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Uzbekistan–Belarus economic cooperation: promising projects in the Agri-food sector
📅 03.07.2026
The development of trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Belarus, expansion of bilateral trade, enhancement of export potential, and strengthening of investment ties remain among the key priorities of economic relations between the two countries. Consistent efforts undertaken in this direction are contributing to the diversification of export markets, improvement of logistics chains, and expansion of cooperation between the business communities of both nations.
Against this backdrop, the Belagro–2026 International Agricultural Exhibition and Fair, one of the largest international events in the agricultural sector, was held in Minsk, Republic of Belarus, from 1 to 6 June 2026. An official delegation of the Republic of Uzbekistan participated in the exhibition, holding a series of meetings and negotiations focused on expanding trade and economic cooperation, increasing exports, strengthening investment partnerships, and implementing joint projects in the agricultural sector.
Within the framework of the exhibition, the National Pavilion of Uzbekistan, organized by UZAGROSTAR HOLDING, showcased a wide range of agricultural and food products produced in Uzbekistan. The pavilion was visited by Rahmatulla Nazarov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Republic of Belarus; Yuriy Shuleyko, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus and other officials. During the visit, the parties discussed the quality and export potential of Uzbek agricultural products, as well as their prospects in the Belarusian market.
The exhibition also served as a platform for meetings with leading Belarusian retail chains, importing companies, and wholesale market operators. Discussions focused on establishing systematic supplies of Uzbek agricultural products to Belarus, expanding the range of exported goods, increasing bilateral trade volumes, and strengthening direct cooperation between Uzbek exporters and Belarusian importers.
In particular, meetings with the management of the Noviy Lebyajiy wholesale market in the Minsk district explored opportunities for exporting fresh fruits, vegetables, and processed agricultural products under long-term contracts, establishing sustainable B2B partnerships, and creating dedicated trading areas for Uzbek producers.
Special attention was also devoted to cooperation in the livestock sector. Following negotiations with the Belarusian organization Belplemjivobyedineniye, a cooperation agreement was signed to supply high-yield pedigree cattle to entrepreneurs in the Samarkand region of Uzbekistan. The agreement represents a practical continuation of ongoing efforts aimed at improving breeding programs and increasing livestock productivity.
Furthermore, the delegation visited the Ozerco-Logistik trade and logistics center in the Minsk district to study Belarus's experience in developing logistics and customs infrastructure. The visit provided valuable insights into international cargo storage and redistribution, digital logistics systems, and customs clearance procedures, creating new opportunities for exchanging best practices in export logistics.
In the area of investment cooperation, a meeting with the leadership of the Mogilev Regional Executive Committee resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between MARAQAND MEAT LLC of Uzbekistan and the Mogilev Regional Executive Committee on establishing a modern livestock production complex in Belarus. The memorandum establishes a legal framework for expanding bilateral investment cooperation and implementing joint projects in the agro-industrial sector.
The Uzbek delegation also visited advanced agricultural enterprises in the Vitebsk region, where they exchanged experience on the development of intensive livestock farming, efficient farm management, strengthening the feed base, introducing digital agricultural technologies, and implementing joint investment projects.
As a result of the visit, the parties reached a number of agreements aimed at expanding exports of Uzbek agricultural products to the Belarusian market, strengthening cooperation between exporters and importers, improving logistics routes, establishing imports of pedigree cattle, and implementing joint investment projects.
President of Uzbekistan: The time has come for a new generation of diplomats – those who achieve concrete results and firmly defend the interests of Uzbekistan in the international arena
📅 22.01.2026
The Head of State identified priorities for updating the activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and foreign diplomatic missions
On January 15, an expanded meeting was chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions abroad, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.
Opening the session, the Head of our state noted that the meeting is taking place amid sharp geopolitical changes in the world and increasing threats to the sovereignty of states. In this regard, the need to critically assess current foreign policy activities and move to a renewed format for organizing the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and foreign diplomatic missions was emphasized.
President noted that 2025 had been a productive year for the country's foreign policy. During the year, high-level visits were made to 26 foreign countries, and for the first time in recent history, visits to Uzbekistan were organized by the leaders of a number of countries. Multilateral dialogues in the “Central Asia Plus” format became productive. In recent years, strategic partnerships have been established with 11 countries, bringing the total number to 19, and allied relations have been built with Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan.
– As a result of an open, pragmatic, thoughtful and proactive foreign policy, Uzbekistan is consistently strengthening its position as one of the global centres of peace and diplomacy, – emphasized President.
Since 2017, 16 new diplomatic missions and consulates have been opened abroad, bringing their total number to 60, and the number of countries with which diplomatic relations have been established to 165. There has also been an increase in the number of staff and salaries of employees of embassies, consular offices, representative offices to international organizations and employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
At the same time, a fundamental question was raised as to whether all diplomatic missions are making full use of the opportunities provided.
– In the current environment, an ambassador is not just a person who conducts political dialogue. An ambassador is a state representative who attracts investment and technologies, opens new export markets, launches transport and logistics corridors, increases tourist flows, creates conditions for legal labor migration and, most importantly, protects the rights of our citizens, - emphasized President.
In this regard, it was noted that key performance indicators for ambassadors should include the volume of export revenues from the countries of residence, growth in tourist flows and the effectiveness of organizing legal labor migration.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need to increase exports and investments by strengthening economic diplomacy.
