1. Introduction

Central and South Asia form one of Eurasia’s most significant geographic junctions. Central Asia connects the continent’s east–west and north–south routes, while South Asia contains one of the world’s largest population bases and consumer markets. Taken together, the countries of the two subregions have a population of more than 2 billion people; however, their direct economic interaction remains below its potential level.

The scale of the potential market is confirmed by the figures: in 2024, the population of South Asia was approximately 1.68 billion people, while the region’s combined GDP was about US$4.5 trillion. At the same time, the economy of the five Central Asian countries in 2024 amounted to approximately US$489 billion. However, the level of interregional integration remains low: even within South Asia, intraregional trade is estimated at around 5% of total trade turnover, which is significantly lower than the ASEAN figure^[1][2][3].

This is evident in trade statistics: Central Asia’s main trade flows continue to be oriented toward Russia, China, the European Union, Türkiye, and the Middle East, while trade with South Asia occupies a comparatively limited niche.

The underused potential is explained not by a lack of demand, but by structural constraints. Between the two subregions, there are mountain barriers, complex cross-border routes, differing levels of integration into international supply chains, non-uniform customs and technical procedures, as well as the Afghanistan factor, which is simultaneously the shortest connecting link and the most sensitive element of the regional architecture. Therefore, the issue of connectivity has not only commercial but also strategic significance.

The restoration of economic ties between Central and South Asia should not be viewed as a romanticized return to historical routes. In modern conditions, it is a matter of competitiveness, supply-chain security, energy resilience, and diversification of foreign economic directions. For the countries of Central Asia, the southern route opens shorter access to the ports of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. For the countries of South Asia, it creates an opportunity to gain access to energy resources, food products, industrial goods, and new markets in Eurasia.

Uzbekistan occupies a special place in this logic. It is located in the central part of the region, borders all Central Asian states and Afghanistan, and therefore is capable of forming a link between the internal markets of Central Asia and the southern direction. At the same time, the role of a connector state means more than the transit of goods. It includes the coordination of infrastructure projects, the development of logistics services, the improvement of institutional quality, the creation of an analytical basis for decision-making, and the involvement of the private sector in interregional projects.

2. Historical and geographical preconditions for connectivity

The historical connection between Central and South Asia was formed long before the emergence of modern state borders. The cities of Transoxiana, Khorasan, Bactria, and northern India were part of a network of caravan routes and exchanges of artisanal goods, knowledge, religious traditions, and financial practices. Samarkand, Bukhara, Balkh, Merv, Kabul, Peshawar, and Lahore, in different periods, served as trade and cultural hubs linking the Eurasian space.

However, historical connectedness does not automatically translate into economic integration today. Modern supply chains depend on railways, highways, ports, energy networks, digital cargo-tracking systems, insurance, banking settlements, and predictable rules. Where even one of these elements is absent, transit becomes expensive, slow, and risky.

The geography of the region creates both incentives and constraints. On the one hand, the distance from Uzbekistan’s southern borders to northern Afghanistan is relatively short, and the route through Afghanistan is potentially the shortest overland path from Central Asia to Pakistan and onward to the ports of the Indian Ocean. On the other hand, mountain ranges, differences in railway gauge, the limited capacity of border infrastructure, security issues, and insufficient standardization of procedures increase the cost of projects.

Uzbekistan’s geographical role has not only qualitative but also measurable significance: the country is one of only two double-landlocked states in the world and, at the same time, the only state bordering all four other Central Asian countries as well as Afghanistan. In this context, the Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar railway project, with a length of approximately 573 km, acquires systemic importance, since it could reduce the time and cost of transportation toward Pakistan’s ports by roughly 30%^[4].

Therefore, connectivity should be understood more broadly than the physical connection of two points on a map. In the modern economy, it includes four dimensions. The first is infrastructural: roads, railways, terminals, ports, and energy networks. The second is institutional: customs, tariffs, standards, sanitary and phytosanitary rules, permits, and transit guarantees. The third is commercial: demand, purchasing power, contracts, logistics companies, insurance, and banking channels. The fourth is social and humanitarian: education, labor skills, tourism, medical ties, and research cooperation.

This approach helps avoid oversimplification. Even the shortest road will not become a sustainable corridor unless it is supported by a reliable legal environment, competitive tariffs, financial guarantees, and coordination among states.

3. Current state of trade and economic cooperation

Trade and economic ties between Central and South Asia are developing, but their scale still does not correspond to the size of the markets. Trade between Central Asian countries and India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan remains relatively modest compared with their trade with China, Russia, the European Union, Türkiye, and countries of the Middle East.

Central Asia supplies, or could potentially expand supplies to South Asia, in such areas as agricultural products, grain, fruit and vegetable products, textiles, fertilizers, energy goods, certain types of metals, and industrial raw materials. South Asia, primarily India and Pakistan, holds competitive positions in pharmaceuticals, medical goods, IT services, equipment, textile products, processed food products, and consumer goods.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has been strengthening the southern direction of its foreign economic policy. Trade ties with India and Pakistan are developing through pharmaceuticals, textiles, food products, services, logistics, and investment projects. Uzbekistan’s foreign trade in the southern direction is already growing, but it still occupies a limited place in the overall structure of foreign trade. The largest trade flows with South Asian countries are with Afghanistan and India. However, the very fact that certain bilateral flows are growing does not solve the main problem: interregional trade remains fragmented. In order to turn it into a sustainable market, it is necessary to reduce transaction costs, ensure the predictability of transit, make standards comparable, and develop business services.

The issue of trade data is especially important. Mutual trade is often assessed using different sources, while the statistics of exporting countries and importing countries may diverge. To develop effective policy, a regularly updated data panel is needed, broken down by corridors, types of cargo, border-crossing times, transportation costs, return loads, the number of permits, and the actual use of preferential regimes. Without such a database, regional initiatives risk remaining merely declaratory.

4. Transport and logistics infrastructure as the basis of connectivity

Transport infrastructure is the material foundation for the rapprochement of Central and South Asia. At the same time, it is more accurate to speak not of a single route, but of a portfolio of corridors. Relying on only one route increases the vulnerability of the entire system. A diversified network of routes through Afghanistan, Iran, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus, and existing Eurasian directions creates redundancy, reduces risks, and strengthens the negotiating position of shippers.

The key project in the southern direction remains the trans-Afghan railway corridor Mazar-i-Sharif–Kabul–Peshawar. Its strategic value lies in its potential to connect Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries with Pakistan’s ports, including Karachi, Qasim, and Gwadar. If implemented, such a corridor could reduce the distance and delivery time for certain types of cargo. However, the project requires the resolution of several complex issues: financing, security, technical parameters, railway gauge compatibility, the operating model, tariffs, and the distribution of risks among participants.

The Termez–Hairatan hub in Uzbekistan has particular significance. It is the closest entry point from Uzbekistan into Afghanistan and is already used as a logistics, humanitarian, and trade channel. The development of terminals, warehouses, customs capacities, multimodal transport services, and digital cargo-control systems could turn this hub into a stable anchor point for interregional trade.

Alongside the trans-Afghan route, the route through Iran is also important. For India, Central Asia, and Afghanistan, the Chabahar port is of particular significance, as are its links with the International North–South Transport Corridor and the Ashgabat Agreement. This option does not replace the trans-Afghan route, but it increases the resilience of the trade system. Events of recent years have shown that the closure or restriction of individual routes quickly increases the importance of alternative pathways through Iran and the countries of Central Asia.

Road corridors remain a necessary complement to railways. They are especially important for perishable products, small consignments, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and high-value-added goods. In this area, the key factors are not only roads, but also border procedures, the permit system for carriers, weight control, insurance, the safety of parking areas, and access to backhaul cargo.

The development of air connectivity plays a separate role. Direct flights between Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, Astana, Delhi, Mumbai, Lahore, and other cities do not create mass freight logistics, but they reduce barriers to business travel, tourism, education, medical services, and managerial oversight of investment projects. For modern business, such mobility is not a secondary factor, but a systemic one.

5. Energy partnership: from project-based logic to a regional market

Energy is one of the most obvious areas of complementarity between Central and South Asia. The Central Asian countries possess significant resources in natural gas, hydropower, solar power, and wind generation. South Asia, primarily Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, faces high energy demand, seasonal consumption peaks, and the need for a more reliable supply structure.

The most advanced interregional project in the electricity sector is CASA-1000. According to World Bank materials, the project is intended to ensure the transmission of up to 1,300 MW of surplus summer electricity from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The project also provides for high-voltage transmission infrastructure, including power transmission lines and converter stations. Its significance goes beyond the energy sector: it demonstrates the possibility of contract-based electricity trade between the subregions with the participation of international financial institutions.

In the gas sector, the best-known project is TAPI: Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India. Its planned logic is straightforward: Turkmen gas is expected to flow through Afghanistan to the energy-deficient markets of South Asia. Published descriptions of the project usually indicate a length of approximately 1,800 km and a designed capacity of up to 33 billion cubic meters of gas per year. However, TAPI remains a complex project with a high dependence on security, financing, long-term contracts, payment guarantees, and political coordination among the participants.

CASA-1000 has not only political but also measurable infrastructural significance: the project cost is estimated at approximately US$1.2 billion, while the designed transmission capacity is 1,300 MW. The Kyrgyz component provides for around 456 km of 500 kV power transmission lines. This makes it possible to view CASA-1000 as the first major example of contract-based interregional electricity trade between Central and South Asia^[5][6].

