Annotation. The Ferghana Valley is the historical heart of Central Asia, where a new model of regional cooperation based on trust, good neighbourliness and sustainable development is currently taking shape. The initiative
of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to hold the Ferghana Peace Forum reflects a common desire among the countries of the region to strengthen mutual understanding and create the area of peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

INTRODUCTION

Historically, the Fergana Valley was a shared space where countries used common resources and people kept close ties. For centuries, the valley was
at the crossroads of key trade routes connecting the West and the East.

The establishment of an atmosphere of good neighbourliness
 in the Ferghana Valley reflects positive developments throughout Central Asia. Essentially, this is the result of political will, a concentrated expression
of the joint efforts of the leaders of all five countries to maintain security
and stability in the region.

Holding the Fergana Peace Forum in Fergana on October 15–16, 2025, confirms the statement made by the President of Uzbekistan at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly about the transformation of Central Asia into
an area of peace, friendly relations and partnership.

FROM A ZONE OF TENSION TO A SPACE OF TRUST

In the early years of independence, unresolved border issues and
the existence of numerous ethno-territorial enclaves served as grounds
for viewing the region as a conflict zone.

However, today, thanks to the political will and joint efforts of the leaders
of states, the Fergana Valley, previously perceived as a “powder keg,”
“Achilles' heel,” and “hot spot,” is becoming a symbol of peace, sustainable development, and a space of opportunity.

In recent years, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have made significant progress in diplomacy and establishing stable political contacts.

The visits of the countries' leaders and their participation in regional forums and organizations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
and the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of Central Asian States contribute
to the deepening of political and economic ties. The development of bilateral
and multilateral relations in the political sphere has helped to create a solid foundation for regional integration and mutual support.

Moreover, all five Central Asian countries contribute to the sustainable development of the Ferghana Valley. Joint water and energy projects are being implemented. In January 2023, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan signed
a “”Road Map” for the implementation of the Kambarata HPS-1 construction project, and in June 2024, an interdepartmental agreement on preparations
for the implementation of the project.

A new phase of regional diplomacy began in 2017 with the election
of Shavkat Mirziyoyev as the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Relations
with neighbouring countries reached a qualitatively new level. Dialogue based on the principles of openness, respect, and equality laid the foundation
for long-term friendly coexistence.

Thanks to the political will of the leaders of the three states—Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan—historic agreements were reached in 2025
with the signing of the Treaty on the Junction Point of the State Borders
of  Three States and the Khujand Declaration on Eternal Friendship.
These documents became a symbol of a new era of trust and creative partnership. The treaty legally established the borders of the three states
at a concrete point in the Ferghana Valley.

This breakthrough did not come unexpectedly, without preparatory work. In the preceding months, on March 13, 2025, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed an important agreement on the demarcation of their common border—the final stage of their long negotiations.

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov noted that regional integration continues to develop actively, and the strengthening of cooperation
in all spheres will be the key to sustainable development and prosperity throughout Central Asia.

In turn, Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon called the development
of relations between the three countries based on the principles of good neighborliness, equality, and mutual respect one of the priorities of Tajikistan's foreign policy.

The international community particularly highlights the indispensable role of Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who initiated a new diplomatic line: "Borders should not divide, but unite our peoples."

This approach creates a model for peaceful transformation, where internal rather than external factors shape the architecture of trust, friendship, and good neighbourliness.

The formation of the area of stability and cooperation in Ferghana Valley was achieved without external involvement, solely through the strong political will of the leaders of the three states, combined with the desire of the peoples
of the region for peaceful coexistence, creating a solid foundation for lasting peace and prosperity.

Ferghana Valley – an “exemplary model” for building inter-state relations in other regions

The Ferghana Valley is one of Central Asia's unique oases – a place where the destinies of the peoples of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan have intertwined. More than 17 million people live here, accounting for 20%
of the total population of Central Asia, which is around 83 million.

Today, the valley is gradually becoming a symbol of the new Central Asia – a region where borders are not barriers, but bridges of interaction.
The development of transport, trade, and humanitarian ties between Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan paves the way for the formation of a single space
for interaction in the name of common prosperity.

Joint infrastructure and economic projects, the restoration of roads
and railways, the development of border logistics hubs, and the modernization of checkpoints are creating conditions for the free movement of people, goods, and ideas.

Communications between the Ferghana Valley and the outside world are actively developing. Today, it is being integrated into international multimodal transport corridors and is gradually regaining its status as an interregional transit hub connecting East and West.

In this regard, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project is of great importance. If implemented, it will have a multiplier effect on the economies
of all countries in the region.

The railway will provide access to the ports of the Persian Gulf
and the Pacific Ocean, open up new markets, thereby diversifying the economy and creating new jobs.

Visa regimes are being simplified and the throughput capacity at border crossing points is being improved, which will encourage more mutual travel
by citizens.

Uzbekistan maintains a visa-free regime with all Central Asian countries except Turkmenistan. In particular, there are currently 17 border crossing points between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan and 25 between Uzbekistan
and Kyrgyzstan. In 2016, there were only 13 between Uzbekistan
and Kyrgyzstan, and all of them operated with restrictions. For example, currently, up to 20,000 people pass through the Dustlik checkpoint
on the Uzbek-Kyrgyz border every day, which is 100 times more than in 2016.
At the same time, the number of vehicles passing through has increased tenfold, reaching 700 per day.

The Mingtepa and Khanabad border checkpoints were opened in 2023, and the Uchkurgan and Karasu checkpoints in 2024. These points had been closed since 2009-2010.

Today, citizens of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan can travel to each other's countries for up to 30 days without registration. A visa-free regime
for up to 60 days has been established between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan,
and since September 1, 2023, it has been possible to use ID cards
(instead of foreign passports) for mutual travel between the two countries.

The time required for goods and people to cross the border has been reduced to an unprecedented eight minutes. In turn, citizens of Tajikistan
and Uzbekistan can stay in each other's territory for up to 30 days
without a visa. This, in turn, contributes to the intensification of cooperation
and improved mutual understanding between the peoples of the Fergana Valley.