As part of bilateral and multilateral events in 2025, agreements were signed on investment projects and trade contracts totaling $160 billion. For the first time in history, foreign trade turnover exceeded $80 billion, exports reached $33,5 billion, and foreign investment exceeded $43 billion. Exports to 75 countries increased by almost $4,5 billion.
In view of this, the ambassadors have been tasked with expanding export deliveries to the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as implementing specific projects in the fields of industry, agriculture, the chemical industry, the textile industry, greenhouse farming, and the service sector. At the same time, it was noted that Uzbekistan's products remain insufficiently recognized in certain markets.
It was noted that the growth of logistics costs has a negative impact on the competitiveness of domestic products. In this regard, the need to diversify transit routes, optimize logistics chains, and develop additional proposals to reduce transportation costs when entering European markets was indicated.
In the agricultural sector, tasks have been set for researching and implementing water-saving technologies, modern agricultural technologies, and innovative greenhouse solutions. Along with this, measures have been outlined to expand export markets for chemical industry products, bring domestic manufacturers up to international standards and requirements, and organize specialized exhibitions and presentations.
The need to intensify trade and economic cooperation with the African continent as one of the promising new export destinations has been emphasized. To this end, a clear roadmap is to be developed with the participation of relevant ministries and foreign diplomatic missions.
It was noted that ambassadors should be directly interested in finding promising projects, attracting them, and implementing them in practice. In this regard, it was decided to introduce financial incentives for ambassadors who bring specific investment or export projects to a logical conclusion.
Criticism was levelled at the insufficient realisation of existing potential in a number of areas. In particular, it was noted that opportunities to attract international grants are not being fully exploited. It was noted that with closer and more systematic interaction between ministries, industry leaders, and ambassadors, it would have been possible to attract an additional $200-300 million in grant funds last year.
As noted, international organizations and donor countries announce grant programs worth approximately $200 billion annually. In this regard, the task has been set to implement a unified, systematic and effective approach to working with grants.
In addition, the need to take concrete measures, together with the ambassadors to the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, China, Japan and Singapore, to attract leading foreign universities ranked in the top 100 worldwide as partners of Uzbek higher education institutions was emphasized.
It was noted that cooperation between regions and diplomatic missions in expanding foreign economic relations is still insufficient. The need for active participation of regional governors, together with ambassadors, in the systematic promotion of export-oriented products of the regions and in facilitating the entry of local enterprises into foreign markets was emphasized.
Providing Uzbek citizens with legal and high-paying jobs abroad was identified as another priority area. The expansion of the geography of organized labor migration was noted, while it was pointed out that in a number of countries, work in this area is not sufficiently effective and relevant instructions were given in this regard.
It was emphasized that embassies and consulates should actively protect the rights and legitimate interests of citizens and provide qualified legal assistance in each specific case. The task has been set to abandon "office diplomacy", strengthen work in the field and establish direct dialogue with compatriots.
In the field of tourism, the need to further strengthen the role of ambassadors, introduce new approaches to promoting the country's tourism and cultural potential, make effective use of visa-free regimes and attract international outsourcing companies has been identified.
Issues related to expanding foreign policy ties, high-quality and timely preparation of high-level visits, retraining of diplomatic personnel, and the formation of a reserve of promising specialists were also discussed.
The intensification of foreign information policy and the improvement of the country's international image through systematic work with foreign media and the implementation of special media projects were identified as priority tasks.
The need to update the Concept of foreign policy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, review its priority areas, and define clear tasks for protecting national interests and strengthening the country's position in the international arena was emphasized.
As the President noted, the new concept should comprehensively reflect long-term strategic goals, the logic of internal reforms as well as national interests in the areas of economic diplomacy, security, investment, exports, transport and logistics, water and climate issues.
In order to give proper recognition to the achievements of diplomats, it was proposed to establish the honorary title of “Honored Diplomat of the Republic of Uzbekistan".
At the end of the meeting, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized: “The time has come for a new generation of diplomats – those who achieve concrete results and firmly defend the interests of Uzbekistan in the international arena”.
In the course of the session, reports and proposals of our ambassadors abroad were heard.
Dunyo IA
Uzbekistan – Turkey: The Practical Phase of Cooperation in the Forestry Sector
📅 29.01.2026
Today, one of the priority areas of state policy in Uzbekistan is focused on expanding forested areas, increasing green coverage, mitigating the negative impacts of climate change, and ensuring environmental sustainability. In order to achieve effective results in these areas, studying advanced foreign experience and adapting it to the country’s climatic conditions is of particular importance. In this context, the participation of a delegation of representatives of the Forestry Agency under the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of Uzbekistan in a training and practical seminar organized during their visit to the Republic of Turkey in October 2025 was of significant importance.
The seminar, organized in cooperation between the Forestry Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Turkey, enabled participants to familiarize themselves with Turkey’s experience in forest establishment, restoration, ecological classification, and sustainable forest management. In particular, on the first day of the seminar, Turkish specialist Ahmed Yalvach delivered a detailed presentation on modern approaches applied in the development of forestry.
Within the framework of the practical visit, Turkey’s advanced experience in establishing and managing nurseries, creating forests using the “terrace” method in mountainous areas, developing “green belts” around cities, and establishing green public parks in urban and district areas was studied.
