Esteemed Heads of Delegations!

Once again, I would like to express my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, esteemed Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, for the warm welcome and excellent organization of the Summit in Astana.

We are highly estimate Kazakhstan’s effective chairmanship of the SCO, which has facilitated the expansion of multifaceted cooperation within the Organization.

It is a great honor to have with us the heads of observer-states and dialogue partners, esteemed guests.

Dear Participants of the Meeting!

I believe that a meeting in the broad format of SCO Plus is timely and necessary.

The world needs to restore trust, justice and solidarity more than ever.

The current global political and economic landscape is characterized by fractures, wars, and conflicts that are undermining the foundations and key principles of the system of international relations.

The contradictions and protectionism that have emerged are creating fragmentation of the world economy and supply chain disruptions, which are in turn creating new dividing lines that prevent countries from cooperating effectively in trade, finance and investment, technology transfer and innovation.

The only viable solution to these challenges is to consolidate efforts in the interest of global security, development, and prosperity.

The SCO has always advocated for and has been committed to a just world order based on the universally recognized principles of international law and multilateralism, with the UN playing a central coordinating role.

In this regard, our Organization continues to serve as a focal point for many countries seeking to build broad cooperation without political and ideological biases.

Concurrently, the evolving circumstances necessitate the implementation of new strategic approaches to enhance the efficacy of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Today, as it stands on the threshold of its 25th anniversary, it is imperative to develop a new agenda that aligns with the Organization’s immense potential and growing role in world politics and economy.

Building on the “Shanghai Spirit” and the founding principles of the Charter, unity and cohesion within the Organization should be preserved. I propose to intensify joint efforts with the objective of strengthening the atmosphere of trust and friendship within the SCO and to remove barriers to deeper cooperation.

First of all, it is necessary to undertake a comprehensive reevaluation of the conceptual foundation underpinning the SCO’s security-related activities.

The nature and scope of contemporary challenges have undergone a significant transformation since the establishment of the Organization.

Environmental and natural disasters, water and food shortages, cyberattacks, new methods of undermining sovereignty and economic stability pose an increasing threat.

All of this should also be taken into account when considering the strengthening of the SCO's potential, including the establishment of the Universal Center for Countering Security Threats and Challenges.

In this context, I propose to hold annually SCO Plus Dialogue on Security Issues with the participation of the heads of the competent bodies and experts of all our countries.

Uzbekistan proposes to consistently “reload” trade and economic cooperation in the SCO area, which continues to be fragmented.

So far, we could not manage to create a solid foundation for multilateral trade and inter-sectoral partnership.

For a long time, no consensus has been reached on the establishment of the SCO Development Fund and the SCO Development Bank.

Today at the summit we agreed to take comprehensive measures to simplify trade procedures and develop e-commerce, stimulate technological cooperation, including in the industries of the future.

In order to create an effective platform for business dialogue with the participation of all partners, we propose the annual holding of the SCO EXPO International Industrial Exhibition in our countries.

It is also important to actively promote economic interaction and seek opportunities for linking joint initiatives with the Economic Cooperation Organization, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Eurasian Economic Union, ASEAN and others.

The new geopolitical realities convince us of the need to build an inclusive and integrated transport and transit system to strengthen interregional connectivity.

The global problems such as climate change and environmental disasters cannot be ignored by the Organization. Our countries are increasingly facing natural disasters, land degradation, reduced agricultural yields, air pollution and water shortages.

I believe that climate cooperation should become a key element of the new SCO agenda.

We advocate for developing an Agreement on cooperation in combating climate change, with concrete measures to achieve common goals and objectives in the area of green development.

We are also proposing the establishment of the SCO Center for Innovative Climate Solutions in Tashkent. It will conduct research on environmental sustainability and “green” growth.

Improving livelihoods and social protection should be given a central place on the Organization’s agenda.

We intend to hold a Global Conference on Sustainable Social Protection in Samarkand next year, under the auspices of the United Nations, as a contribution to achieving the goals Summit of the Future.

Finally, we need to strengthen and promote together a unique model of inter-civilizational dialogue.

The rich cultural, historical and spiritual heritage, traditions, customs and ways of life of our peoples are a powerful and resilient force for building bridges of mutual trust, good-neighborliness and lasting friendship.

This is the message contained in the recent UN General Assembly resolution on the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations, adopted at our joint initiative.

