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TERMEZ DIALOGUE: FROM CULTURAL-HUMANITARIAN TIES TO BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL ARCHITECTURE
📅 27.05.2026
The crises observed today in the system of international relations once again testify to the growing need for mutual understanding, unity, and the achievement of common goals for the states of Central and South Asia. In this regard, dialogue platforms that contribute to strengthening mutual understanding and trust are of particular importance. In this context, the Termez Dialogue serves as a platform for developing interregional cooperation. Its first meeting took place on May 19, 2025, aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and elevating cooperation to a new level.
The growing demand for this platform was reflected in the organization of a separate session dedicated to the Termez Dialogue within the framework of the Doha Forum in December 2025. The discussions highlighted the importance of practical approaches to enhancing interregional cooperation.
The current meeting of the Termez Dialogue is aimed at defining a new stage in the development of the platform - the transition from conceptual discussions to defining priority areas and practical mechanisms for realizing the potential of interregional cooperation. During the Termez Dialogue, special emphasis is expected to be placed on strengthening cultural ties.
This is relevant because interdependence must be understood more broadly than just trade, infrastructure, and transport corridors. It includes social, intellectual, and cultural ties that unite the communities of the region. Revisiting this history creates an important conceptual foundation for modern regional cooperation.
It is noteworthy that even in the past, Termez, a city located between the Greco-Bactrian, Kushan kingdoms, and other ancient states where Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islamic traditions emerged and developed as a center of intercultural and religious dialogue, flourished during the Timurid era and became a major center of trade, crafts, and science[1]. Indeed, if we look at our history, the countries of Central Asia and the South Asian region have always developed harmoniously as a single space, closely cooperating in all spheres. The works of the great thinker Abu Rayhan Beruni “India,” Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur “Baburnama” and other historical sources are clear evidence of these close ties.
Furthermore, the following remarks by Muhammad Sobir Turkestani, Deputy Ambassador of Afghanistan to Uzbekistan, deserve attention: “Both Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are located on the land between two rivers, which was once called Mawarannahr.” There are many similarities in our cultures. The cultural heritage of Alisher Navoi is the wealth of the peoples of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. The remains of our ancestor Alisher Navoi are in the Herat region. All the minarets built in Herat during the reign of Sultan Husayn Bayqara stand as a single complex. Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur was buried in Kabul. In a complex called Babur's Garden. There are also large cultural museums in Afghanistan. Our antiquities are kept in our museums in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif.”[2] Of course, the main goal of our efforts today is not to develop these historical ties, but to restore them, and to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between our peoples.
To this end, in recent years, Uzbekistan has been increasingly developing ties with the countries of South Asia.
At the same time, special attention is paid to the development of cultural ties and people-to-people contacts, which contributes to strengthening economic ties and realizing untapped potential.
This approach is relevant given the ineffectiveness of using only military-political means to ensure security. For example, the failure to achieve positive results was once again confirmed by the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in 2021, which was carried out with the help of weapons and military to establish peace and stability on Afghan soil. In this context, Uzbekistan's economic ties with Afghanistan today serve as one of the important factors in establishing peace in the country and restoring its economy.
According to estimates by the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, mutual trade turnover amounted to $653 million in 2021, $688.8 million in 2022, $784.1 million in 2023, and $999.9 million in January-November 2024[3]. Over the past five years, trade turnover has increased 2.5 times, reaching $1.68 billion in 2025, while Uzbekistan's exports amounted to approximately $1.5 billion. The parties set a new medium-term goal to increase trade turnover to $5 billion. Therefore, today Uzbekistan is becoming one of the important investors in Afghanistan. Specifically, according to a $1 billion agreement signed between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, Uzbekistan will participate in the development of the Tuti Maidan gas field in the Jauzjan and Faryab regions for 10 years.
The Termez International Trade Center, established in the Surkhandarya region, plays a very important role in implementing such trade and economic instruments. This shopping center is the first trade zone in Central Asia serving various entrepreneurs, especially Afghan entrepreneurs, who cooperate with Afghanistan. The shopping center features permanent exhibitions and fairs, an Uzbek-Afghan business school, a medical clinic for the treatment and provision of medical care to patients who are citizens of Afghanistan, a hotel, enterprises specializing in the production of precious metal jewelry, a multi-currency system, and other conditions that allow entrepreneurs to trade freely.
According to analytical data, 60% of Uzbekistan's total international transport passes through the transit routes of Central Asian countries and Afghanistan. Uzbekistan's access to seaports through Afghanistan is 2-3 times shorter than the access to the Black and Baltic Seas, and 5 times shorter than the route to the Pacific ports[4]. According to economic analysts, the cost of delivering one container from Central Asia to South Asia through Afghanistan to seaports will decrease from $900 to $286. In addition, transportation time will be reduced from 35 days to 3-5 days. At the same time, export potential will also increase sharply. Improving transport and infrastructure communications and attracting international transit carriers to Central Asia is one of the most important tasks uniting the countries of the region. Its resolution is determined by the need to improve the socio-economic situation in the region.
In conclusion, interdependence is the most important task for the countries of Central and South Asia in terms of ensuring stability and sustainable development. In this sense, the Termez Dialogue, as a prestigious international forum, will be effective in further expanding ties between our regions, opening new horizons for cooperation, and moving confidently along the path of peace and development.
Furthermore, the Termez Dialogue, as a platform for strengthening interregional connectivity and restoring common historical, cultural, and civilizational ties, opens opportunities for the development of new international transport and logistics corridors through Afghanistan. In the current difficult conditions of growing mutual trust and conflict of interests, such a format of cooperation as the Termez Dialogue is of great importance.
Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Foreign policy and international economic relations Deputy Director of the Institute PhD., O. Abdurakhmonov
Eldor Aripov: "Termiz muloqoti Markaziy va Janubiy Osiyo o‘rtasidagi o‘zaro bog‘liqlikni mustahkamlashda muhim ahamiyatga ega". (21.05.2025), https://daryo.uz/2025/05/21/eldor-aripov-termiz-muloqoti-markaziy-va-janubiy-osiyo-ortasidagi-ozaro-bogliqlikni-mustahkamlashda-muhim-ahamiyatga-ega
Afg‘onistonda O‘zbekistonga aloqador madaniy boyliklar kam emas. (07.11.2023). https://xabar.uz/uz/madaniyat/afgonistonda-ozbekistonga-aloqador-madaniy-boyliklar-kam-emas
O‘zbekiston Respublikasi Tashqi savdo aylanmasi. 2024-yil yanvar-noyabr oylari uchun dastlabki ma’lumot // O‘zbekiston Respublikasi huzuridagi Statistika agentligi. – B.4.
Akmalov Sh. O‘zbekiston va Afg‘oniston: o‘tmishdan hozirgacha. Monografiya. – T.: “Zamon poligraf”, 2023. – B. 70.
Uzbekistan–Japan: Expanding the Boundaries of Strategic Partnership
📅 11.12.2025
In December 2025, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay an official visit to Japan and take part in the high-level Central Asia + Japan Dialogue summit.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states on 26 January 1992, the development of Uzbek–Japanese cooperation has been one of the key priorities of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region. Based on mutual respect and trust, Tashkent and Tokyo are today building dynamic, multi-tiered cooperation covering politics, security, the economy, investment, innovation, education, culture, tourism, and interaction within regional formats.
Japan has traditionally been a key strategic partner in modernizing industrial and energy infrastructure, advancing digital transformation, promoting sustainable development, and supporting progress in education, science, culture, and humanitarian exchange.
Bilateral cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is rich and dynamic. A turning point in the development of the dialogue was President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s official visit to Japan in December 2019, which gave a powerful impetus to the implementation of major joint economic, investment, and humanitarian projects and defined the long-term trajectory of bilateral engagement.
On the international stage, Uzbekistan and Japan interact effectively within international organizations and support each other’s positions. Over the years, Uzbekistan has supported Japan’s candidacy to UN bodies more than 40 times, while Tokyo has co-sponsored a number of UN General Assembly resolutions initiated by Uzbekistan, including resolutions on the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone, education and religious tolerance, youth support, and the role of parliaments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The strategic nature of bilateral relations is also reflected in inter-parliamentary cooperation. Friendship groups operate within both national parliaments, regular meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Forum are held, mutual visits take place, and online consultations and negotiations are conducted.
Cooperation between the foreign ministries is likewise intensive. Since 2002, 19 rounds of political consultations have been held between the foreign ministries of the two countries.
A significant milestone in this regard was the first Strategic Dialogue between the Foreign Ministers of Uzbekistan and Japan, held on 25 August 2025 in Tashkent. This new format underscored the long-term nature of bilateral engagement and the readiness of both sides to expand mutually beneficial cooperation across all areas.
Regular contacts, telephone conversations, meetings on international platforms, and reciprocal visits by foreign ministers help coordinate positions on bilateral and multilateral issues and further intensify cooperation in other areas.
Honorary consuls of Uzbekistan in Japan also play an important role in promoting interstate cooperation, actively contributing to the advancement of economic and cultural initiatives.
Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan is developing dynamically and encompasses industry, energy, communications, infrastructure, innovation, transport, and the “green economy.” Trade between the two countries is conducted under the most-favored-nation regime, which has contributed to steady growth in bilateral trade turnover.
In 2024, the Uzbek–Japanese Trade House opened in Nagoya, demonstrating Japan’s growing interest in expanding trade ties with Uzbekistan.
Joint meetings of the Uzbekistan–Japan and Japan–Uzbekistan Committees on Economic Cooperation serve as the key coordination mechanism for bilateral economic projects.
Today, 84 joint ventures with Japanese capital operate in Uzbekistan, and 13 major Japanese companies have representative offices in the country, working in the oil and gas, chemical, engineering, logistics, education, and tourism sectors.
Japanese financial institutions play a strategic role in modernizing Uzbekistan’s economy. In January 2025, a loan agreement worth USD 150 million was signed in Tashkent with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the construction and equipping of the Republican Center for Neurology and Stroke — a modern project that will represent an important step in advancing national healthcare.
The cultural and humanitarian dimension of Uzbek–Japanese relations is distinguished by depth and emotional resonance. For more than two decades, the Uzbekistan–Japan Friendship Society, as well as the Fukushima–Uzbekistan Association and the Japan–Uzbekistan Association, have been actively operating. The Hiroshima Peace Stone installed in Tashkent and the Japanese Garden in the heart of the capital have become symbols of strong friendship between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Japan.