In addition, members of the delegation closely examined the activities of nurseries operated by the Seydikemer and Gökova Forestry Departments located in Muğla Province. Notably, the Seydikemer nursery, established in 1983, covers an area of 144 hectares and has an annual production capacity of 1.5 million seedlings. The Gökova nursery, occupying more than 61 hectares, stands out with its capacity to produce up to 7 million seedlings per year.
It was emphasized that special attention to seed collection, storage, and laboratory analysis in these nurseries allows the production rate of high-quality seedlings and saplings to reach 90–95 percent. Participants studied the practical experience of Turkish specialists in establishing mother plantations, caring for seedlings and saplings, and grafting techniques.
The delegation members were also introduced to the use of greenhouses, in vitro laboratories, modern equipment, and mechanisms for managing seasonal work processes. The experience-sharing activities were conducted in an atmosphere of open dialogue and professional cooperation.
In conclusion, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey in the forestry sector has acquired a practical dimension, contributing to the adoption of advanced practices, enhancement of specialists’ capacity, and the formation of a sustainable ecological environment in Uzbekistan. The knowledge and skills gained within the framework of this cooperation will play an important role in further improving the national forestry system.
The Termez Dialogue: Afghanistan as a Connecting Bridge Between Central and South Asia
📅 31.05.2026
For decades, Afghanistan was perceived primarily as a source of instability, geopolitical rivalry and security threats. In recent years, however, the regional agenda surrounding Afghanistan has gradually been shifting. Increasingly, expert and diplomatic circles in the Central Asian states are discussing not only the question of security but also Afghanistan’s potential as a transport, energy and trade corridor capable of linking Central and South Asia.
In this context, the «Termez Dialogue»[1] acquires particular significance as a platform symbolizing the transition from a policy of isolation to a pragmatic model of regional interaction. For Uzbekistan and its neighbors, the issue is no longer merely the stabilization of Afghanistan, but the formation of a new geoeconomic architecture for Eurasia.
From a Geopolitical Buffer to a Geoeconomic Bridge
Historically, Afghanistan lay at the crossroads of major trade routes connecting the East, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. In the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, however, the country became a space of geopolitical confrontation among world powers rather than a territory of cooperation.
Today the situation is gradually changing under the influence of several factors at once. Firstly, global logistics is undergoing a profound transformation. Geopolitical tension, sanctions restrictions and crises affecting traditional transport routes are forcing states to seek new paths for trade and transit. Secondly, the Central Asian states are increasingly striving to diversify their foreign economic ties and reduce their dependence on a limited number of transport directions.
Against this backdrop, Afghanistan is acquiring new significance as the shortest overland route capable of providing the Central Asian states with access to the ports of the Indian Ocean through the territory of Pakistan. Whereas the Afghan factor was once viewed primarily through the lens of threats, today growing attention is being paid to its transit potential.
Of particular importance in this regard is the project of the Trans-Afghan Railway Corridor[2]. Initially, the principal route was considered to be Termez – Mazar-i-Sharif – Kabul – Peshawar. However, by 2025 the states of the region moved[3] to elaborating a new direction: Termez – Naibabad – Maidan Shahr – Logar – Kharlachi. This route implies access to the Pakistani railway network through the Kharlachi border crossing and is regarded as more realistic in terms of security, cost, and implementation timelines.
The realization of this project could substantially reshape[4] the transport geography of the region. For the Central Asian states, this would mean: a reduction in cargo delivery times; a decrease in transport costs; access to the new markets of South Asia; an expansion of export opportunities; a strengthening of the region’s transit potential.
Especially important is the fact that this concerns access to the South Asian market, with a population of nearly two billion people. For the export-oriented economies of Central Asia, this opens up fundamentally new prospects.
Equally important are the energy projects passing through Afghanistan. Among them are CASA-1000 and the TAPI gas pipeline, both intended to facilitate electricity and natural gas supplies between Central and South Asia.
These processes reflect a broader transformation of regional politics: states increasingly view Afghanistan not only as a source of risk but also as an important element of the transport architecture of Eurasia. Priority is shifting more and more from politically symbolic objectives toward the pragmatic logic of transit, connectivity, and economic efficiency.
Termez — the Southern Gateway of Central Asia
A special role in shaping the new regional interaction is played by Termez - the southernmost city of Uzbekistan, which is gradually turning into an important logistical, diplomatic, and humanitarian center. Its significance is reinforced by its unique geographical position: the city lies in the immediate proximity of the Afghan border, connected to it by a bridge across the Amudarya river, across which hundreds of cargo trucks and substantial flows of humanitarian aid and commercial goods pass daily[5].
In logistical terms, Termez relies on developed infrastructure, including an international transport and logistics hub and a rail connection with the Afghan city of Hairatan, through which millions of tons of cargo are transshipped each year. This corridor is considered one of the most stable and manageable routes of regional trade with Afghanistan.
An additional dimension of Termez’s role is formed by its humanitarian component: the city operates[6] as a platform for coordinating international assistance to Afghanistan, where deliveries of food, medicine, and basic goods are regularly carried out with the participation of international organizations. In 2025, the hub was incorporated into the UNHCR Global Supply Network, through which humanitarian aid shipments worth more than $500 million are distributed annually[7].