In this context, the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative for Common Security and Prosperity, which we have put forward, aimed at overcoming the trust deficit through constructive dialogue and multilateral partnership, is more relevant than ever.

The practical implementation of this initiative will contribute to strengthening inter-civilizational dialogue to overcome contradictions on the path to sustainable development.

I am confident that together we can make the Organization even more creative through the implementation of programs in the area of cultural, educational, youth and tourist exchanges.

To this end, we propose to develop a Unified Bank of SCO Humanitarian Initiatives and Programs, which will enable projects in these areas to be systematized and jointly implemented.

I am convinced that the outcomes of this meeting will give a strong impetus to the development of a multifaceted partnership within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Thank you for your attention.

The most important sign of civil society is manifested in the fact that citizens exercise complete control over the activities of state structures. According to article 36 of the new version of the Constitution of Uzbekistan, our citizens have the right to participate directly and through their representatives in the management of the affairs of society and the state. Such participation is carried out through self-government, referendums and the democratic formation of state bodies, as well as public control over the activities of state bodies. The procedure for exercising public control over the activities of state bodies is established by law.

In order to organize and regulate relations in the field of public control over the activities of state bodies and institutions, the law “On Public Control” was adopted on April 12, 2018. According to this law, public control is carried out in such forms as appeals and requests to state bodies, public discussions, public hearings, public monitoring, and the study is carried out by citizens' self-government bodies in such forms as hearing reports and information from officials of state bodies.

Consistent work is underway in our country to implement public control and improve the regulatory framework governing this area. By presidential decree dated May 4, 2018, the badge "For contribution to the development of civil society" was established; the decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated July 4, 2018 "On measures to organize the activities of public councils under state bodies" was of great importance for accelerating work in this area. This resolution establishes the procedure for organizing the main tasks, functions, powers and activities of the public council under state bodies, which basically provides that the public council is created by the decision of the head of the state body, carries out its work on a voluntary basis and it is assumed that it will conduct its work on a public basis, as well as be considered as a permanent advisory body whose decisions will be advisory in nature.

As Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, “There is no more effective tool for achieving the supremacy of the Constitution and the law than public control.” Public control is an important institution of democracy and people's power; it serves to ensure the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens by monitoring the activities of state bodies.

In recent years, special attention has been paid in our republic to ensuring the participation of citizens in the management of society and public affairs, the creation of effective mechanisms for public control over the activities of the executive branch, and further strengthening the functions of public control. In particular, at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, a public chamber was established in 2020 in order to further strengthen public control and establish close cooperation between the state and society. It was noted that the public chamber should regularly study the opinion of the population, set specific tasks for government agencies to find solutions. The importance of implementing such influential forms of control as "public hearings", "public monitoring", "public expertise", and "public initiative" was demonstrated.

According to the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On measures to expand financing of projects formed on the basis of public opinion", adopted on October 25, 2022, an additional 335 billion soums were allocated for the implementation of 364 projects, each of which received more than 2 thousand votes in July-September 2022.

In recent years of modern development in our republic, the system of public administration has been improved, effective mechanisms of dialogue with the people have been introduced, and the effectiveness of the role and activities of the Mahalla Institute in the management of society has increased. Virtual and public reception rooms of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan were created in order to ensure human interests, knowledge and solution of problems and needs of people. These structures have become a mechanism for in-depth analysis of problems on the ground and a criterion for increasing the responsibility of state bodies and officials to society and evaluating their activities.

To date, such systems as "online reception" and "virtual visit" have been introduced, allowing for quick and economical identification of problems on the ground in order to optimize their expenses related to the maintenance of the public administration apparatus, eliminate corruption factors and establish effective public control over budget spending.

As an example, it is worth mentioning that in recent years a new system of dialogue with the people has been created – the activities of the presidential virtual and people's reception rooms. Of the 9,465,000 applications received by the virtual reception of the President, about 9,379,000 have been considered, the rest are also being resolved in accordance with the procedure established by law. The results of the public discussion can also be found on the "portal for discussions of draft regulatory legal acts" (regulation.gov.uz), which is clearly seen in the example. To date, 25384 draft regulatory legal acts have been posted on this portal for public discussion, of which 25183 have already been completed.