On the whole, a common space is forming in the Ferghana Valley, as it has throughout history. The restoration of the valley's interconnectedness contributes to the stability and sustainable development of the entire region.

The international community's keen interest in these processes confirms that Central Asia is becoming an important center for the formation of a culture of peace. The initiatives put forward by Uzbekistan have received support
from the UN, OSCE, EU, and other international partners, which strengthens
the legitimacy and sustainability of regional efforts.

The Ferghana Peace Forum has a special place in this process—it's not just a diplomatic meeting, but a platform for developing a new philosophy
of regional cooperation. This forum brings together political leaders, experts, and public figures, offering an open dialogue on strengthening peace, trust,
and sustainable development in Central Asia.

 The event will enable the countries of the region to independently shape their own architecture of stability and sustainable development, based
on mutual respect and the desire for a better future for new generations.

CONCLUSION

The Ferghana Valley is gradually transforming into a space of peace
and harmony, where peoples find common ground and jointly strengthen
the region's stability.

The establishment of the atmosphere of friendship and
amicable relations in the Ferghana Valley shows that, even in today's turbulent global environment, ensuring stability in the region is an achievable goal. 

This process requires patience, wisdom, and willingness to make reasonable compromises. Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan have demonstrated these qualities and their ability, despite complex challenges,
to unite for common goals such as strengthening security and sustainable development.

In turn, the Fergana Peace Forum is called to become a permanent platform aimed at strengthening dialogue and trust, ensuring sustainable development of the Ferghana Valley, unlocking economic potential,
and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties. This meeting reflects the unity of the countries in the region, which are determined to build a common future together.

Authors: Diloram Mukhsinova and Bekhzod Alimjanov,

senior researchers at the Center for Foreign Policy Studies

(Uzbekistan)

Today, civil society institutions, particularly non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs), play an active role in Uzbekistan's development and the implementation of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy. It is impossible to build a new Uzbekistan without organizing the activities of NGOs, the most important institution of civil society, according to democratic principles. On this basis, effective work is being done to support NGOs and civil society institutions, strengthen social partnerships with state bodies, implement effective public oversight, and improve the legal framework governing this area.

As a result of the measures implemented, the legal and regulatory framework has been improved to provide legal guarantees for NGOs while also meeting modern democratic requirements and international standards. The laws "On non-governmental non-profit organizations," "On guarantees for the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations," and "On public oversight," as well as the Presidential Decree "On approval of the civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025" and a number of Governmental decrees, have all been adopted.

The civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025 aims to increase state support for civil society institutions in the form of subsidies, grants, and social orders by 1.8 times, as well as increase the volume of allocated funds to 70 billion soums by 2025.

A number of goals, objectives, and indicators related to the further development of civil society are set out in conceptually significant documents such as the Strategy for Action, the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, and the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy. Upon that basis, it is worth noting that the State programmes adopted annually include provisions for further strengthening the activities of civil society institutions and NGOs.

The chapter titled "Civil society institutions" and the term itself were included for the first time in the new version of the Constitution adopted through a referendum in 2023.

It should be mentioned that the President of Uzbekistan prioritizes civil society institutions and NGOs in his publications, speeches, and reports. Shavkat Mirziyoyev's book titled "Strategy of New Uzbekistan" includes a separate paragraph titled "Free and Open Civil Society" and it includes comments on priority areas for civil society development as well as proposals for implementing a number of tasks based on a thorough examination of relevant national legislation, law enforcement practice, and best foreign experience.

According to the figures, there were only 95 NGOs operating in the country on January 1, 1991; by January 1, 2000, there were 2,585, by January 1, 2016, there were 8,417, and by January 1, 2024, there were over 9,000. These NGOs are critical in protecting individuals' and legal entities' rights and legitimate interests, as well as democratic values and the achievement of social, cultural, and educational objectives. 

It is also important to note the dynamic growth of support and financial sustainability provided by NGOs. In particular, 513.8 billion soums were allocated from the state budget to support 2,074 NGOs and other civil society institutions between 2017 and 2023. If 12.3 billion soums were allocated in 2017, the figure was 226.4 billion in 2023. It is planned to allocate 1.8 trillion soums in 2024.

Furthermore, the scope of state support for civil society institutions has been broadened, and public funds to support civil society institutions have been established through the local Councils (Kengash) of People's Deputies. The legal basis for allocating funds from the local budget to support civil society institutions in the regions has been strengthened, and social projects are funded through these channels.

It should be acknowledged that favourable conditions are one of the most important factors in the effective operation of non-governmental organizations. In 14 regions of our republic, "Houses of non-governmental non-profit organizations" have been established, housing approximately 500 NGOs and providing them with the necessary office equipment, furniture, items, equipment, and other tools. As a result, the NGOs' problems with the building were resolved, and their socially beneficial activities were resumed. In particular, newly established NGOs carrying out their activities in socially significant spheres were accommodated in these buildings under the right of free use.

To regularly improve the knowledge and skills of NGOs' managers based on the best foreign experience, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan organizes training courses on a special 72-hour training programme. To date, 367 NGO leaders and managers have attended advanced training courses. These advanced training courses are expected to train 134 NGO managers by 2024.

It should be noted that NGOs express proposals and initiatives to improve State programs and legislation in their field, as well as carry out public control measures over the implementation of Regional socioeconomic development programmes and State programmes.

As mentioned above, the 83rd goal of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy prioritizes the expansion of free civil society and media activities, transforming Uzbekistan into a hub for civil society development. It specifically highlights the tasks of increasing the number of projects implemented within the framework of social partnership by at least threefold and increasing the number of NGOs participating in government programs to at least 80.

To summarize, civil society institutions and NGOs are genuine supporters of state bodies and organizations in the process of reforms, sociopolitical and socioeconomic changes, achievement of strategic goals, and serving as a social bridge between society and government.

Anvarjon Mirkomilov,

Head of Department,

Development Strategy Center

The main feature of a democratic society is the protection of human rights and the provision of equal opportunities for all in public life and administration. Gender equality is an essential component of this, as it ensures equal protection of rights and freedoms for individuals.