At the same time, through Termez, Uzbekistan is actively promoting the concept of regional connectivity, in which Afghanistan is viewed not as a peripheral zone of instability but as a transit bridge capable of linking the markets of Central and South Asia. In this context, Termez is becoming not merely a border town, but an infrastructural and politico-economic node of a new regional architecture founded on pragmatism, trade interdependence, and phased integration.
In this context, Uzbekistan has attempted to institutionalize this Forum. Thus, in 2025 the international forum “Termez Dialogue” was held in Termez, devoted to questions of peace, stability, and economic interaction with Afghanistan. It was attended by representatives of the Central and South Asian states, as well as international organizations, including UN structures. The forum became one of the first attempts to institutionalize the discussion of Afghanistan precisely as an economic partner of the region.
Earlier, in 2021, Uzbekistan initiated[8] the international conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity. Challenges and Opportunities,” held in Tashkent. One of the central themes of the event was the role of Afghanistan as a transit link between the two macro-regions. The conference was attended by representatives of more than 40 states and international organizations, which underscored the global interest in the Uzbek initiative.
The Termez Dialogue as a New Model of Regionalism
Under present-day conditions, the “Termez Dialogue” acquires significance not only as a diplomatic platform but also as a symbol of a new model of regional interaction.
What is at issue is the formation of an approach in which the states of the region strive to build mechanisms of cooperation independently, proceeding above all from common economic interests and mutual infrastructural interdependence.
In this sense, Afghanistan is gradually becoming not an object of external administration but a potential participant in a new system of regional connectivity.
For Central Asia, the development of the southern direction means an expansion of strategic autonomy, a diversification of foreign economic routes, and a strengthening of its own agency in international relations.
It is precisely for this reason that the future of Afghanistan is increasingly viewed not only as a question of security but also as a question of regional integration, logistics and geoeconomics.
Conclusion
Today Afghanistan stands at a historical crossroads. The country may either remain a space of chronic instability or gradually be transformed into a vital transport and economic bridge between Central and South Asia.
To a large extent, the outcome will depend on the ability of the regional states to construct a long-term strategy of cooperation founded not only on questions of security but also on the development of infrastructure, trade, and mutual economic interest.
In this process, Termez is already becoming one of the key centers of the new Eurasian interaction - a space in which the transition from geopolitical rivalry to geoeconomic partnership is taking shape.
Aziza Mukhammedova
Research Fellow
Center for Afghanistan and South Asian Studies at the
Institute for Advanced International Studies
[1] https://www.euronews.com/2025/05/21/central-asian-countries-push-for-regional-development-at-termez-dialogue
[2] https://pakistan.mfa.uz/ru/news/trans-afghan-corridor-a-new-bridge-connecting-central-asia-with-the-world-1
[3] https://kun.uz/en/news/2025/07/18/uzbekistan-afghanistan-and-pakistan-agree-to-develop-new-railway-corridor
[4] https://thediplomat.com/2024/05/uzbekistan-and-the-new-realities-of-trans-afghan-trade/
[5] https://eurasianet.org/uzbekistan-offers-to-act-as-hub-for-afghanistan-aid
[6] https://unsdg.un.org/latest/stories/uzbekistan-steps-support-neighbor-afghanistan-critical-humanitarian-juncture
[7] https://iica.uz/ru/news/2025/02/13/termiz-logistik-habi-bmtning-global-yetkazib-berish-tarmogiga-qoshildi
From the INMerge Innovation Summit to Regional Hubs: How Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan Are Building a Unified Startup Ecosystem
📅 18.05.2026
Over the past few years, Central Asia and the Caucasus have emerged as some of the fastest-growing regions in technology and innovation. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan are increasingly strengthening their positions on the global startup map, attracting international investors, technology companies, and entrepreneurs. One of the key platforms bringing together the region’s innovation ecosystem has become the international INMerge summit.
What is INMerge?
INMerge is an international innovation summit that brings together startups, investors, corporations, government representatives, and technology communities from across Central Eurasia. Over the past five years, the project has evolved from a relatively small corporate gathering into one of the region’s leading technology forums.
Today, INMerge hosts participants from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Türkiye, and other countries. Discussions focus on investment, artificial intelligence, startup development, digital infrastructure, and cross-border collaboration. Most importantly, however, the forum helps transform networking opportunities and ideas into real partnerships, projects, and investment deals.
In 2026, INMerge expanded beyond a single-city format by launching a regional Roadshow initiative. Ahead of the main summit, the team is organizing a series of events across key locations in the region. One of the central stops became Tashkent — a city that clearly demonstrated how rapidly Central Asia’s role in the global technology landscape is evolving.
Today, the three countries are shaping a new regional ecosystem, where each contributes its own strategic strengths.
Uzbekistan is now considered one of the fastest-growing tech markets in the region. Over the past year, venture investment volumes increased more than fivefold, the number of startups doubled to over 950, and Tashkent entered the world’s top 100 startup ecosystems for the first time. The country is actively opening up to international investors and steadily becoming a new destination for technology-driven businesses. Uzbekistan is already home to two unicorns.
Kazakhstan continues to focus on infrastructure development and a systematic approach to building its startup ecosystem. The country is developing a large-scale $1 billion fund of funds and has spent several years consistently creating conditions that allow startups to scale not only domestically, but internationally as well. Kazakhstan has also produced two unicorns.
