In the modern history of New Uzbekistan, protecting the rights, freedoms, and legitimate interests of its citizens – wherever in the world they may be – has become not merely a constitutional obligation, but the highest expression of the state's humanity and responsibility. One of the most challenging yet strategically significant tests of this commitment has been the repatriation of compatriots from conflict zones in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

Uzbekistan was among the first countries in the world to shift from a policy of "estrangement" to one of "return and compassion," developing a distinctive rehabilitation model in the process.

The first such humanitarian operation was launched exactly seven years ago – on May 30, 2019 – on the personal directive of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. During that mission, 156 Uzbek nationals – predominantly women and children – were brought home from war-ravaged Syria. It was a defining moment: for the first time, the state openly declared its readiness to embrace citizens who had gone astray.

That operation marked the beginning of a series of missions conducted under the collective name "Mehr" (meaning compassion in Uzbek). The core philosophy behind President Mirziyoyev's initiative is that Uzbek citizens who found themselves in conflict zones through misguided choices retain the right to state protection and the opportunity for a new life.

Each mission was unique in its logistics, risk profile, and the circumstances of those being brought home. The second operation, Mehr-2, carried out in October 2019, was notable for the evacuation of 64 children from Baghdad, Iraq – children whose mothers remained imprisoned abroad and for whom Uzbekistan assumed full guardianship.

In December 2020, despite the sweeping restrictions of the global pandemic, Mehr-3 rescued 98 women and children from the Al-Hol and Roj camps in Syria, where they had been living in dire sanitary conditions. Many of the children bore shrapnel wounds and suffered from serious chronic illnesses. The operation was conducted with technical support from the United States and international organizations.

Mehr-4, carried out in February 2021, focused on Afghanistan, securing the return of 24 citizens caught in the crossfire of that country's protracted war.

The final stage, Mehr-5, was completed in April 2021, bringing home 92 individuals from Syria – 24 women and 68 children, including 7 who were complete orphans. This operation also refined a rapid documentation protocol: birth certificates were issued to children directly at the airport, ensuring they received immediate legal status upon arrival.

In total, the Mehr operations have repatriated more than 530 individuals, approximately 75% of whom are children. The guiding principle throughout has been unequivocal: children cannot be held responsible for the choices of their parents.

Repatriation is far more than a logistical exercise – it is the complex process of transforming yesterday's outcasts into full members of society. The Uzbek model rests on five pillars:

1. Legal Restoration. One hundred percent of repatriates have been provided with official documentation. Every child born in a conflict zone has received a Republic of Uzbekistan birth certificate, granting access to healthcare and education.
2. Economic Empowerment. The state has ensured that no one is left to face hardship alone. Through subsidized credit schemes and vocational training programs, women have found employment and established small businesses within their local communities, achieving economic independence. Repatriates also receive assistance in recovering housing rights lost during their absence, or are provided with subsidized rental accommodation.
3. Inclusive Education. Repatriated children attend mainstream schools – not segregated facilities – and participate in academic competitions and sporting events alongside their peers. To date, approximately 10 repatriates, including women, are enrolled in higher education institutions, and 9 children have become winners or prize-winners in national and regional academic olympiads.
4. Spiritual Guidance. Representatives of the Committee on Religious Affairs, alongside respected theologians and imams of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, conduct preventive counseling sessions, introducing repatriates to the tenets of traditional Hanafi Islam as a counter-narrative to extremist interpretations. More than 90% of returnees have successfully adapted and lead secular lives.
5. Community Engagement Through the Mahalla. Neighbors and community activists within the mahalla (traditional neighborhood institution) play an essential role in helping families reintegrate, preventing stigmatization, and fostering an atmosphere of genuine support. Each family is assigned an experienced mahalla mentor who assists with everyday challenges and monitors the family's wellbeing.

The outcomes of Uzbekistan's repatriation program are recognized by the international community as one of the most successful humanitarian models in the world. The United Nations has officially recommended the "Uzbek model" as a roadmap for other governments. Former UN Under-Secretary-General Vladimir Voronkov has repeatedly highlighted it as an example of how a state can effectively combine justice with compassion.

Rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives have also been advanced at the regional level. At the high-level international conference "Regional Cooperation of Central Asian Countries within the Framework of the Joint Plan of Action for the Implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy," held in Tashkent on March 3–4, 2022, President Mirziyoyev proposed the establishment, under the auspices of the UN Counter-Terrorism Office, of a Regional Expert Council comprising leading specialists from Central Asian countries.

The Council was launched in May 2024, embodying broad support for the collaborative implementation of comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs for individuals returned from conflict zones. It comprises more than 40 highly qualified experts from across Central Asia, including representatives of law enforcement and judicial bodies, as well as psychologists, theologians, medical professionals, and social workers.

The project has gained further credibility through the participation of prominent international bodies, including the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law (IIJ).

The Council's work has been presented at key UN platforms: in Geneva and New York on November 11 and December 10, 2024, respectively, and in Vienna on May 21, 2025.

Uzbekistan has demonstrated to the international community that repatriation is not a security risk – it is an instrument for strengthening security. International organizations are investing in Uzbekistan today not to remedy a problem, but to scale its success to other regions of the world.

The work with repatriates in Uzbekistan has now moved from a phase of emergency rescue to one of systemic integration. The country operates a well-functioning mechanism that combines state support with community oversight. The state ensures the full legal "erasure" of repatriates' past so that it does not obstruct their future. Where the early focus was on physical health, the emphasis has now shifted to mental wellbeing and civic identity. A repatriate in Uzbekistan in 2026 is a taxpayer, an active participant in mahalla life, and a parent whose children are building their futures within the country.

In contrast to those who chose to close their borders to their own citizens, Uzbekistan's leadership chose the path of responsibility. The country's experience affirms that when a state extends a hand, society grows stronger – and security becomes unshakeable.

Uzbekistan's motto in this sphere is clear: "Children cannot be terrorists" – and every Uzbek citizen will always remain under the protection of their homeland.

Timur Akhmedov,

Head of Department,

Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

In October, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, will pay a state visit to the Kingdom of Belgium, during which important decisions are expected to be made that will mark a qualitatively new stage in relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union. In particular, the visit will feature the signing of the Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has been actively shaping a new framework of engagement with Europe – a key pillar of stability amid current geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty. The ties between Uzbekistan and European countries continue to grow, and the areas of cooperation are diversifying, supported by the ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan.

Building a New Chapter in Relations

After gaining independence, Uzbekistan’s relations with the European Union developed dynamically. A Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Uzbekistan and the European Commission was signed in 1992, followed by the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1994. The foundation of cooperation was laid by the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) signed in June 1996 and entering into force in 1999. However, at a certain stage, cooperation faced difficulties due to the insufficient pace of democratic reforms in Uzbekistan.

With the election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev as President, the situation changed dramatically. As early as 2017, during his visit to Tashkent, Stefano Manservisi, Director-General for International Cooperation and Development of the European Commission, stated that “the EU regards Uzbekistan as a strategic partner.” The sweeping democratic and economic reforms launched in Uzbekistan helped resolve within a short period many issues that had long remained unsolved. Forced labor was completely eradicated, and reforms in the cotton sector enabled the country to abandon raw cotton exports altogether.

As reforms advanced, the legal and institutional framework of relations with Europe expanded rapidly. While previously Uzbekistan and the EU granted each other most-favored-nation treatment under the PCA, in April 2021 the EU granted Uzbekistan GSP+ beneficiary status, and in 2022 the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) was initialed.

Along with internal transformation, Uzbekistan’s foreign policy architecture also changed. Priority was given to closer cooperation with neighboring Central Asian states, as well as the active expansion of ties with European countries – a vector that has strengthened steadily in recent years.

Just in the past year, Uzbekistan established strategic partnership relations with France, Italy, and Slovakia, while discussions on expanding strategic cooperation with Hungary continued. President Mirziyoyev also visited Slovenia, and Italy’s Prime Minister and Bulgaria’s President visited Uzbekistan.