The Constitution of Uzbekistan states that all citizens enjoy equal rights and freedoms, regardless of gender, race, nationality, language, religion, beliefs, social origin or social status. Article 58 states that men and women have equal rights, and the state provides equal opportunities for both genders in managing society and state affairs.

These principles of equality and social justice are reflected in all laws and regulations, ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and rights. This includes gender equality, which is essential for a fair and just society.

It should be noted that, in recent years, more than 40 legislative documents and important conceptual programs have been adopted within the framework of which efforts have been made to create equal rights and opportunities for women and men, strengthen the role of women in government and community leadership, provide necessary conditions for education, vocational training, employment, and create decent working conditions. These efforts also aim to increase women's participation in economic life and protect them against various forms of harassment and violence.

In particular, the law “On guarantees of equal rights and opportunities for women and men” provides for the prevention of gender discrimination and the provision of equal participation for all in public administration. The Law on Protection of Women from Harassment and Violence establishes mechanisms to end various forms of violence against women and to provide protection and assistance to victims.

The “Strategy for achieving gender equality in Uzbekistan until 2030” approved by the decision of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan on May 28, 2021, envisages a comprehensive approach to the implementation of the principle of equality between women and men in all spheres and levels of decision-making and implementation. Also, the strategy serves to ensure the promotion of gender equality in economic, political, and social life in order to create conditions for the realization of equal rights and opportunities for men and women and to observe fundamental human rights.

Due to this, gender policy in our country has become an important factor in society and state development. Concepts such as “gender equality”, “gender and development”, “gender balance”, and “the role of women in social and political life” are expressed in the development of program documents and all normative legal documents in our country.

In practice, the results are even more significant. In particular, the reason for the gender policy is that in the last seven years, the share of women in public administration in Uzbekistan has increased from 27% to 35%. In his speech at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, summarized the systematic efforts to achieve gender equality in our country and noted that the share of women in public administration reached 35% for the first time.

Moreover, in our country, 32% of the deputies in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and 25% of the members of the Senate are women. The number of women entrepreneurs has doubled, and the number of women who have started their own business has exceeded 205 thousand. Hundreds of thousands of women were trained in trades and entrepreneurship. Among the population employed in health care and education, the share of women is 77 percent, in the economy and industry, it is 46 percent. The number of girls studying in higher education institutions has increased by six times; more than half of the students are women.

Uzbekistan has ratified the main international human rights treaties and conventions related to gender equality. Our country joined the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1995 and undertook to eliminate discrimination and ensure the full development and well-being of women. Uzbekistan has also ratified the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action, which set strategic goals for achieving gender equality, and has been effectively fulfilling the relevant obligations.

Therefore, the systematic measures taken in this regard are duly recognized by the international community. In particular, in the World Bank index, Uzbekistan was listed among the 5 fastest developing countries in the world in the field of gender equality.

In addition, Uzbekistan ranked 18th out of 195 countries with a score of
69.7 in the “Open Data Watch” organization's Open Gender Data Index, and was ranked among the “Top-20”.

In the policy of ensuring gender equality in the public service, increasing the weight of women in public administration, in particular, issues of forming a team of potential female leaders are of priority.

It should be noted that after the introduction of open competitions by the Public Service Development Agency, practically the same requirements were set for everyone. The human factor between the employer, personnel department representatives, and candidates was limited. Equal opportunities are guaranteed for all.

This, of course, further expanded the opportunities for women to enter the civil service. If we base our opinion on the numbers, earlier women made up
5-8 percent of those who entered the civil service, now women make up about
34 percent of the winners of the competition.

To be more specific, 2.1 million applications have been received in open competitions to date, of which 20% are women. 56,500 of our citizens won these contests, and 19,670 of them (35 percent) were women.

The first direction of ensuring gender equality in the personnel policy is to attract the most potential women to the civil service, to increase the attractiveness of the civil service for them, and the second major direction is to hire highly skilled people in the management of the civil service – “HiPo” (High potential) is to systematically prepare female personnel for leadership positions and to form a corps of “Women leaders”.

According to many sociologists, a professional leader is a person who has certain characteristics for successful management, regardless of gender. For effective management, it is not the role of the leader in gender relations, but the presence of professional competences such as the ability to correctly set priorities in solving the problem, to direct the team, and to fully achieve the goals based on the rational distribution of resources, is considered important.

However, due to the problem of vertical segregation, the low proportion of women in high-ranking positions, and the problem of the “glass ceiling”—invisible barriers to advancement our women have to work in more middle and senior management positions. As a reason for such a situation, we can point out the high responsibility of leadership, and for this reason, the professional qualifications, knowledge, and potential of women are not in accordance with the relevant leadership position.

In order to form specialists into good leaders, it is necessary to develop the necessary soft skills in effective work with personnel and making optimal decisions in management, development of human resources, innovation, critical and systematic thinking, and leadership competencies.

Therefore, our agency, in cooperation with the Family and Women's Committee and the Academy of Public Administration, launched the “Women's School of Leaders” educational program aimed at preparing the most potential women working in state bodies for leadership.

Until now, on the basis of this program, he has a high professional potential, is active in the implementation of reforms, and is active in various fields of public administration. The qualification of 145 women was improved.

At this point, it should be noted that by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PF-81 dated March 1, 2022, the position of women activists was introduced in every neighborhood in all cities, towns, villages, and towns. In turn, through this, the President created a practical school for the formation of women leaders. Currently, there are about 9,400 women activists at the lower level, and 207 women are working as deputy governors, heads of family, and women's departments at the middle level.

Those who have achieved the highest results according to the KPI system by the State Service Development Agency are included in the National Personnel Reserve and are purposefully prepared for senior leadership positions.

As a result of the above-summarized measures implemented on the basis of today's gender equality policy, a unique national model of preparing women for leadership is being formed in our country.

In conclusion, a strong legal basis for gender equality policy has been formed in our country, and as a result of the full and correct implementation of these norms in life, we are making progress recognized by the international community. On this basis, it can be noted that gender policy in Uzbekistan serves as an important criterion for ensuring human rights.