In 2024, IT Park Uzbekistan and Astana Hub took another important step toward regional integration by launching the Central Asian Innovation Hubs initiative. The platform opened access for Central Asian startups to joint programs, international venues, and global accelerators. Today, Azerbaijan is increasingly exploring participation in this ecosystem, gradually contributing to the formation of a unified technological space connecting Central Asia and the Caucasus.
Azerbaijan, in turn, is becoming a platform that connects different markets and innovation communities. Baku was recently named Startup City of the Year, while INMerge Ventures became one of the country’s first locally registered venture capital funds. The city is now emerging as a hub for dialogue between corporations, investors, and technology teams from across the broader region.
At INMerge, this evolving dynamic is described as an “innovation corridor.” It is not simply about neighboring countries collaborating — it is about creating a shared ecosystem where ideas, technologies, investments, and talent can move freely across borders.
From Local Startups to the Global Stage
For startups today, building a product is no longer enough. Founders also need access to investors, strategic networks, and international markets. This is why platforms like INMerge are becoming increasingly important across the region.
One of the clearest examples is the startup competition held in Tashkent. Winners receive not only visibility and recognition, but also the opportunity to present their projects at the final summit in Baku before international investors and major corporations. This model helps connect local ecosystems into a larger regional network, giving young startups a real opportunity for international growth.
The final stage of INMerge will take place on October 8–9 in Baku, bringing together startup founders, investors, corporate leaders, and government officials who are actively shaping the future of Central Eurasia’s innovation economy.
A region that until recently remained outside the global technology spotlight is steadily becoming a new center of growth. And today, INMerge is playing a key role in accelerating that transformation.
Bringing Markets and Capital Together: The Uzbekistan–Türkiye Economic Union
📅 28.01.2026
Over the past eight years, relations between Uzbekistan and Türkiye have undergone a profound qualitative transformation, evolving from traditionally friendly ties into a full-fledged strategic partnership with a strong economic, investment, and industrial dimension. While the period prior to 2017 was largely characterized by inertia, the launch of large-scale reforms in Uzbekistan marked a decisive shift in bilateral relations toward practical cooperation focused on trade, investment, and joint manufacturing.
A key role in this transformation has been played by the political will and personal engagement of the leaders of both countries - President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Regular high-level dialogue has provided Uzbek-Turkish relations with stability, strategic coherence, and a long-term economic horizon.
Political Foundations as a Driver of Economic Convergence
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1992; however, a turning point came in October 2017 with the signing of the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership in Ankara. This step laid a solid institutional foundation for the rapid expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation.
In 2018, the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council was established in Tashkent under the co-chairmanship of the two presidents. Its meetings in 2020, 2022, and 2024 became key platforms for aligning priorities in trade, investment, industry, transport, and interregional cooperation. Over time, political dialogue has evolved from declarative engagement into a practical instrument supporting concrete economic initiatives and project-based decisions.
Trade: Scale, Structure and Institutional Incentives
Türkiye is firmly among Uzbekistan’s largest trading partners. In 2020, bilateral trade turnover amounted to USD 2.1 billion, reaching USD 3.02 billion by the end of 2025.
Uzbekistan’s exports to Türkiye are predominantly industrial in nature, comprising non-ferrous metals and metal products, textiles, services, plastics, and food products. Imports from Türkiye consist mainly of mechanical and electrical equipment, chemical products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and metal structures, reflecting Türkiye’s role as a key source of industrial technologies and equipment.
A significant qualitative step forward was the signing of the Preferential Trade Agreement in 2022, which entered into force in 2023. In 2025, the parties began expanding the list of goods covered by preferential treatment, creating additional incentives for trade diversification and deeper industrial cooperation.
Investment Cooperation: From Presence to Systemic Engagement
Investment cooperation is one of the most dynamically developing areas of bilateral relations. In 2024, the volume of Turkish investments utilized in Uzbekistan reached USD 2.2 billion, while in January-November 2025 it increased to USD 3.2 billion. A total of 2,137 enterprises with Turkish capital operate in Uzbekistan, including 496 joint ventures and 1,641 wholly Turkish-owned companies.
These enterprises are active in textiles and furniture manufacturing, construction, trade, transport, logistics, and services. Importantly, a substantial share of them is export-oriented, strengthening Uzbekistan’s integration into regional and global value chains.
Industrial Cooperation: Transition to Joint Manufacturing
In recent years, Uzbek–Turkish cooperation has increasingly shifted from traditional trade toward industrial partnership. Turkish companies are actively involved in establishing production facilities across Uzbekistan’s regions, introducing modern technologies, management standards, and export-oriented business models.
Regular meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, accompanied by business forums, result in detailed roadmaps comprising dozens of measures covering industry, energy, logistics, and regional projects. This approach forms a solid foundation for sustainable industrial partnership.
Interregional Cooperation: Localized Economic Engagement
Active interregional interaction has become an essential element of the new partnership model. In 2024, targeted visits by delegations from the Fergana, Khorezm, Namangan, Navoi, Samarkand, and Jizzakh regions, as well as the city of Tashkent, were held to various regions of Türkiye.
This format enables a shift from framework agreements to concrete investment projects, creates direct B2B and B2G communication channels, and contributes to a more decentralized and resilient architecture of cooperation.