Uzbekistan regularly hosts Japanese cultural festivals, film screenings, performances, and exhibitions. In turn, Uzbekistan widely showcases its cultural traditions in Japan — from national cuisine and traditional garments to music and dance. Such exchanges form a unique basis for friendship between the two nations, fostering mutual respect and strengthening long-term cooperation.
Modern cultural projects have become the hallmark of humanitarian dialogue. In April 2022, Tokyo hosted the vibrant event “Spirit of the Silk Road — Bridge of Friendship,” and in 2024, the Japanese ensemble “Japanese Pearl” won third place at the traditional Boysun Bahori festival.
Education is one of the most rapidly developing areas of humanitarian cooperation. More than 2,500 students study Japanese language across seven universities in Uzbekistan. The Uzbek–Japanese Center for Human Resource Development operates in the country, the Japan Development Scholarship (JDS) program is being implemented, and joint projects are carried out with the universities of Tokyo, Nagoya, Tsukuba, Keio, and Toyohashi. Over 400 Uzbek students have received JDS scholarships, and about 2,500 specialists have undertaken internships in Japan. Exchange programs and faculty visits are active, and university rector forums are held.
Joint scientific research is being conducted in ancient history, archaeology, oriental studies, agriculture, and climate processes.
Japan provides financial and technical support to the development of healthcare in Uzbekistan. More than USD 60 million has been allocated for equipping medical facilities, training specialists, and supplying vaccines. Over 100 Japanese volunteers have worked in Uzbekistan, and more than 200 Uzbek medical professionals have completed internships in Japan.
Interregional diplomacy occupies an increasingly important place in bilateral relations. Sister-city partnerships have been established between Rishtan and Maizuru, Tashkent and Nagoya, and Samarkand Region and Nara Prefecture. Within this framework, Samarkand Days are regularly held in Japan, alongside cultural events in Nagoya.
Growing interest among Japanese visitors in Uzbekistan’s culture and history is stimulating cooperation in the tourism sector. The number of Japanese visitors to Uzbekistan continues to rise, facilitated by expanded air connectivity, active promotion of cultural tourism, and improved infrastructure.
Particular interest is drawn to Uzbekistan’s Buddhist heritage sites — Kara-Tepe, Fayaz-Tepe, Dalverzin-Tepe, and the temple complexes of Termez and its surroundings. Thanks to the research of Japanese scholars, these monuments have gained international recognition and attract visitors and experts from around the world.
Another vivid example of Japanese public interest in Uzbekistan was the success of the Uzbek pavilion, “Garden of Knowledge: Laboratory of the Future Society,” at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. Uzbekistan’s national pavilion was recognized as one of the most remarkable exhibits and was awarded a Gold Medal. The world premiere of the National Symphony Orchestra of Uzbekistan’s performance “Celestial Dance,” dedicated to bilateral friendship, captivated Japanese audiences.
The Central Asia–Japan Dialogue, whose first leaders’ summit President Mirziyoyev will attend during his visit, is a format that fully aligns with Uzbekistan’s regional priorities and reflects the growing political consolidation of Central Asian states.
The initiative to establish the Dialogue was first proposed by Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi during her visit to Tashkent on 24 August 2004. The priority goals identified at the time included ensuring peace and stability in the region, supporting reforms and social development, strengthening intra-regional ties, enhancing Central Asia’s partnership with neighboring regions and the international community, and cooperating on pressing regional and global issues.
Today, the Dialogue has evolved into a stable platform for trusted interaction and discussions on sustainable development.
To provide the format with practical substance, regular working meetings of senior officials, sectoral expert consultations, and Tokyo Intellectual Dialogues are held. In recent years, the Economic and Energy Dialogues at the ministerial level, conducted in Tokyo in 2023–2025, have become particularly significant.
Infrastructure assistance has always been one of Japan’s priorities within the Dialogue. Japanese organizations such as JICA and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) systematically participate in modernizing transport corridors, logistics hubs, roads, engineering facilities, airports, and rail infrastructure. These projects significantly increase regional connectivity and strengthen Central Asia’s role as a key bridge between East Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Japan, a global leader in digitalization and automation, actively shares its expertise with the countries of the region. For Uzbekistan, this cooperation is especially important: the country is rapidly developing its IT sector, creating IT parks and technology parks, launching digital economy programs, and attracting Japanese experts for training national specialists.
Given Japan’s long-standing leadership in environmentally sustainable development and energy-efficient technologies, environmental cooperation is also a central element of the partnership.
As the most populous country in the region and a major transport and logistics hub, Uzbekistan plays a central role in shaping the agenda of the Dialogue. In recent years, Uzbekistan has contributed significantly to strengthening the practical content of cooperation by initiating new projects across various fields.
Over the past two decades, the Dialogue has proven itself as a stable and in-demand mechanism of partnership that allows the countries of the region and Japan to build systematic cooperation across a wide range of areas.
Thus, the upcoming visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan and his participation in the Central Asia + Japan Summit will deepen both bilateral and multilateral political dialogue, expand economic and investment cooperation, and strengthen educational and scientific ties. Undoubtedly, the active efforts of the President to expand mutually beneficial partnerships will once again confirm Uzbekistan’s commitment to regional integration and open, constructive international dialogue.
The Third Renaissance of New Uzbekistan: Legacy of Amir Temur and Center of Islamic Civilization as a Strategic Impulse for Spiritual and Intellectual Development
📅 10.04.2026
The history of mankind demonstrates that great civilizations rest upon a synthesis of intellectual achievements, spiritual values and cultural heritage. Since ancient times, Central Asia has served as a pivotal hub of science, art and philosophy, shaping the foundational elements of a civilization that has influenced the entire world. Today, this profound potential is embodied in a monumental project - Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent. This institution does not merely preserve historical artifacts; it serves as a living platform for science, education and spiritual enlightenment.
The project symbolizes a new stage in Uzbekistan’s development - the Third Renaissance - where the past, present and future are unified through intellectual and cultural heritage. The Center of Islamic Civilization demonstrates how spiritual and educational values can serve as the foundation for national revival and international cooperation, attracting researchers, tourists and the global public.
Amir Temur occupies a distinguished place in world history as an outstanding statesman, military commander, and the creator of one of the largest empires of his time. The late 14th and early 15th centuries were a period of profound political transformations; against this backdrop, Temur succeeded in uniting vast territories stretching from India to the Middle East, establishing a powerful state with a resilient system of governance.
Diplomacy played a pivotal role in his policy. Amir Temur established contacts with European nations, including France, England and Castile; his victory over the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I at the Battle of Ankara (1402) shifted the balance of power between the East and the West. The Spanish Ambassador Ruy González de Clavijo, who visited Samarkand in 1404, noted the state’s high level of organization, its advanced infrastructure and profound respect shown to foreign envoys.
Samarkand became the capital of the empire, evolving into a cultural and economic hub where the trade routes of China, India, Europe and the Middle East intersected. The city was distinguished by its multi-ethnic population, a sophisticated handicraft system, magnificent architecture, well-tended gardens, advanced irrigation systems and bustling commercial streets.
Amir Temur also established a unique legal foundation for his empire. According to the “Institutes of Temur” (Tuzuk-i-Temuri), the state rested upon four pillars: counsel, discussion, a deliberate plan and decisiveness. Nine-tenths of state affairs were resolved through consultation and prudent measures, and only one-tenth by the sword. This principle reflects the priority of diplomacy and legal resolutions over military force, emphasizing the balance of justice and resolve in governance.
Temur’s social policy was aimed at ensuring order, justice, and economic growth. He supported handicrafts, trade and agriculture, while maintaining strict oversight over officials and punishing abuses of power. Simultaneously, he cared for the welfare of the populace by resettling skilled artisans and creating the necessary conditions for the sustainable development of the state.
Following the passing of Amir Temur, his successors - the Timurids - continued the development of the state, placing particular emphasis on science, culture and education. This period is referred to as the Second Renaissance of Central Asia, characterized by an intellectual and artistic flourishing comparable to the European Renaissance. The most prominent figure of this era was Mirzo Ulugbek, who established one of the preeminent observatories of his time and made significant contributions to astronomy, mathematics, architecture and the arts. His scholarly works influenced not only Islamic but world civilization, laying the groundwork for future scientific discoveries.
Today, the Timurid legacy is preserved within the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, which houses unique exhibits demonstrating the cultural and spiritual richness of that era. Among them is a fragment of the Quran transcribed by the calligrapher Umar Aqta for Amir Temur, widely known as the “Baysunghur Quran”. This manuscript represents a triumph of calligraphy over ornamentation: the harmonious, powerful forms of the letters and the precise flow of ink create a magnificent visual impact. The Center preserves a single line of this Quran, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Timurid art and understand how the culture of letters shaped the spiritual identity of the state.
A place of particular distinction is held by the Timurid/Mughal talismanic shirt - a protective garment crafted in court workshops to provide the wearer with divine safeguarding and blessings. The dense cotton is entirely covered with Quranic inscriptions, including the Shahada and the 99 Names of Allah, while the back features a verse from Surah Yusuf (12:64): “Indeed, Allah is the best guardian, and He is the most merciful of the merciful”. This shirt symbolizes Divine protection and the wearer’s spiritual connection with the Almighty, reflecting the religious depth and artistic mastery of the Timurid era.
Finally, the key to the sacred Kaaba (dated approximately 1425-1426), crafted from brass with silver inlay and inscriptions, preserves the historical memory of the era and its spiritual significance. Together with other exhibits, it enables contemporary visitors to experience the intellectual and cultural ascent of the Second Renaissance and to realize how the spiritual and educational achievements of the past established the foundation for the development of civilization.
Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent is not merely a museum but a living educational platform. The architectural concept of the complex harmoniously integrates Timurid traditions with modern technologies, symbolizing the unity of the past and the present. Its 65-meter dome and four golden gates represent the convergence of all regions of Uzbekistan, evoking a sense of monumentality and historical continuity.
Center’s exposition is structured around the principle of “Civilization – Personalities – Discoveries” and spans key historical epochs: the pre-Islamic period, the First and Second Renaissances, Timurid era and contemporary New Uzbekistan. Visitors can not only observe unique artifacts but also interact with them through VR and AR technologies, holograms and artificial intelligence, making history vibrant and tangible.