Dilfuza Makhkamova,

Head of the Department of the Agency for the Development of Public Service under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Farangiz Avazbekova,

Chief Inspector of the Agency for the Development of Public Service

under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan;

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law

If the greatest gift given to human is life, then, without a doubt, the highest goal that humanity has always strived for is peace and harmony. That is why we always wish each other peace and tranquility, health and well-being.

Uzbekistan has always been a place of tolerance, harmony and friendship. Representatives of different nationalities and peoples living on the same land, drinking water from the same river, sharing happiness and sorrow together, have coexisted side by side for centuries. No wonder that such expressions as “Tolerant Uzbekistan!” and “Generous Uzbek people” have appeared.

In a multinational and multi-confessional state, interethnic consent and interfaith harmony are important factors that create a solid foundation for stability and development, determining its prospects.

One of the main factors why our country is rapidly developing today, fruitfulness of reforms and steady growth of the people’s well-being is that representatives of more than 130 nationalities and peoples, 16 religious confessions live together in our country as a single people of Uzbekistan.

The fundamental basis of reforms in this direction is that our Constitution stipulates that the Republic of Uzbekistan ensures a respectful attitude towards languages, customs and traditions of the nationalities and peoples living on its territory, and creates conditions for their development.

Today, education in schools is conducted in 7 languages, creating conditions for pupils of different nationalities to receive education in their native language. National television and radio channels broadcast in 12 languages, and newspapers and magazines are published in 14 languages, creating equal conditions for everyone to receive information in their native language.

Representatives of different nationalities and peolpes living in our country, as the single people of Uzbekistan, contribute to the development of our country with their active and selfless work, nowadays about 5 thousand representatives of 35 nationalities work in the state civil service.

In particular, 12.7 percent of our deputies in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, which are considered the country’s political institutions, and 11.2 percent in local Kengashes, are representatives of different nationalities and peoples. There is no limit to such achievements, we observe that interethnic harmony and solidarity are reflected in every aspect of society.

The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev considers the ethnic diversity that has existed on the land of our country since ancient times as a unique social phenomenon and pays special attention to the preservation and further strengthening of harmony between nationalities, peoples and confessions. As a result of the wise policy of the head of our state, based on the principles of prudence, humanism and justice, national unity is growing stronger in our country, and our precious and beloved Motherland is becoming a place of peace, friendship and mutual respect, where human dignity and happiness reign.

As the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized in his speech at a meeting with deputies of the chambers of the Oliy Majlis, representatives of political parties and the public on May 8, 2023: “Our main wealth is our great multinational people, who consider Uzbekistan their only Motherland. The highest duty of each of us is to carefully preserve, like the apple of our eye, the priceless treasure — interethnic friendship and harmony that have taken hold in our beloved country”.

Indeed, in New Uzbekistan, interethnic and interfaith harmony, and mutual understanding based on loyalty to the spiritual heritage of ancestors, educating the younger generation in the spirit of tolerance, respect for national and universal values and patriotism, have become one of the most important priorities of state policy.

Large-scale reforms implemented in all spheres of public life at the initiative of the head of state also marked new milestones and initiatives in the field of interethnic and interfaith relations.

In this sense, the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On measures to bring to a new stage the strengthening of national harmony and relations with compatriots abroad”, adopted on March, 2025, and the Resolution “On measures to effectively organize the activities of the Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad” bring work in this direction to a qualitatively new level.

In accordance with these documents, the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad of the Republic of Uzbekistan was created on the basis of the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Friendly Cooperation with Foreign Countries under the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The main tasks of the Committee were defined as the harmonization of interethnic relations, strengthening friendship, harmony, tolerance and unity in society, the formation of a single civil identity, strengthening the involvement of all nationalities and ethnic groups in national development, promoting the preservation of the national identity of compatriots abroad and mobilizing their social and economic potential for the development of our homeland, as well as promoting the prevention and identification of factors that negatively affect interethnic harmony.

Also, the fact that it is planned to develop draft concepts of state policy in the field of ensuring national unity and strengthening relations with compatriots abroad indicates that work in this direction will be consistently continued.

First of all, as an important element in ensuring national unity, special attention is paid to preservation of culture, language, customs, values and traditions of all nationalities and peoples living in Uzbekistan, and transmission to the younger generation

As is known, the role of national cultural centers is very important in the systematic implementation of work in this direction. Today, there are 157 national cultural centers in our country. Their activities are constantly supported by the state. Based on the President’s initiatives, starting in 2021, state subsidies will be allocated for the operation of these centers and their implementation of activities aimed at popularizing culture, language, customs, values and traditions.

For national cultural centers operating in the regions, premises have been allocated in the “Houses of Friendship”, where they use these places absolutely free of charge. Also, in the building of the Committee on Interethnic Relations, located in the center of Tashkent, all conditions have been created for the work of 27 national cultural centers of the republican and city level.

In particular, the construction in July of this year next to the building of the Committee on Interethnic Relations of the Pavilion of National Cultural Centers is a unique symbol of national harmony, where national houses of 22 nationalities were built, became a great gift from the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to national cultural centers. This pavilion can safely be called a place of national harmony.

The grand opening of the pavilion of national cultural centers took place as part of the Friendship Festival, which was held throughout our country from July 25 to 31 this year, in honor of Peoples’ Friendship Day, celebrated on July 30.

The event was attended by members of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and deputies of the Legislative Chamber, representatives of ministries and departments, the public, and the media, guests from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and China, as well as heads and employees of diplomatic missions of 30 states and international organizations in Uzbekistan.

The participants of the event assessed the construction of this pavilion as a unique event, emphasizing that it opens up another wonderful opportunity for the nationalities and peoples living in Uzbekistan to preserve and develop their culture, customs and traditions, fully reflects the large-scale reforms carried out in our country in the sphere of interethnic harmony and national unity, and serves as a platform for mutual cultural exchange.

Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, who took part in the event, noted that she highly appreciates the respect and attention to various nationalities and peoples in Uzbekistan, and she considers the opening of the pavilion of national cultural centers to be truly attention to the person, and a progressive idea.