A milestone in strengthening relations between Uzbekistan and Europe, and between Europe and Central Asia as a whole – was the first EU–Central Asia Summit, held in Samarkand in April 2025 under the chairmanship of Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Uzbekistan presented a broad range of initiatives to create a new model of regional cooperation between Central Asia and Europe, including: a multilateral agreement on investment protection and promotion; the launch of a Central Asia–EU Joint Chamber of Commerce; the adoption of a regional support program for SMEs and women’s entrepreneurship; the establishment of an investment platform to promote regional projects in green energy, innovation, transport, infrastructure, and agriculture.

The Samarkand Summit was highly productive. A Joint Declaration was adopted, establishing a strategic partnership between the two regions in trade, transport, energy, digital connectivity, and water management. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU had prepared a €12 billion investment package for Central Asia under the Global Gateway initiative.

The Trajectory of Economic Cooperation

Uzbekistan’s deep democratic transformations have significantly improved relations with European countries. Economic reforms have enhanced the competitiveness of Uzbekistan’s economy, stimulating investor confidence and growing interest from European businesses.

The results are impressive. Over the past 8 years, Uzbekistan’s GDP has doubled, reaching $115 billion in 2024. Since 2017, investment in fixed capital has totaled $240 billion, of which foreign investment exceeded $130 billion. The country’s foreign exchange reserves surpassed $48 billion for the first time in history. Structurally, the share of industry in the economy increased from 20% to 26%, and services from 44% to 47%. Labor productivity (GDP per employed person) rose by 45%.

As a result, opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation between Uzbek and European businesses have expanded. Between 2017 and 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade with the EU increased 2.4 times to $6.4 billion; exports grew 3.6 times to $1.7 billion, and imports 2.2 times to $4.7 billion. In 2024, the EU’s share in Uzbekistan’s total trade turnover was 9.7%, in exports 6.3%, and in imports 12%. The EU ranked third among Uzbekistan’s trade partners, after China and Russia.

The EU’s share in Uzbekistan’s total exports increased from 3.8% to 6.3% over the same period. This growth was driven by Uzbekistan’s accession to the GSP+ preferential trade system, granting duty-free access to the EU market across roughly 6,200 tariff lines. The share of Uzbekistan’s exports benefiting from GSP+ reached 59%, with a preference utilization rate of 84%, indicating efficient use of trade benefits.

In 2024, Uzbekistan’s exports to the EU were dominated by chemical products (52.1%), as well as textiles, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, minerals, and food products. Among EU members, France accounted for 47.2% of exports, Lithuania for 10%, and Latvia for 6.9%.

Uzbekistan’s imports from the EU significantly exceeded exports – a reflection of the ongoing technological modernization of the national economy. Around 16% of Uzbekistan’s total imports of machinery, equipment, and transport vehicles come from EU countries.

Investment cooperation is also expanding rapidly. In 2024, foreign investments and loans from EU countries and their financial institutions increased by 77%, reaching $4.1 billion (compared to $2.3 billion in 2023). The most active investors were Germany ($1.37 billion), the Netherlands ($1.05 billion), Cyprus ($858.9 million), the Czech Republic ($137.8 million), Italy ($99.8 million), and Sweden ($97.5 million). Today, around 1,000 enterprises with EU capital operate in Uzbekistan, with a total project portfolio of €30 billion.

A special role in recent years belongs to the EBRD, of which Uzbekistan has become one of the largest beneficiaries. The Bank’s total investments in Uzbekistan’s economy exceeded €5 billion, including around €1 billion in 2024, primarily directed toward the private sector.

Reforms in Uzbekistan have become the key driver for unlocking the significant potential of trade and economic cooperation with the European Union.

Uzbekistan–Belgium

The upcoming visit will also focus on strengthening relations between Uzbekistan and Belgium. Diplomatic relations were established following the opening of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Brussels in 1993. In 1996, the two countries signed an Agreement on avoidance of double taxation, and in 1998 – an Agreement on mutual protection and promotion of investments, which provide legal guarantees for investors in both states.

Business contacts have intensified in parallel with Uzbekistan’s reform agenda. The visits of 2019 and 2022 set the tone for cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and the digital economy. More important than the current trade volumes has been the recognition and support of Uzbekistan’s reforms by EU partners, laying the foundation for long-term engagement.

In 2024, bilateral trade amounted to $62.3 million, including $7.3 million in Uzbek exports and $55 million in imports. Investment cooperation is gaining momentum: several dozen companies with Belgian capital now operate in Uzbekistan, including wholly owned enterprises. New technologies are being localized, for example, Jaga Climate Designers is participating in a joint venture for heating and ventilation systems, and Picanol Group is localizing the assembly of high-tech textile machinery. Belgian brands Belcolade and Prefamac are exploring opportunities to launch chocolate production with subsequent localization.

Despite modest trade volumes, there is significant potential for expanding cooperation in several areas. Given Belgium’s leading role in pharmaceuticals and biomedical research and Uzbekistan’s growing pharmaceutical market, joint ventures or industrial clusters could be developed in this sector, involving companies such as UCB and Janssen Pharmaceutica.

There is also strong potential for joint fruit and vegetable processing projects in Uzbekistan, targeting exports to the EU via Belgian logistics hubs such as the Port of Antwerp and wholesale markets. Potential partners include Greenyard and Puratos. Direct seasonal exports of fresh fruits (e.g., grapes in autumn and winter), as well as dried vegetables, spices, and organic products, could also be expanded. In light industry, there is room to increase exports of ready-made knitwear and home textiles, provided European quality and safety standards are met. The market potential is evident – Belgium imported about $7.9 billion worth of clothing in 2024.

The main challenges remain logistics and standards. Belgium functions as a major EU maritime hub centered around Antwerp, while direct routes from Uzbekistan are still limited. The near-term priority should be pilot supply chains ensuring quality and traceability, the development of cold logistics, certification under EU technical and sanitary regulations, the use of Benelux consolidation hubs, and trade finance tools for SMEs. With the gradual development of new overland routes along the Middle Corridor, Uzbekistan will gain a stronger foothold in high value-added exports without higher costs or delivery delays.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan is entering a stage of deepened economic cooperation with the European Union. During the ongoing modernization and digital transformation of its economy, European investment, technology, education, and research experience can play a key role. At the same time, Uzbekistan seeks to expand exports of industrial goods as their quality improves.

Uzbekistan is also a rapidly growing market with a young and dynamic population, now reaching 38 million people – an 18% increase since 2017. Every year, around 700,000 economically active individuals enter the labor market, forming a substantial human resource base for the economy, including joint ventures.

As a result of poverty reduction policies, living standards and household incomes have risen significantly. Whereas a third of the population once lived below the poverty line, 7.5 million people have been lifted out of poverty, and the poverty rate declined to 8.9% in 2024, with plans to reduce it further to 6% this year. These policies not only address social challenges but also expand domestic demand, increasing the interest of European businesses in entering Uzbekistan’s market.

The further deepening of Uzbekistan’s economic engagement with the EU and Belgium is an objectively mutually beneficial process – one that will define the success of the upcoming state visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Belgium.

The agreements expected to be signed will help advance joint projects in sustainable energy and infrastructure, strengthen transport and technological connectivity between Central Asia and Europe, and position Europe as a key partner in Uzbekistan’s long-term growth and modernization trajectory.

 Obid Khakimov,  

Director of the Center for
Economic Research and Reforms

The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has been recognized as the “Best Museum of the Turkic World” by the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Sultan Raev, Secretary General of the organization, announced this during an international scientific conference dedicated to the 690th anniversary of Amir Temur's birth.

Constructed in a short period at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the Center is highly regarded today not only as a unique architectural masterpiece but also as a symbolic bridge connecting Eastern and Western civilizations. Through its concept, content, and scientific-educational focus, it vividly demonstrates the creative and enlightening potential of Islamic civilization.

While ceremoniously presenting the “Best Museum” certificate to the leadership of the Center, Secretary General Sultan Raev specifically highlighted President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's policy aimed at the profound study and global promotion of the Islamic civilization's heritage:

-  Thanks to the special attention of Honorable President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the legacy of Amir Temur and Islamic culture are being deeply explored today. New scientific and artistic works are being created and modern scientific-educational centers are being established. I can say with confidence that there is no comparable center in the world. This is, undoubtedly, a vivid manifestation of the ideas of the Third Renaissance. At times, the world limits itself to mere statements. However, Uzbekistan is setting an example through its practical actions and tangible results.