Center integrates a diverse range of educational and cultural functions: interactive laboratories, including the “1001 Inventions” for children, a library with a collection of over 200,000 volumes, calligraphy schools, and digital archives. It also serves as a hub for offices of international organizations, including UNESCO, ICESCO, IRCICA and OCIS. This creates a space where traditions and innovations coexist and complement each other, stimulating the advancement of science and culture.
The Timurids and the Baburids - including the fragment of the Quran transcribed by Umar Aqta, the talismanic shirt and the key to the Kaaba - are seamlessly integrated into the exposition, allowing visitors to trace how this historical heritage shaped the intellectual and spiritual potential of the region. Through this approach, Center becomes not merely a repository of knowledge, but a living bridge between the Second and the Third Renaissance, ensuring the continuity of traditions and inspiring new generations toward scientific, cultural and spiritual achievements.
The legacy of Amir Temur and his successors plays a pivotal role in the modern world, particularly in shaping the cultural identity of Uzbekistan and fostering international cultural dialogue.
Firstly, it serves as the cornerstone of national identity. The history of the Timurids demonstrates the high level of statehood, science and culture of the region, while their legal and social traditions, reflected in the “Institutes of Temur”, provide an exemplary model of the balance between justice and resolve in governance.
Secondly, the diplomatic experience of Amir Temur remains highly relevant today. His ability to synchronize military strength with flexible and respectful diplomacy serves as an enduring model for contemporary foreign policy and international cultural engagement.
Thirdly, the cultural heritage of the Timurid dynasty fosters international exchange and tourism development. Architectural monuments in Samarkand, Shakhrisabz and other cities attract scholars and visitors from around the world. Exhibits at the Center of Islamic Civilization - including a Quran fragment transcribed by Umar Akta, talismanic Baburid shirt and the key to the Kaaba - allow contemporary visitors to experience the spiritual and intellectual power of the Second Renaissance firsthand.
In this manner, Center of Islamic Civilization becomes the cornerstone of the Third Renaissance, bridging the past and the present while inspiring a new generation toward scientific and cultural achievements.
Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent is not merely a museum, but a living bridge between the past and the future. It integrates the spiritual, cultural, and educational accomplishments of Central Asia, creating a space for scientific research, learning and international cooperation.
The legacy of Amir Temur and the Timurids, reflected in the exhibits and the architectural concept of the Center, demonstrates how spiritual and intellectual values can serve as the foundation for national revival. Quranic fragments, talismanic shirts, ceremonial keys and architectural symbols embody the ideas of Divine protection, science and enlightenment, creating a unique cultural space.
The project serves as the cornerstone of the Third Renaissance of New Uzbekistan, inspiring the modern generation toward achievements in science, education and spiritual sphere. Center of Islamic Civilization is evolving into an intellectual and cultural locomotive for the region, fostering the unification of humanity on the path to peace, harmony, and progress, following the great divine command of “Iqra” - “Read in the name of your Lord”.
Dunyo IA
PRESS RELEASE
International Scientific and Practical Conference dedicated to the 690th Anniversary of the birth of Sahibkiran Amir Temur
“The image of Sahibkiran Amir Temur,
having become a symbol of our
national statehood, continues to provide
immense spiritual strength to our people
in realizing our identity and restoring
our ancient traditions and values”,
Shavkat Mirziyoyev
An International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “The role and significance of the civilization of Amir Temur and the Timurids in world history and culture” was organized in the city of Tashkent to mark the 690th anniversary of the birth of Sahibkiran Amir Temur.
This prestigious forum was held at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, established at the personal initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
This international scientific and practical conference serves as a vital platform for scholarly dialogue, aimed at the profound study of national heritage and its extensive promotion on a global scale. It further seeks to re-evaluate the scientific and spiritual achievements of the Timurid era through the lens of modern science.
The conference was organized at the initiative of the Government of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with several ministries, agencies, research institutions, and international organizations. It featured the participation of prominent local and foreign scholars, historians, Orientalists, art historians, archaeologists and political scientists, alongside distinguished faculty members from prestigious universities.
OPENING CEREMONY
The solemn opening ceremony of the conference was organized at the highest level. It was attended by prominent state and public figures, leading scholars, representatives of international organizations and members of the diplomatic corps. In their addresses, the speakers specifically emphasized the persona of Amir Temur and his pivotal role in establishing traditions of statehood, justice and a strong centralized system of governance.
Furthermore, it was noted that science, culture, and art flourished during the Timurid era, and this legacy continues to serve the progress of world civilization to this day. The conference participants emphasized that such events are of paramount importance for comprehending historical heritage and transmitting it to future generations.
INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPATION
The conference featured leading scholars, historians, Orientalists, archaeologists and political scientists from numerous countries, including Türkiye, France, Italy, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan and others, who engaged in an extensive exchange of scholarly perspectives.
In their reports, the participants presented the findings of scientific research on the history of the Timurid era, public administration, science, culture, architecture and international relations. Foreign experts placed particular emphasis on the global significance of this legacy and its role in the cultural dialogue between European and Asian civilizations.
KEY THEMES AND DISCUSSIONS
The following priority topics were extensively discussed during the conference:
- Amir Temur’s strategy in state administration and military art;
- The development of science and the education system during the Timurid era;
- The role of Samarkand and Herat in world civilization;
- Architectural and urban planning traditions of the Timurid period;
- Manuscripts, miniature art, and cultural heritage;
- International diplomacy and trade relations during the Timurid era;
- The study of the Timurid legacy in modern research.
- Additionally, the conference featured various thematic exhibitions, displays of rare manuscripts and specialized scholarly dialogues.
OBJECTIVES AND SIGNIFICANCE
The primary objective of the conference is to facilitate a comprehensive, evidence-based study of the legacy of Amir Temur and the Timurid era, to further elucidate its role in world civilization and to strengthen international scientific cooperation.
In addition to promoting historical heritage, this event served to educate the younger generation in the spirit of respect for national values, while stimulating scientific research and fostering the formation of new academic disciplines.
At the conclusion of the conference, a set of scientific findings, proposals, and recommendations was developed. It was emphasized that these results will serve as a vital strategic foundation for the future study and promotion of the Timurid legacy.
How the phrase “Spirit of Central Asiaz” appeared in world political science
📅 01.07.2024
New trends in Central Asian politics of Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan's policy in Central Asia has reached a qualitatively higher level. The trend of developing mutually beneficial cooperation between the countries of the region is intensifying with its own characteristics. According to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has given priority to strengthening relations of close friendship and cooperation with neighboring countries, and over the past historically short period - the political position and influence of our country in the Central Asian region and the Middle East. The world has grown dramatically. The spirit of trust in New Uzbekistan and the principles of striving for cooperation with our country have increased in the world.
Central Asia is a region with important and unique resources, economic and communication potential. In the 90s of the 20th century, the countries of the region embarked on their own independent path of development and joined the ranks of developing countries, promoting humanism, social justice, and security. in the region there is international harmony, peace and well-established foreign policy activities and international cooperation, based on the principles of international law, such as the creation of an atmosphere of peace, and consistently developing them.
In the direction of the foreign policy of New Uzbekistan, in establishing practical cooperation in the countries of Central Asia, the fifth priority direction of the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy has been identified - the consistent continuation of a policy based on the principle of “A Safe and Peaceful State”. the region to a new level of quality, good neighborliness and strategic partnership with all neighboring countries, pays special attention to the rapid development of relations, regular and effective conduct of bilateral and multilateral negotiations in political, economic, cultural and humanitarian areas.
The measures taken by the government of the Republic of Uzbekistan to expand mutual cooperation between the countries of the region also play an important role. It should be noted that as a result of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s reforms in the field of foreign policy, diplomatic relations of Uzbekistan with the countries of the Central region literally rose to a new level.
The fact that Shavkat Mirziyoyev began his first visit to foreign countries as President of Uzbekistan with a visit to the countries of Central Asia, literally indicating that he has raised the development of regional cooperation to a new level.
On March 6-7, 2017, Shavkat Mirziyoyev made a state visit to Turkmenistan. It should be noted that this was Sh. Mirziyoyev’s first visit to a foreign country as the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This state visit of the President clearly confirmed that Uzbekistan attaches great importance to good neighborly relations in foreign policy, and was supported by the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
The visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Kazakhstan on March 23, 2017 and the signing of a Joint declaration on deepening the strategic partnership and strengthening the friendly neighborhood between the two countries opened a new era in interstate cooperation. Thanks to the joint efforts of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, in 2017 the volume of bilateral trade reached 2 billion US dollars, and such direct contacts serve as the basis for the effective implementation of bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
Following the state visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Kyrgyz Republic, a declaration was signed on strengthening strategic partnership, friendship, good neighborliness and trust.
In 2018, the implementation of the new policy of the President of Uzbekistan to strengthen political trust and mutual solidarity in Central Asia continued consistently. In particular, President Sh. Mirziyoyev visited this country on March 9-10, 2018 at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan E. Rahmon. During the visit, the leaders of the two countries signed a Joint Statement on Strengthening Friendship and Good Neighborhood and an Agreement on Certain Sections of the Uzbek-Tajik State Border.
In addition, as a result of the continuation of negotiations of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the delimitation and demarcation of the state border with neighboring countries, the delimitation of the state border lines with Kazakhstan has been completed, 85 percent of the border with Kyrgyzstan has been passed. agreed upon, and 99.9 percent of the border with Tajikistan has been agreed upon.
At the end of 2021, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan amounted to almost 600 million US dollars. The number of joint ventures has increased 10 times. If in 2017 there were 24 enterprises operating in Uzbekistan, then by the end of 2021 240 enterprises with the participation of Tajik capital began operating. There are 61 enterprises operating in Tajikistan based on investments from Uzbekistan.
On June 2-3, 2022, the presidents of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the presidents of Tajikistan signed a historic declaration “On strengthening eternal friendship and alliance.” In addition, documents signed at the level of government, ministries and departments are designed to raise multifaceted Uzbek-Tajikistan cooperation to a new level.
Analyzing the platforms and formats of interstate dialogue organized on the initiative of Uzbekistan on regional cooperation, it should be noted that, on the initiative of the head of Uzbekistan, consultative meetings of the leaders of Central Asian countries are regularly held.