Transport and Logistics as Pillars of Trade and Investment
The expansion of trade and industrial cooperation naturally increases the importance of transport and logistics interaction. Türkiye is viewed by Uzbekistan as a key logistical gateway to European and Mediterranean markets, while Uzbekistan is becoming an important hub for Türkiye’s access to Central Asia.
The development of rail and road transport, along with intensive air connectivity - up to 97 regular flights per week across eight routes - enhances business mobility, supports investment activity, and strengthens economic integration between the two countries.
Prospective Areas of Cooperation: Converging Interests
The established economic core of Uzbek–Turkish relations provides a basis for a new phase of cooperation, shifting from quantitative growth to deeper structural and technological integration.
Localization and joint development of industrial production remain key convergence points. Uzbekistan offers industrial zones, resources, and a growing domestic market, while Türkiye contributes technology, design, managerial expertise, and access to external markets.
The textile and light industry is evolving toward the production of finished branded goods and contract manufacturing for international retail chains. Mechanical engineering and electrical equipment sectors are creating prerequisites for the establishment of assembly and production facilities. The agro-industrial complex offers opportunities for deep processing and joint exports of food products.
A separate strategic direction is the joint entry into third-country markets, where the combination of Uzbekistan’s production potential and Türkiye’s trade and logistics infrastructure creates substantial competitive advantages.
Overall, over the past eight years Uzbekistan and Türkiye have built a resilient model of strategic partnership based on trade, investment, industrial cooperation, interregional engagement, and transport connectivity. Trade turnover exceeding USD 3 billion, multi-billion-dollar investments, and thousands of joint enterprises testify to the maturity and long-term nature of bilateral relations.
Mashrab Mamirov,
Head of Directorate General of the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The President visited the mausoleum of Imam Bukhari
📅 15.06.2024
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.
Meeting of the National council on combating corruption held
📅 07.03.2025
On March 5 President of the Republic of Uzbekistan attended a meeting of the National council on combating corruption. The meeting analysed the work carried out on creating corruption-free environment and defined further goals.
In his speech, the Head of State mentioned that corruption is a serious challenge in the course of reforms.
In this connection in the past years laws were adopted and a new system on combating this vice was created. Responsible committees were formed in the parliamentary chambers, a National council and Anti-Corruption Agency were established.
Particular attention is paid to creating conditions where the public can openly raise and discuss the problem of corruption. The role and influence of the media in this sphere are raising.
Primarily, measures are taken to combat the causes of corruption. For example, the abandonment of allocation of land plots by decisions of khokims and transition to the auction system made the allocation process more open. There have also been positive changes in this area since the introduction of the “Shaffof Kurilish” program.
The adoption of the law on public procurement, digitalization of the system of elections and tenders, as well as the establishment of healthy competition allowed saving 14 trillion soums of budget funds last year.
Today, all banks provide household loans up to 100 million soums online in 5 minutes without human involvement. As a result, thousands of bankers, who used to process such applications, now work directly in mahallas, offering projects and credit programs, thus contributing to the growth of the customer base.
In the pre-school and school education system, more than 10 types of services have been fully converted to electronic format, reducing the number of applications by 2.5 times.
The higher education system was also digitalized: a system for taking tests and selecting universities based on their results was introduced, and the automated receipt of 35 types of documents reduced the number of requests by 2.2 times.
Due to the use of body cameras by traffic safety inspectors, the sale of license plates through auctions, and the elimination of paper protocols, corruption factors have been significantly reduced.
Services to the population and entrepreneurs are organized on the basis of the principle of “the state serving the people”: the requirements to provide 120 types of documents, more than 160 licenses and permits have been abolished. This led to the emergence of almost 200 thousand new entrepreneurs in the market, and the number of enterprises with foreign participation increased almost 5 times, reaching 23 thousand.
The number of electronic public services increased 15 times, reaching 721, and the number of their users exceeded 11 million.
Most importantly, these measures have strengthened the faith of the population, entrepreneurs, foreign partners, international organizations and investors in the ongoing reforms. Over the past seven years, over $120 billion in investments have been attracted, and the country's economy has doubled, reaching $115 billion last year.
The President emphasized that the fight against corruption is an ongoing process and outlined the current issues and future tasks in this sphere.
It was noted that law enforcement agencies are mainly focused on detecting and punishing corrupt acts, while preventive measures aimed at eradicating corruption factors are neglected.
In this regard, it was decided to change the working methodology of the Anti-Corruption Agency. As an experiment, compliance control in five agencies - the Ministries of Health, Construction, Water Resources, Joint Stock Companies “Uzbekneftegaz” and “Uzsuvtaminot” will be transferred to the Agency.
In addition, an in-depth study of factors of domestic and systemic corruption will be conducted at the district level, which will be used to develop specific measures and submitted to the National Council.
It was noted that 75 percent of corruption crimes are committed in the form of domestic corruption in districts and mahallas, so the composition of the regional councils on combating corruption will be completely renewed. They will be headed by chairmen of regional councils of people's deputies.
The regional councils will propose to the National Council amendments to legislation aimed at eradicating corruption factors and ensuring inevitability of punishment.
Eight years ago, a system of sectors for the integrated development of territories was introduced. They contributed to solving socio-economic problems. In recent years, the potential of the regions has increased significantly.