The new energy agenda includes not only the export of fuel and electricity, but also the development of low-carbon solutions. Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan are expanding projects in solar, wind, and hydropower, while also modernizing their grids. In the long term, South Asia could become a market for seasonal electricity and energy services from Central Asia. However, this requires rules for cross-border trade, compatible dispatch mechanisms, commercial guarantees, transparent tariffs, and investment in grid resilience.

Energy cooperation must take into account climate and water-related factors. In Central Asia, hydropower is closely linked to irrigation and water resource management. In South Asia, electricity demand depends on temperature peaks, urbanization, and industrial growth. Therefore, energy projects should be accompanied by mechanisms for climate adaptation, forecasting water availability, improving energy efficiency, and developing energy storage systems.

6. Investment cooperation and business ties

Investment cooperation between Central and South Asia is still developing on a case-by-case basis, but it has significant potential. Unlike trade in raw materials, investment requires a higher level of trust, legal certainty, protection of property rights, clear tax regimes, access to foreign-exchange settlements, and high-quality business information.

The most promising areas include pharmaceuticals, medical services, agro-processing, textiles, logistics, warehouse infrastructure, IT services, education, tourism, financial technologies, renewable energy, and the production of components for infrastructure projects. South Asian companies have strong competencies in IT, pharmaceuticals, and services, while Central Asia offers access to raw materials, industrial sites, growing domestic markets, and transit opportunities.

An important task is to move from one-off business contacts to a systematic investment pipeline. This requires project catalogues, clear requirements for investors, standardized public-private partnership models, dispute-resolution mechanisms, insurance against political and commercial risks, and joint workforce training programs.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are of particular importance. Large infrastructure projects create the foundation, but it is small and medium-sized businesses that fill corridors with real goods and services. For them, access to information, affordable logistics services, digital marketplaces, simplified payments, standardized documents, and support in entering a new market are critical.

Development institutions and international financial organizations can play a catalytic role. Their participation reduces risks, improves the quality of project preparation, and disciplines the participants. However, external financing does not replace national reforms. Without clear rules, transparent statistics, and effective courts, even concessional loans will not create a sustainable flow of investment.

7. The strategic role of Uzbekistan as a connector state

Uzbekistan possesses a unique set of preconditions for playing the role of a connector state. It is located at the center of Central Asia, borders all the countries of the region as well as Afghanistan, and is also a major demographic and industrial market. For a country without access to the sea, the development of external corridors is not an optional task, but a condition for long-term competitiveness.

Uzbekistan’s role is not limited to transit. A transit country earns revenue from the movement of goods, but a connector state shapes rules, services, trust, and the institutional environment. This means developing multimodal hubs, creating logistics centers, digitalizing customs procedures, expanding railway and road links, training personnel, attracting banks and insurance organizations, and providing analytical support for projects.

The southern direction strengthens Uzbekistan’s foreign economic diversification. It complements the country’s already existing links in the northern, eastern, and western directions. At the same time, the diversification of routes reduces dependence on individual markets and transit pathways, which is especially important amid instability in global trade, changes in tariff policy, and geopolitical restrictions.

Termez occupies a special place in this strategy. It can serve as a border logistics center, a platform for trade with Afghanistan, a hub of humanitarian and commercial infrastructure, and a symbolic space for discussing connectivity between Central and South Asia. To turn this role into a sustainable result, investment is needed in terminals, railway approaches, warehouse capacity, services for carriers, and a system for analyzing cargo flows.

Uzbekistan’s strength also lies in its ability to put forward multilateral initiatives. Interregional connectivity cannot be implemented through bilateral agreements alone. It requires the alignment of interests among the countries of Central Asia, the countries of South Asia, Afghanistan, international financial institutions, business, and the expert community. In this sphere, Uzbekistan can act as a coordinator of the agenda and a provider of analytical solutions.

8. Key barriers and ways to overcome them

The first barrier is incomplete infrastructure. Many corridors exist in the form of project concepts or partially functioning routes. To transform them into commercially sustainable directions, technical and economic feasibility studies, agreed tariffs, clear sources of financing, unified operational models, and transparent risk allocation are required.

The second barrier is security and the predictability of transit. For business, what matters is not only the length of the route, but also the likelihood of delays, losses, border closures, changes in rules, and additional payments. Therefore, transport policy should include insurance mechanisms, security standards, corridor monitoring, crisis protocols, and regular information exchange among government agencies.

The third barrier is administrative fragmentation. Different documents, uncoordinated customs procedures, weak advance declaration, the absence of mutual recognition of certain certificates, and limited digital interoperability increase the cost of trade. The solution lies in the transition to electronic transport documents, the expansion of the single-window principle, the introduction of risk-based control, and the coordination of technical standards.

The scale of the financial challenge can be assessed through the example of CAREC: in 2021–2024, transport investment under the program amounted to US$8.61 billion, with a significant share of financing provided by international partners. This shows that infrastructure corridors require not only a political decision, but also a sustainable financial architecture^[7][8].

Administrative barriers have a measurable expression. According to CAREC monitoring, in 2022, the average border-crossing time on road corridors was 9.9 hours, while on railway corridors it was 40.6 hours. This confirms that the digitalization of documents, advance declaration, and risk-based control can produce an effect even without the immediate construction of new arterial routes.

The fourth barrier is financial constraints. Infrastructure projects require large capital investments and have long payback periods. A combination of budget funds, loans from international financial organizations, public-private partnerships, guarantees, project financing, and blended-finance mechanisms is needed. At the same time, each project must undergo an assessment of commercial viability, not only political attractiveness.

The fifth barrier is the lack of market information. Companies often do not know potential partners, market requirements, logistics tariffs, certification rules, or available financial instruments. This barrier can be reduced through digital trade platforms, business missions, sectoral catalogues, regular exhibitions, analytical reviews, and consulting centers under chambers of commerce and industry.

The sixth barrier is climate and resource-related risks. Mountainous areas, droughts, floods, changes in glacial runoff, and extreme weather events affect roads, energy, and agriculture. New corridors should be designed with climate resilience in mind, while energy projects should take into account the water balance and the seasonality of demand.

Practical priorities through 2030

9. The Termez Dialogue as an institutional foundation for cooperation

The Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia can become an important institutional platform for coordinating the interregional agenda. In 2025, the first dialogue was held in Termez, dedicated to the formation of a shared space of peace, friendship, and prosperity. The very choice of Termez emphasizes the city’s practical role as Uzbekistan’s southern hub and as a symbolic point of connection with Afghanistan and South Asia.

The effectiveness of such a format will depend on whether it can move from general statements to the management of a project-based agenda. For this purpose, it would be advisable to structure the dialogue around four permanent tracks: transport and logistics, trade and standards, energy and climate, and investment and human capital. Each track should have a project map, progress indicators, responsible participants, and a mechanism for annual updates.

The participation of business is of particular importance. States can sign framework documents, but real demand for corridors is generated by exporters, importers, carriers, banks, insurance companies, terminal operators, and manufacturing enterprises. Therefore, within the framework of the Termez Dialogue, business sessions, B2B platforms, sectoral presentations, and discussions of specific barriers faced by companies are necessary.

The expert track should serve as an evidence base. It can prepare an annual report on the state of connectivity between Central and South Asia, a corridor-readiness index, monitoring of transportation time and costs, a review of regulatory barriers, analysis of investment projects, and recommendations for governments. In this area, Uzbekistan’s analytical institutions can play a leading role.

The Termez Dialogue is also important as an instrument for involving Afghanistan in economic processes on a pragmatic basis. This is not a matter of political legitimization, but of reducing economic isolation, developing transit procedures, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and creating incentives for stability. This logic corresponds to the interests of all participants, since Afghanistan’s economic predictability directly affects the cost and security of interregional routes.

10. Connectivity and the Sustainable Development Goals

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is directly linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The development of energy networks supports SDG 7, the expansion of trade and employment corresponds to SDG 8, the construction of resilient infrastructure is linked to SDG 9, the reduction of spatial isolation contributes to SDG 10, climate resilience relates to SDG 13, and regional coordination and partnerships correspond to SDG 16 and SDG 17.

However, the link with the SDGs does not arise automatically. Infrastructure can promote development, but it can also deepen inequality if benefits accrue only to major actors while local communities bear the costs. Therefore, projects should include environmental assessment, social safeguards, consultations with the population, management of land-related issues, occupational safety measures, and transparent compensation mechanisms.

Special attention should be paid to women, youth, and small enterprises. New corridors create demand for services in logistics, trade, catering, repair, digital support, education, and tourism. If access to these opportunities is opened to local entrepreneurs, infrastructure will become a source of inclusive growth, not merely transit rent.

Climate risk is already becoming an economic factor. According to World Bank estimates, by 2030, nearly 90% of South Asia’s population may be exposed to intense heat, while more than one fifth of the population may face the risk of severe flooding. For Central Asia, the key constraint is water: in Uzbekistan, the volume of water withdrawal significantly exceeds internal renewable resources, and the current water deficit may increase to 7 billion m³ by 2030 and to 15 billion m³ by 2050^[9][10][11].