In recent years, the study of public opinion has become publicly available. The Open Budget portal was launched to exercise public control over targeted budget expenditures. Citizens can send messages about violations of budget legislation through the Portal, suggestions for improving the budget process, while receiving information such as the state budget, budget execution through this portal. In particular, an initiative budget has been launched through the Open Budget information portal, which is held 2 times a year. Thanks to this portal, citizens are focused on solving problems through joint voting. In the first season (February) 2024, 35,575 initiatives were supported, for which 3,390.5 billion soums were allocated.

Establishing the accountability of public authorities to parliament and local councils, as well as the introduction of the Electronic Government system, led to a further strengthening of public control. As a result, today in our country there is a single interactive portal of public services (my.gov.uz), an open data portal (data.egov.uz), a portal for discussing draft regulatory documents (regulation.gov.uz), and a complex of information systems “License" (license.gov.uz), information system for automating the activities of Single Window centers (birdarcha.uz).

Since 2023, in order to improve the system for identifying and solving social problems among the population in our republic, the practice of monthly hearing information from the heads of relevant government bodies and organizations in the mahalla council has been established, and new forms of public control have been introduced - “mahalla control” groups and “survey” institutions mahalla chairmen." Also, on behalf of the President, the “digital mahalla” system and the “people’s control” platform were improved.

The “My Opinion” web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal. The My Opinion web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal "Meningfikrim.uz "(My opinion). To date, more than 6670 collective appeals and about 30,000 comments have been received through the portal.

In recent years, political parties, which are considered to be one of the main actors of civil society in our country, have been given not only ample opportunities for free participation in elections, but also control over the executive branch. Political parties also have the right to exercise public control based on the interests of the public and their electorate. During election processes, local observers at polling stations consist of representatives of political parties and citizens' self-government bodies.

The role of the media in developing openness and transparency in our society, establishing public control over the activities of government bodies and their officials, studying and resolving legal appeals from citizens is also incomparable. In particular, the number of media registered in 2016–2023 increased by 41%, that is, in 2016 their number was 1614, and by 2023 it reached 2140. The number of mobile Internet users also exceeded 33 million.

As can be seen from the above, the main purpose of public control is to ensure respect for the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of citizens, to ensure legality in the activities of state bodies and officials, and to protect the interests of society.

The Uzbekistan 2030 strategy, developed based on the results of public discussions in order to create a fair and modern state serving the people, identified such priority tasks as: creating the necessary conditions for public participation in the activities of local councils, broad involvement of civil society institutions and the gradual digitalization of their activities, establishing the practice of assessing the activities of heads of state bodies and their deputies based on public opinion, and intensified continuation of work to form an unparalleled attitude towards corruption in society.

As a result of public control, the activities of state bodies in the country are objectively studied, their shortcomings are identified, various violations of legislation are prevented, public participation in the implementation of laws and their preparation is ensured, broader conditions are created for the prompt solution of various problems in society and the will of the population, and special attention should be paid to the fact that public control implies not only control over the quality of the work performed, but also the use of opportunities, as well as participation in their development.

In conclusion, I would like to note that in our republic, constitutional status has been given a state public control. In the new Uzbekistan, the participation of citizens in the management of the affairs of society and the state, including the development and improvement of public control over the activities of state bodies, provides ample opportunities for the full-fledged formation and strengthening of civil society in our country.  If the public control in the country is strong, the state is more humane, free and fair.

N.S.Rasulova, candidate of historical sciences Associate professor of the University  of Public safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Over the past few years, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan have moved from strategic partnership to a fully fledged alliance. Two distinct dimensions now stand out in the way they engage with one another. On the one hand, the institutional foundation of their cooperation is firmly in place; on the other, its economic momentum is only beginning to build. In our view, the balance between the development of political and diplomatic machinery and the practical substance of economic cooperation is what will define the next chapter in Uzbek–Azerbaijani relations.

The institutional architecture

The framework of bilateral ties built by Tashkent and Baku rests largely on top-down coordination: the agenda is set at the level of the heads of state, while intergovernmental, ministerial and business mechanisms deliver it. It is President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan who set the principal vectors of cooperation and its tempo, and who appreciably shorten the time needed to sign off on individual decisions.

This has gradually produced an extensive system of engagement mechanisms. The Supreme Interstate Council was established in 2023 and held its first session in 2024; the same year saw the signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations. In July 2026, Tashkent hosted the fifteenth meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission. The Uzbek–Azerbaijani Business Council has been operating since 2020, three Forums of Regions have been convened, and eleven cities have entered into sister-city arrangements. In the past three years alone there have been more than twenty high-level inter-parliamentary contacts, and in 2025 Khiva hosted the first inter-parliamentary forum.