In turn, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, shared his insights regarding this prestigious recognition:

-  Established under the direct initiative and visionary authorship of our Honorable President, the Center has emerged as one of the most significant mega-projects in the Turkic world. The Head of State personally participated in and oversaw every stage of its creation. Today, every visitor leaves the Center with a world of impressions. As is well known, TURKSOY is a prestigious international organization uniting states such as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Türkiye and is often referred to as the “UNESCO of the Turkic World”. Currently, the museum heritage of these nations encompasses nearly 1,300 museums. The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, with its creative vision, profound conceptual depth and innovative solutions, holds a special place among these institutions, manifesting itself as a unique cultural and scientific phenomenon.

Furthermore, F. Abdukhalikov specifically highlighted the growing international interest in the Center's activities. In particular, the Hungarian government has expressed interest in studying the Center's experience and collaborating on the implementation of a similar project. Additionally, the leadership of the German state of Bavaria has stated its readiness to support initiatives aimed at promoting Islam through enlightenment.

At the conclusion of the event, it was emphasized that this award serves as a vivid testament to the Center's high international prestige, its scientific and cultural significance, and its profound recognition across the Turkic world.

Марказий Осиё сўнгги йилларда иқлим ўзгариши оқибатларига тобора кўпроқ дуч келаётган ва дунёда ундан энг кўп зарар кўриши мумкин бўлган минтақалридан бири. Сўнгги 70 йил ичида Марказий Осиёда ҳарорат Цельсий бўйича 1,5-2 даражага кўтарилди. Бу эса экологик муаммоларнинг кескинлашувига, музликларнинг эриши ва чўлланишнинг тезлашишига таъсир кўрсатмоқда. Ушбу жараёнларнинг барчаси бир-бири билан ўзаро боғлиқ бўлиб, минтақадаги экотизимлар, иқтисодиёт ва одамлар ҳаётига салбий таъсир кўрсатмоқда.

Глобал миқёсда иқлим ўзгариши туфайли музларнинг эриш тезлиги сўнгги йилларда 65 фоизга ошди: 90-йилларнинг бошида сайёрада йилига 0,8 триллион тонна, 2000-йилларга келиб эса 1,3 триллион тонна муз эриб кетган. Марказий Осиё минтақаси учун ҳам ушбу экологик муаммо бугунги куннинг энг муҳим иқлим муаммолари қаторига киради.

Марказий Осиёда сув ресурслари тақчиллиги ортиб бормоқда. Бугунги кунда 37 миллион нафардан ортиқ киши асосан сув таъминотининг пасайиши, шунингдек, тегишли инфратузилманинг етарли даражада ривожланмаганлиги билан боғлиқ бўлган сув ресурслари кескин етишмайдиган ҳудудларда яшайди.

Евроосиё тараққиёт банки ҳисоб-китобларига кўра, 2025-2030-йилларда минтақа мамлакатлари учун сув ва иқлим инфратузилмасига зарур бўлган инвестицияларнинг умумий ҳажми қарийб 29,2 миллиард долларни ташкил этади.

Оролбўйи минтақасининг ҳолати вазиятни қийинлаштирмоқда – шамоллар Оролнинг қуриган тубидан ҳар йили тахминан 15-75 миллион тонна қум, чанг ва тузни учириб кетади. Бу эса сезиларли масофаларда ҳавонинг сифатини ёмонлаштиради ва бевосита ижтимоий-иқтисодий йўқотишларга олиб келади.

Шу сабабдан ҳам сўнгги йилларда Марказий Осиёнинг минтақавий кун тартибида экологик масалалар тобора устувор аҳамият касб этмоқда. Сув ресурслари билан боғлиқ муаммолар, ерларнинг деградацияси, иқлим ўзгариши, Оролбўйининг ҳолати эндиликда минтақа мамлакатлари томонидан алоҳида эмас, балки минтақанинг умумий барқарор ижтимоий-иқтисодий ривожланиш масалалари контекстида кўрилмоқда.

Марказий Осиё мамлакатлари давлат раҳбарларининг сиёсий иродаси туфайли экология соҳасидаги кўп томонлама ҳамкорлик янада тизимли ва мазмунли бўлиб бормоқда.

Бунда минтақавий ҳамкорликнинг институционал асосларини мустаҳкамлаш алоҳида ўрин тутди. Оролни қутқариш халқаро жамғармаси ва унинг тузилмалари амалдаги механизмлари билан бир қаторда, экологик масалалар минтақа мамлакатлари давлат раҳбарларининг маслаҳат учрашувлари, шунингдек, соҳавий идоралараро ва экспертлар мулоқоти доирасида янада изчил мустаҳкамлана бошлади.

Минтақа мамлакатларининг иқлим билан боғлиқ халқаро тадбирларда фаоллашганини ҳам таъкидлаш жоиз. Хусусан, БМТнинг Иқлим ўзгариши тўғрисидаги доиравий конвенцияси конференцияларида Марказий Осиё мамлакатлари "5 мамлакат - 1 минтақа - 1 овоз" тамойили остида чиқиш қилиб, иқлим муаммолари бўйича миллий устувор масалалар ва умумий минтақавий ёндашувларни тақдим эта бошладилар.

Марказий Осиёнинг барча мамлакатлари Париж келишуви доирасида ўзларининг миллий миқёсда белгиланган ҳиссасини тақдим этди ва иссиқхона газларини камайтириш, "яшил" энергетика қувватини ошириш ва мослашувчанлик салоҳиятини мустаҳкамлаш бўйича ўз олдига юқори мақсадларни қўйди.

Шу билан бирга, Қозоғистон 2060-йилга бориб углерод нейтраллигига эришиш йўлини белгилаб олди, Ўзбекистон эса 2035-йилга бориб ялпи ички маҳсулот бирлигига тўғри келадиган иссиқхона газлари эмиссиясини 2010-йилдагига нисбатан 50 фоизга камайтириш бўйича мақсадли кўрсаткични оширди. Қирғизистон, Тожикистон ва Туркманистон ҳам глобал иқлим мақсадларига эришиш йўлидаги интилишларини тасдиқлаб, ўз ҳиссасини доимий равишда янгилаб, ошириб келмоқда.

Орол инқирози оқибатларига мослашиш масаласида ҳам сезиларли натижаларга эришилди. Хусусан, Орол денгизининг қуриган тубида Ўзбекистон томонида сўнгги 5 йил ичида 1,7 миллион гектар ўрмонзорлар барпо этилди, Қозоғистон томонида 1 миллион гектардан ортиқ майдонда ўрмон-мелиорация ишлари олиб борилди.

Минтақавий ҳамкорликнинг яна бир ёрқин натижаларидан бири Шимолий Оролдаги вазиятнинг яхшиланиши бўлди. Сирдарё бўйидаги   сув омборларининг иш тартибини мувофиқлаштириш ва давлатлараро келишувларни бажариш ҳисобига сўнгги уч йилда денгизга 6 миллиард куб метрдан ортиқ сув келиб тушди. Натижада Шимолий Оролнинг ҳажми 2022-йил охиридаги 18,9 миллиард куб метрдан 2025-йил охирида 23 миллиард куб метргача ошди.

Билим алмашинуви ва илмий экологик экспертиза соҳасида ҳам минтақавий ҳамкорлик кенгаймоқда. Ўзбекистонда атроф-муҳит ва иқлим ўзгаришини ўрганиш бўйича Марказий Осиё университетининг ташкил этилиши ушбу ҳамкорликнинг натижаси бўлиб, минтақада шу йўналишда кадрлар тайёрлаш ва қўшма тадқиқотларни ривожлантириш учун янги майдонга айланди.

Шундай қилиб, Марказий Осиёда ўзаро минтақавий экологик ҳамкорлик аста-секин амалий аҳамият касб этмоқда. Мамлакатлар умумий халқаро позицияни шакллантириш, мувофиқлаштириш механизмларини ривожлантириш, Оролбўйи экотизимларини тиклаш бўйича чора-тадбирларни амалга ошириш ва илмий-таълим базасини яратишда сезиларли натижаларга эришди.