The climate dimension of connectivity is becoming increasingly important. South Asia and Central Asia are exposed to the risks of extreme weather events, glacier melt, droughts, floods, and tensions around water. Therefore, new roads, railways, power transmission lines, and logistics centers should be designed with long-term climate scenarios in mind. For the energy sector, this means combining electricity trade, energy efficiency, renewable sources, and grid resilience.

From the standpoint of sustainable development, the most promising model is not one of raw-material transit, but one of value-added creation. This implies agro-processing, industrial cooperation, service chains, digital trade, the localization of selected industries, and workforce training. In this case, connectivity is transformed from the movement of goods into a mechanism of structural modernization.

11. Conclusion

Economic connectivity between Central and South Asia is one of the key conditions for the sustainable development of the macroregion. It is capable of expanding sales markets, reducing transport isolation, strengthening energy security, supporting employment, and creating new incentives for regional stability. At the same time, the expected effect depends not on a single project, but on a coordinated package of measures.

The main practical conclusion is the need for a portfolio approach. The trans-Afghan railway, the route through Iran, road corridors, air connectivity, the CASA-1000 and TAPI energy projects, trade digitalization, logistics hubs, and investment platforms should be viewed as mutually complementary elements. Each of them has different implementation timelines, risks, and economic logic; therefore, the regional strategy should ensure redundancy and flexibility.

Uzbekistan has objective advantages for the role of a connector state. Its geography, demographic potential, industrial base, southern hub in Termez, and active foreign economic agenda make it possible to bring together the interests of Central and South Asia.

The Termez Dialogue can become a platform where political will is translated into project-level discipline. For this to happen, it should generate not only declarations, but also a list of projects, indicators, road maps, evaluation mechanisms, and permanent channels of interaction among business, experts, and government agencies.

In the long term, connectivity between Central and South Asia should be oriented not only toward increasing trade volumes, but also toward improving the quality of development. A sustainable macroregion will take shape where infrastructure is connected with institutions, energy with climate responsibility, trade with industrial cooperation, and diplomatic initiatives with evidence-based analysis and practical results.

Muhammad Babadjanov,

Head of Department

at The Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies

under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan

[1] https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/south-asia-regional-integration/trade

[2] https://data.worldbank.org/?locations=TJ-UZ-KZ-TM-KG

[3] https://data.worldbank.org/country/south-asia

[4] https://uzembassy.kz/en/article/the-mazar-i-sharif-kabul-peshawar-railway-will-open-up-broad-prospects-for-international-trade

[5] https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/afghanistan/brief/updated-q-a-on-casa-1000-resumption-in-afghanistan

[6] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/11/01/additional-financing-for-casa-1000-project-for-the-kyrgyz-republic

[7] https://www.carecprogram.org/uploads/03-CAREC-Transport-Strategy-2030-Midterm-Review-Draft-Report.pdf

[8] https://cpmm.carecprogram.org/2022-report/key-results/

[9] https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2025/06/03/climate-resilience-in-south-asia-will-be-private-sector-led

[10] https://data.worldbank.org/country/uzbekistan

[11] https://www.adb.org/news/features/numbers-climate-change-central-asia

ART

The Tashkent International Biennale of Contemporary Art has been held every two years since 2001 with government support. It serves as an open platform for cultural exchange in the visual arts, showcasing the modern creative potential of different countries and discussing current issues in contemporary art.

The theme of the X Tashkent International Biennale of Contemporary Art in 2024 is "Art and World". Conceptually, it explores the relationship between art and modern reality through the works of artists from various countries. This theme prompts reflection on the nature of the modern world: Does it possess integrity? Today, the world is characterized by polar stances, clashes, and numerous challenges related to preservation, ecology, morality, culture, and identity, spanning personal to state levels. Its landscape is shaped by opposition influenced by globalization, geopolitics, technogenic civilization, and artificial intelligence. How does contemporary art reflect on the modern world?

Simultaneously, the X Tashkent International Biennale aims to showcase various trends and new directions in contemporary art to the general public. It seeks to enhance international cultural relations, strengthen the creative dialogue between cultures, and highlight the achievements of different countries in visual art. The Biennale focuses on liberating creative consciousness, demonstrating pluralism in creative exploration, and illustrating the specifics of the postmodern condition in different countries. It addresses the state of intertextuality in modern art and the preservation or disappearance of local traditions in the era of globalization.

The concept of the Biennale is dedicated to displaying a multicultural lifestyle through the prism of contemporary art. The works presented will reflect diverse artistic expressions that uphold humanistic values. The theme provides an opportunity to explore concepts such as ecology, culture, tolerance, modern orientalism, identity, artificial intelligence, technogenic civilization, and the inner world of individuals.

FOR MORE DETAILS: biennale.uzbekistan@gmail.com, +998-71-233-04-27

Curator of the X Tashkent International Biennale of Contemporary Art:

Sukhrob Kurbanov - Art Critic and Art Historian.

Coordinator of the event:

Asya Tuychiyeva - Head of the Department for International Relations, Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan.

The Central Election Commission held a meeting and a series of events today, July 26th. The primary agenda item was the preparation and high-level accomplishment of the upcoming elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies in full compliance with the Constitution and laws.

According to Article 128 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, elections for the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies are scheduled to take place on the first Sunday of the third ten-day period of October in the year their term expires. Considering that the term of the deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the Councils of People's Deputies ends in 2024, the elections will be held on October 27th of this year, and the election campaign will begin on July 26th, as decided by the Central Election Commission.

These elections mark a significant departure from the past, taking place in a new socio-political environment as stipulated by our Constitution. The meeting underscored the unique features of these elections, which include:

1. For the first time in Uzbekistan's history, the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis elections will be conducted using a mixed electoral system, combining majoritarian and proportional systems. This significant change will see seventy-five deputies elected directly through the majoritarian system, where voters vote for specific candidates. The remaining seventy-five deputies will be elected based on votes cast for political parties under the proportional system.
2. One of the most significant advancements is the full digitization of election commissions' activities at all levels and their interactions with participants in the election process. This development significantly reduces bureaucracy, time, and document handling in election procedures, ushering in a new era of efficiency in our electoral system.
3. Our election legislation has been fundamentally improved to align with advanced democratic standards. These improvements include introducing a new system for election bodies led by the Central Election Commission and requiring political parties to ensure that at least 40% of their candidates for deputy positions are women. Additionally, a candidate must receive a relative majority of votes to be elected. If a candidate gets more votes than other candidates in their respective electoral district, they will be elected without needing a repeat vote.

4. The elections are taking place in conditions of significantly strengthened parliamentarianism and the powers of representative bodies at the local level, as established by the Updated Constitution. Specifically, the absolute powers of the Legislative Chamber have increased from 5 to 12, and those of the Senate from 12 to 18. The parliament's oversight functions over the activities of executive, judicial, law enforcement agencies, and special services have been expanded. The institution of hokims leading local Councils of People's Deputies is being abolished. To enhance the role of representative bodies in resolving important state issues, 33 powers previously held by hokims have been transferred to local Councils.

The meeting underscored the significance of these elections as a vivid example of democratic state-building in our country and an essential means for citizens to exercise their constitutional rights to vote and be elected to democratic state bodies. The elections will involve the election of 150 deputies to the Legislative Chamber, 65 members to the Senate, 65 deputies to the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, deputies to 208 district (city) Councils in the regions and Tashkent city, with around 30,000 candidates and nearly 90,000 trusted representatives actively participating. Over 120,000 election commission members and more than 70,000 citizens and international observers are expected to participate in the election process.

Considering the important role of elections in state life and with the aim of widely engaging citizens in this process, the Central Election Commission announced that the elections will be held on October 27th under the slogan “My Choice—My Prosperous Homeland.”

The 'E-Saylov' information system is a key tool in making the election process more transparent and accessible. It facilitates around 60 interactions between election commissions, political party candidates, observers, and the media entirely electronically. Integrated with other electronic platforms, the system automates many procedures in the election process without human intervention. This system forms an extensive database of nearly 400,000 participants in the election process, including election commission members, candidates, and observers. Around 32,000 participants will professionally use the information system, which includes communication through 40 types of SMS notifications.

For citizens, the "E-Saylov" information system introduces several conveniences in obtaining election-related information. Specifically, it provides statistical data on voters and polling stations, information on candidates for various elections, and interactive maps to learn about candidates and their biographies.

The meeting emphasized that the "E-Saylov" information system represents a new level of technological advancement and transparency in elections.

It was also noted that according to Article 37 of the Election Code, political parties have the right to nominate candidates for deputies to the Legislative Chamber and local Councils.

To participate in the elections, political parties must have been registered by the Ministry of Justice at least four months before the announcement of the election campaign and collect at least 40,000 signatures supporting their participation.

Additionally, the meeting approved a calendar plan to ensure that the activities related to conducting the elections are carried out step-by-step within the timelines specified by election legislation. The Central Election Commission, as an impartial and independent constitutional body, will take all necessary measures to prepare for and conduct the upcoming elections in full compliance with national legislation and international election standards, ensuring the process is open and transparent.

A Press Center has also been established under the Central Election Commission.

Central Election Commission

of the Republic of Uzbekistan

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Aral Sea was the largest lake in Central Asia. Starting from the second half of this century, as a result of the drying up of the sea, a new desert ecosystem-the Aralkum Desert-was formed at its bottom. This area is currently considered one of the largest anthropogenic desert ecosystems in Central Asia. As a result of the decrease in sea level, more than 60,000 km² of wetlands have turned into land. 