Consultative meetings are systematically organized as part of this initiative (March 2018, Kazakhstan; November 2019, Uzbekistan; August 2021, Turkmenistan; July 2022, Kyrgyzstan; 2023, Tajikistan). As positive trends in Uzbekistan’s policy in Central Asia, practical proposals made at these meetings can be noted. In particular, at the fourth consultation meeting held in Kyrgyzstan, he put forward a number of proposals that meet the interests of the region. In particular, the interests of the region today are served by such proposals as the creation of a system of border trade zones with unified and simplified procedures for the delivery of goods to Central Asia and the holding of a Central Asian festival of culture, art and cinema in each country.
Indeed, here it is permissible to note the high assessments expressed by many foreign experts to the initiatives of Uzbekistan. For example, Li Yunxuan, director of the Institute of European and Asian Social Development under the State Council of China, says: “Uzbekistan is an active participant in the processes of strengthening regional and interregional cooperation, in the mechanism of consultative meetings of leaders of Central Asian countries, in ensuring the effectiveness of cooperation on topical issues of ensuring regional stability and development plays an important role.
Indeed, as a result of the growing role of Central Asia in modern international relations, “the spirit of trust in New Uzbekistan and the principles of cooperation with our country have increased in the world.” ... Our countries, which have been common brothers and sisters from time immemorial, began to act in close cooperation on many regional and global issues and socio-economic development.
The phrase “spirit of Central Asia” has appeared in world political science.
On September 14, 2023, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev spoke at the fourth consultative meeting of leaders of Central Asian countries held in Tajikistan and put forward a number of proposals to strengthen new trends in the Central Asian region. politics of Uzbekistan. Including the development of trade and economic cooperation in the region; development of industrial cooperation; increasing interdependence in transport; ensuring security in the energy sector; ensuring food safety; Combating the threats posed by climate change.
The issue of creating an interstate economic council to expand practical cooperation on the entire range of trade and economic issues in the region also deserves attention. Another platform implemented at the initiative of Uzbekistan is the Central Asian Economic Forum. On March 15, 2019, the first Central Asian Economic Forum was held in Tashkent with the participation of deputy prime ministers of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Positive results were achieved through discussion at the forum of issues of further development of regional cooperation, studying the possibilities of the transport and communications complex, increasing the volume of mutual trade and the attractiveness of tourism.
At the initiative of Uzbekistan, in order to ensure good neighborliness and interethnic harmony between the peoples of the countries of Central Asia, on November 15, 2019, an international conference was held in Tashkent with the participation of experts and scientists from foreign countries on the topic “Central Asia is our common home,” which serves to bring the countries of the region closer together in cultural and humanitarian sphere.
Uzbekistan's policy in Central Asia is consistent in identifying new trends, ensuring stability and security.
On March 9-10, 2018, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev made a state visit to the Republic of Tajikistan. At the high-level meeting, special attention was paid to strengthening interstate cooperation in the areas of ensuring regional security and stability, promoting the solution of international problems, combating terrorism and extremism and other types of organized transnational crime, which is an important achievement of Uzbekistan. diplomacy in ensuring regional security and stability. According to Tajik expert Kasimsho Iskandarov, relations between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan depend on the political will of state leaders. After Shavkat Mirziyoyev came to power, relations between the two countries changed dramatically. The rapid development of Tajik-Uzbek relations has solved many problems not only between the two countries, but also between all countries in the region. The political environment for developing regional cooperation has improved.
Also, on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, on June 22, 2018, the UN General Assembly for the first time adopted a resolution “Strengthening regional and international cooperation to ensure peace, stability and consistent development in the Central Asian region”. Our opinion is confirmed by the fact that Uzbekistan has put forward proposals for the formation of a regional system for forecasting emergency situations in the region, their prevention, early warning and joint counteraction.
It is worth noting that there are several factors that contribute to the development of good neighborly relations, such as mutual trade, investments and joint projects.
If we look at the numbers, we can witness that Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with the countries of Central Asia has grown to an unprecedented level. Trade turnover in 2017 amounted to $2.4 billion, and by the end of 2019 it reached $5.2 billion. In two short years the growth was 150 percent. Despite the restrictions caused by the pandemic, the growth in freight volumes observed in Central Asia in 2020 demonstrates the enormous potential for further expansion of international roads and railways and strengthening of transport and logistics infrastructure. In this regard, on August 6, 2021, within the framework of the third consultative meeting of leaders of Central Asian countries, at the Economic Forum of Central Asian Countries, held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone (Turkmenistan), the Uzbek side discussed the development of transport corridors connecting the countries of Central Asia, increasing efficiency use of the transit potential of the countries of the region, and also, it is worth noting that he made a proposal to strengthen cooperation on the harmonization and digitalization of customs clearance procedures. It is worth noting that “in recent years, radical reforms in our country, a consistent and active foreign policy, especially strengthening the environment of close neighbors in the Central Asian region, have increased the international prestige of our country”.
If we evaluate the new trends in the Central Asian policy of Uzbekistan, we can see that their impact on regional interaction and international relations is acquiring positive significance.
It should be noted that on December 19, 2019, at the plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly, a special resolution “Sustainable tourism and sustainable development in Central Asia” was adopted, proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
In short, the special significance of the approaches in the regional policy of Uzbekistan lies in the fact that they serve to strengthen the belt of security, stability and cooperation throughout the region. In the context of increasing threats to regional and global security, the socio-economic well-being of countries, Uzbekistan is of great importance in determining new trends in the politics of Central Asia and the prospects for jointly combating modern dangers and threats.
Mirzayev Gulom,
Doctor of philosophy in historical sciences (PhD), associate professor at the University of Public Safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Center of Islamic Civilization of Uzbekistan recovers stolen artefacts from abroad
📅 02.05.2026
Stolen cultural property dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD has been returned to Uzbekistan following a large-scale investigation involving law enforcement agencies and scholars from across Europe.
A number of artefacts, illegally smuggled from the Central Asian republic that was once the heart of the Bactrian and Kushan empires, were presented by the Metropolitan Police's Art and Antiquities Unit at the Embassy of Uzbekistan. They will subsequently be transported back to their homeland, where they will take a prominent place in the exhibition of the recently opened Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent.
The event serves as vivid evidence of Uzbekistan's consistent policy regarding the repatriation of national cultural heritage and highlights the growing global trend toward the protection of cultural values.
“This event is a compelling confirmation of the broad international support for the consistent course of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aimed at returning cultural treasures to their homeland, - noted Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent and Chairman of the Board of the World Society for the Study, Preservation and Popularization of the Cultural Legacy of Uzbekistan (WOSCU). - We are deeply grateful to our partners and law enforcement representatives from European countries for their support and look forward to further cooperation in preserving and restoring our cultural heritage”.
Detective Sophie Hayes of the Metropolitan Police, addressing a gathering of prominent scholars and officials, emphasized that the recovered artefacts are the heritage not only of Uzbekistan but of all humanity. According to her, the investigation was conducted with the assistance of both national and international specialists, as well as the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), with the support of the World Society for the Study, Preservation and Popularization of the Cultural Legacy of Uzbekistan (WOSCU).
The items presented at the exhibition are among the findings discovered in November 2025 during an investigation codenamed Operation Inherent Vice by the police.
A total of nine artefacts were on display, including statue heads and fragments of gypsum frescoes. These monuments date from the 2nd-3rd to the 7th century AD and hold exceptional historical significance for both Uzbekistan and the broader Islamic world.
“The return of these priceless artefacts is not only a victory for New Uzbekistan but also a compelling testament to the power of international cooperation in preserving the country's historical heritage, - added Mr. Abdukhalikov, noting that cultural organizations, legal institutions and diplomatic missions have confirmed their readiness to assist Uzbekistan in recovering its lost treasures”.
The ceremony reflected a broader trend toward strengthening global interaction in the field of cultural heritage protection, with a particular focus on increasing transparency and adhering to ethical standards in the art and antiquities market.
The Center of Islamic Civilization also announced its intention to participate in the upcoming Sotheby’s and Christie’s auctions and to visit art galleries in London. These initiatives are aimed at acquiring new items of Uzbek cultural heritage for the purpose of their preservation and return to the homeland.
“Uzbekistan's efforts to return and protect its cultural heritage continue to attract the attention and support of the international community. We are setting a powerful example of coordinated action in the field of restitution of cultural property”, - emphasized Mr. Abdukhalikov.
“The returned items possess exceptional historical and scientific value, as they belong to various eras of the ancient history of the territory of modern Uzbekistan and reflect the diversity of civilizational processes that have occurred in Central Asia over the centuries”, - noted Dr. Farhod Maksudov, Director of the National Center of Archaeology (Institute of Archaeology) of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
IA “Dunyo”
TERMEZ DIALOGUE: FROM CULTURAL-HUMANITARIAN TIES TO BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL ARCHITECTURE
📅 21.05.2026
Today's events and developments in the international arena once again demonstrate the growing need for the states of the Central and South Asian regions to achieve mutual understanding, solidarity, and a common goal. In this regard, the main goal of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, held on May 19, 2025, on the theme "Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," was to strengthen regional connectivity and bring cooperation to a new level. It can be said that over the past year, significant results have been achieved on the topical issues discussed during the dialogue. The next Termez Dialogue is also aimed at discussing topical issues such as strengthening cooperation between Central and South Asia, deepening interregional ties and ensuring economic growth, as well as further improving security and sustainable development.
Cultural relations. It should be noted that today the city of Termez has become an important center for ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan and restoring its economy. It is noteworthy that in the past, Termez was a center of intercultural and religious dialogue, where Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islamic traditions emerged and developed. Eldor Aripov, Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, noted that the city, located between the Greco-Bactrian, Kushan, and other ancient states, flourished during the Timurid era and became a major center of trade, craftsmanship, and science[1]. Indeed, if we look at our history, the countries of Central Asia and the South Asian region have always developed harmoniously as a single space, closely cooperating in all areas. The works of the great thinker Abu Rayhan Beruni "India," Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur "Baburnama" and other historical sources are clear evidence of these close ties. Furthermore, the following remarks by Muhammad Sobir Turkestani, Deputy Ambassador of Afghanistan to Uzbekistan, deserve attention: "Both Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are located on the land between two rivers, which was once called Mawarannahr." There are many similarities in our cultures. The cultural heritage of Alisher Navoi is the wealth of the peoples of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. The remains of our ancestor Alisher Navoi are in the Herat region. All the minarets built in Herat during the reign of Sultan Husayn Bayqara stand as a single complex. Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur was buried in Kabul. In a complex called Babur's Garden. There are also large cultural museums in Afghanistan. Our antiquities are kept in our museums in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif.[2]" Undoubtedly, the main goal of our efforts today is to restore these historical ties, further strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between our peoples, and ultimately raise the development of our countries to a new level. To this end, Uzbekistan has been increasingly developing ties with South Asian countries in recent years.