Thanks to the strong political will of our President, special attention is paid to close cooperation with compatriots living abroad. One of such projects is the Uz Global Think forum. This project is being implemented in the form of an ongoing dialogue between compatriots living abroad — representatives of expert and scientific circles — with the aim of creating business platforms, exchanging opinions on issues such as the socio-economic development of society, environmental sustainability and quality education.

A platform is also being created for the exchange of opinions among compatriots abroad about individuals in academic circles, their life path, successes and recommendations that will serve the development of New Uzbekistan.

In addition, in order to further increase the contribution of compatriots abroad to the economic power of the New Uzbekistan, following the example of the UNDP program “Knowledge Transfer through Compatriots Abroad”, work is underway to transfer human capital, which will contribute to ensuring innovative socio-economic development and environmental sustainability.

The “Graduates from Uzbekistan” program is being developed, which will unite and support compatriots who graduated from foreign educational institutions, and live and work in foreign countries.

All these tasks serve the further development of Uzbekistan with the participation of compatriots abroad.

One of the most important human freedoms is undoubtedly freedom of conscience. The adoption in 2021 of a new version of the Law “On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations” was another important step towards institutional strengthening of freedom of conscience in our country. This law further strengthened the principles of tolerance and created a solid legal basis for the activities of all faiths.

Today, 2,361 religious organizations belonging to 16 confessions operate freely in Uzbekistan. Of these, 2,164 are Islamic, 197 are non-Islamic: 180 Christian, 8 Jewish, 7 Baha’i, as well as a Buddhist temple, a Krishna center, and an interfaith Bible society. In 2017–2024 there were registered 108 new religious organizations. New mosques, Christian churches and temples were built, and existing ones were renovated. This is a practical confirmation of respect for all faiths.

At the same time, we have every reason to say that the adoption of the Law “On the Concept of Ensuring Freedom of Conscience of Citizens and State Policy in the Religious Sphere in the Republic of Uzbekistan” on February 25 of this year has become the most important event in the life of society.

The concept will serve the multinational and multi-confessional people of Uzbekistan to realize the interests of society as a whole, to ensure its harmonious coexistence based on equality, social justice and unity.

This year, on September 10-13 the II International Forum “Dialogue of Declarations” was held in Tashkent and Samarkand.

In May 2022 the first forum “Dialogue of Declarations” was held in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara over five days. Leading scientists from a number of foreign countries, as well as representatives of local authorities and religious organizations took part in the forum. The Bukhara Declaration adopted following that conference was subsequently recognized as an official document at the 76th session of the UN General Assembly. This confirms the importance of the Uzbek model for the formation of a tolerant society consisting of people of different nationalities, religions and beliefs.

The regular holding of the forum “Dialogue of Declarations”, the participation of influential foreign and international participants in it testifies to the high recognition in the world of Uzbekistan’s policy aimed at ensuring freedom of religion and interfaith harmony. In addition, the II Forum confirms Uzbekistan’s commitment to the principle of openness, development of an atmosphere of religious magnanimity and tolerance, in order to bring interfaith dialogue to a higher level of values. We are also convinced that this conference will serve as a unique platform for the exchange of best practices in ensuring peaceful coexistence of peoples and representatives of different faiths.

I would like to conclude the article with the following words from the festive greetings of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the occasion of July 30 – Peoples’ Friendship Day:

“In the current extremely dangerous situation, when various conflicts on national and religious grounds continue in different regions of the world, we will continue to work to further strengthen our greatest wealth — peace and stability, an atmosphere of mutual respect and harmony in our country — based on the idea of a united Uzbekistan, educating young people as holders of national and universal values, knowledge, professions, deepening the principles of inclusiveness.

We are mobilizing all our forces and capabilities for the reliable protection of the rights and interests of representatives of all nationalities and faiths who are proud to be citizens of Uzbekistan, as well as our compatriots abroad, everywhere, in accordance with the requirements of our Constitution and laws”.

                                               Kakhramon SARIEV,

                                               Chairman of the Committee

                                               on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad

                                               of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The analysis covers the key thematic and semantic emphases of the President’s speech, the structure of core concepts and their interrelations, priority directions of state policy, as well as the strategic benchmarks for the country’s socio-economic development in 2026.

On 26 December 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered his Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan. Experts of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) conducted a linguistic content analysis of the President’s speech.

The analysis was carried out using modern linguistic methods and is aimed at identifying semantic priorities, key concepts and their connections. A word cloud and diagrams were also prepared to visually demonstrate the priority directions of state policy.

Analysis (from the original language)

In total, the President used 9,135 words in his Address. The creation of a word cloud made it possible to visualize the most significant themes and gain a deeper understanding of the priorities and directions of the country’s socio-economic development.

Figure 1. Most frequently used words in the President’s Address (26.12.2025)

The linguistic analysis showed that the most frequently used key words included “mahalla” – 49 times, “aholi” (population) – 35 times, “iqtisodiyot” (economy) – 28 times, “bozor” (market) – 26 times, “loyiha” (project) – 25 times, and “technology” – 22 times (Fig. 1).

Words such as “ta’lim” (education), “natija” (result) and “daromad” (income) were each used 20 times; “tadbirkor” (entrepreneur) and “sanoat” (industry) – 19 times each; “suv” (water) – 18 times; “elektr” (electricity) and “hudud” (territory) – 17 times each; “yoshlar” (youth), “infratuzilma” (infrastructure) and “qurilish” (construction) – 16 times each.

The analysis of two-word expressions showed that the phrase “Markaziy Osiyo” (Central Asia) was used eight times; “aholi daromadi” (household income), “qishloq xo‘jaligi” (agriculture) and “yangi bosqich” (new stage) – seven times; “yangi texnologiyalar” (new technologies) and “Toshkent shahri” (city of Tashkent) – six times each. Expressions such as “Davlat xizmatlari” (public services), “xorijiy investitsiya” (foreign investment) and “yangi tizim” (new system) were used five times, while “dual ta’lim” (dual education), “ish o‘rni” (jobs), “viloyat markazlari” (regional centers) and “tuman byudjeti” (district budgets) were used four times each.
Among three-word combinations, the most frequent expressions included “the next five years” – nine times; “based on dual education” – four times; and “water-saving technologies” and “water, electricity” – three times each.