The ecological changes occurring in this region have had a significant impact not only on the climate and soil composition but also on biological diversity. As a result, the distribution area of species adapted to wetland ecosystems has sharply decreased. At the same time, the Aralkum Desert, which emerged between the Ustyurt Plateau and the Kyzylkum Desert, led to the formation of a new bird community as a unique and unique desert ecosystem. Therefore, the scientific study of the state of the desert ecosystem formed on the dried seabed and its ornithological fauna, the distribution of species across the biotopes of these ecosystems, and adaptation mechanisms is of urgent importance.

In accordance with this, the Institute of Zoology of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan Scientific research is being conducted within the framework of the applied project AL-9424104883-R1 on the topic “Current state of the Aralkum avifauna, species adaptation to environmental changes, and conservation measures”. This project was deemed suitable based on the competition requirements announced by the Agency for Innovative Development under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation within the framework of the 94th round and has been funded by the Fund for Financing Science and Supporting Innovation since the second half of 2025. The goal of the project is to identify important areas and biotopes for the ornithological fauna of the Aralkum Desert, to study species diversity, adaptation to environmental changes, biological characteristics, and distribution.

In accordance with the calendar plan of this applied project, a field expedition to the Aralkum Desert in the territory of Muynak district of the Republic of Karakalpakstan was carried out in October–November 2025. Ornithological studies were conducted in areas divided into 10 × 10 km grid cells using the ArcGIS software. A total of 68 grid cells were surveyed using transect and point count methods. Out of these, pedestrian transect observations were conducted in 56 grid cells, with a total length of 140 km. In the remaining 12 grid cells, point count observations were carried out. The grid-based approach to studying the area is important for identifying patterns in the distribution of birds across biotopes and for revealing their association with specific landscape elements.

As a result of scientific research conducted to date, it has been established that the Desert ecosystem formed on the dried seabed incorporates the following biotopes:

Saline deserts are characterized by high salt concentrations; specific species of halophytic plants predominate here.

Sandy deserts consist of wind-driven barchans, semi-fortified, and fortified sands, in which ephemerals, perennial herbs, semi-shrubs, and shrubs are found.

Stony and gravelly deserts cover ancient islands in the central part of the Aralkum Desert and adjacent territories.

Clay deserts are open plains in the western and southwestern parts of the Aralkum Desert.

Hills and chinkes include ancient coastal walls and adjacent hills in the western and northern parts of the Aralkum Desert.

Furthermore, in the northwestern part of this territory, there is a remnant of the Aral Sea preserved as a natural lake, as well as a number of artificial basins formed by drainage and collector waters in the southern regions, which are of great importance to hydrophilic birds as a biotope for wetlands.

During the field studies, data were collected on the autumn diversity, distribution, and abundance of 91 bird species belonging to 12 orders and 26 families across 6 types of biotopes. Among the recorded bird species, 13 species - Cygnus olor, Cygnus cygnus, Phoenicopterus roseus, Falco cherrug, Haliaeetus albicilla, Aegypius monachus, Circus macrourus, Aquila nipalensis, Aquila heliaca, Aquila chrysaetos, Chlamydotis macqueenii, Limosa limosa, and Glareola nordmanni — are included in the Red Data Book of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Additionally, 9 species are included in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, 17 species in the Annexes to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and 28 species in the Annexes to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Wild Animals (CMS).

The research results showed that the areas of the Aralkum Desert with the highest ornithological fauna diversity correspond to sandy desert biotopes formed parallel to the chink, bordering the eastern part of the Ustyurt Plateau. This biotope was formed at the boundary of desert and steppe ecosystems, characterized by diverse vegetation and favorable habitat conditions for birds belonging to various ecological groups.

It was also found that hills and chins are of particular importance as favorable habitats for many species during the autumn season. In the remaining parts of stony and gravelly deserts and sandy deserts, highly specialized species for living in arid conditions were observed, while in saline and clay deserts, species diversity was noted to be at a minimum level.

Research has shown that the remnants of the Aral Sea, preserved as a natural lake, are of relatively low importance for waterfowl and waterfowl; conversely, artificial reservoirs in southern regions serve as an important wetland habitat for hydrophilic birds.

The Aralkum desert, formed on the dried bed of the Aral Sea, emerged as a unique new desert ecosystem within a short historical period. Conducted studies have shown that various biotopes have formed in this area, directly influencing the distribution and diversity of birds. The highest ornithological diversity was observed in sandy desert biotopes, while this indicator was low in saline and clay areas. The research results serve as an important scientific basis for identifying important habitats for birds in the Aralkum region and developing measures for their protection.

Institute of Zoology of the Academy of Sciences of
the Republic of Uzbekistan

Despite the 6,000-kilometer distance between Tashkent and Tokyo, the official visit of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan on December 18-20 elevated Uzbek-Japanese relations to a qualitatively new level of expanded strategic partnership for future generations.

Uzbekistan’s relations with Japan have deep historical roots. For centuries, Samarkand served as one of the key centers of the Great Silk Road, while Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, was its eastern gateway. Trade and the exchange of knowledge along the Great Silk Road, including between Uzbekistan and Japan, played a significant role in the development of international commerce and cultural interaction, forming lasting cultural bridges between civilizations. Today, Samarkand and Nara are twin cities.

Since Uzbekistan gained independence, reliable and stable relations of mutually beneficial cooperation have developed between Uzbekistan and Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Japan has been one of Uzbekistan’s key technological and investment partners.

Economic cooperation dynamics

The most dynamic growth in economic cooperation has taken place in recent years, following the launch of comprehensive economic reforms in Uzbekistan. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) play an important role in advancing Uzbek-Japanese economic cooperation.

Cooperation with JICA has, in recent years, reached the level of strategic partnership. The value of the project portfolio has exceeded $8 billion, and additional initiatives worth more than $3 billion are under consideration in areas such as healthcare, energy, transport, education, industry, and other sectors. During the visit, new agreements were signed with JICA concerning the development of economic zones, agriculture, supply of medical equipment, and support for entrepreneurship, as well as the launch of a special economic zone for Japanese investors, to be developed in line with Japanese models and standards.

Cooperation with JBIC is also developing dynamically. Today, the total project portfolio with the bank exceeds $5 billion in sectors such as petrochemicals, energy, telecommunications, infrastructure, and light industry. During the visit, discussions focused on preparing new projects and improving the effectiveness of existing initiatives worth over $10 billion.

Trade relations are also growing dynamically. Between 2017 and 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with Japan more than doubled, increasing from $166.2 million to $388.5 million. In 2024, growth accelerated, rising by 64.1% compared with 2023, from $236.8 million to $388.6 million. More than 90% of imports from Japan consist of machinery and equipment, while Uzbekistan’s exports to Japan are dominated by services and chemical fertilizers, as well as fruit and vegetable products, textiles, radioactive elements, and jet fuel.

Investment cooperation is expanding as well. Over the past eight years, the number of Japanese enterprises operating in Uzbekistan has increased tenfold, while the combined project portfolio has exceeded $20 billion. Leading Japanese companies such as Sojitz, Toyota Tsusho, Sumitomo, Itochu, Kyoto Plaza, Balcom, and Shikoku Electric are actively operating in Uzbekistan, implementing major projects in energy, geology, tourism, infrastructure development, IT, and other sectors.

For example, Sojitz Corporation is implementing projects including the construction of a combined-cycle power plant in Syrdarya region, a multidisciplinary hospital, a new international airport in Tashkent, and a wind power plant. During the visit, support was expressed for the company’s plans to modernize medical clinics and educational facilities, create a transboundary “green” energy corridor, upgrade gas compressor stations, and participate in establishing a special economic zone for Japanese investors.

Sumitomo Corporation is constructing two solar power plants and energy storage systems in Samarkand region, with a similar wind-power-based project also planned in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. During the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed adopting a Cooperation Program with the corporation through 2030.

Uzbekistan has longstanding cooperation with ITOCHU Corporation in mechanical engineering, geology, and infrastructure. Long-term agreements have been reached on the export of critical minerals to Japan. During the visit, new areas of cooperation were discussed, including water purification, automotive manufacturing, modernization of air traffic control systems, as well as implementation of public-private partnership projects in the social sphere.

JOGMEC, together with ITOCHU Corporation, is developing uranium deposits in Navoi and Kashkadarya regions. During the visit, plans by these companies to develop precious-metal deposits at promising sites in Uzbekistan were also reviewed and approved.

Negotiations and outcomes of the visit

During the negotiations, the sides discussed further deepening of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan, covering all areas of interstate cooperation. The importance of strengthening existing cooperation formats, including parliamentary friendship groups, economic cooperation committees, and sectoral mechanisms in priority areas, was emphasized.

During the talks between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a number of priority areas for advancing strategic partnership were identified, including green energy and industrial decarbonization, information technology, critical minerals, cooperation in mechanical engineering, modernization of healthcare, and tourism infrastructure.

To implement more than $12 billion worth of new cooperation projects prepared for the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed establishing a joint investment platform. Plans were also announced to create a special economic zone in Samarkand region based on Japanese standards and practices, as well as to scale up the “One Village – One Product” program implemented jointly with Japanese partners. It was proposed to hold the first Uzbekistan-Japan Regional Forum in Samarkand next year.