Contact of this density is normally found between neighboring countries, or between states whose mutual trade runs at far higher levels. For Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan – separated by the Caspian and still trading comparatively little – the degree of institutionalization achieved looks all the more striking.

The practical effect is to lower political and administrative barriers, shorten approval timelines and make it easier for companies to enter the partner’s market. Yet an institutional framework does not in itself generate trade flows or investment demand. It creates favorable conditions for business activity, but it is no substitute for the economic incentives on which the further momentum of cooperation depends.

The next stage, therefore, is likely to be defined less by adding to the number of existing formats than by their capacity to convert the political relationship already achieved into concrete economic results.

The economic dimension: a question of scale

Political dialogue between the two countries is still running well ahead of the underlying economic indicators, as the statistics make plain. Bilateral trade came to $307 million in 2025, an increase of roughly 15 percent. Uzbek exports grew by 8 percent to $227 million, while imports from Azerbaijan rose by 39 percent to $80 million. The Uzbek export basket widened by 116 product lines.

These figures take on a rather different meaning, however, when set against Uzbekistan’s total foreign trade turnover, which exceeded $81 billion in 2025^[1]. Azerbaijan accounted for less than 0.4 percent of it. That number should not be read as a verdict on the quality of the bilateral relationship. What it shows, rather, is how hard it is to translate political alignment into economic ties of real scale – a difficulty rooted in several objective structural constraints.

These include the absence of a shared border and the resulting need for multimodal shipping across the Caspian; a partial overlap in export baskets (textiles, fruit and vegetables, selected chemical products); and similar approaches to diversifying economic ties, which leave the two sides competing on third markets more often than complementing one another.

From this follows a thoroughly practical conclusion. Simply scaling up conventional trade is unlikely to bring the two countries to the $1 billion mark set by their presidents^[2]. Growth will have to be sought through investment and industrial cooperation, where trade flows arise from shared production chains.

Both countries appreciate how important it is to put such systematic work in place, and in recent years the center of gravity of the agenda has shifted noticeably from trade toward investment. The Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Investment Company (AUIC), created in 2023 with charter capital of $500 million, is already involved in fifteen projects worth some $360 million, according to Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade^[3]. The wider pipeline is considerably larger, taking in more than twenty projects worth around $6 billion, with a further twenty-five worth almost $1.5 billion in preparation^[4].

How far investment cooperation reaches beyond declared intentions is best judged from what is happening at specific production sites. The most visible example is the joint vehicle assembly operation run by Uzavtosanoat and Azermash at the Hajigabul industrial park, which has already turned out more than 11,000 Chevrolet cars and Isuzu buses^[5]. The project is now moving into its next phase: a full-cycle plant with investment of more than $84 million. Textile and sericulture clusters are developing in parallel, alongside agro-industrial and logistics projects.

The significance of such ventures is not measured by output alone. Their principal value lies in forging durable production links between the two countries.

Joint manufacturing generates steady demand for mutual deliveries of components, raw materials and equipment, which in effect embeds bilateral trade within a single production chain.

Ties of this kind tend to be less sensitive to swings in the market, since they rest not on one-off deals but on the long-term needs of production. Another consideration matters just as much. Localizing production in Azerbaijan, provided the relevant rules of origin are met, potentially opens the door to third-country markets with which Baku holds preferential trade arrangements.

In that sense, joint ventures can be seen not merely as a means of serving the two national markets, but as a possible platform for promoting products together beyond Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. That effect does not materialize automatically, however: it calls for dedicated work on the trade, customs and legal mechanisms involved.

What will shape further growth?

The institutional architecture now in place, together with the results already achieved in economic cooperation, creates considerable scope for taking the relationship further. Realizing that potential, though, will depend on the two sides’ ability to overcome a number of structural constraints.

Foremost among them are the competition between similar products on third markets noted above and the volatility of Caspian logistics, which reflects the condition of the ferry fleet and the seasonality of shipping. A further brake comes from the difficulty of making direct payments between the two countries’ banks and of insuring cargo, both of which add to the cost and duration of foreign trade transactions.

Against this backdrop, a natural question arises: what could accelerate the pace of cooperation?

One of the most practical steps would be mutual recognition of certificates and laboratory test results, above all for agricultural produce, which would cut both the time and the cost of bringing goods to the partner’s market.