It should be noted that the education sector in Afghanistan has experienced a deep decline due to the long-standing unstable situation. In such a situation, it should be noted that assisting the Afghan people in obtaining education and training personnel with modern knowledge and skills is one of the most rational ways to lead Afghanistan out of the crisis. In this regard, in accordance with the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated November 13, 2017, "On organizing the activities of the Educational Center for Training Afghan Citizens under the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Specialized Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan," an Educational Center for Training Afghan Citizens operates in the city of Termez, Surkhandarya region. During the 2018-2019 academic year, 96 students studied at the Center in the "Uzbek Language and Literature" direction, all of whom received a bachelor's degree from the Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature.
Economic relations. It should be noted that the impossibility of achieving any positive results with weapons and troops in establishing peace and stability on Afghan soil was once again confirmed by the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in 2021. From this perspective, today Uzbekistan's economic ties with Afghanistan serve as one of the important factors in establishing peace and economic recovery in the country.
According to estimates by the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, mutual trade turnover amounted to $653 million in 2021, $688.8 million in 2022, $784.1 million in 2023, and $999.9 million in January-November 2024[3]. Over the past five years, trade turnover has increased 2.5 times, reaching $1.68 billion in 2025, while Uzbekistan's exports amounted to approximately $1.5 billion. The parties set a new medium-term goal to increase the volume of trade to $5 billion. Therefore, today Uzbekistan is becoming one of the key investors in Afghanistan. Specifically, according to a $1 billion agreement signed between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, Uzbekistan will participate in the development of the Tuti Maidan gas field in the Jauzjan and Faryab regions for 10 years. The Termez International Trade Center, established in the Surkhandarya region, plays a very important role in implementing such trade and economic instruments. This shopping center is the first trade zone in Central Asia serving various entrepreneurs, especially Afghan entrepreneurs, who cooperate with Afghanistan. The shopping center features permanent exhibitions and fairs, an Uzbek-Afghan business school, a medical clinic for the treatment and provision of medical care to patients who are citizens of Afghanistan, a hotel, enterprises specializing in the production of precious metal jewelry, a multi-currency system, and other conditions that allow entrepreneurs to trade freely.
According to analytical data, 60% of Uzbekistan's total international traffic passes through the transit routes of Central Asian countries and Afghanistan. Uzbekistan's access to seaports through Afghanistan is 2-3 times shorter than the ports with access to the Black and Baltic Seas, and 5 times shorter than the route to Pacific ports[4]. According to economic analysts, the cost of delivering one container from Central Asia to South Asia through Afghanistan to seaports will decrease from $900 to $286. In addition, transportation time will be reduced from 35 days to 3-5 days. At the same time, export potential will also increase sharply. Improving transport and infrastructure communications and attracting international transit carriers to Central Asia is one of the most important tasks uniting the countries of the region. Its resolution is determined by the need to improve the socio-economic situation in the region.
In conclusion, it should be noted that this prestigious international conference will contribute to the further expansion of ties between our regions, the opening of new horizons for cooperation, and our confident progress on the path of peace and development.
Furthermore, the Termez Dialogue, as a platform for strengthening interregional connectivity and restoring common historical, cultural, and civilizational ties, opens opportunities for the development of new international transport and logistics corridors through Afghanistan. In the current difficult conditions of growing mutual trust and conflict of interests, such a format of cooperation as the Termez Dialogue is of great importance.
Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Foreign policy and international economic relations Deputy Director of the Institute PhD., O. Abdurakhmonov
[1] Eldor Aripov: "Termiz muloqoti Markaziy va Janubiy Osiyo o‘rtasidagi o‘zaro bog‘liqlikni mustahkamlashda muhim ahamiyatga ega". (21.05.2025), https://daryo.uz/2025/05/21/eldor-aripov-termiz-muloqoti-markaziy-va-janubiy-osiyo-ortasidagi-ozaro-bogliqlikni-mustahkamlashda-muhim-ahamiyatga-ega
[2] Afg‘onistonda O‘zbekistonga aloqador madaniy boyliklar kam emas. (07.11.2023). https://xabar.uz/uz/madaniyat/afgonistonda-ozbekistonga-aloqador-madaniy-boyliklar-kam-emas
[3] O‘zbekiston Respublikasi Tashqi savdo aylanmasi. 2024-yil yanvar-noyabr oylari uchun dastlabki ma’lumot // O‘zbekiston Respublikasi huzuridagi Statistika agentligi. – B.4.
[4] Akmalov Sh. O‘zbekiston va Afg‘oniston: o‘tmishdan hozirgacha. Monografiya. – T.: “Zamon poligraf”, 2023. – B. 70.
CICA amid a Crisis of Trust: Uzbekistan’s Role in Strengthening Cooperation in Asia
📅 14.10.2026
The seventh summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) will take place in Baku on 15 October. The meeting comes at a time when the ability of states to sustain dialogue and find common ground is particularly important. In an increasingly complex international environment, CICA’s relevance stems primarily from its role as a multilateral platform that brings together countries with diverse political positions and national interests.
The framework’s principal strength is its inclusive character. CICA is not a military or political bloc and does not constrain its members’ independence in foreign policy. Its work rests on consensus, voluntary participation, equality and mutual respect, enabling states with differing interests to maintain regular dialogue.
These principles underpin Uzbekistan’s consistent approach to engagement within CICA. Tashkent advocates strengthening the forum’s role as a mechanism for implementing confidence-building measures and expanding practical cooperation among Asian states.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s approach to CICA encompasses several interrelated priorities. Together, they seek to preserve trust between states, translate that trust into practical cooperation and strengthen the capacity of multilateral mechanisms to address shared challenges. His addresses at the Dushanbe summit in 2019 and the Astana summit in 2022 developed this approach along three main lines.
First, a comprehensive approach to security.
Uzbekistan recognises that contemporary threats cannot be overcome through political measures and the use of force alone.
The resilience of states also depends on human capital, opportunities for young people to fulfil their potential, the development of education and culture, and the ability to counter radicalisation.
Cooperation in education, culture and youth affairs therefore features prominently in the President’s summit addresses. Uzbekistan’s substantial contribution to advancing CICA’s youth agenda demonstrates this approach in practice. In particular, Uzbekistan’s Youth Affairs Agency served as co-chair of the CICA Youth Council.
Tashkent also assumed a coordinating role in implementing confidence-building measures, reflecting its commitment to translating political initiatives into action through established cooperation mechanisms.
Second, a focus on practical outcomes in multilateral cooperation.
A distinctive feature of Uzbekistan’s approach has been to translate the broad principles of trust into specific areas of joint action. In 2019, this was reflected in proposals to expand trade, support small and medium-sized enterprises, develop transport links and jointly address environmental challenges, including the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster. In 2022, the agenda became more operational, with a focus on food security, digitalisation, innovation, and resilient production and logistics networks. These initiatives share a common premise: states’ shared interest in economic and social progress provides a tangible foundation for stronger mutual trust.
Third, joint responses to regional challenges.
The third priority reflects Tashkent’s commitment to making multilateral mechanisms more effective in addressing problems that no country can resolve on its own.
Afghanistan provides a clear example. The President proposed considering the establishment of a high-level international negotiating group under United Nations auspices.
On environmental issues, Uzbekistan put forward the “Green Asia” initiative, aimed at expanding cooperation among experts on greening efforts and the protection of vulnerable ecosystems.
Both proposals seek to keep pressing regional challenges on the international agenda despite deepening disagreements among major powers.
Together, these priorities capture the central purpose of Uzbekistan’s policy within CICA: to preserve trust between states, reinforce it through practical cooperation and use multilateral mechanisms to address specific challenges facing Asia.
The forthcoming seventh CICA summit in Baku will mark the next stage in advancing this agenda. CICA faces an important task: to build on its achievements while delivering more tangible benefits from cooperation. Transport and economic connectivity, digitalisation, sustainable development, food security and environmental protection will be particularly important.
In this context, CICA’s effectiveness will depend to a considerable extent on progress in three interrelated areas.
The first is stronger political trust. As geopolitical competition intensifies, it is essential to preserve CICA as an open platform for dialogue among states with differing interests and positions.
Economic connectivity is equally important. Transport, trade, energy, investment and digital infrastructure can create lasting links between states, providing additional incentives to maintain stable relations.
Finally, CICA must continue to strengthen its human dimension. Education, youth exchanges, culture, and cooperation among researchers and experts build a foundation of trust that develops over time and retains its value despite changes in the political environment.
Uzbekistan brings practical experience and specific initiatives to all three areas. It consistently promotes an approach within CICA that connects security with economic development and dialogue between societies.
Amid growing uncertainty, Asia’s task is to find mechanisms that enable states to identify common ground even when their interests diverge, rather than allow new divisions to emerge. CICA can serve this purpose by preserving space for political dialogue and creating opportunities for practical cooperation.
Uzbekistan’s contribution lies in the sustained implementation of initiatives that strengthen trust and help shape a secure and prosperous future for the region.
Bekzod Normatov
Leading Research Fellow at the
Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
By the end of the year, 50 thousand people will be covered by the dual education system in Uzbekistan
📅 21.08.2024
Starting from the 2021/2022 academic year, the dual education system, which has proven effective in the German education system, was introduced in Uzbekistan. This new form of education allows young people to apply theoretical knowledge obtained in educational institutions in practice simultaneously.
Initially, the legal basis for introducing and improving this form of education in Uzbekistan was created. The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On Education" (No. ORQ-637) dated September 23, 2020, Article 15, specifies dual education as a separate form of education. Article 17 of the same law defines dual education as follows:
"Dual education is aimed at providing learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies, with the theoretical part taking place in educational institutions and the practical part at the learner's workplace."