At the meeting between the President of Uzbekistan and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ryosei Akazawa, an agreement was reached to develop an action plan to further strengthen business cooperation with the active involvement of JETRO and the Japan Association for Trade with Russia and NIS (ROTOBO).

A key element of the visit was the President’s meeting with leading representatives of Japanese business. The President emphasized that in recent years cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan has acquired a qualitatively new character. Whereas Japanese companies previously mainly participated as contractors, today they are actively investing in Uzbekistan’s economy, establishing joint ventures, participating in management, transferring technologies, and contributing to human capital development. “As a result of these qualitative shifts, Japan has become one of Uzbekistan’s key economic and technological partners,” the President stressed.

Based on these assessments, priority areas for further cooperation with Japanese business were outlined. These include ensuring energy resilience and advancing the green transition, development of renewable energy sources and storage systems, and reducing the carbon intensity of Uzbekistan’s economy. Particular emphasis was placed on deep processing of critical minerals and establishing full value chains.

Promising areas also include the development of mechanical engineering and industrial equipment to build a modern high-tech industrial economy. Special focus was placed on advancing information technologies, including the implementation of artificial intelligence and digitalization programs.

Another important direction is the creation of modern special economic zones designed to become centers for high-tech, export-oriented industries and platforms for industrial cooperation through automation and digital control systems.

Concluding his speech to the business community, President Mirziyoyev emphasized that Uzbekistan regards Japan not only as an investor, but as a strategic partner in building the industry of the future.

The main outcome of the visit was the signing by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of the Joint Statement on Expanded Strategic Partnership for Future Generations, which elevates Uzbek-Japanese relations to a fundamentally new level. A wide package of agreements was also adopted in education, healthcare, environmental protection, water management, transport, urban development, tourism, agriculture, and disaster-risk reduction.

Expanding cooperation potential

Against the backdrop of Uzbekistan’s ongoing technological transformation and innovative development, there is substantial potential to further expand economic cooperation with Japan in trade, investment, and scientific-technical exchange. The agreements reached during the visit form a solid foundation for advancing cooperation to a qualitatively new level.

According to the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, Uzbekistan has significant untapped export potential with respect to Japan. Promising export categories include copper and copper products, textile and apparel goods including home textiles, aluminum and aluminum products, fruits and nuts, as well as electrical equipment and devices.

Japan’s experience in developing innovation clusters may serve as a valuable model for Uzbekistan. In this context, promising areas include the creation of joint venture funds and startup accelerators, support for technology transfer, and commercialization of scientific developments.

Japan’s experience in smart agriculture and agricultural education is also highly relevant for Uzbekistan. Cooperation in this area offers opportunities to modernize agriculture, increase water efficiency, boost productivity, and implement sustainable farming practices.

Thus, the President’s visit to Japan has already become an important driver in deepening and expanding economic cooperation between our two countries, contributing to fuller realization of partnership potential, modernization of Uzbekistan’s economy, and strengthening the presence of Japanese business in Uzbekistan. The strengthened strategic partnership will improve quality of life and broaden opportunities for future generations.

Nozimjon Ortikov,

At the end of May, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will take part in the upcoming summit of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in Astana.

In recent years, the participation of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in events of the Eurasian Economic Union has become an important element of the country’s foreign economic strategy, aimed at expanding practical cooperation, strengthening trade and economic ties, and developing sustainable mechanisms of regional interaction. Against the backdrop of global economic transformation, increasingly complex logistics routes, and growing competition for investment resources, the Eurasian direction is gaining particular importance for Uzbekistan.

As noted by the President of Uzbekistan during a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in 2025, “in the context of growing fragmentation of global markets, the increasing complexity of supply chains, and shifts in the allocation of investment resources, the deepening of pragmatic and mutually beneficial cooperation with the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union is of fundamental importance for us”. This position reflects Uzbekistan’s commitment to building sustainable and long-term economic ties across the Eurasian space.

The Eurasian Economic Union is one of the largest integration associations in the post-Soviet region, established on the basis of the Customs Union and the Common Economic Space. The Union began functioning on 1 January 2015, following the entry into force of the Treaty on the EAEU, signed by Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia, later joined by Armenia and Kyrgyzstan.

The modern stage of interaction between Uzbekistan and the Eurasian Economic Union dates back to 2019, when the Republic began a comprehensive review of expanding cooperation with the bloc. On 11 December 2020, Uzbekistan officially obtained observer status in the EAEU, enabling the country to participate in the meetings of the Union’s bodies, establish a structured dialogue with the Eurasian Economic Commission, and study the practical mechanisms of the integration association’s functioning.

Since then, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EAEU has taken on a stable, systematic, and practice-oriented character. An interagency working group on cooperation with the Union was established, a mechanism of regular consultations with the Eurasian Economic Commission was put in place, and a Memorandum of Cooperation between the government of Uzbekistan and the EEC was signed. Subsequently, the parties moved on to the implementation of joint three-year cooperation plans covering trade, industry, transport, the financial sector, and digital technologies.

Uzbekistan’s participation in EAEU high-level events has also intensified. Since 2021, the President of Uzbekistan has regularly participated in meetings of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, while government representatives have taken part in the work of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council. This demonstrates the progressive development of cooperation and the growing interest of both sides in expanding practical engagement.

In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has demonstrated steady positive dynamics. The Eurasian space remains one of the most important directions of the Republic’s foreign trade. By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with EAEU countries exceeded USD 20 billion, while the share of the Union’s member states in the country’s total foreign trade reached almost one quarter of overall external trade turnover.

Uzbekistan is also participating in a number of sectoral initiatives and projects within the EAEU framework. These include the development of e-commerce, the digitalization of rail freight transportation, the implementation of the “Eurasian Agroexpress” project, and cooperation on the climate agenda. These areas contribute to reducing logistics costs, simplifying cross-border trade, and enhancing the connectivity of transport corridors across the Eurasian space.

At the current stage, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Eurasian Economic Union is gradually moving to a qualitatively new level, encompassing not only trade and economic relations, but also digital transformation, technological cooperation, and the development of joint infrastructure. One of the key priorities is the removal of existing barriers and the creation of more efficient mechanisms for economic interaction.

An important component of the current stage of engagement is the development of digital integration. Uzbekistan is interested in the harmonization of digital platforms, the expansion of electronic commerce, and the introduction of modern data exchange mechanisms. Such an approach corresponds both to the goals of improving the efficiency of foreign trade and to the broader objective of building a modern and interconnected economic infrastructure across the Eurasian space.

Within a relatively short period of interaction in the status of an observer state, the parties have succeeded in establishing stable mechanisms of dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, and moving toward the implementation of concrete sectoral and infrastructure projects.

For Uzbekistan, the Eurasian direction remains an important element of its strategy for economic modernization, industrial cooperation, and the strengthening of transport and logistics connectivity. At the same time, the Republic continues to adhere to a model of flexible and pragmatic participation in integration processes, guided primarily by national economic interests and the principle of mutual benefit.

In the context of the transformation of the global economy, intensifying competition for markets, and changing global logistics routes, cooperation with the EAEU is viewed by Tashkent as one of the instruments for ensuring sustainable economic growth, expanding export opportunities, and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy. For this reason, Uzbekistan intends to further strengthen practical cooperation with the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union, develop new areas of collaboration, and maintain a constructive dialogue on key issues of regional development.

Dunyo IA

Numerous scholars and studies have confirmed the connection between the quality of education and the well-being of society. The Nobel Prize winning Gary Becker was one of the first to inquire into the impact of education on economic growth and social development. His research has shown that investing in education can improve productivity and thus economic growth.

According to experts from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the high level of education, GDP and economic development serve to augment the average life expectancy and improve public health. One should note that stepping up the duration of education by 1 year can increase GDP by 3-6 percent.

Education is considered a crucial issue for Uzbekistan, 60% of the population of whose is young people under the age of 30, with a population increase of 700 thousand a year.

Up until recently, obtaining higher education was the dream of millions of Uzbek youth. In 2016, enrollment in higher education was only 9 percent of all the school graduates, and the number of higher education institutions was 69 (with 9 private). Due to a lack of student loans to finance higher education and support systems for vulnerable segments of the population, many were unable to study failing to pay tuition fees.

There were also problems for youth in getting onboard the higher education. Those willing to obtain one were able to apply only to one institution a year. And if they did not score enough in the admission exams, they had to wait until the next year to reapply to that or another university.

In addition, such factors as taking faculty and students to forced seasonal agricultural work used to have a grave negative impact on the quality of education. So did the insufficient material incentives for the teaching staff due to the extremely low wages.

After the election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev as President of the country in 2016, the system of admission to higher education institutions started to be revised, with overall systemic transformation underway, especially when it came to the quality of education.

First, the organizational and legal framework of the industry has been revised. In particular, the 2030 Concept for Higher Education Development in the Republic of Uzbekistan was approved in 2019 by the corresponding presidential decree.

In 2020, the Oliy Majlis (Supreme Assembly, the national parliament) passed the Education law in a new edition. In accordance with it, the system opened up to market mechanisms, priority was afforded to raising the scale and quality of education to a new level, to studying advanced foreign practices and establishing broad international connections.