Шу билан бирга, минтақадаги экологик муаммолар кўлами мувофиқлаштиришни кенгайтиришни тақозо қилмоқда. Трансчегаравий сув ресурсларини бошқаришда янада ўзаро мувофиқлаштирилган ёндашувларни ишлаб чиқиш, иқлим ўзгаришининг оқибатларига мослашиш чораларини кенгайтириш, сув ва экологик инфратузилмага узоқ муддатли инвестицияларни жалб этиш, шунингдек, умумий экспертлар базаси ва таҳлилий базани мустаҳкамлаш устувор вазифалар сифатида қолмоқда.

Кейинги йилларда Марказий Осиёнинг экологик кун тартиби самарадорлиги минтақа мамлакатлари сиёсий ҳамкорлик натижаларини барқарор қўшма механизмларга қанчалик изчил трансформация қила олишига боғлиқ бўлади.

Остона шаҳрида бўлиб ўтадиган Минтақавий экологик саммит иқлим масаласида умумий мақсадига эришиш йўлидаги яна бир қадам бўлади. Иқлим ва экологик муаммоларни бартараф этиш бўйича янги ва амалий ечимларни ишлаб чиқиш нафақат Марказий Осиё мамлакатларининг глобал иқлим кун тартибига қўшган ҳиссасини оширишга, балки экотизимлар барқарорлигини таъминлаш, ҳаво ифлосланишини камайтириш, табиий ресурсларни барқарор бошқариш ва устувор равишда сув ва энергетика ресурсларини бошқариш бўйича минтақавий вазифаларни ҳал этишга ҳам хизмат қилади.

Эльвира Бикеева,

МҲТИ лойиҳа раҳбари

Малика Сапармуҳаметова,
МҲТИ етакчи мутахассиси

On the eve of the 34th anniversary of our country's independence, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund has finalised the 2025 consultations in accordance with Article IV of the IMF Agreement. The main conclusion on the essence of the ongoing reforms is positive prospects for Uzbekistan's economic development against the backdrop of continued progress in the transition to a market economy. According to the published document, economic indicators remain strong, including sustainable growth rates, reduction of the consolidated budget deficit, current account deficit and sufficient level of international reserves.

Successful and effective implementation of structural reforms, according to the Fund's specialists, allows us to conclude that the prospects are favourable. Against the background of a high degree of uncertainty in global trade policy, the IMF baseline scenario predicts that real GDP growth will remain stably high in the coming years. Such trends are the result of economic openness, industrialisation, active investment policy and support for the formation of export potential of promising industries.

The set of reforms and effectively implemented decisions is consistent with available internal resources and reserves for long-term sustainable development of the country and regions. The course towards irreversible market transformations makes it possible to skilfully combine the instruments of targeted state support and opportunities for entrepreneurial initiative on the way to building a New Uzbekistan.

In recent years, as a result of openness and growing confidence in our country, there has been a progressive increase in capital investment. In 2017-2024, the total volume of foreign investment absorbed exceeded $113 billion. Foreign direct investment and loans account for more than 80 per cent of them. Activity in attracting finance is observed in the leading industries and the fuel and energy complex, which has a corresponding impact on the acceleration of industrialisation processes in almost all regions.

Increasing investment cooperation with China, Russia, Germany, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, the USA, the UK and other countries is becoming a source of attraction of advanced technological solutions and expertise, management methods, localisation of production and strengthening the export potential of promising industries and regions of Uzbekistan. Attracted resources are mainly invested in the technological re-equipment and modernisation of existing production facilities and the creation of new production facilities that did not exist before.

Over the past eight years, investment programmes have launched more than 96,000 projects worth about $100 billion, creating 1.8 million jobs. In 2024, compared to 2017, the value of investment projects put into operation increased almost eightfold, and the number of jobs grew 2.6 times.

We emphasise the factor of active involvement of our Head of State in this process. As a result of visits and top-level events, 366 investment agreements worth $75 billion have been reached since the beginning of this year. In particular, this year road maps have been approved for 222 investment projects worth about $45 billion.

Within the framework of the IV Tashkent International Investment Forum (June this year), agreements were reached on investments worth more than $30 billion (for the implementation of 144 joint projects). In April 2025, on the margins of the 5th International Industrial Exhibition "INNOPROM. Central Asia", held in Tashkent, within the framework of the 43 investment agreements reached, it is planned to attract an additional billion dollars to the industrial sector of the country.

In recent years, there has been an active practice of holding events to inform the international community about opportunities for the implementation of joint projects. Thus, this year, forums were held in 13 foreign countries as part of the Investors' Day of Uzbekistan, attended by representatives of 700 well-known foreign companies. More than 200 investment projects worth six billion dollars were presented to potential partners.

Among the important elements of Uzbekistan's modern industrial policy is localisation of production of high quality and competitive products, reduction of imports of finished goods and components. In accordance with the Localisation Programme, which included about 10 thousand projects, almost 300 trillion soums worth of products have been produced over the period 2020-2024. This led to import substitution in the amount of about $25 billion. The Localisation Programme allowed the creation of new production facilities for previously imported goods, contributed to changing the sectoral structure of industry and reducing dependence on external supplies by expanding the range of products and services.

THE NUMBER OF EXPORTERS IS GROWING

The formation of an export orientation has become one of the main conditions for success in implementing the plans outlined for Uzbekistan's industrialisation. Over 2017-2024, the total volume of exports exceeded $132 billion. It is noteworthy that the average annual growth rate of the country's exports over the period was 12-23 per cent. As a result of systematic and targeted support for exporters, the geography of exports of domestic products expanded by 55 states in 2024 and reached 186 countries over the past eight years. Last year, the number of exporting enterprises increased by 3,143 and their total number totalled 7,343.

Only due to the increase in the share of exports of higher value-added products in 2024, shipments to foreign markets increased by a billion dollars. Entering new promising markets, in turn, requires a significant improvement in the quality of manufactured products and their compliance with international standards. As part of the GSP+ programme, we implemented a set of organisational and technical measures to obtain Global G.A.P., Organic, OEKO-Tex, BSCI, CE marking certificates for our products and transition to ISO standards at more than five thousand enterprises. This made it possible last year alone to provide additional exports of 617 types of products worth $1.4 billion to the European Union.

Transition to more demanding standards and technological processes makes it possible to achieve the goals of producing and selling products of a completely different quality in new markets. Export supplies of goods to developed countries confirm the correctness of the chosen strategy, demonstrating its undeniable results. For example, due to the expansion of export geography and correct response to the conjuncture, the selling prices of Uzbekistan's fruit and vegetable products last year increased by an average of 14 per cent.

The industrial trend of economic development, having ensured a technological leap in a number of sectors, has had a significant impact on the evolution of the commodity nomenclature of exports. Quite recently, Uzbekistan was associated as a country with a monoculture of cotton, and its products were practically the sole leader of exports with absolute dominance of raw materials. In this regard, according to IMF experts, there is a decline in the share of cotton fibre exports from 0.2 per cent of GDP to zero from 2021 in the long term. Today Uzbekistan exports more and more high-tech products, and by 2024 its nomenclature has reached four thousand items.

For example, compared to 2017, exports of primary goods fell by 22 per cent last year, while the share of exports of finished goods increased 3.3 times, semi-finished goods - 4.4 times, and exports of services increased 2.9 times. At the same time, the transition to advanced processing of cotton contributed to the doubling of exports of garment and knitwear products to one billion dollars. This allowed our country to become the second supplier of textile products in the Russian market.

Domestic products are becoming a recognisable national brand, enjoying trust and popularity among foreign consumers. Last year, the goods of about 300 Uzbek enterprises received registration on the well-known electronic commercial platforms Alibaba, Wildberries and Ozon. As a result, sales of our companies reached $680 million.

At the end of the first half of 2025, the volume of exports grew by 33 per cent year-on-year and approached $17 billion. Since the beginning of the year, 1,557 domestic companies have been added to the exporters, accounting for $650 million in shipments.

The steady trend away from raw material exports towards finished high-tech products and services (tourism, transport, construction, IT and others) continues.

INVESTMENT DIALOGUE

It should be noted that our country is building and effectively operating an institutional environment to address strategically important issues of industrial development with a clear export orientation by attracting foreign capital. For this purpose, the relevant ministry and state agencies responsible for this complex of issues, as well as organisations promoting interaction between the state and the private sector have been established.