Thus, the analysis shows that at the core of state policy are the mahalla, public welfare, and the transition to a new stage of development based on economic and technological transformation, with clearly defined strategic objectives for the next five years.

Thematic structure of the speech

The diagram below shows the distribution of the speech’s vocabulary by key directions, where the content is grouped into nine main thematic blocks.
The diagram clearly demonstrates that technological development and human interests, implemented at the level of the mahalla, are at the center of state policy. The ultimate goal of all reforms is to ensure public welfare through sustainable economic growth (Fig. 2).

Figure 2. Distribution of words by thematic areas in the structure of the speech

Interconnection of development directions

The analysis highlights key words that demonstrate the interconnection between various directions of Uzbekistan’s state policy in the coming years.
The transition of the economy to a technological and innovation-based growth model is a central element of state policy and implies a shift away from a raw-materials model toward high-tech industry. This direction is closely linked with such concepts as “investment,” “technology,” “market,” and “product.”

The block on economic growth and welfare reflects the key outcomes of reforms, including the increase of the economy to $145 bn and a twofold reduction in poverty over the past three years. It is directly associated with the concepts of “population,” “economy,” “mahalla,” and “services.”

The social foundation of reforms is built through the development of the mahalla and social solidarity. This direction is associated with “mahalla,” “youth,” “society,” and “values.”

Structuring vocabulary by thematic areas shows that the core of the President’s speech is technological modernization of the economy and a human-centered governance model based on the “mahallabay” system.

It emphasizes the interconnection between economic growth, improvement of public welfare and the development of local infrastructure, as well as priorities such as strengthening human capital, expanding employment and increasing the efficiency of public administration.

Figure 3. Interconnection of development directions

Among the highlighted semantic blocks are also tasks related to stimulating domestic demand, developing the housing and tourism sectors, modernizing the transport system, increasing productivity in agriculture and introducing water-saving technologies.

Special emphasis is placed on the “green” agenda, including the development of renewable energy, expansion of the “Yashil Makon” (“Green Space”) initiative, and strengthening resilience to climate risks.

In the foreign policy dimension, the analysis highlights Uzbekistan’s openness, strengthening of good-neighborly relations, and integration into the global economic system.

The linguistic analysis confirms that the idea at the core of the President’s speech is built around the triad “inson qadri – mahalla – farovonlik” (human dignity – mahalla – welfare), where the goal of reforms is sustainable growth, improved quality of life, and the further strengthening of Uzbekistan’s position.

Ilyos Rabbimov, CERR

CERR Public Relations Service

For inquiries, please contact:

(78) 150 02 02 (417)

The second day of the visit of the Head of our state to Navoi region began with a joyful event. A ceremony dedicated to new projects was held with the participation of representatives of the public.

In recent years, entrepreneurship in Navoi region has been actively developing, and the interest of investors in the region continues to grow. In 2023 alone, the region produced more than 101 trillion soums worth of industrial products and exported $648 million. Foreign investments worth about $478 million were also absorbed, and the foreign trade turnover of the region amounted to about $1.3 billion. More than 300 foreign enterprises operate in the region, and their number will continue to increase.

Fifteen new projects were announced at the ceremony.

In particular, the projects on extraction and processing of oil shale in Kanimekh district, construction of a 300 megawatt solar photovoltaic station and a 75 megawatt electricity storage system in Karmana district, production of technical gases in Navoi city, processing of marble in Gazgan and granite in Zarafshan, extraction and enrichment of kaolin in Uchkuduk district, and production of fish feed in Khatyrchi district were launched. 

Enterprises were launched to produce potassium sulfate and sulfuric acid in Karmana district, cotton pulp in Navoi city, and granite processing in Nurata district.

The total cost of the 15 projects is $3.6 billion. More than 7 thousand jobs will be created.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev pressed a symbolic button and gave start to the construction and operation of the new projects.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the mausoleum of Imam Bukhari on June 15, on the eve of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday.

Surahs from the Koran and dua were recited.

In conversation with religious figures, they talked about the conditions created for the development of science and enlightenment, education of youth in the spirit of patriotism and respect for national values.

Renovation of the complex is underway. The head of state familiarized himself with the progress of construction and finishing works.

The President concluded his visit to Samarkand and left for Tashkent.

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Exactly one year ago, on January 29, 2025, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. During his visit, he provided a series of recommendations and directives regarding the incorporation of scientific and innovative projects developed by more than two thousand domestic and international researchers into the exhibitions of the Center.

It was truly a historic visit. Over the past year, the construction of the Center has been fully completed. Specialists and designers from more than 40 countries were involved in enhancing the Center’s activities and enriching its exhibitions. All of them were united around a megaproject initiated and guided by the vision of the President.

In September 2025, the Head of our State, from the high podium of the United Nations, announced the completion of the construction of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan and its imminent opening. Since then, the internal content of the exhibitions has become even more comprehensive. The Center has evolved into a unique space that captures the attention of the global community. Today, visitors from around the world, as well as leaders of states and international organizations, engage with the Center’s work, its scientific projects dedicated to civilizations, prominent figures and discoveries, openly acknowledging its significance.

The world is experiencing a period of profound civilizational transformation. Technological advancement often outpaces moral reflection, while global crises – ranging from geopolitical conflicts to the erosion of cultural identity – increasingly raise questions about humanity’s capacity for dialogue. In circumstances where religion is sometimes used as a tool for conflict, and culture becomes a dividing line, the need for new platforms that can restore the constructive essence of inter-civilizational dialogue is especially urgent.