Apart from that, adopted in 2023, the new edition of the Constitution introduced a number of new norms on the protection of the honor and dignity of teachers, government concern for their social and material well-being. The upgraded Basic Law also granted the higher education institutions the right to academic self-government, freedom in scientific research and teaching methodologies and approaches.

Second, to be sure, education advancement requires allocation of large sums from the state budget to this area. According to research, a 1% increase in education spending will increase GDP by 0.35%. It is for this reason that the amount of funds allocated from the public budget for the maintenance and development of educational institutions in Uzbekistan has been steadily growing.

In 2023, spending on education accounted for 44 percent of total social expenditures, reaching 61.2 trillion soums.

The rapid growth in the number of public and private universities, as well as branches of foreign ones, and the introduction of market mechanisms in this area have created the basis for expanding the market in educational services. Today there are 210 universities in the country, almost half of them are private (67) and foreign universities (29).

Crucially, the youth are now free to choose. A healthy competitive environment has begun to emerge among the institutions offering higher education. Branches of prestigious foreign universities like Westminster (UK), Webster (US), Management Development Institute of Singapore, Polytechnic University of Turin (Italy) have an important role to play in the implementation of advanced standards in higher education by inviting state-of-the-art certified faculty, making a good use of the latest teaching technologies, innovations and international best practices.

As a result of the enhancement of the higher education market in Uzbekistan, it became possible to boost the coverage in the system from 9 percent of school graduates enrolled in 2016 to 42 percent in 2023. And the launch of correspondence and evening studies at universities has contributed to a sharp increase in the proportion of students over 24 years of age. The total number of university students now exceeds 1.3 million.

Starting from 2019, applicants have been given the opportunity to simultaneously submit documents to several universities and choose an educational institution based on the results of entrance exams and their preferences. This year, building on a relevant presidential decree, exams for admission to universities will take place under the principle “test first, then choose”.

Uzbekistan has created a unique system that provides opportunities to obtain higher education for people in need of social protection and people with disabilities. In particular, the distribution of admission quotas was approved on the basis of an additional two percent state scholarship for persons with disabilities and one percent for graduates of Mehribonlik (Mercy homes, orphanages), children’s villages and family homes in the context of higher educational institutions and forms of education.

It will not be an exaggeration to say that changing society by attracting girls to higher education is a unique path for Uzbekistan. Here one can recall a popular wisdom that if you educate a girl, you educate the whole nation. In order to ensure gender equality, as well as the consistent implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, starting from the 2022-2023 academic year, new educational loans are allocated on preferential terms (interest-free) for training girls and women. As a result, in 2023, interest-free educational loans in the amount of 1,548.6 billion soums were allocated to about 137.4 thousand students.

A procedure has also been established for reimbursement of tuition fees for girls studying for graduate degree at universities. During this time, 20,260 women took a good advantage of this opportunity.

Special emphasis is placed on the issues of training youth from Uzbekistan in prestigious foreign universities. In particular, the amount of funds allocated from the state budget to the El-Yurt Umidi (Hope of the Nation) Foundation for the training of talented youth abroad has been growing. If 200 billion soums were allocated to this fund in 2022, in 2024 the amount reached 500 billion soums. Thanks to the foundation, more than 1,000 young people have received education in respected higher education institutions abroad and today work in various fields. According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, students from Uzbekistan ranked fifth in the world in the number of students studying abroad in 2021. The number exceeded 110 thousand. This is also clear evidence of how young people in this country are thirsty for knowledge.

The Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy urges to bringing the level of youth enrollment in higher education to no less than 50 percent, including in at least 10 higher educational institutions in the top 1,000 ranking of the most prestigious universities, and making the way for the country into the top 50 nations by 2030 in the Global Innovation Index.

As a result of reforms over the past period, two universities of Uzbekistan for the first time entered the top 1,000 higher education institutions in the world, compiled by the British company Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). The National Research University “Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers” (TIIAME) was named 547^th in the rating, while the Mirzo Ulugbek National University of Uzbekistan secured the 781-790th positions.

The National Research University TIIAME was among the 300 best higher education institutions in the world and among the top three universities in Central Asia in terms of “Academic reputation”, and the National University of Uzbekistan was in the top 200 in terms of “Share of foreign teachers” and took second place among universities in the region.

In addition, 53 higher educational institutions of Uzbekistan were noted in the “THE Impact Rankings” published by the Times Higher Education agency for 2024. Seven of them ended up in the top 1,000. In the ranking, the Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature came 10th in the world in terms of gender equality.

In short, well aware of the truism that investing into education means investing into your future.

Nodir Tilavoldiev,
Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis
Republic of Uzbekistan

Today's events and developments in the international arena once again demonstrate the growing need for the states of the Central and South Asian regions to achieve mutual understanding, solidarity, and a common goal. In this regard, the main goal of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia, held on May 19, 2025, on the theme "Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity," was to strengthen regional connectivity and bring cooperation to a new level. It can be said that over the past year, significant results have been achieved on the topical issues discussed during the dialogue. The next Termez Dialogue is also aimed at discussing topical issues such as strengthening cooperation between Central and South Asia, deepening interregional ties and ensuring economic growth, as well as further improving security and sustainable development.

Cultural relations. It should be noted that today the city of Termez has become an important center for ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan and restoring its economy. It is noteworthy that in the past, Termez was a center of intercultural and religious dialogue, where Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islamic traditions emerged and developed. Eldor Aripov, Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, noted that the city, located between the Greco-Bactrian, Kushan, and other ancient states, flourished during the Timurid era and became a major center of trade, craftsmanship, and science[1]. Indeed, if we look at our history, the countries of Central Asia and the South Asian region have always developed harmoniously as a single space, closely cooperating in all areas. The works of the great thinker Abu Rayhan Beruni "India," Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur "Baburnama" and other historical sources are clear evidence of these close ties. Furthermore, the following remarks by Muhammad Sobir Turkestani, Deputy Ambassador of Afghanistan to Uzbekistan, deserve attention: "Both Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are located on the land between two rivers, which was once called Mawarannahr." There are many similarities in our cultures.  The cultural heritage of Alisher Navoi is the wealth of the peoples of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. The remains of our ancestor Alisher Navoi are in the Herat region. All the minarets built in Herat during the reign of Sultan Husayn Bayqara stand as a single complex. Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur was buried in Kabul. In a complex called Babur's Garden. There are also large cultural museums in Afghanistan. Our antiquities are kept in our museums in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif.[2]" Undoubtedly, the main goal of our efforts today is to restore these historical ties, further strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between our peoples, and ultimately raise the development of our countries to a new level. To this end, Uzbekistan has been increasingly developing ties with South Asian countries in recent years.

It should be noted that the education sector in Afghanistan has experienced a deep decline due to the long-standing unstable situation. In such a situation, it should be noted that assisting the Afghan people in obtaining education and training personnel with modern knowledge and skills is one of the most rational ways to lead Afghanistan out of the crisis. In this regard, in accordance with the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated November 13, 2017, "On organizing the activities of the Educational Center for Training Afghan Citizens under the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Specialized Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan," an Educational Center for Training Afghan Citizens operates in the city of Termez, Surkhandarya region. During the 2018-2019 academic year, 96 students studied at the Center in the "Uzbek Language and Literature" direction, all of whom received a bachelor's degree from the Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature.

Economic relations. It should be noted that the impossibility of achieving any positive results with weapons and troops in establishing peace and stability on Afghan soil was once again confirmed by the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in 2021. From this perspective, today Uzbekistan's economic ties with Afghanistan serve as one of the important factors in establishing peace and economic recovery in the country.

According to estimates by the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, mutual trade turnover amounted to $653 million in 2021, $688.8 million in 2022, $784.1 million in 2023, and $999.9 million in January-November 2024[3]. Over the past five years, trade turnover has increased 2.5 times, reaching $1.68 billion in 2025, while Uzbekistan's exports amounted to approximately $1.5 billion. The parties set a new medium-term goal to increase the volume of trade to $5 billion. Therefore, today Uzbekistan is becoming one of the key investors in Afghanistan. Specifically, according to a $1 billion agreement signed between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, Uzbekistan will participate in the development of the Tuti Maidan gas field in the Jauzjan and Faryab regions for 10 years. The Termez International Trade Center, established in the Surkhandarya region, plays a very important role in implementing such trade and economic instruments. This shopping center is the first trade zone in Central Asia serving various entrepreneurs, especially Afghan entrepreneurs, who cooperate with Afghanistan. The shopping center features permanent exhibitions and fairs, an Uzbek-Afghan business school, a medical clinic for the treatment and provision of medical care to patients who are citizens of Afghanistan, a hotel, enterprises specializing in the production of precious metal jewelry, a multi-currency system, and other conditions that allow entrepreneurs to trade freely.

According to analytical data, 60% of Uzbekistan's total international traffic passes through the transit routes of Central Asian countries and Afghanistan. Uzbekistan's access to seaports through Afghanistan is 2-3 times shorter than the ports with access to the Black and Baltic Seas, and 5 times shorter than the route to Pacific ports[4]. According to economic analysts, the cost of delivering one container from Central Asia to South Asia through Afghanistan to seaports will decrease from $900 to $286. In addition, transportation time will be reduced from 35 days to 3-5 days. At the same time, export potential will also increase sharply. Improving transport and infrastructure communications and attracting international transit carriers to Central Asia is one of the most important tasks uniting the countries of the region. Its resolution is determined by the need to improve the socio-economic situation in the region.