Additionally, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has paid attention to the systematic development of the dual education system based on German experience. In particular, the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On Measures for the Development of Education, Science, and Innovation in the New Period of Development of Uzbekistan" (No. PF-6108) dated November 6, 2020, stipulated the introduction of practice-oriented educational programs in vocational educational institutions starting from the 2021/2022 academic year.
As a result, new mechanisms for training competitive personnel have been introduced in Uzbekistan by organizing education in harmony with labor activities for specific job positions in the economic sectors and companies (organizations), based on the real needs of the labor market.
In collaboration with experts from the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), specific rules and procedures for organizing dual education have been developed. The Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 163 dated March 29, 2021, "On Measures to Organize Dual Education in the Vocational Education System," was adopted.
This resolution approved the regulation on organizing dual education in the vocational education system, consisting of four chapters. Currently, students are admitted to dual education programs based on the requirements of this regulation. In the initial year, more than 2,000 students were admitted to colleges and technical schools for dual education in fields such as preschool education, railways, and construction. The demand for mid-level specialists prepared through this form of education has led to the expansion of dual education.
Employers now have the opportunity to select and hire the best specialists in this education system. In the 2022/2023 academic year, nearly 45,000 young people were admitted to vocational educational institutions for dual education. In addition to the previously mentioned fields, dual education has been introduced in information technology, light industry, agriculture, and services.
Currently, about 13,000 students are receiving dual education in 234 vocational educational institutions across Uzbekistan. These students are supervised by 3,144 qualified mentors from companies and organizations, who develop their practical skills directly at the workplace.
Moreover, dual education is particularly prominent in areas such as automotive technical service, agriculture, preschool education, light industry, and services. Over 3,600 companies and organizations in Uzbekistan participate in dual education.
For instance, the Asaka Agrotechnology Technical School in Andijan region has established cooperation with "UzAvto Motors" JSC, a major automobile manufacturer in Uzbekistan, for training mid-level specialists through dual education. As a result, more than 500 students are being trained in specialties such as "Welding Technology and Equipment," "Automobile Assembly and Testing," "Mechanical Engineering Technology," and "Automobile Technical Service and Repair."
In recent years, significant work has been done to develop the vocational education system in Uzbekistan with foreign partners such as the European Union, German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), UNESCO, and the Swiss Embassy in Uzbekistan.
For example, two technical schools in the agricultural sector received four tractors, 42 relevant technical equipment, 72 computers, and two refrigerators for storing agricultural products, with a total value of $700,000.
Additionally, 15 pilot educational institutions selected by GIZ were equipped with sewing machine sets (21 sewing machines, 6 overlocks, 6 interlocks, 3 zigzags, 3 embroidery machines), 9 cutting tables, ironing equipment, and 3 multifunctional digital "smartboards." The Almazor Light Industry College was equipped with modern equipment for a practice room in the "Computer-Aided Design" (CAD) direction, including 12 special tablets for designing and modeling, 12 computers, 1 presentation screen, and 1 plotter.
Furthermore, 109 pedagogical staff members were trained in Germany and Switzerland. Additionally, 750 teachers were trained in entrepreneurial skills based on German methodology with the support of German foreign donors.
Under the GIZ "Vocational Education for Economic Growth in Central Asia (PECA V)" grant project, six pilot educational institutions were selected for training mid-level specialists in the fields of bread, bakery, confectionery, and pasta production, as well as logistics.
Within this project, the material and technical base of the Yangiyul Agrotechnology Technical School, Samarkand Tourism and Service Technical School, Tashkent State Agrarian University, and Bukhara Engineering Technology Institute were strengthened.
Equipment for 34 items was delivered to the Yangiyul Agrotechnology and Samarkand Tourism and Service Technical Schools.
In collaboration with Germany, 70 modular education programs for dual education have been developed. Additionally, the "Concept for the Introduction and Further Development of Dual Education in Uzbekistan" and a "Guide for Developing Educational Standards Based on Professional Standards for Dual Education" were prepared.
To ensure that graduates of vocational educational institutions are self-employed in the future, i.e., set up their own businesses, it is crucial to teach them and introduce new methodologies into the educational process. In this regard, the "Basics of Business" subject was developed in collaboration with the German "German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation" organization and introduced into practice.
Moreover, to increase the attractiveness of the vocational education system in Uzbekistan and to provide students with in-depth foreign language training, one of the priority directions is to ensure the competitiveness of mid-level specialists in the domestic and foreign labor markets.
In particular, one-year special German language courses were organized in 33 vocational educational institutions. Currently, 773 students in technical schools in the medical field are being taught in these German language courses.
A one-year program for teaching German was developed and introduced into these courses based on advanced German experience and methodologies. To provide students with educational materials, 6,000 copies of modern textbooks for levels A1, A2, B1, and B2 were purchased from Germany and delivered to educational institutions based on the recommendations of the Goethe Institute.
The system for training professional and qualified mid-level specialists for state-significant sectors and industrial enterprises is being systematically improved by providing the labor market in Uzbekistan with mid-level specialists with modern professional skills.
The Presidential Decree No. PQ-200 dated July 3, 2023, "On Measures for the Effective Organization of State Management in Higher Education, Science, and Innovation within the Framework of Administrative Reforms," stipulated the introduction of a system for year-round admission of students to dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of companies and organizations. This has given a significant impetus to the development of this form of education.
Additionally, due to the increasing demand for mid-level specialists in job positions created based on regional socio-economic development programs, the need arose to organize year-round dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of organizations.
The Cabinet of Ministers' Resolution No. 647 dated December 7, 2023, "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Resolutions of the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Introduction of a System for Year-Round Admission of Students to Dual Education in Vocational Educational Institutions," created the opportunity to organize year-round dual education in vocational educational institutions based on the orders of organizations.
Despite the fact that only two months have passed since the adoption of this resolution, more than 750 students have already been admitted to dual education based on the existing needs of over 20 companies.
Furthermore, from now on, free short-term advanced training courses will be organized annually for the voluntary improvement of the pedagogical skills of mentors assigned from organizations to dual education.
Additionally, by the 2024/2025 academic year, an electronic platform will be created to determine the current and prospective needs of the labor market for mid-level specialists. An electronic system for signing contracts between organizations willing to train mid-level specialists and vocational educational institutions will be introduced.
As a result of the reforms implemented to develop the dual education system in Uzbekistan, the coverage of dual education will reach 50,000 students by the end of this year. Furthermore, by the beginning of the new academic year, 100 professions will be selected, and professional standards will be developed based on the experiences of Germany, Switzerland, and Great Britain. The demand for professions will be aligned with the needs of employers.
Utkirjon Alijonov
Head of the Department for the Development
of the Vocational Education System,
Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation
Speech by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the solemn ceremony dedicated to the thirty-fifth anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan
📅 25.09.2026
Assalamu alaikum, dear compatriots!
Dear guests!
Today, we celebrate the thirty-fifth anniversary of the independence of our sacred homeland with great pride and solemnity.
I sincerely congratulate our dear people, including our esteemed enlightened ones, our courageous youth, our honorable women, representatives of all nationalities and ethnic groups in our country, and our compatriots abroad on this day.
The fact that our greatest holiday is being held in New Tashkent further enhances the grandeur of the celebration.
In this region, which will become a center of science, education, and culture in the future, we recently inaugurated the magnificent buildings of the New Uzbekistan University, the Nizami Ganjavi National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan, and the National Library of Uzbekistan.
The fact that the fountain that will be opened with your participation today is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest musical fountain in the world adds even more spirit to the festive mood.
In this unique place where centuries-old dreams are coming true, we, along with our entire people, will witness many more joyful and historic events.
I am confident that New Tashkent will become a true center of development, adding beauty to our capital and demonstrating the power of the New Uzbekistan we are building!
Dear friends!
We gained our state independence in 1991, thanks to the will and determination of our people. In fact, the roots of our great independence go back to the history of our statehood traditions and ancient civilization, which are more than three thousand years old.
During the First and Second Renaissance, our great scholars such as Muhammad Khorezmii, Ahmad Ferghani, Abu Rayhan Beruni, Abu Ali ibn Sino, Mirzo Ulugbek, and Mir Alisher Navoi enriched the treasury of human thought.
The state founded by our great-grandfather Amir Temur has a worthy place in the pages of history as a symbol of justice and creativity.
The dreams and aspirations of our great forefathers, such as Behbudi, Munavvarkori, Fitrat, Qodiriy, and Chulpon, who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the homeland and national independence, are being fully realized in New Uzbekistan today.
Independence, first of all, has returned to us our honor, our sacred religion, our native language, and our forgotten national values.
Thanks to independence, we realized our identity and demonstrated to the whole world that we are worthy successors of our ancestors, whose names are always held in high esteem.
In these emotional moments, we pay tribute to the memory of our great ancestors and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for today's free life.
On this historic date, we believe it is appropriate to once again recognize the selfless labor and courage of all our deceased compatriots who have made a worthy contribution to strengthening our independence over the past 35 years.
We respectfully commemorate the bright memory of our first President, a prominent statesman and politician, Islam Abduganievich Karimov.
Dear holiday participants!
The great importance of independence is manifested, first of all, in human dignity and free life. Therefore, from the first days of the reforms, we listened to the hearts of the people, aimed to be a remedy for the people's ailments. We brought the idea of "For human dignity!" to the center of state policy. For the first time, we eliminated problems that had tormented people for years, such as "cotton slavery", "forced labor and child labor", "restrictions on conversion", "propiska".
Most importantly, the fear and anxiety in the hearts of our citizens have been replaced by confidence and peace. We have worked tirelessly and tirelessly over the past decade to build a society where every person can live freely and prosper.
Having shown great political will, we have opened Uzbekistan to the world. In particular, border issues have been resolved, friendship and cooperation with our neighbors have been strengthened. Fundamental changes have been made in currency, tax, customs and investment policies. As a result, we have improved our position in the "Index of Economic Freedom" by 80 points, placing us among the "moderately free economies".
Previously, our economy attracted $2-3 billion in foreign investment annually, but now it is attracting $40-50 billion. Along with investments, advanced technologies, modern knowledge, and new economic opportunities are entering our country.
Three years ago, we planned to increase our gross domestic product to $160 billion by 2030. Despite disruptions in global logistics and the unstable situation in the world, we will more than achieve this goal this year and become one of the countries with an above-average income.