It is in precisely this historical moment, in the heart of Eurasia – on land where great civilizations and empires arose, where trade routes, religions, scientific schools, and cultures have intersected for millennia – that the unique Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has been established. Its creation is no coincidence and is not motivated by transient considerations; it is a direct reflection of the strategic vision of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

As early as 2017, speaking from the podium of the United Nations, the President addressed the global community with a call to restore the true place of Islamic civilization in world history, emphasizing that the foundations of sacred Islam lie in enlightenment, science, and humanistic values and that extremism and ignorance can be countered through knowledge and culture.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, during his visit to the under-construction Center of Islamic Civilization, expressed high international appreciation for this initiative, noting:

“Your President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is a great and respected leader who consistently promotes the ideas of dialogue, enlightenment and mutual respect from the high podium of the United Nations”.

These words reflect the understanding that has already taken hold within the international community: under the leadership of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has become an active participant in shaping contemporary history.

The address of the President of Uzbekistan from the United Nations podium laid the intellectual and scholarly foundation for the Center, both as a monumental architectural complex and as a fundamentally new humanitarian model of global significance. Within this model, Islam is presented through the history of great civilizations where scientific revolutions occurred, universities and academies were established, libraries and laboratories were created and the foundations of medicine, philosophy, art and scientific thought were formed.

Thanks to the President’s personal political will, strategic vision and consistent leadership, the idea of creating the Center of Islamic Civilization has been realized on an unprecedented scale, in terms of scope, content and international significance. A unique civilizational complex has been established, uniting a next-generation museum, advanced research infrastructure, a modern library, national and international archives on the history of Central Asian civilizations, digital humanities technologies and a broad network of global scientific and cultural cooperation.

The project also received high praise from the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev:

“This is a large-scale and unique facility. It is a scientific, tourist and ethnocultural project. I agree with the President of Uzbekistan: Center of Islamic Civilization can become a shared platform for research in this important field”.

According to global experts, Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is not merely an infrastructure project or a symbol of cultural policy. It represents a deliberate civilizational response by the leader of Uzbekistan to contemporary global challenges. For the first time in the history of the Islamic world, such a large-scale permanent platform for genuine inter-civilizational dialogue has been created.

Uzbekistan has assumed a historic and spiritual mission - not by issuing declarations, but by establishing a real, world-class intellectual space to counter distorted interpretations of Islam and Islamic civilization.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, emphasized:

“Visiting the Center of Islamic Civilization, established at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, we were once again convinced of the country’s leadership’s deep commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and spiritual values of the Uzbek people. In the context of rising Islamophobia, the opening of the Center carries special significance. It vividly demonstrates that Islam is a religion of creation, humanism, tolerance, friendship and brotherhood”.

Experts and policymakers unanimously note that this project has become a humanitarian shield against radicalism and distorted perceptions of Islam - a shield built on knowledge.

A particularly important aspect of the Center’s activities is the repatriation of cultural heritage. By the directive of the President, special state and diplomatic mechanisms were established to ensure systematic cooperation with the world’s leading auction houses - Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Bonhams - as well as with major museums and private collectors. As a result, around two thousand rare artifacts have been returned to the country, including manuscripts of Ibn Sina, works of Al-Biruni, Timurid-era miniatures and masterpieces of Islamic art.

This achievement represents a tangible restoration of Central Asia’s civilizational memory and the historical justice of the region.

President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, upon visiting the exhibitions, noted:

“Visiting the Center of Islamic Civilization left a profound impression on me. Many of humanity’s scientific and cultural achievements originated here. Unfortunately, the world does not always recognize that fundamental works in algebra and medicine emerged on this land. This visit inspired me and strengthened my confidence in Uzbekistan’s tremendous potential”.

Experts emphasize that the President of Uzbekistan shapes the future with the same consistency with which he restores the past. For this reason, the Center was conceived from the outset as a dynamically evolving system - an international scientific platform, a media space and a publishing and educational hub.

President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, after his visit, stated:

“I was struck by an impression I have never experienced anywhere else. Three thousand years of history are presented in a modern and compelling way. Here, one truly feels history - it is impossible to remain indifferent”.

Today, Center of Islamic Civilization is becoming an intellectual hub of the modern world, much like Bayt al-Hikma in Baghdad, Academy of Al-Ma’mun in Khwarazm and Ulugh Bek madrasa in Samarkand once shaped the development of science.

Center represents a new type of civilizational institution for the 21st century. Historical knowledge is combined with digital technologies, manuscripts become global digital resources, the museum acquires the characteristics of a scientific laboratory and national heritage becomes a foundation for international dialogue and mutual understanding.

In conclusion, it is appropriate to cite the words of the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić:

“I have never seen a center like this anywhere. It is built in a modern and very expressive architectural style. I have learned a great deal here and will certainly return. I would tell my fellow citizens: dear friends, I made a big mistake by not coming here earlier. Please visit Uzbekistan as soon as possible”.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov

Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan

Following the results of Q1 2026, the ranking of large banks underwent notable changes. While the leading group remained intact, positions within the segment were reshuffled. In the small-bank category, movements were also significant, pointing to continued realignment and stronger competition across the sector.

The Center for Economic Research and Reforms presented the updated Bank Ranking based on the results of the Banking Activity Index for Q1 2026.

The study covers 34 commercial banks of the republic, including 20 classified as large financial institutions by scale and branch network, while the remaining 14 were categorized as small banks.

The methodology is based on the analysis of 27 indicators benchmarked against national averages and international standards, including the requirements of the Basel Committee. The ranking serves as an important tool for enhancing transparency and strengthening confidence in the financial system. This approach is consistent with international practice and is widely used by leading financial institutions.

Financial Results for Q1 2026

During the reporting period, total assets of the banking sector amounted to 932.3 tn sums ($76.3 bn), while liabilities reached 793.9 tn sums ($64.9 bn). Lending increased by 14%, while deposits grew by 32%. The aggregate capital of the banking system was fully denominated in the national currency. Net profit reached 3.1 tn sums ($254 mn), which is 36.3% higher than a year earlier.

During the period under review, the share of non-performing loans declined to 3.3%, compared with 4.5% a year earlier, indicating improved portfolio quality. At the same time, in several banks the ratio remains above the sector average. Capital adequacy indicators exceed minimum regulatory requirements by more than 1.4 times, confirming the resilience of the banking sector.