The Council of Foreign Investors under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan is an institutional platform for direct dialogue between the government and investors (including international financial institutions). The Council's work as an advisory and consultative body effectively promotes the attraction of foreign direct investment in priority sectors of the economy and the organization of quality business dialogue, taking into account international best practices.

The Council operates under the patronage of the President of Uzbekistan, who personally attends meetings of this body. In order to organise systematic work on attracting investments, the relevant decree of the leader of the country was adopted to implement the agreements reached at the last meeting of the Council. The document also implies ensuring the systematic implementation of initiatives and proposals put forward by the participants of the meeting, as well as measures to improve the activities of the Secretariat of the Council of Foreign Investors.

In parallel with the formation of an effective institutional environment, consistent work is being done to improve the legislative framework to ensure advanced industrial development, intensify investment processes and expand the export potential of industries and regions of the country. This process is under the close attention and direct involvement of Uzbek parliamentarians. As a result, in recent years more than 500 functions of the State in regulating business have been abolished, and about 70 functions have been transferred to public-private partnerships and outsourced to the private sector. Seventy-two types of licensed activities and 40 permits have been legally abolished to improve the business climate and simplify the business environment.

POSITIVE ASSESSMENT

These transformations are positively assessed by foreign rating agencies and organisations. Thus, according to the Index of Regulatory Restrictions on Foreign Direct Investment (Organisation for Economic Development and Cooperation), our country has the best rating among the Central Asian region. This year, the country's performance on the Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom, the indicators ‘Freedom of Trade’ and ‘Freedom of Investment’ has improved considerably.

Let us return to the assessment of the prospects of dynamics and effectiveness of reforms based on the results of the recent IMF consultations with Uzbekistan in accordance with Article IV of the IMF Agreement. According to the Fund's outcome document, the opportunities arising from accelerated structural reforms, increased income and capital inflows, and favourable commodity price dynamics are positive for Uzbekistan's sustainable development.

Analysis of industrialisation indicators, investment activity and expansion of export indicators testifies to the real effectiveness of the ‘Uzbekistan - 2030’ Strategy and a set of accompanying measures to strengthen the country's economic potential and international standing. This, in turn, becomes a demonstration of the irreversibility of reforms aimed at building an independent New Uzbekistan.

Deputy of the Legislative Chamber

of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan,

Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor Durbek Akhmedov

The Content Preparation Center for Mass Media under the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has launched, for the first time in Uzbekistan, an innovative media bank — the Aura.uz platform. It consolidates photo and video materials showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, unique nature, modern cities, and way of life.

The primary objective of the platform is to promote Uzbekistan’s positive image to both local and international audiences through high-quality visual content.

Currently, Aura.uz hosts nearly 6 terabytes of data, comprising more than 12,000 photos, videos, and infographics. The platform is continuously updated with around 200 new items daily.

A dedicated service has been established for the collection and publication of content. In addition, the archive has been formed using materials from the National Television and Radio Company of Uzbekistan (MTRC), press services of ministries and government agencies, as well as the national news agency UzA.

This project aims to address a key issue in Uzbekistan’s media landscape — the shortage of high-quality visual content. As a result, it is expected to significantly increase (by up to 1,000 times) the global volume of professional photo and video materials about Uzbekistan.

Today, many local and international video creators, bloggers, and media professionals encounter outdated or low-quality content, often containing captions, subtitles, or watermarks, when searching for visual resources. In particular, finding modern footage — especially region-specific or drone-shot visuals — remains a challenge.

The platform features:
— exclusively high-quality content (HD, Full HD, 4K and above);
— materials provided without captions, logos, or subtitles;
— videos available in both horizontal (16:9) and vertical (9:16) formats;
— a convenient search system allowing access by season, time (day/night), region, and category;
— most importantly, all files are available for free use.

The content is systematically categorized into areas such as art, urban development, sports, historical landmarks, nature, and national traditions.

Materials of national significance are also compiled separately. In particular, videos related to the visits of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as well as content dedicated to the “New Uzbekistan” concept, are available in dedicated sections.

The platform is open, allowing contributors to upload their own materials. A monetization system is planned for future implementation.

Aura.uz is an innovative media platform that presents the modern visual image of Uzbekistan to the world.

The formula of "comprehensive strategic partnership" in relations between Uzbekistan and Türkiye has in recent years ceased to be merely a diplomatic definition and increasingly reflects the actual substance of bilateral cooperation. Political dialogue, economic collaboration, humanitarian contacts, and transport connectivity form the stable pillars of systemic Uzbek-Turkish relations.

Analysis of the current state of partnership between the two countries confirms that Tashkent and Ankara have successfully established an institutional architecture for comprehensive strategic partnership. The key mechanism of bilateral interaction is the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council co-chaired by the presidents of both states, with its fourth meeting scheduled for 2026. This format ensures systematic political dialogue and coordination of joint efforts across a broad spectrum of areas.

An important factor in the effective functioning of this institutional system is the active and trusting dialogue between Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, maintained through regular telephone conversations and meetings on the sidelines of international events. Such dynamics impart a personal dimension to strategic interaction and create a favorable environment for deepening practical cooperation at the levels of governments, businesses, and expert communities of both countries.

Uzbek-Turkish relations gain an additional dimension through cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The participation of Tashkent and Ankara in this organization's activities allows bilateral initiatives to be elevated to a broader regional level and to find synergy with other countries of the Turkic world. OTS summits, including those held in 2025, have demonstrated participants' commitment to giving practical substance to cooperation from economy and transport to culture and digital development.

For Uzbekistan and Türkiye, this creates opportunities for advancing joint projects, harmonizing approaches to the regional agenda, and strengthening their positions in a broader geopolitical space.

Uzbek-Turkish cooperation carries significant regional and international dimensions. During a meeting in the "4+4" format in January 2026, the parties discussed regional and international issues, including the situations in Afghanistan, Gaza, Ukraine, and Syria. This demonstrates the two states' intention to coordinate their positions on key items of the international agenda.

Against the backdrop of strengthening political understanding and institutional consolidation of Uzbek-Turkish partnership, the economic component of bilateral relations acquires particular importance, becoming a key driver for their further development.

Trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Türkiye has demonstrated consistent progress in recent years. The target of raising bilateral trade turnover to USD 5 billion in the medium term and to USD 10 billion in the longer term remains relevant and reflects the potential of bilateral ties. Trade volume in 2025 exceeded USD 3 billion, indicating significant progress compared to figures from eight years prior.

Particularly noteworthy is the structure of economic interaction. The relationship involves not only trade but also the formation of a stable investment presence. By the end of 2025, more than 2,100 enterprises with Turkish capital participation were operating in the country a testament to the establishment of a sustainable Turkish business ecosystem in Uzbekistan and one of the highest figures among Uzbekistan's foreign partners. The dynamics of direct investment from Türkiye clearly confirm the progressive strengthening of this area of cooperation: USD 2.2 billion was invested in Uzbekistan in 2024, and USD 2.9 billion during January–October 2025.

The parties are conducting systematic work to expand economic cooperation. In particular, during the 4th meeting of the Joint Strategic Planning Group held on January 21, 2026, progress was noted in implementing the Action Plan of the 8th meeting of the Joint Economic Commission (JEC). The key role of the JEC as an effective mechanism for developing practical trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Türkiye was emphasized.

For Uzbekistan, cooperation with Türkiye is valuable in that Turkish businesses bring not only capital but also managerial expertise, technologies, and production culture. For Türkiye, the Uzbek market is attractive as a dynamically developing economy with a population exceeding 38 million and growing domestic demand. In this sense, interaction increasingly takes on the character of mutual complementarity.

One of the notable trends of 2025 was the development of transport connectivity between the two countries, primarily in the aviation sector. The number of weekly flights reached 97, with routes expanding to 8 destinations. The broadening of geography and frequency of direct flights between Tashkent, Samarkand, Namangan, Andijan, Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir promotes growth in business mobility, tourist flows, and humanitarian contacts. The launch of new routes by both national and private carriers became an important practical step toward further rapprochement.

The increase in flight numbers offers not only passenger convenience but also broader economic effects. It facilitates contacts between entrepreneurs, simplifies participation in exhibitions and negotiations, and makes accompanying joint projects more accessible. Prospectively, this also creates prerequisites for developing air cargo transportation, which could further strengthen trade and economic ties.