In the financial sphere, there is a strong case for broadening correspondent banking relations and settlement in national currencies, by way of direct payments between banks and convenient currency conversion arrangements. This would reduce reliance on intermediaries and make settlement of trade and investment operations more predictable.

Transport deserves attention in its own right. Expanding the capacity of the Caspian routes, harmonizing tariffs and shipping schedules, and developing digital cargo tracking would all help lower costs for business.

Uzbek–Azerbaijani relations have thus reached the point at which the political capital accumulated over recent years is gradually acquiring economic and practical substance. In this sense it can be said with confidence that the two countries have laid a solid foundation for moving into new areas and deeper forms of allied partnership.

Miraziz Mirumarov, Leading Research Fellow,

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

Iroda Imamova, Leading Research Fellow,

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

[1]https://stat.uz/ru/press-tsentr/novosti-goskomstata/66431-2025-jilda-zbekistonning-tash-i-savdo-ajlanmasi-81-mlrd-dollardan-oshdi-3

[2]https://president.uz/ru/lists/view/8287

[3]https://surl.li/rgudkn

[4]https://surl.li/wbqoju

[5]https://economiczones.gov.az/post/hsp-de-avtomobil-istehsali-artir-az

Ziyoda Rizaeva, Center for Economic Research and Reforms

The global economy is developing amid the restructuring of global supply chains. At the same time, the role of regional formats capable of creating additional opportunities for trade, investment, and industrial cooperation is increasing.

One such format is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which marks its 25th anniversary in 2026. Over the past quarter-century, the organization has significantly expanded its membership, geographical reach, and areas of cooperation, while accumulating considerable experience in multilateral and economic cooperation and developing substantial resource and transport potential.

For Uzbekistan, cooperation within the SCO is important for expanding trade, investment, industrial, and transport ties.

The Growing Importance of the SCO

Over the past quarter-century, the SCO has undergone substantial institutional development. Established in 2001 by six countries, the organization today comprises 10 member states (Kyrgyzstan, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus). India and Pakistan joined the SCO in 2017, Iran became a full member in 2023, and Belarus in 2024. The Organization has 17 partner states, including Azerbaijan, Mongolia, and Afghanistan.

Guided by its fundamental principles, the SCO serves as a reliable guarantor of stability and security in the region, particularly in Central Asia. Amid a rapidly changing international environment and persistent instability, this role of the Organization is becoming increasingly important.

The SCO is neither bloc-based nor confrontational in nature and remains open to cooperation. This clearly demonstrates that its activities are not directed against the interests of other countries or international organizations.

All decisions within the SCO are made by consensus and require the full agreement of all member states. This principle ensures that the interests of every participant are taken into account, guarantees equality among member states, and enhances the Organization’s appeal as a platform for multilateral cooperation.

Today, the SCO member states cover more than 65% of Eurasia’s territory. Their combined population is around 3.4 billion people, or more than 42% of the world’s population. The combined nominal GDP of the SCO countries exceeds $26 trillion, accounting for around one-quarter of the global economy. In purchasing power parity terms, the organization’s member states account for more than one-third of global GDP.

In 2025, the combined economic growth of the SCO countries was around 5%, compared with global growth of 3.4%. The member states differ in terms of economic size, production structure, resource endowment, competitive advantages, and degree of market openness. This diversity creates broad opportunities for specialization, industrial cooperation, and economic complementarity.

The SCO countries possess substantial energy and mineral resources, a developed industrial base, and growing consumer markets. According to calculations based on international energy statistics, the organization’s member states account for around 69% of global coal production and approximately 30% of natural gas production. Their resource endowment and market capacity create favorable conditions for implementing major industrial, energy, and infrastructure projects.

Between 2015 and 2024, intra-SCO trade (exports) increased almost 2.5-fold, from $271 billion to $674 billion. Over the same period, its share in the countries’ combined foreign trade increased from 8.9% to 14.2%.

The expansion of trade ties is being supported by the development of transport routes, digitalization of trade procedures, and the increasingly widespread use of national currencies in mutual settlements.

An important milestone in the SCO’s institutional development was the 2025 Tianjin Summit, where the SCO Development Strategy through 2035 was adopted. The document defined long-term priorities for multilateral cooperation. Of particular importance was the decision to establish the SCO Development Bank, which is expected to expand financing opportunities for regional infrastructure and investment projects.

