practices in environmental communications.
In 2025, Mukhtar Babayev, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan and President of COP29, was among the first distinguished participants in the international conference "Central Asia in the Face of Global Climate Threats: Solidarity for Shared Prosperity," held in Samarkand. In 2026, a delegation from the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of Uzbekistan participated in a regional seminar organized in Baku by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
According to experts, several promising avenues exist for further deepening environmental cooperation between the two countries.
First, Azerbaijan has accumulated significant experience in air quality monitoring and the development of green infrastructure. Therefore, exchanging expertise in green urban development, improving ambient air quality and environmental monitoring would be mutually beneficial.
Second, expanding joint scientific research through Green University and promoting exchanges of faculty members and young researchers would further strengthen scientific capacity in the field of ecology and sustainable development.
Third, sharing best practices in the management of protected natural areas and national parks would facilitate the introduction of modern approaches to biodiversity conservation.
Fourth, the signing of a new intergovernmental agreement on environmental cooperation, together with the establishment of a joint working group to coordinate its implementation, would provide a systematic framework for further expanding bilateral cooperation.
Fifth, Azerbaijan's accession to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals would significantly strengthen regional cooperation in biodiversity conservation and the protection of migratory routes.
Environmental cooperation between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan is gradually evolving into a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing climate diplomacy, the green economy, environmental education, scientific research and regional initiatives. The anticipated signing of a new intergovernmental agreement, the expansion of scientific cooperation through Green University and the implementation of joint projects in green urban development, air quality monitoring and the management of protected natural areas are expected to elevate bilateral cooperation to a new level.
This partnership will make a meaningful contribution not only to strengthening the environmental security of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, but also to promoting sustainable development across the Turkic world and the wider regions of Central Asia and the South Caucasus.
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