Energy cooperation also demonstrates positive dynamics. Turkish companies are actively participating in modernizing Uzbekistan's energy infrastructure, including projects for developing renewable energy sources.

Particular emphasis must be placed on the special role of cultural and humanitarian interaction in developing bilateral relations. Common historical, cultural, and linguistic roots create a favorable foundation for expanding cooperation in education, science, culture, and tourism. Branches of leading Turkish universities operate in Uzbekistan, joint educational programs are implemented, and student and faculty exchanges take place.

Tourist exchange between the two countries shows sustained growth. By the end of 2025, Türkiye entered the top five countries by number of tourists visiting Uzbekistan. In turn, Türkiye remains one of the most popular tourist destinations for Uzbek citizens. Development of tourism ties contributes to strengthening intercultural dialogue and people-to-people diplomacy.

These figures reflect not only the attractiveness of the Turkish tourism market but also the general expansion of population mobility. In the long term, it is precisely cultural and humanitarian ties that form the solid social foundation of bilateral partnership.

Analysis of 2025 dynamics allows identification of several directions that could become key to further deepening Uzbek-Turkish partnership:

First, development of industrial cooperation. The existing network of joint enterprises could become the basis for more complex projects oriented not only toward the domestic market but also toward exports to third countries. Such an approach corresponds to the strategic objectives of both economies.

Second, transport, logistics, and infrastructure. Expansion of air connectivity is an important step, but the potential for cooperation in this sphere is significantly broader and includes development of multimodal transportation, warehousing infrastructure, and digital trade solutions.

Third, services and human capital. Türkiye possesses considerable expertise in tourism, medicine, construction, and education. For Uzbekistan, interaction in these areas opens opportunities not only for adopting experience but also for jointly entering regional markets.

Uzbek-Turkish relations are developing on a positive and constructive basis, confirming the maturity and stability of bilateral interaction. The parties demonstrate readiness for dialogue, pragmatism, and a commitment to considering mutual interests. The growing number of joint enterprises, expanding transport links, increasing tourist flows, and stable political dialogue form a solid foundation for further development of cooperation.

Alisher Kadirov,

Head of Department of the Institute of Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and Turkey are consistently developing bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the fields of ecology and environmental protection, paying special attention to the exchange of experience, the introduction of modern technologies, and the professional development of specialists.

Representatives of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan regularly participate in seminars, training courses, and other events organized by international structures in the Republic of Turkey. Such cooperation formats serve to strengthen professional ties and adopt advanced approaches in the field of environmental management.

One of the significant stages of cooperation was a meeting with a delegation from "OSTIM Energik," a company specialized in clustering technologies in renewable energy and ecology under Turkey’s Middle East Industry and Trade Center (OSTIM). During the negotiations, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation on air purification systems, the construction of water treatment facilities, the development of renewable energy sources, as well as the processing of domestic and agricultural waste.

Within the framework of developing practical cooperation, a business trip was organized for a delegation from the State Center for Ecological Expertise under the Committee. The goal was to study advanced foreign experience in the field of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), including modern methods of ecological expertise and monitoring.

Additionally, a joint event was held in Tashkent with the participation of the Turkish company "Cengiz Group" regarding the reduction of the number of vehicles and the strengthening of environmental control over them. This initiative was aimed at reducing pollutant emissions and increasing environmental responsibility in the transport sector.

A distinct direction of cooperation is related to the development of scientific and educational ties. Partnerships have been established between the Turkish State Meteorological Service and the Hydrometeorology Research Institute of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Faculty of Ecology at Ege University in Izmir and the Central Asian University for the Study of Environment and Climate Change. This cooperation is directed towards retraining specialists and enhancing their professional skills in environmental protection and climate research.

The active cooperation between the two countries continues on international platforms as well. Within the framework of the climate forum held in Samarkand on the theme "Global Climate Challenges and Central Asia – Solidarity for Common Prosperity," a youth session was held with the participation of Turkish representatives. This constituted a significant contribution to shaping a new generation of environmental leaders.

The participation of the Ecology Committee delegation, led by Aziz Abduhakimov, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues and Chairman of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change, in the "Zero Waste" international forum organized by the "Zero Waste Foundation" in Istanbul was also a significant milestone. During the forum, global approaches to waste reduction, the development of a circular economy, and the introduction of sustainable consumption principles were discussed.

Furthermore, a delegation from the Forestry Agency under the Committee visited the Mugla province and the city of Antalya to study Turkey’s best practices in forestry, sustainable forest resource management, and the prevention of ecosystem degradation.

In conclusion, the cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey in the field of ecology and environmental protection is of a systemic and multifaceted nature, covering technological, scientific, educational, and institutional directions. The implementation of joint initiatives serves to introduce modern environmental solutions, increase the stability of natural ecosystems, and strengthen international partnership in the interests of sustainable development.

Makhmud Khaydarov,

Chief specialist Department of international cooperation and rankings of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change

Given the recent geopolitical instability observed around the world, one of the top priorities for every sovereign state is to ensure the security and continuity of its foreign trade routes.

For Uzbekistan, located at the geopolitical center of Central Asia, it is strategically important to maintain the continuous and stable operation of transport and logistics corridors with European countries, which account for a significant share of its foreign trade. It should be noted that in 2025, the volume of Uzbekistan’s international freight traffic with European countries amounted to 1.5 million tons, which is 29% more than in 2024.

Today, the Middle Corridor serves as a safe and reliable transport corridor for export shipments to Europe or import shipments from Europe via land transport. Azerbaijan is one of the most important hubs of the Middle Corridor. In January–March 2026, the volume of international freight traffic between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan amounted to 28,300 tons, which is 2.9 times more than during the same period in 2025.

Overall, over the past five years, the volume of Uzbek cargo transported via the Middle Corridor has doubled, reaching 1.2 million tons by the end of 2025. While in 2021 the share of cargo transported via this corridor with EU countries was 12%, by the end of 2025 this figure had reached 28%.

Due to its geographical location, Azerbaijan serves as a natural bridge connecting Central Asia to the Caucasus region and Turkey via the Caspian Sea. It will enable the reception of export cargo from the East (China, Central Asia, including Uzbekistan) and its direct shipment to European markets via the ports of Poti and Batumi in Georgia and Mersin and Ambarli in Turkey.

Today, bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the transport and logistics sector has been established between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. This cooperation makes a significant contribution not only to the development of bilateral relations but also to the development of the Middle Corridor, connecting the Central Asian region with Europe.

Recent reports by prestigious international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, dedicated to studying the potential of the “Middle Corridor,” have analyzed a number of obstacles that reduce the corridor’s effectiveness. In particular, international experts note that one of the main challenges to the corridor’s development is the disparity in digitalization levels among transit countries, the lack of a unified platform for information exchange, and the persistence of paper-based bureaucratic processes at border and customs checkpoints.

It is precisely to address these systemic challenges in practice and increase the capacity of the “Middle Corridor” between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan that active and exemplary digital integration processes have been established. In particular, the “E-TIR” system has been successfully implemented, streamlining customs procedures between the two countries and reducing the human factor. Additionally, in the field of international road transport, efforts are actively underway to fully transition to the paperless “E-PERMIT” system.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are implementing the necessary measures to develop freight transport within the “Asia-Pacific Region – China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan – Turkmenistan – Azerbaijan – Turkey – Europe” (CASCA+) framework for multimodal transport along the Middle Corridor. In 2025, 6,722 TEU container shipments were carried out on this international route, which is 47% more than in 2024. Preferential rates have also been established for this route for 2026, and a further increase in transport volumes is expected.

It should be noted that the railway administrations of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are the initiators and active participants in the implementation of a set of measures aimed at developing the “Middle Corridor” transport and logistics network. In particular, to further expand the potential of this corridor, a multilateral meeting was held in 2024 between the railway authorities of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and Tajikistan. Following these negotiations, an institutional platform—the “Eurasian Transport Route” Association—was established to accelerate freight transportation processes and create a mechanism for the prompt removal of logistical barriers arising within the system.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in the transport and logistics sector contributes not only to the stabilization of the two countries’ foreign trade turnover but also to the integration of the entire Central Asian region into the international supply chain. The implementation of digital solutions that eliminate bureaucratic barriers, the diversification of multimodal routes, and the strengthening of institutional mechanisms will further enhance the international transit appeal of the “Middle Corridor.” This, in turn, will increase the resilience of Uzbekistan’s economy to external shocks amid global geopolitical changes and serve as a solid guarantee for the safe and uninterrupted conduct of international transport operations.