Uzbekistan and the SCO in the System of Economic Relations

Uzbekistan’s foreign economic relations with the SCO countries have intensified considerably in recent years. According to estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, between 2017 and 2025, trade turnover increased 3.1-fold, from $12.9 billion to $40.6 billion. Exports grew nearly 1.8-fold, from $5.8 billion to $10.65 billion, while imports increased 4.2-fold, from $7.1 billion to $29.96 billion.

As a result, in 2025 the SCO countries accounted for around half of Uzbekistan’s total foreign trade turnover, including 31.5% of the country’s exports and 63.3% of its imports.

Geographically, the bulk of trade is concentrated in China, Russia, and Kazakhstan. In 2025, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with China reached $17.2 billion, with Russia $13 billion, and with Kazakhstan $5 billion. Together, these three countries accounted for around 87% of Uzbekistan’s trade with SCO member states.

Trade with India reached $1.3 billion, followed by Kyrgyzstan at $1.2 billion, Belarus at $965 million, Tajikistan at $912 million, Iran at $579 million, and Pakistan at $446 million.

The SCO countries are major markets for Uzbek fruit and vegetables and other food products, textiles, electrical goods, and automotive products.

A significant share of imports from SCO countries consists of machinery and equipment, industrial goods, raw materials, and food products used by Uzbekistan’s domestic market and manufacturing sector.

The existing trade structure demonstrates Uzbekistan’s high level of economic interconnectedness with SCO countries.

Investment and Industrial Cooperation within the SCO

Further development of trade between Uzbekistan and the SCO member states creates a foundation for deeper investment and industrial cooperation. For Uzbekistan, particular interest lies in moving toward joint ventures, localization of technological processes, and the development of industrial cooperation between enterprises across SCO countries.

In 2025, the volume of foreign investment and loans in fixed capital in Uzbekistan amounted to $33.5 billion. Manufacturing accounted for 33.2% of the total, electricity and gas supply for 17.1%, and mining for 11.9%. The structure of investment indicates significant potential for further development of industrial cooperation, joint production, and localization of technological processes.

SCO member states occupy a significant place in Uzbekistan’s investment cooperation. In 2025, investment from the Organization’s member states amounted to $17.5 billion. The largest volumes came from China ($13 billion) and Russia ($2.6 billion). Other partners included Kazakhstan ($870 million), Iran ($265 million), India ($247 million), Kyrgyzstan ($197 million), Tajikistan ($196 million), Belarus ($76.5 million), and Pakistan ($52.5 million).

Facilitating mutual trade, harmonizing standards, developing production and logistics chains, and promoting mutual investment were identified by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the 2025 Tianjin Summit as priority areas of economic cooperation within the SCO. To promote direct business dialogue, the President proposed holding an annual “SCO Invest” Investment Forum.

The initiative received practical follow-up as early as 2026. During Kyrgyzstan’s SCO chairmanship, the SCO Investment and Business Forum was held in Bishkek on June 24–25 with representatives of the organization’s member states. The forum covered investment and trade and economic cooperation, industrial and technological cooperation, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and new industrialization.

Another area of industrial cooperation involves utilizing the resource potential of SCO countries. Uzbekistan’s initiative to establish an SCO Regional Center for Critical Materials provides for cooperation in modern technologies for the extraction and deep processing of mineral resources. The proposed SCO Energy Consortium is aimed at developing joint energy projects. Uzbekistan has also proposed establishing a network of venture companies and funds to support innovative projects.

For Uzbekistan, these new cooperation formats within the SCO expand opportunities for attracting investment and technology, localizing production, and increasing the output of high-value-added products.

Transport Connectivity and New Routes

Transport cooperation occupies one of the most important places in Uzbekistan’s trade and economic relations with SCO countries. According to estimates by the Center for Transport and Logistics Development Studies, over the past five years the volume of international freight transportation with the organization’s member states increased by 40%, or 9 million tonnes, reaching 33.5 million tonnes in 2025. SCO countries account for around 80% of Uzbekistan’s international freight transportation, with the largest volumes involving Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and Kyrgyzstan. According to Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport, freight transportation with SCO countries could reach 47 million tonnes by 2030.

Growing freight flows are increasing the importance of new routes connecting East, Central, and South Asia. The 2025 Tianjin Declaration provides for further cooperation along the North–South and East–West corridors, the establishment and modernization of international transport routes, greater use of the transit potential of SCO member states, and the digitalization of logistics procedures.