In conclusion, it should be noted that this prestigious international conference will contribute to the further expansion of ties between our regions, the opening of new horizons for cooperation, and our confident progress on the path of peace and development.

Furthermore, the Termez Dialogue, as a platform for strengthening interregional connectivity and restoring common historical, cultural, and civilizational ties, opens opportunities for the development of new international transport and logistics corridors through Afghanistan. In the current difficult conditions of growing mutual trust and conflict of interests, such a format of cooperation as the Termez Dialogue is of great importance.

[1] Eldor Aripov: "Termiz muloqoti Markaziy va Janubiy Osiyo o‘rtasidagi o‘zaro bog‘liqlikni mustahkamlashda muhim ahamiyatga ega". (21.05.2025), https://daryo.uz/2025/05/21/eldor-aripov-termiz-muloqoti-markaziy-va-janubiy-osiyo-ortasidagi-ozaro-bogliqlikni-mustahkamlashda-muhim-ahamiyatga-ega

[2] Afg‘onistonda O‘zbekistonga aloqador madaniy boyliklar kam emas. (07.11.2023). https://xabar.uz/uz/madaniyat/afgonistonda-ozbekistonga-aloqador-madaniy-boyliklar-kam-emas

[3] O‘zbekiston Respublikasi Tashqi savdo aylanmasi. 2024-yil yanvar-noyabr oylari uchun dastlabki ma’lumot // O‘zbekiston Respublikasi huzuridagi Statistika agentligi. – B.4.

[4] Akmalov Sh. O‘zbekiston va Afg‘oniston: o‘tmishdan hozirgacha. Monografiya. – T.: “Zamon poligraf”, 2023. – B. 70.

A presentation of the literary and publicistic collection “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future” was held in Islamabad, written in Urdu by renowned Pakistani journalist and author Muhammad Abbas Khan, explores Uzbekistan’s modern development vision and reform agendat.

The collection offers a comprehensive analysis of the essence, spiritual foundations, and global significance of Uzbekistan’s vision for a New Renaissance — the foundation of the country’s Third Renaissance — under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The book elaborates on the concept advanced by the Head of State, tracing its historical roots and outlining its relevance for the future of human civilization. The author emphasizes that this vision draws inspiration from the legacy of Uzbekistan’s great ancestors and seeks to unite the principles of modern development, enlightenment, and humanism, serving as a bridge between the nation’s rich intellectual past and its forward-looking aspirations.

The collection also highlights the shared initiatives and common aspirations of the leaders of Uzbekistan and Pakistan to advance major transport and communication projects linking Central and South Asia. According to the author, these efforts represent the revival of the legendary Silk Road. The book not only describes the sweeping reforms and modernization taking place in Uzbekistan, but also emphasizes that the development path of the “New Uzbekistan” may serve as an inspiring model for Pakistan and the wider Eastern world.

The presentation ceremony brought together members of Pakistan’s government and parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Islamabad, prominent scholars, analysts, public figures, and media representatives. Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting of Pakistan, attended the event as the guest of honour.

The presentation opened with the national anthems of Uzbekistan and Pakistan, followed by a video highlighting the nine years of Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership as a President of Uzbekistan.

The event commenced with welcoming remarks by Alisher Tukh­taev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan. In his address, the Ambassador emphasized that, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has entered an era of openness and creative transformation.

He noted that over the past nine years, the country has implemented comprehensive reforms across the socio-economic, political, educational, and cultural spheres. As a result, Uzbekistan’s Gross Domestic Product has doubled, reaching 115 billion US dollars; exports have risen to 26 billion dollars; and foreign investments have exceeded 130 billion dollars. Thousands of new enterprises have been established, reflecting the dynamic pace of development and modernization.

It was noted that relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan have been elevated to the level of a strategic partnership, with the establishment of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. Direct air connections now link Tashkent with Islamabad and Lahore, while collaboration in the fields of education and culture continues to expand rapidly.

Particular attention was given to the Trans-Afghan Railway Project — recognized as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening peace, mutual trust, and economic connectivity across the region, effectively reconnecting Central and South Asia.

Ambassador Alisher Tukh­taev expressed his sincere gratitude to the author of the featured work, Muhammad Abbas Khan, and to the management of “Daily Ittehad” publishing house for their contribution to the creation and publication of the book. He emphasized that this work will make a valuable contribution to fostering friendship and solidarity between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

In turn, Tahir Farooq, head of “Daily Ittehad” publishing house, expressed his satisfaction with the publication of the book “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future”.

“This book is not merely a compilation of facts about Uzbekistan”, - he noted, - but an important work that vividly reflects the ongoing processes of reform and renewal in the country. It is not a collection of speeches or a translation of another author’s work, but the result of five years of observation and analysis by Muhammad Abbas Khan. His insights carry great significance for understanding Uzbekistan’s contemporary path of development. The book also serves as an important historical document of the new era unfolding in Uzbekistan”.

In his address, Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Information and Broadcasting of Pakistan, highlighted the deep historical ties between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Pakistan, noting that the land of Uzbekistan has produced eminent figures of the Timurid dynasty, including the distinguished scholar and statesman Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur. The Minister emphasized that the region connecting Central and South Asia has always been a vital part of the Great Silk Road, and that Uzbekistan’s contemporary policy under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is focused on revitalizing this historic corridor of cooperation.

Concluding his speech, Minister Attaullah Tarar reaffirmed the readiness of Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to extend full support in promoting the book and the “Third Renaissance” initiatives advanced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Pakistani public.

In his address, author Muhammad Abbas Khan discussed the process of writing the book, the ideas it conveys, and its principal objectives. According to the author, the work is based on his research, observations, and personal impressions, providing an objective account of Uzbekistan’s ongoing processes of renewal and development.

“I have had the opportunity to directly observe the profound transformations taking place in Uzbekistan, the reforms being implemented under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the policies aimed at fostering an open society, enhancing human dignity, and advancing education and enlightenment, along with their tangible results. Today, Uzbekistan is experiencing a period of awakening. The concept of the Third Renaissance, being realized in Uzbekistan, serves as an example of a universal experience grounded in confidence in the future, scientific and spiritual renewal, and policies for the development of human potential”, - said Muhammad Abbas Khan.

The book “Uzbekistan: Third Renaissance – Concept of the Future” is expected to serve as a unique resource for familiarizing the Pakistani public with Uzbekistan’s new historical path of development, while further strengthening the cultural and spiritual bonds between the two nations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan announces the commencement of accreditation for representatives of mass media to cover the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand.

Journalists wishing to participate in the coverage of the conference are required to complete registration on the United Nations “INDICO” platform and obtain accreditation.

The online registration form is available at the following link: https://indico.un.org/event/1017853/registrations/21114/.

Applications from representatives of media will be accepted until October 10, 2025.

Applications submitted after the deadline, or without the required documents and a completed application form, will not be considered.

Please note that submission of an application does not constitute a basis for entry into the Republic of Uzbekistan or for engaging in journalistic activities of foreign media representatives without official confirmation of accreditation issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

For additional inquiries, please contact the Press Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at press@mfa.uz.

The traditional annual Address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered on the eve of the New Year, became an important programmatic statement summarizing the results of the outgoing year and outlining the country’s strategic development priorities for the period ahead.

As the Head of State emphasized, the past year marked a period of steady progress in reforms and the strengthening of Uzbekistan’s socio-economic position, despite ongoing instability in the global economy and a complex international environment. In this context, the announcement of the coming year as the “Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole” gained particular significance, signaling a transition toward a deeper focus of state policy on people’s quality of life and the development of civil society.

In his Address, the President noted that the national economy continued to demonstrate confident growth. The year 2025 concluded with landmark achievements: for the first time, the country’s GDP exceeded 145 billion US dollars, exports increased by 23 percent to 33.4 billion dollars, and foreign exchange and gold reserves surpassed 60 billion dollars. Investment inflows totaling 43.1 billion dollars enabled the implementation of dozens of major projects in industry, energy, and infrastructure. International rating agencies upgraded Uzbekistan’s sovereign credit rating from BB- to BB, opening more favorable conditions for external financing.

It was particularly emphasized that these macroeconomic results were accompanied by positive changes in the social sphere. Owing to active employment policies, the unemployment rate declined from 5.5 percent to 4.9 percent, and around five million people gained sustainable sources of income. Significant attention was devoted to supporting low-income families, developing targeted social assistance mechanisms, and improving access to basic services. The poverty rate decreased from 8.9 percent to 5.8 percent within a year, lifting approximately 1.5 million citizens out of poverty.

These outcomes were the result of consistent reforms aimed at enhancing economic resilience and creating a solid foundation for social development. Economic achievements expanded the state’s capacity to address social challenges and implement long-term support programs for the population. The President noted that social policy has become more responsive to the concrete needs of citizens, which represents a fundamental achievement of the current reform agenda.

Special attention in the Address was devoted to Uzbekistan’s foreign policy course, which was characterized as pragmatic, open, and oriented toward long-term national interests. The President emphasized that an active and balanced foreign policy remains a key factor in ensuring sustainable development, expanding economic opportunities, and strengthening Uzbekistan’s international standing. It was noted that in recent years the country has significantly expanded the geographical scope of its foreign economic relations, reinforced partnerships both with neighboring states and leading global centers, and consistently continued to promote regional cooperation initiatives. This course reflects Uzbekistan’s aspiration to assume a more visible and responsible role in international affairs, guided by the principles of mutual benefit and respect.