In this regard, it was decided that prosecutors, heads of internal affairs and tax authorities would no longer be involved in sector activities. Additional tasks have been set to prevent and combat crime.
Special attention is paid to preventing corruption in public procurement. An Expert Commission will be established for this purpose. Based on best practices, an electronic platform will be developed to monitor that the prices of goods and services purchased through public procurement do not exceed the market average by more than 20 percent. Accountability measures and fines will be introduced for violation of this requirement.
Requirements for the procurement of fixed assets at the expense of the budget and extra-budgetary funds will also be tightened. Domestic transportation and furniture will be given priority in procurement by government agencies, and a requirement for evaluation against high anti-corruption standards will be introduced for major projects.
The fight against corruption begins with the selection of professional and dedicated employees for the civil service. In this regard, instructions have been given to improve procedures for hiring and evaluating candidates.
The need to adopt a law on the declaration of income of civil servants was noted, and a draft of this law will be submitted for public discussion.
The importance of instilling the ideas of honesty in educational institutions was emphasized in order to educate a new generation intolerant of corruption, as well as to support the initiatives of young people.
Addressing the public, the President said that the fight against corruption is a national task and a matter of conscience for every patriot of the country.
- If we all join forces, we will definitely achieve significant positive results. That is why mahalla activists, the older generation, intellectuals, writers and poets, art and culture workers, businessmen, well-known figures, leaders, deputies and senators - the entire public should become united and consider corruption as a “plague on the body of society”.
During the meeting, a dialogue was held with members of parliament, government representatives and the public.
For the first time, the event held in such a format demonstrated a strong political will to fight corruption.
The Head of State presented 55 concrete initiatives, which will include the development of 5 laws, 12 decrees and resolutions, as well as strengthening the role of Parliament, National and Regional Councils and civil society institutions in the fight against corruption.
The legal basis for the fight against corruption will be strengthened: the introduction of a new system of income declaration and a procedure for preventing illicit enrichment will reduce corruption factors. The activities of the Anti-Corruption Agency and internal control structures in organizations will be strengthened.
The responsibility of heads of ministries and agencies in preventing domestic corruption will be increased. A system of public evaluation of the quality of public services will be established, and strict measures will be taken against managers with the worst performance.
The independence of control inspections will be strengthened, and corruption prevention mechanisms will be introduced in major investment projects and auctions.
By streamlining the public procurement system and restricting direct procurement, budget savings will be achieved, and diversion of public funds will be curbed.
The freed resources will be mobilized to fight crime, which will lead to greater stability in society and increase the confidence of citizens. Strengthened prosecutorial oversight of illegal inspections will contribute to improving the business and investment climate in the regions.
The achieved results will improve the position of our country in international ratings, and by 2027 conditions will be created for Uzbekistan's candidacy for the UNCAC conference.
Most importantly, the legal consciousness of the population, especially young people, will be raised, and the society will form ownership of the fight against corruption.
Uzbekistan’s cooperation with the ADB: From infrastructure financing to an expanded strategic partnership
📅 02.05.2026
From 3 to 6 May 2026, Samarkand will host the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The event is expected to bring together heads of banking and financial institutions from 69 member countries, as well as representatives of international organizations. Discussions will focus on the key development challenges facing the countries of Asia and possible ways to address them.
The holding of such a high-level forum in Uzbekistan reflects the growing recognition of the country’s ongoing economic reforms and the strengthening of its position within the global financial system. A significant factor has also been the notable expansion of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB in recent years, as evidenced by a number of objective international assessments of the country’s socio-economic development.
First, there has been a steady rise in Uzbekistan’s international standing and stronger performance in global rankings. In particular, in the Government Technology Maturity Index published by the World Bank, the country advanced by 71 positions, entering the world’s top ten.
Second, despite continuing disruptions in global production and transport-logistics chains, rising commodity prices, and tighter financial conditions, Uzbekistan continues to demonstrate устойчивый economic growth. In 2025, for the first time in the country’s history, gross domestic product exceeded USD 145 billion, while gold and foreign exchange reserves surpassed USD 60 billion.
At the same time, the volume of attracted foreign investment increased significantly, reaching USD 43.1 billion, while the share of investment in GDP exceeded 31 percent. Moreover, despite growing protectionism and sanctions pressure in the global trading system, the republic increased exports by 23 percent, bringing them to USD 33.4 billion.
Third, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB is comprehensive and long-term in nature. The total portfolio of joint initiatives amounts to 174 projects worth USD 27.5 billion, of which 66 projects worth USD 10.5 billion have already been completed, while another 30 projects valued at USD 4.6 billion are currently under implementation. These figures confirm the ADB’s status as one of Uzbekistan’s leading development partners.
Building on accumulated experience, the ADB launched a new five-year partnership strategy with Uzbekistan in August 2024 for the period 2024–2028. Its key priorities include supporting the republic’s transition toward a green and inclusive economy, enhancing private sector competitiveness, and stimulating investment in human capital.
In addition, Uzbekistan and the ADB approved a Memorandum of Understanding for 2026–2028, which envisages the implementation of 28 projects with a total value of USD 4.2 billion.