The important thing is that we are achieving such high results thanks to the selfless work of our people, their intellectual potential, and the unity of the nation and state. You will certainly agree with me when I say that every person and every family is deeply feeling the positive changes in their lives.
Can words describe the joy of more than 650,000 families who have acquired modern housing in the new era?
The image of New Uzbekistan is entering thousands of our neighborhoods.
We have openly acknowledged the issue of poverty and created the New Uzbekistan experience to drastically reduce it. We have established a system of working "on a neighborhood basis" to improve the income, employment, health, education and living conditions of needy families.
Thanks to our consistent efforts, we have managed to reduce the poverty rate from 35 percent in 2017 to 4 percent today. Behind these numbers lies the joy and gratitude of 10 million people whose livelihoods have been blessed and their quality of life has improved.
Dear compatriots!
To take our rightful place in the world community, we need a new generation of educated, future-oriented, and independent-minded specialists. That is why we are bringing quality and substance to education. We are restoring the prestige of teachers and increasing their income.
Over the past decade, even as our population has grown by 8 million, we have increased kindergarten coverage to 78 percent. 1.5 million additional student places have been created in schools. The establishment of presidential, creative and specialized schools has opened wide opportunities for our children to acquire in-depth knowledge at a level no less than that of leading foreign educational institutions.
We have created suitable conditions for young people to learn foreign languages and professions.
Thanks to the expansion of favorable conditions for studying at universities, the number of students has now reached 1.6 million. Fortunately, the desire to learn is growing among young people. For parents, giving their children a higher education is not just a dream, but an achievable goal.
In particular, it would be correct to say that more than half of the students are women - a unique face of the Third Renaissance. Because educated girls mean an educated family, an educated generation, and an educated society.
We consider science, modern technology, and innovation, along with education, to be crucial factors in our development.
At the same time, we have launched a huge movement by giving new impetus to the development of areas such as IT, artificial intelligence, and the creative economy. Through this, we will introduce 10 million of our young people to the digital industry and the professions of the future.
We are particularly proud of the launch of the Samarkand-2028 satellite into space with our Chinese partners on the eve of our Independence Day.
My intention: Uzbekistan should become a center that offers the world advanced initiatives in the field of technology.
The Uzbek language should be the language in which science and technology are created in the digital world.
Dear compatriots!
When we talk about human dignity, it is natural that we pay special attention to the issue of the health of our population. In recent years, we have increased the funds allocated to this area more than 8 times. Most importantly, the opportunity to receive quality medical services has been created not only in the center, but also in the regions.
Over the past period, 652 new medical institutions have been built in our country, and the volume of medical services has increased threefold due to the wide opportunities provided to the private sector. Our efforts to train highly qualified doctors and create conditions for them
are bearing fruit. More than 100 complex diagnostic and treatment methods previously implemented abroad are now being perfectly implemented in our country.
In general, the most important result of our reforms in this area is that the average life expectancy of the population has increased from 66.4 years in 1991 to 75.4 years in 2025, and infant and maternal mortality rates have decreased by 4 times.
Dear friends!
Our beloved homeland has always been a land of great thinkers, dear saints, and great scholars. We have built unique scientific and educational institutions, such as the Center for Islamic Civilization, the Imam Bukhari and Burkhaniddin Marginoni memorial complexes, worthy of such a priceless heritage.
These magnificent and sacred places are now receiving deserved recognition not only from our country and the Islamic world, but also from the people of the entire world. We will continue such creative work with great intensity.
Dear holiday participants!
Our greatest asset is the youth of New Uzbekistan, who are the decisive force of our tomorrow. 20-25 trillion soums are allocated annually to support our ambitious and hardworking sons and daughters and to open up broad opportunities for them.
Today, young entrepreneurs make up 35 percent of business representatives in Uzbekistan.
The historic achievements of our young athletes at the Tokyo and Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games and on world stages have brought immense pride to our people.
Our footballers have opened a new page in the history of Uzbek sports by participating in the World Cup for the first time. We believe that the path they have begun will certainly be continuous and victorious.
In the near future, a major sporting event - the World Chess Olympiad - will begin in Samarkand. In November, our famous grandmaster Javokhir Sindorov will compete for the world chess crown.
I wish my chess players great victories in these competitions!
I consider our young people, who are taking high places in international science olympiads, competitions, and festivals, to be the stars of New Uzbekistan, the future builders!
Never stop striving forward and constantly searching, my dear children!
Dear compatriots!
Today we stand at an even more responsible and decisive stage in history. Our country is entering a completely new era of development. The next decade will be a period of national uplift for us .
We will build this only through the intelligence, hard work, and unity of our people. To this end, in the coming years, we will implement 7 national programs that will further enhance human dignity in our country.
The first national program will be to transform knowledge and skills into the main capital of our future development.
We will soon increase the coverage of children in 6-year-old preparatory groups to 100 percent. Existing privileges for establishing private kindergartens will be maintained.
All schools are fully covered by international assessment programs.
We will introduce international educational standards in technical schools in our country. We will train our youth in highly profitable professions, bringing the number of students to 1 million. In short, there will not be a single young man or woman left in New Uzbekistan who has not acquired a profession.
We set a major goal of including at least 10 of our universities in the TOP 1000 in the coming years.
The second national program serves to ensure the health and longevity of our people.
To this end, we will increase public spending on public health to 5 percent of gross domestic product over the next five years.
We will move to a health care model by strengthening preventive medicine. State health insurance will reach every household in the country.
In order to strengthen the competitive environment in specialized medicine, we will bring in at least 5 of the world's most prestigious clinics.
We will turn our country into a mask made possible by modern medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnologies and medical education.
Dear event participants!
The third national program is to transition our economy to a model of high technology and labor productivity.
To this end, we will attract $450 billion in foreign investment over the next ten years. While maintaining high economic growth rates, by 2030 the gross domestic product will reach $300 billion, and 2 million high-income jobs will be created in industry.
The development of startups, ventures, and artificial intelligence will become a priority in fully realizing the potential of our youth.
We will also create a holistic ecosystem for small businesses to grow into medium-sized businesses, and medium-sized enterprises to grow into large companies and corporations. As a result, the GDP per capita will exceed $10,000 in the next ten years.
Dear friends!
In the context of global climate change, water and environmental issues are becoming increasingly urgent.
Therefore, the fourth national program is aimed at radically changing the attitude towards water and nature.
In the next five years, we will achieve 100 percent coverage of water-saving technologies in crop fields. This will become a nationwide goal.
Attitude to nature is a quality indicator of the culture of the people, the responsibility of the state and progress. Therefore, in our country, we are bringing the nationwide movement "Green Space" to a new qualitative level. Green areas around schools, kindergartens, hospitals and apartment buildings are protected as an inviolable asset of society. In the coming years, we will increase the level of greenery in district and city centers to 30 percent.
Dear compatriots!
Where justice prevails, both economic growth and social trust increase.
In this regard, the fifth national program is to strengthen judicial independence and make ensuring the rule of law a common value.
To this end, we will establish a clear system of legal education, starting from school. We will resolutely continue our reforms to strengthen legal guarantees for citizens and entrepreneurs. We will further strengthen measures to prevent cybercrime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.
We will take the fight against the "shadow economy", organized crime, and discrimination against women and children to a new level.
Dear compatriots!
The mood of our people, the well-being of families, the dreams and aspirations of young people, and the initiative of entrepreneurs are reflected, first of all, in the neighborhood.
Therefore, the Sixth National Program is aimed at making the mahalla the main customer of social development.
Now the approach to developing state programs will change completely. The district budget, investment program, and infrastructure projects will be developed based on the requirements of the mahalla. The demands and needs of citizens, as well as the well-being of the mahalla, will be the main criteria.
Dear holiday participants!
The Seventh National Program is aimed at comprehensively enhancing Uzbekistan's reputation as a land of peace and friendship, a tolerant country.
In our country, representatives of more than 130 nationalities and ethnic groups, as well as members of 16 religious denominations, live in harmony and harmony, like children of one family.
In today's turbulent times, interethnic harmony and religious tolerance are the golden fund and invaluable wealth of our people.
Our open, pragmatic, and peace-loving policy is aimed at ensuring our long-term development.
Historic achievements have been achieved in expanding good-neighborly relations, strategic partnership, and friendship in Central Asia.
Our relations with the Commonwealth of Independent States, the European Union, America, the Asia-Pacific region, and the Arab-Muslim world have been further strengthened. New areas of cooperation have been opened in Eastern Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
The number of countries that have established diplomatic relations with our country has reached almost 170.
We will continue to pursue a multifaceted, measured, and balanced foreign policy to make Uzbekistan an important center of international diplomacy. Economic diplomacy will remain one of the priorities of our foreign policy.
Our country will chair the Non-Aligned Movement for the first time in 2027-2029. We will actively promote initiatives aimed at increasing the effectiveness of this global structure, which unites more than 120 countries around the world.
We will firmly continue our constructive policy towards our neighboring Afghanistan.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my special gratitude to the representatives of the diplomatic corps, foreign media representatives, and our high-ranking guests from the United States, Turkey, and Singapore participating in our ceremony today for their fruitful cooperation.
Dear and respected compatriots!
I would like to express one opinion with confidence.
We are stronger today than we were yesterday. Hopefully, we will be even stronger tomorrow.
Our thirty-five years of independent development have taught us one truth: when the people and the state unite and work hard towards a common goal, there is no goal that cannot be achieved.
There is no force that can defeat such a powerful people and state.
We are one homeland, one people, and together we will build a new life and a great future!
I am confident that our courageous, courageous, and noble people will certainly achieve the lofty goals they have set for themselves.
Together, we will certainly create a golden age and a new great history for our homeland!
May we be eternally grateful to our Lord for granting us the gift of independence!
Glory to our people, the creators and true founders of our independence!
I once again congratulate you, and through you, our entire people, on today's great holiday - the thirty-fifth anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
May our country be peaceful, and our homes prosperous and prosperous!
Long live the Republic of Uzbekistan!
Long live the people of Uzbekistan!
INFORMATION NOTE ON COOPERATION WITH SERBIA
📅 24.08.2026
On 19 February of this year, a meeting was held between J. Kuchkarov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and A. Mesarović, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of the Republic of Serbia. During the talks, the parties discussed the current state of and prospects for bilateral trade, economic and investment cooperation.