The head of our state familiarized himself with the presentation on the development of master plans of districts and cities.

This task was set at the video conference call dedicated to priority tasks in the economy, which took place on January 16 this year. The responsible persons presented information on the work done, as well as the expected results from the implementation of master plans.

During this time master plans were developed for 14 districts and cities. They provide for the construction of 759 apartment buildings, 22 shopping centers and more than 800 service facilities.

In addition, 136 more master plans are planned based on driver areas in 112 neighborhoods.

For example, 38 high-growth neighborhoods need to build sufficient housing, public spaces and recreational parks.

In 20 districts with high tourism potential, there is an opportunity to increase the flow of tourists by 2.5 times by increasing the number of hotels and developing ecological, hunting, medical, sports and extreme tourism.

More than 400 motels, campgrounds, canteens, stores and car services can be created in 68 districts, through which main roads pass.

In general, thanks to the projects based on master plans, 40 thousand jobs are expected to be created, as well as annual budget revenues of 350 billion soums.

The head of our state emphasized the need to accelerate the creation of convenient infrastructure, shopping and entertainment places, as well as high-income jobs for the population.

The task has been set to create a vertical system of development and monitoring of master plans.

Libraries play a key role in education, culture, and community development, providing an invaluable resource for accessing knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting intellectual growth. In the modern information society, they remain an important institution that promotes the education and self-development of people of all ages.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasised during the opening ceremony of the People's Library under the President of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara: “Intellectual potential, high morale is what makes a nation strong. The source of this invincible power is books and libraries – the great invention of mankind”.  

At the present stage, education has become one of the most important areas of state policy. The government of the Republic of Uzbekistan pays special attention to the development of this sphere, recognizing its key role in the prosperity of the country. In recent years, the republic has achieved significant success in the educational domain. These achievements are aimed at modernizing the system, improving the quality of education and training, and expanding access to education for all citizens of the country.

At the same time, special attention is paid to the promotion of reading and the fostering of the reading culture of the population. And in the Presidential Decree adopted on September 13, 2017, “On the program of comprehensive measures to develop the system of publishing and distributing book products, improving the culture of reading”, clear goals are outlined for the creation of an effective system of information and library services to the population, which served to move this area to a new stage of development and contributed to raising the level of social and information culture and the role of libraries, made it possible to develop and implement modern innovative and educational technologies that increase the competitiveness of Uzbekistan in the world market.

In addition, the Presidential Decree “On further improvement of information and library services for the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was adopted on June 7, 2019. The main goals of the decree are:

• improving the regulatory framework in order to ensure high-quality social guarantees to the population for information and library services;
• development of information and library institutions taking into account modern requirements;
• promoting the sustainable development of information and library services the for population in the regions;
• strengthening the material and technical base of information and library institutions;
• development of public-private partnerships in the library sector, a network of private and electronic libraries;
• expanding cooperation with Internet resources that specialize in distributing electronic books to improve the efficiency of libraries and the efficiency of servicing (including paid) users;
• ensuring the safety of information and library institutions and the safety of information and library collections as part of the national and world cultural heritage;
• formation and enhancement of the information culture of society, sustainable interest in national history and culture, enhancement and promotion of a reading culture;
• staffing information and library institutions with qualified specialists.

The adoption of this decree expands the range of services in the country, including access to electronic resources and holding cultural and educational events, as well as improving staff qualifications and introducing modern methods of user service. In addition, these changes not only contribute to the development of the information society and economic growth by attracting investment in education and culture, but also promote the formation of a literate and informed society, which is an important step in the development of the country.

The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated December 14, 2020 approved the National Program for the Development and Support of a Reading Culture for 2020-2025, which includes the publication of quality books that meet the spiritual, educational, artistic and aesthetic needs of the population; supporting the activities of publishers and artists, publishing children's literature; translation of the best examples of national and world literature; simplification of the organization of book sales; improving the delivery system for newly published books and distribution of information sources; expansion of international cooperation in the field of online ordering of foreign work, their delivery and distribution.

In turn, it should be noted that within the framework of the “Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy, special attention is paid to the popularization of masterpieces of Uzbek and world literature. The country's leadership strives to instil in citizens a love of reading and ensure access to libraries and information services for everyone.

The Strategy “Uzbekistan - 2030” puts forward such main goals as increasing the number of young book lovers to five million, the annual creation of 100 works of art and 50 books for children and adolescents, the publication of the multi-volume book “Uzbek adabiyoti khazinasidan” (“From the Treasury of Uzbek Literature”), the 100-volume book “Jakhon Bolalar Adabiyoti Durdonalari” (“Pearls of World Children’s Literature”) in Uzbek, as well as the digitalization of a book fund of almost 40 million books.

On November 28, 2023, there was signed the Presidential Decree “On measures to implement the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, aimed at creating a system for translating books popular in the world into Uzbek, that contribute to increasing the intellectual and scientific potential of the younger generation.

At the same time, within the framework of the “Olympiad of Five Initiatives”, the following 5 projects in the field of reading and intellectual games are annually implemented: “Young Reading Family”, “Poetry Competition”, “Young Reader”, the intellectual game “Zakovat” and the project “Example of Foreign Languages”. These projects increase the interest of young people in reading books and help expand logical thinking and knowledge through intellectual games.

The “Young Reader” and “Young Reading Family” competitions are important events held to promote reading, the spiritual enrichment of youth, and increase their intellectual potential. This competition serves to increase interest in books among young people and expand their knowledge and horizons.

Also, within the framework of the project “A Thousand Books for Youth”, the Agency for Youth Affairs will have to work on acquiring rights to use works from authors, translating them into Uzbek, and preparing for printing and publishing books on the basis of a state order and at the expense of the State budget (with the exception of books, published for state higher educational institutions).

Two stages have been established for translation into Uzbek and the publication of popular books in the world. First: a preliminary list of books is formed annually by the Expert Council. Second: the preliminary list is posted in the information systems of the Agency for Youth Affairs for selection by the population by voting, and thus the final list is formed.

The list of books published annually must include at least 20 percent of popular science works. The rights to the works prepared for publication will belong to the Agency for Youth Affairs, which will provide them free of charge to publishing houses.

It is also planned to create and ensure the continuous operation of a special mobile application that accumulates literature in the Uzbek language and provides the population with free access to a wide range of information. On the recommendation of the Expert Council, the works will be distributed to information and library institutions (including libraries of public and administration authorities), and electronic versions will be donated free of charge to the Alisher Navoi National Library of Uzbekistan and the relevant institutions of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan for wide use by readers.

The necessary spiritual, legal, material, and technical basis has been created in the Republic to develop children's literature and improve the quality of textbooks and teaching aids. The country's publishing houses have increased the publication of works by authors of world and Uzbek children's literature. In accordance with a number of documents adopted to promote book reading, systematic measures are being taken in all regions to popularise literature among children and adolescents. Over the past four years, a number of presidential decrees and government resolutions have been adopted to guide the country's publishing, printing, and bibliographical information institutions.

Thus, bibliographical information services play a critical role in ensuring public well-being by providing citizens with easy access to information, knowledge, and culture. In addition, the development of digital services, collaboration with communities, and the use of new technologies strengthen the role of libraries as centres of learning, information, and communication. This helps to enhance the capabilities of people and stimulates their desire for education. The development of the potential of information and library services contributes to lifelong learning, self-improvement, cultural and spiritual enrichment of the population. This is of crucial importance for modern society.

Ramzidin Nuridinov

Expert of the Development Strategy Center.

The main goal of state policy in the penal sphere in Uzbekistan is aimed at liberalizing punishment and the system of its execution. Based on this, a number of strategic objectives have been identified. In particular:

Firstly, crime, improvement and liberalization of criminal and criminal-procedural legislation, decriminalization of specific criminal acts, humanization of criminal punishments and the procedure for their execution were determined as one of the priority directions for improving the state and society building system in the Action Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021.