The fact that the meeting is being held in Uzbekistan positions the country as a regional hub for dialogue on development and investment, demonstrates the progress of reforms, and contributes to attracting global partners to accelerate the country’s sustainable development. According to experts, the meeting will serve as an important platform for strengthening cooperation and concluding priority agreements between the Government of Uzbekistan and the ADB.
Furthermore, in order to consolidate long-term priorities, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward an initiative to mark the Samarkand summit with the signing of an important document — the Expanded Strategic Partnership Programme with the ADB for 2027–2030. It will serve as a medium-term roadmap, with primary emphasis placed on human capital and social resilience.
Thus, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB has evolved from financial assistance into a strategic partnership. Today, the Bank finances key projects, shapes the reform agenda, and supports the long-term transformation of the national economy, effectively acting as an institutional partner.
Such cooperation opens a number of significant advantages for Uzbekistan:
Economic – access to concessional loans and grants, reduced budgetary burden in implementing large-scale programmes, improvement of the investment climate and inflow of long-term foreign investment, infrastructure development, and employment growth;
Structural – acceleration of market reforms, liberalization and diversification of the economy, and private sector development;
Strategic – integration into the global economy, transition to a green growth model, and participation in regional value chains and transport-logistics corridors.
As can be seen, the modern ADB agenda largely coincides with Uzbekistan’s current reform trajectory. According to experts, the republic has synchronized its national strategy with the Bank’s priorities and, as a result, can attract even greater volumes of financing to accelerate structural reforms and strengthen economic resilience.
Overall, the key features of the modern model of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the ADB are: comprehensiveness (covering all major sectors), strategic orientation (alignment with the long-term goals of “Uzbekistan–2030”), institutional depth (reforms, regulation, standards), and sustainability (environmental protection and inclusiveness).
Thus, today the ADB is not merely a creditor, but a key strategic partner participating in structural reforms, economic modernization, and Uzbekistan’s integration into global economic processes.
Dmitriy Trostyanskiy
Chief Research Fellow,
Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies
under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan,
Doctor of Economic Sciences
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and the Ambassador of Latvia discuss the practical aspects of expanding cooperation in the field of external labor migration
📅 14.01.2025
TASHKENT, January 14. /Dunyo IA/. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Olimjon Abdullaev held a meeting with the Ambassador of Latvia Reinis Trokša, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.
According to the MFA, the main agenda of the meeting was to discuss expanding cooperation in the field of external labor migration.
During the talks, the topics of organized labor migration of citizens of Uzbekistan to Latvia, simplification of the visa regime, creation of a legal framework in the field of labor migration and establishment of joint educational institutions and centers, as well as attracting specialists from Latvia to train potential labor migrants were discussed.
The parties noted the importance of strengthening cooperation between the relevant agencies of the two countries in protecting the rights of labor migrants and confirmed their readiness to further develop bilateral relations in the field of external labor migration.
On September 4–6th, Samarkand will host XII Inter-Parliamentary Union Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians
📅 20.08.2026
The XII Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians will be held on September 4–6th, 2026, in the city of Samarkand, under the theme “Restoring Human Rights, Justice and Dignity for All in Fragile Times”.
The XII Global Conference is expected to convene approximately 300 delegates representing 183 countries, 15 international organizations and around 50 permanent observers.
Event program includes six thematic sessions, during which the participants will address pressing issues pertaining to the status and rights of youth in the contemporary world. Specifically, particular attention will be devoted to protecting the rights of young people amid conflicts and digital transformation, expanding their political rights and opportunities, ensuring economic rights and youth employment, as well as preventing violence against women and youth.
Conference agenda envisages innovative and interactive working formats, including breakout discussions, training sessions, and dialogue forums. This approach is designed not only to facilitate a substantive exchange of views but also to foster the development of professional contacts among young parliamentarians from different countries.
An essential component of the conference will be the convening of the Third Global Forum on Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The participants will review the role of parliaments and inter-parliamentary interaction in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, alongside opportunities to enhance youth contributions toward implementing the global agenda.
Following the conference, the adoption of a final document is expected, which will contain recommendations and joint approaches of young parliamentarians on the core issues of the event's agenda.
Official working sessions of the conference will take place on September 4–5th. The third day, September 6th, will be dedicated to a cultural program organized by the parliament of the host country.
Annual IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians was established in 2014. The conference mechanism is aimed at enhancing the role of young parliamentarians and expanding youth participation in parliamentary activities, formulating recommendations that reflect youth perspectives on the IPU’s activities and agenda, as well as broadening opportunities for networking, strengthening solidarity and developing the capacity of young people.
IPU initiative to support youth participation in political life dates back to 2010, when the resolution “Youth participation in the democratic process” was adopted at the 122nd Assembly of the organization in Bangkok. The document underscored the necessity of full and active participation of youth and youth organizations in democratic processes at local, national, regional and international levels.
In furtherance of this initiative, IPU established the Forum of Young Parliamentarians in 2013 - an official, permanent body aimed at quantitatively and qualitatively enhancing youth participation within parliaments and the activities of the IPU.
To date, eleven Global Conferences of Young Parliamentarians have been convened, addressing a broad spectrum of pressing issues, ranging from youth participation in politics and democracy to digital transformation, climate change, education, employment and gender equality.
Dunyo IA
Samarkand
On May 28-29, the Prime Minister of Italy will pay an official visit to Uzbekistan
📅 27.05.2025
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