At the beginning of the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister of Serbia conveyed sincere greetings and best wishes from President of Serbia A. Vučić to President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev. She also expressed gratitude for Uzbekistan’s principled position in support of Serbia’s territorial integrity.
The Serbian side noted that, in recent years, Serbia has become one of Europe’s leading countries in attracting investment. It was emphasized that new technologies, robotics, the automotive industry and high-tech manufacturing are developing rapidly.
The Uzbek side, in turn, provided information on Uzbekistan’s stable macroeconomic growth, the high rate of GDP growth, declining inflation and the ongoing reforms aimed at improving the investment climate.
During the meeting, the Serbian side raised the issue of facilitating a reduction in customs duties on Serbian-made Stellantis electric vehicles exported to Uzbekistan.
In response, the Uzbek side noted that electric vehicle manufacturers were already operating in Uzbekistan and had assumed certain obligations. At the same time, the Uzbek side stated that the matter would be considered in accordance with the established procedure.
The Serbian side also stated that, within one month, it would submit an official document outlining priority areas relating to investment, preferential trade and the expansion of cooperation. The Uzbek side expressed its readiness to consider these proposals, within the scope of its authority and in accordance with the established procedure. The Serbian side was also informed that the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade is the competent regulatory authority in the fields of investment and trade.
In addition, the Uzbek side expressed interest in Serbia’s defence industry capabilities and proposed implementing joint projects in this area.
Uzbekistan’s electoral transformation: embracing technology for a stronger democracy
📅 30.07.2024
Uzbekistan's upcoming elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament) and the Councils of People's Deputies, scheduled for October 27th, are not just a routine event. They mark a significant milestone in the nation's democratic journey, introducing groundbreaking changes that promise to transform the electoral landscape. The recent meeting of the Central Election Commission unveiled several key innovations that will ensure greater efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity, making these elections a matter of global interest.
For the first time in the nation's history, the Legislative Chamber elections will employ a mixed electoral system, combining majoritarian and proportional representation. This change means that voters will elect seventy-five deputies directly, while another seventy-five will be chosen based on party votes. This system aims to create a more balanced and representative legislature, enhancing democratic legitimacy and ensuring a broader spectrum of political voices.
One of the most notable advancements in Uzbekistan's electoral system is the full digitization of election commission activities. The introduction of the 'E-Saylov' information system is a significant leap forward, revolutionizing the election process. This digital platform not only streamlines the process, reducing bureaucracy and document handling, but also ensures a smoother, more efficient, and transparent electoral experience. It automates interactions between election commissions, political parties, candidates, observers, and the media, providing real-time statistical data, candidate information, and interactive maps. This technological leap empowers voters with unprecedented access to essential election-related information, making the electoral process more inclusive and transparent.
Inclusivity is another cornerstone of these elections. New election legislation requires political parties to ensure that at least 40% of their candidates are women, a progressive move towards gender equality in political representation. This requirement not only aligns Uzbekistan with advanced democratic standards but also enriches the political discourse by incorporating diverse perspectives.
The elections are taking place in a context where the updated Constitution has significantly enhanced the powers of parliament and representative bodies. The Legislative Chamber's powers have increased from 5 to 12, and the Senate's from 12 to 18. Parliament's oversight functions over executive, judicial, law enforcement, and special services have also been expanded. Additionally, the leadership of local Councils of People's Deputies by hokims (governors) has been abolished, transferring 33 powers previously held by hokims to local Councils to increase their role in resolving critical state issues.
The slogan "My Choice—My Prosperous Homeland" not only captures the spirit of these elections but also reflects the unwavering commitment of Uzbekistan's leadership to democratic state-building and citizen empowerment. With over 120,000 election commission members, 70,000 citizens, and numerous international observers participating, the elections are set to be a transparent and inclusive process, further demonstrating this commitment.
In conclusion, Uzbekistan is setting a remarkable precedent with its upcoming elections by embracing technological innovation and inclusivity. These initiatives will undoubtedly pave the way for a more prosperous and democratic future, showcasing Uzbekistan’s dedication to advancing democratic principles and practices.
Eldor Tulyakov,
The Executive Director,
Development Strategy Centre (Uzbekistan)
Transport and Logistics Cooperation Between Uzbekistan and the US: A New Stage of Strategic Partnership
📅 07.08.2026
Relations between Uzbekistan and the United States of America have reached a new level in recent years. Today, this cooperation encompasses strategic areas such as transport and logistics, aviation, infrastructure, digital technologies, financial services, industrial cooperation, and the development of international transport corridors.
As a nation located in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan places special emphasis on accessing international markets, expanding its export geography, and actively integrating into global supply chains. From this standpoint, modernizing the country's transport and logistics infrastructure has become one of the foremost priorities of its economic policy.
The United States, with its advanced technologies, a developed aviation industry, major financial institutions, digital solutions, and global logistics expertise, is a key partner capable of providing Uzbekistan with practical support in achieving these strategic goals.
Following meetings with leading American companies held in New York in September 2025, a portfolio of contracts and promising projects was formed in the fields of civil aviation, mining, finance and innovation, chemicals, energy, and other priority sectors, with a total value exceeding $100 billion.
In 2025, of the total 60,400 tons of cargo transported between Uzbekistan and the US, 44,200 tons were carried by rail. Road transport accounted for 13,800 tons, and air freight for 2,400 tons.
In the first six months of 2026, 31,200 tons of cargo were transported between Uzbekistan and the US. Of this volume, 30,700 tons were imports from the US to Uzbekistan.
The intensification of high-level political dialogue creates an important institutional foundation for advancing economic and infrastructure projects. During high-level meetings in Washington in November 2025, discussions focused on the further development of the Uzbek-American strategic partnership, the expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation, and the deepening of practical engagement between Central Asia and the United States in the "C5+1" format. The parties particularly emphasized the need to improve institutional mechanisms for promoting joint projects.
Meetings in June 2026 with leading U.S. companies, financial institutions, and business circles also demonstrated that the bilateral economic partnership is entering a practical phase. These meetings were attended by representatives of the U.S. EXIM Bank, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the American-Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce, and major companies such as Boeing, Visa, JP Morgan, Meta, BlackRock, and Air Products. Discussions focused on advancing specific projects in areas such as critical minerals, energy, metallurgy, finance, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies, among others.
The direct link between these sectors and the transport and logistics system is that modern industrial and export chains cannot develop without a reliable logistics infrastructure. Delivering critical minerals, industrial products, high-tech goods, and agricultural products to foreign markets requires multimodal transportation, containerization, warehouse and customs terminals, electronic tracking systems, and responsive transport services.
In this context, infrastructure initiatives such as the construction of a new international airport in Tashkent, data centers, and dry ports hold a special place on the transport and logistics agenda of Uzbek-American cooperation. The new international airport will help expand the country's air transport capabilities, developing air cargo, postal services, express delivery, e-commerce, pharmaceutical transport, and international transit services.
Currently, direct flights are operated on the Tashkent–New York–Tashkent route. This route is vital for developing business ties, tourism, and trade between the two countries.
At the same time, this route serves as an important logistics channel for high-value cargo requiring rapid delivery.
One of the most significant steps in the aviation sector relates to agreements between Uzbekistan Airways and Boeing. In September 2025, the national carrier signed an agreement to acquire 14 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with an option to purchase an additional 8. Later, during the C5+1 summit, the agreement for the additional 8 aircraft was converted into a firm order, bringing the total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft ordered by Uzbekistan Airways to 22.
The new fleet of long-haul aircraft will allow Tashkent to be transformed into a major air hub connecting North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This will not only increase passenger traffic but also create new opportunities for international air freight.
Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization is also of great importance for the transport and logistics industry. At a meeting on June 25, 2026, with a delegation led by the U.S. Trade Representative, special attention was given to continuing cooperation with and support from the United States in our country's WTO accession process. WTO membership will help harmonize trade rules with international standards, simplify customs procedures, increase the transparency of documentation, and reduce unnecessary barriers in foreign trade.
Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization is also of great importance for the transport and logistics industry. At a meeting on June 25, 2026, with a delegation led by the U.S. Trade Representative, special attention was given to continuing cooperation with and support from the United States in our country's WTO accession process. WTO membership will help align trade rules with international standards, simplify customs procedures, ensure transparency in documentation, and reduce unnecessary barriers in foreign trade.
This process directly leads to lower logistical costs, shorter cargo clearance times, and the creation of a competitive environment for exporters. Furthermore, a trade system compliant with international standards establishes a reliable legal framework for foreign investors and logistics companies. As a result, this expands investment opportunities in modern warehouses, logistics centers, dry ports, customs terminals, and multimodal transportation services.
Growth in trade figures also confirms this trend. While trade turnover between the two countries reached $882 million in 2024, the volume of mutual trade exceeded $1 billion in 2025. Moreover, the activity of approximately 340 American companies in our country's market shows that the United States has become one of Uzbekistan's key economic partners. Major projects being implemented in the energy, critical minerals, transport, agriculture, information technology, and other sectors are further enriching the practical content of bilateral cooperation. This means that the entry of Uzbek products into the US market is becoming a stable trend, and in turn, the demand for transport and logistics services will grow.
Another important area of cooperation is related to digital services and high technology. The growth in exports of IT and digital services targeting the US market indicates the formation of new export sectors in Uzbekistan's economy.
Cooperation within the C5+1 format adds a regional dimension to Uzbek-American transport and logistics relations. The dialogue between the countries of Central Asia and the United States on strengthening trade, investment, the digital economy, supply chains, and transport connectivity is accelerating the region's integration into global markets. For Uzbekistan, this process expands opportunities to diversify international transport corridors, enhance its transit potential, and develop into a regional logistics hub.
Large-scale programs are being implemented in the country to modernize its road and rail networks, terminals, and airports. The fact that more than $12 billion is planned to be allocated for the development of transport infrastructure by 2030 clearly demonstrates the scale and long-term significance of reforms in this area.
This cooperation serves the goals of modernizing Uzbekistan's transport and logistics system, increasing its export potential, integrating into global supply chains, and becoming a competitive logistics hub in Central Asia.
- Abdusamatov, Leading Specialist
Center for the Study of Transport and Logistics Development Problems
at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan -
Diplomatic Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs -
State Committee for Tourism Development -
Ministry of Investments and Foreign Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan
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invest.gov.uz -
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