Secondly, the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Concept of improvement of criminal and criminal-procedural legislation” was adopted on May 14, 2018. It was aimed at improving the criminal responsibility and punishment system, in particular, eliminating forms and types of punishments that do not meet to modern requirements, and preventing crimes. The task of introducing types of punishment and other legal measures, simplifying punishment or expanding the norms regulating the conditions of criminal responsibility or exemption of person from liability was established.

Thirdly, the implementation of qualitatively new mechanisms for ensuring the unconditional observance of the rights of prisoners, respect for their honor and dignity, priority tasks such as further expansion of the scope of rights of convicts in accordance with generally recognized international standards were determined in the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated on November 7, 2018 “On measures to radically improve the criminal and executive legislation”.

Fourthly, the necessity to ensure labor, social security and other internationally recognized rights of convicts, people who have served their sentences, to introduce effective mechanisms to help their social adaptation and reintegration into society, and widely introducing the principle of humanitarianism into the penal system was noted as the essential and necessary condition for the development of the law priority principles in the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan in 2022-2026;

Fifthly, the task of reducing the practice of imprisonment from 30% to 20% was strengthened as the main criterion for reforms in the judicial system in the strategy “Uzbekistan – 2030”.

Sixthly, new version of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan was adopted pursuant to the Referendum on April 30, 2023, in which human rights and freedoms are guaranteed based on the universally recognized norms of international law, as well as the prohibition of the death penalty.

Meanwhile, 3 laws, 2 decrees and 7 resolutions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, more than 20 resolution and decrees of the government, more than 15 departmental and interdepartmental regulatory legal documents aimed at further improving the system of execution of punishment for the implementation of these strategic goals were accepted.

As a result, the range of rights and legal interests of the prisoners were expanded and brought into line with international standards.

It is worth noting that at the initiative of the President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the work on ensuring the rights and freedoms of prisoners serving sentences in penitentiary institutions has reached a completely new level.

In particular, based on the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated on April 2, 2021, “On additional organizational measures to further improve the activities of internal affairs bodies in the field of ensuring public safety and fighting crime”, the followings were determined:

to increase the effectiveness of educational work on the moral correction in order to prevent re-offending, to improve the system of execution of punishment, to ensure the protection of the rights, freedoms and legal interests of prisoners;

to ensure the priority importance of honor and dignity of prisoners, to introduce transparent and more effective legal mechanisms of moral education and labor training for social adaptation of convicts to society in the future;

to radically improve the criminal-executive legislation, taking into account modern international standards and advanced foreign experience;

to ensure strict discipline and legality in penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers, to prevent corruption, and fully automate the processes of monitoring the condition of prisoners;

to create opportunity to purchase items in the prescribed manner by prisoners in penitentiary institutions, and their relatives as well, through electronic stores based on free market mechanisms;

to maintain the electronic database of information about the behavior and personality of each prisoner and fully digitize the process of distribution of prisoners in order to correctly determine the tactics of re-educating prisoners and prevent them from committing crime.

A number of practical results have been achieved as a result of the comprehensive reforms implemented in the field of criminal punishment.

Particularly:

Firstly, the restrictions on the visits of juvenile prisoners with their parents were removed, and female prisoners were given the right to visit their children in orphanages on unlimited basis.

Secondly, special attention was paid to the education and vocational training of prisoners, and the activity of "Master-Apprentice" schools was launched in penitentiary institutions.

In fact, there are 6 general educational schools and 4 vocational centers operating in the penitentiary institutions at present. More than 2,000 convicts are trained in such schools, and more than 5,000 in the vocational centers are trained in tailoring, carpentry, furniture making, auto electrician, electrician, locksmith and other professions, and they are given certificates in 16 specialties in total.

Thirdly, according to the law “On Education"” the right to distance education was given to prisoners in penitentiary institutions.

Henceforth, the dream of the prisoners who want to get higher education was fulfilled. 25 prisoners were admitted to the prestigious national higher educational institutions, as well as branches of international higher education institutions in our country in 2021-2023.

Fourthly, special attention was paid to the social welfare of prisoners, and the right to pension was guaranteed (as of January 1, 2024, pensions were granted to 676 prisoners) and it was determined that social insurance would not be deducted from wages. The number of phone calls, visits and meetings of the prisoners has almost doubled.

Fifthly, in the direction of expanding the political rights of prisoners, the requirements of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the positive experiences of France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Turkey, are implemented into national legislation, and the right to vote was given for the first time for prisoners who are serving sentences for crimes of low social risk and less serious crimes.

On this basis, 3,619 prisoners in the 2019 Parliamentary elections, 8,203 prisoners in the 2021 Presidential elections, and 9,738 prisoners in the 2023 referendum exercised their political right to vote.

Sixthly, the procedure for the visit of the Representative of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Human Rights (Ombudsman), diplomatic corps, representatives of international, republican and local non-governmental non-profit organizations, foreign and local mass media to prisons was established.

Seventhly, With the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan in 2022-2026”, a system of providing “initial socio-material support package” was introduced to help citizens who have served their sentences to find their place in society in the future.

Eighthly, in order to allow and support the convicts who realized the mistake of their actions, sincerely repented and resolutely chose to the path of recovery, the mechanism of “pardon” was established by the head of our state which is considered clear example of forgiveness and nobility of our nation.

In particular, in 2017-2024, a total of 7128 convicts were pardoned by the relevant decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 219 of them were foreign citizens and 377 were women.

Ninthly, according to the relevant decree of the government, certain information in prisons that cannot be disclosed until now, including:

the number of persons detained in penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers;

the number of penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers and their locations;

the production activities of penitentiary institutions, the goods produced by them according to the nomenclature and expressed in money;

the number of deaths among persons detained in penitentiary institutions and pretrial detention centers;

information on the number of prisoners kept in penitentiary institutions and subjected to coercive medical measures was disclosed.

Admittedly, in addition to the norms of international law, the United States, the countries of the European Union, Russian Federation, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Kyrgyz Republic and a number of positive experiences of other countries were taken into account in the improvement of criminal law and the mechanisms of its practical implementation, as well as in the expansion of the basic rights and freedoms of prisoners.

In addition, the provisions of the international legal norms related to the system of execution of punishment were introduced into the criminal law. In particular, the “Minimum standard rules for dealing with prisoners” (Nelson Mandela Rules), adopted by the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 2015, was applied to the criminal law of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Hence, respect for the dignity of prisoners was guaranteed, mechanisms aimed at preventing the use of torture and cruel treatment were improved. Furthermore:

the right of prisoners to receive psychological assistance was enabled;

prisoners in need of medical care were allowed to be placed in regional institutions of the Ministry of Health;

prisoners suffering from a serious illness were given the opportunity to talk over the phone and meet their close relatives based on the doctor’s permission.

At the same time, the application of disciplinary punishment was completely canceled for the disorder in case of his mental state was disturbed.

Based on the abovementioned facts, as well as on the basis of the norms of international law and the positive experiences of foreign countries, it is expedient to implement the following proposals and recommendations in the practice of law enforcement in order to improve the criminal law of the Republic of Uzbekistan:

Further expansion of the basic rights of prisoners, in particular, the use of computer tools connected to the Internet (educational, artistic, electronic books, publications, educational materials, graphic designs) connected to the global information network in specially equipped rooms, the introduction of a simplified procedure for the use of electronic state services, including notary services;

education of convicts, acquisition of profession and wide involvement of them in useful work;

raising the legal consciousness and culture, ideological views of prisoners, defining systematic measures aimed at forming immunity of intolerance to violations to them;

determining the acceptable directions of exemption from punishment in legislation;

implementation of modern forms of social adaptation and resocialization of prisoners based on the analysis of international law norms and best practices of foreign countries.

At the same time, further liberalizing crimes and criminal law, especially by expanding non-custodial sentences for juveniles, women, the elderly, and prisoners with disabilities, is the best way to improve the most effective national crime-fighting system today.

In short, improving the law enforcement practice and legislation in the judicial executive system, and consistently continuing the ongoing reforms are aimed at building democratic legal state and fair civil society in our country, strengthening the guarantees of human rights protection, and ensuring the rule of law in society.

Khatamov Rustam

Head of the Academy of the Ministry of internal affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of philosophy in law sciences (PhD), Associate professor, Colonel