Large Banks Activity Ranking for Q1 2026

The results of Q1 2026 show that despite the relative stability at the top of the ranking, both categories of banks recorded notable positional changes.

In the large-bank segment, performance was mixed. Out of 20 banks, 7 improved their positions, 8 declined, and 5 retained their previous places. This reflects a high level of competition and the ongoing redistribution of market positions.

The most notable progress was demonstrated by Tenge Bank, which moved up by 6 positions. Three more banks — Agrobank, Invest Finance Bank, and Xalq Bank — advanced by 2 positions each. Positive momentum was also recorded by Ipak Yuli Bank, Asia Alliance Bank, and Hamkorbank, all of which improved their standing in the overall ranking.

At the same time, several large banks recorded lower activity levels. The most significant decline was observed at Orient Finans Bank and Trast Bank, which fell by 5 and 3 positions respectively.

Changes Across Key Indicators

Financial Intermediation. The leading positions were taken by Invest Finance Bank, Anor Bank and Kapitalbank. In this ranking, Davr Bank and Hamkorbank fell by 4 positions, while Ipoteka Bank declined by 1 position.

Financial Accessibility. The leaders were Agrobank, Anor Bank and BRB. Under this indicator, declines were mainly observed among leading banks: Kapitalbank (-3 positions), Hamkorbank (-7), Asia Alliance Bank (-1), Ipak Yuli Bank (-5), and Trast Bank (-6). The strongest improvement in this ranking was recorded by Tenge Bank (+8), Xalq Bank, Davr Bank (+5), and Agrobank (+4).

Capital Adequacy. The top positions were occupied by Orient Finance Bank, Trast Bank and Halk Bank. At the same time, Agrobank dropped by 4 positions, while Aloqa Bank declined by 2 positions.

Asset Quality. The leaders were Hamkorbank, Asia Alliance Bank and Ipak Yuli Bank. Turonbank fell by 5 positions, while Asakabank, Mikrokreditbank, SQB, Trast Bank and Anor Bank each declined by 2 positions.

Management Efficiency. The highest positions were held by SQB, Orient Finance Bank and NBU. At the same time, Asaka Bank dropped by 5 positions, while BRB declined by 4 positions.

Profitability. The leaders were Hamkorbank, Trast Bank and Asia Alliance Bank. Turon Bank, after falling by 3 positions, ranked last. In this ranking, Kapitalbank, Asia Alliance Bank, Anor Bank and Davr Bank declined by 2 positions, while Ipoteka Bank and Mikrokreditbank fell by 1 position.

Liquidity. The leaders were Asia Alliance Bank, Ipak Yuli Bank and Trast Bank. At the same time, Mikrokreditbank, Ipoteka Bank, Anor Bank and SQB each declined by 1 position.

Small Banks Activity Ranking for Q1 2026

The small-bank group remained relatively stable, with leading institutions retaining their positions. The main changes in this category were concentrated in the middle segment, where several banks improved their standing due to stronger financial intermediation and higher profitability.

Within this group, 8 out of 14 financial institutions improved their rankings. The most notable gains were recorded by AVO Bank and Apex Bank, both rising by 3 positions. TBC became the leader of the ranking.

At the same time, 5 banks moved down, with the sharpest decline recorded by Octobank, which lost 6 positions. Saderat Bank, Garant Bank, and Ziraat Bank each rose by 2 positions. The ranking was rounded out by Open Bank and Uzum Bank, both up by 1 position.

Jafar Khidirov, CERR

CERR Banking and Financial Sector Research Sector
Tel: (78) 150 02 02 (441)

CERR Public Relations and Media Sector
Tel: (78) 150 02 02 (417)

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

In the modern system of international relations, stable and long-term cooperation between states is based, above all, on political will and trust at the highest level. Relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Turkey have consistently developed based on an open, sincere, and trusting dialogue established between the heads of state. This political trust creates a solid foundation for public diplomacy, including deepening fraternal ties between the cities.

In recent years, high-level meetings, regular political dialogue, and strategic agreements between the presidents of Uzbekistan and Turkey have elevated relations between the two countries to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Mutual trust and political support from the heads of state have resulted in concrete and practical results in trade, economic, investment, cultural, humanitarian, and educational spheres.

From this perspective, public diplomacy is becoming an important component of Uzbek-Turkish relations. It strengthens official interstate agreements at the public level and deepens trust and mutual understanding between peoples. Particularly between two fraternal nations with shared historical roots, a common language, and spiritual values, public diplomacy is a natural and indispensable process.

In this context, the Uzbekistan-Turkey Friendship Society functions as an important institutional platform for the development of public diplomacy. Cultural events, scientific and educational conferences, youth and women’s initiatives organized by the society contribute to strengthening mutual trust and friendship between the two peoples. This activity promotes public support for priority areas established at the level of heads of state.

At the same time, fraternal relations between cities are one of the most effective and practical forms of public diplomacy. Fraternal relations established between the cities of Uzbekistan and Turkey strengthen political trust at the local level and create a favorable environment for economic and cultural cooperation. The Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World participate in this process as important international structures coordinating and systematically developing relations between cities. 

Brother cities cooperation, which has historical significance in Uzbek-Turkish relations, includes ties between the cities as Bukhara – Izmir, Bukhara – Malatya, Samarkand – Sakarya, Tashkent – Ankara, and Khiva – Bolu. Cultural and humanitarian projects, educational and tourism programs, as well as investment initiatives implemented within the framework of this cooperation serve to achieve the strategic goals set by the leaders of the two countries at the local level.

It should be noted that cooperation between cities has not only cultural or economic significance but also an important political content. Trust and cooperation established at the local level ensure the stability and continuity of interstate relations. This demonstrates the significant role of public diplomacy in strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Turkey.

In conclusion, public diplomacy in Uzbek-Turkish relations is an important factor that builds on, complements, and strengthens the trusting political dialogue between the heads of state. Within the framework of the priority areas identified by the heads of state, work carried out at the city level in cooperation with the Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World will contribute to the further strengthening of friendship, trust, and cooperation between the two fraternal peoples.

Zokir Abidov,

Chairman of the Brother Cities Alliance