The Address also addressed the reform of the public procurement system as one of the key elements in enhancing transparency and efficiency in public administration. The President stressed that improving public procurement mechanisms is aimed at creating equal conditions for businesses, fostering competition, and ensuring the efficient use of budgetary resources. These measures are viewed as an important part of Uzbekistan’s preparation for accession to the World Trade Organization. In this context, reforms in the field of public procurement acquire not only domestic but also external economic significance, as they contribute to aligning national procedures with international standards and rules. Thus, the outlined steps reflect a systemic approach to Uzbekistan’s integration into the global trade and economic system.

A separate section of the Address focused on anti-corruption efforts, which were identified as one of the key priorities for further development. The President underscored that the fight against corruption is regarded not as a one-time campaign, but as a long-term state policy aimed at establishing an honest, transparent, and accountable system of governance.

“Allowing corruption is a betrayal of our reforms. We declare 2026 a year of ‘extraordinary measures’ to combat this scourge,” the President stated.

It was noted that the measures already being implemented—such as the digitalization of public services, increased transparency in decision-making, and strengthened public oversight—are producing tangible results, though they require further deepening. The emphasis on the anti-corruption agenda demonstrates a commitment to strengthening trust among citizens and international partners in state institutions.

Considerable attention in the Address was also given to environmental issues and sustainable development. The President noted that the environmental agenda is becoming an integral part of state policy and is directly linked to the quality of life of the population and the country’s long-term security. The importance of rational use of natural resources, the expansion of green technologies, and the implementation of programs to improve environmental conditions—especially in the most vulnerable regions—was underscored. Plans were announced to hold the next Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and the Central Asian International Environmental Exhibition in Samarkand in 2026. These events will create valuable opportunities to identify partners for industries, regions, and businesses, and to jointly launch new environmental projects. It was emphasized that environmental initiatives are viewed not only as a social necessity, but also as a key element of economic modernization and enhanced resilience.

Taken together, these priorities demonstrate the comprehensive nature of the ongoing reforms. They indicate that the course toward socially oriented development is inseparably linked with institutional transformation and international integration. This approach reflects Uzbekistan’s determination to build a balanced development model in which economic growth, social sustainability, and responsible governance mutually reinforce one another.

Summarizing the results of the concluding year, the Head of State stressed that all these achievements became possible due to a well-structured reform system and the active participation of society. At the same time, he underlined that further development requires not only economic resources but also a stronger social environment, trust, and solidarity. It was within this logic that the proposal was made to declare the coming year the Year of Support for the Mahalla, as the institution closest to people and their everyday concerns.

In the Address, the mahalla was characterized as a unique form of social organization that has absorbed centuries-old traditions of mutual assistance, responsibility, and respect. The President emphasized that the stability of the state begins with the stability of the mahalla, with an atmosphere of harmony and engagement at the local level. “If there is order and trust in the mahalla, there will be stability in society as a whole,” this idea became one of the key messages of the Address, logically linking past achievements with future objectives.

Support for the mahalla in the coming year is viewed as a systemic measure aimed at further strengthening social policy. The President pointed out that it is precisely at the mahalla level where family issues, employment challenges, education, social protection, and the prevention of social vulnerability can be identified most effectively. In this sense, the development of mahalla structures becomes a tool for increasing the targeting of state assistance and enhancing social justice. The economic achievements discussed earlier thus find their continuation in the social domain.

A significant part of the Address was devoted to citizen participation and the development of civil society. The President stressed that a modern state is impossible without active and responsible citizens involved in decision-making and oversight of implementation. In this context, the mahalla is seen as a space for fostering civic initiative and dialogue between authorities and the population.

“We must create conditions under which every person feels involved in the destiny of the country,” the Head of State noted, outlining a strategic commitment to expanding public participation.

Special emphasis was placed on the role of the mahalla in youth education and the strengthening of social values. The President noted that alongside economic indicators, the formation of a moral, educated, and socially responsible individual remains no less important. Support for projects in education, culture, and sports implemented at the mahalla level is regarded as an investment in the country’s future. “The future of Uzbekistan depends on the environment we create for our children today,” this quotation from the Address clearly reflects the long-term orientation of state policy.

Thus, the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Mahalla Development and Society as a Whole” demonstrates the state’s intention to move from macro-level achievements toward deeper engagement with quality of life, human capital, and social institutions. It signifies a concentration of efforts on strengthening local communities, developing social infrastructure, and fostering an active and cohesive society.

The President’s Address sets a clear development vector for the year ahead: reliance on achieved economic successes, reinforcement of social policy, and the advancement of civil society through support for the mahalla. This approach reflects a strategic understanding that the sustainability of reforms and the country’s long-term prosperity are impossible without strong communities, trust, and citizen participation. In this context, support for the mahalla emerges not only as a social priority, but also as a foundation for Uzbekistan’s long-term development.

In recent years, the Republic of Uzbekistan has embarked on a structured and institutionally grounded transition toward a green economy, positioning sustainability as a core driver of long-term economic resilience, competitiveness, and global integration.

This transformation reflects a comprehensive approach that combines policy reform, market-based instruments, and active international cooperation, enabling the country to move from strategic commitments to measurable outcomes.

The foundation of Uzbekistan’s green transition was laid through the adoption of a comprehensive policy framework in 2022, which established strategic priorities for green growth through 2030. This framework includes sectoral energy efficiency concepts, a national green growth program, and a detailed action plan.

Importantly, the government has set clear quantitative targets, including reducing the energy intensity of GDP by 20 percent by 2026 compared to 2022 levels. Institutional capacity has also been strengthened through the establishment of interagency coordination mechanisms and donor engagement platforms, ensuring coherent implementation across sectors. 

A major milestone in the reform process has been the introduction of a green energy certificate system, which enables verification that electricity is generated from renewable sources. This system has facilitated the development of a transparent renewable energy market and strengthened the ability of domestic producers to access environmentally regulated export markets.

To date, more than 446,000 green energy certificates have been issued and traded, reflecting growing demand for clean energy solutions and increasing private sector engagement.

Uzbekistan has taken a pioneering role in Central Asia in developing carbon market mechanisms. In cooperation with the World Bank, the country is implementing innovative approaches to carbon trading in line with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Through initiatives such as the iCRAFT project, supported by the Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF), Uzbekistan is mobilizing up to $46.2 million in climate finance between 2024 and 2028. Initial results include the reduction of approximately 10 million tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions and the attraction of around $15 million in funding.

At the same time, regulatory frameworks for international carbon trading and emissions accounting are being developed, positioning Uzbekistan for full participation in global carbon markets. 

A key achievement has been the adoption of the Law on Limiting Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2025, which establishes the legal foundation for emissions regulation, national registries, and climate policy instruments.

Complementing this, Uzbekistan has introduced a national transparency system to monitor progress toward its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This system enhances data reliability, strengthens accountability, and builds trust among international investors and development partners. 

Uzbekistan is actively developing a national green finance ecosystem aimed at mobilizing public, private, and international capital. Policy efforts include the development of green financing frameworks, institutional mechanisms, and project pipelines.

International partners play a critical role in this process. Cooperation with institutions such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has enabled the implementation of green financing programs, including the Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF), channeling substantial resources into energy efficiency and sustainable technologies.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s participation in the Climate Investment Funds Industrial Decarbonization Program provides access to up to $250 million in concessional financing, significantly expanding the scale of green investments. 

The transition to a green economy is closely linked to industrial modernization.

Uzbekistan is implementing targeted programs to support enterprises in adopting low-carbon technologies, improving resource efficiency, and enhancing competitiveness.

Partnerships with international organizations, including German development institutions, are facilitating policy development, capacity building, and practical support for small and medium-sized enterprises in reducing emissions and transitioning to sustainable production models.

Uzbekistan continues to strengthen its role in global climate governance through active international engagement. The country has joined the Global Methane Pledge, committing to reduce methane emissions by at least 30 percent by 2030.

Bilateral cooperation is expanding through mechanisms such as the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) with Japan, as well as climate partnerships with the Republic of Korea, Germany, and Hungary under the Paris Agreement framework.

In addition, the Ministry of Economy and Finance has joined the Coalition of Finance Ministers for Climate Action, reflecting the integration of climate considerations into macroeconomic and fiscal policy. 

Digital transformation plays an increasingly important role in supporting green reforms. Uzbekistan has launched a national online platform that consolidates data on green projects, regulatory frameworks, and international practices.

This digital infrastructure enhances transparency, supports evidence-based policymaking, and improves coordination across institutions.

Uzbekistan’s transition to a green economy represents a comprehensive and forward-looking reform agenda that integrates institutional development, market mechanisms, and international cooperation.

The progress achieved to date demonstrates a clear shift from policy design to effective implementation. By strengthening governance frameworks, mobilizing green finance, and fostering global partnerships, Uzbekistan is building a resilient and sustainable economic model.

In the long term, the green transition is expected to serve not only as an environmental imperative but also as a key driver of economic growth, investment attractiveness, and deeper integration into the global economy.

Ministry of Economy and Finance

of the Republic of Uzbekistan