One of the most significant projects for Uzbekistan is the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, construction of which began in December 2024. The new route is expected to shorten the distance from East Asia toward the Middle East and Southern Europe by around 900 km, while reducing delivery times by 7–8 days. Potential freight volumes are estimated at 12–15 million tonnes per year (Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan).

Another important route is the Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan railway. In July 2025, the parties signed a framework intergovernmental agreement on preparing its feasibility study. Linking the two railway projects would make it possible to create a continuous route from China through Central Asia and Afghanistan to Pakistan and the ports of the Indian Ocean.

Infrastructure projects are complemented by efforts to optimize railway transportation conditions. At Uzbekistan’s initiative, the creation of an SCO Council for the Integration of Railway Networks is being considered, with the aim of reducing physical and administrative barriers and improving the connectivity of member states’ railway systems.

For Uzbekistan, the development of new transport corridors expands access to the markets of Eurasia and South Asia and strengthens the country’s potential as a transit hub between the SCO’s major economic centers.

New Areas of Cooperation

The expansion of economic interaction within the SCO is accompanied by the emergence of new areas for joint work. Scientific and technological cooperation, energy, environmental protection, food security, education, and tourism are already part of the organization’s sectoral cooperation framework, while a number of recent initiatives are aimed at creating practical mechanisms in these areas.

One promising area remains scientific and technological cooperation. At the 2025 Tianjin Summit, Uzbekistan proposed creating an “SCO Network of Innovation and Technology Hubs” to generate new ideas and facilitate technology transfer. Artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, bioengineering, and alternative energy were identified among the priority areas.

Considerable potential is concentrated in energy and the green transition. According to China’s National Energy Administration, by the end of 2024 the total installed renewable energy capacity in SCO countries had reached 2.31 billion kW, increasing 14.5-fold compared with 2001 and accounting for around half of the global total. In 2025, SCO countries adopted a Statement on Cooperation in the Field of Green Industry. Uzbekistan also proposed establishing an SCO Energy Consortium and a Regional Platform on climate adaptation, decarbonization, and the use of artificial intelligence to forecast environmental risks.

Environmental cooperation is particularly important for Central Asia. Since 2013, the Central Asian Research Center for Ecology and Environment has been operating in Tashkent as part of cooperation between China and the countries of the region. More than 80 monitoring stations have been deployed in the Aral Sea region, while joint research covers ecosystem and water-resource conditions, salt and dust storms, and the restoration of saline lands.

Food security is another important area. The SCO has established a mechanism for meetings of agriculture ministers, while cooperation covers agricultural technologies, scientific research, breeding and seed production, resource-efficient technologies, and agricultural trade. For Uzbekistan, expanding this cooperation is important for improving agricultural productivity and gaining access to the large food markets of SCO member states.

Humanitarian cooperation encompasses education, science, and culture. Uzbekistan has proposed creating an online campus within the “SCO University” partner network, holding annual competitions and Olympiads for students and young professionals in innovative fields, and establishing a Great Silk Road Cultural Dialogue.

At the Tianjin Summit, Uzbekistan also proposed exploring the launch of a “Tourism Corridor.” In 2026, the initiative received practical follow-up. At a meeting of the heads of tourism authorities of SCO member states in Bishkek, the parties discussed the development of tourism corridors and joint routes, including attracting visitors from third countries. In April, at a meeting of SCO health ministries, particular attention was also given to Uzbekistan’s proposed concept for a Medical Tourism Alliance and mechanisms for its implementation.

Conclusion

As the SCO marks its 25th anniversary, the organization is entering a new stage of institutional development of economic cooperation. The SCO Development Strategy through 2035 has been adopted, along with the decision to establish the SCO Development Bank; discussions on its financial and governance model are ongoing, and a new strategy for the SCO Interbank Consortium for 2027–2031 is being prepared. At the same time, transport projects are advancing and sectoral cooperation is expanding in energy, industry, technology, agriculture, and tourism.

The next stage will largely depend on the ability of existing and emerging mechanisms to ensure the implementation of multilateral projects. Establishing the SCO’s own project-financing instrument is becoming particularly important. Further progress is also required in the digitalization of trade and customs procedures, settlements in national currencies, integration of transport routes, and convergence of conditions for doing business.

For Uzbekistan, further deepening economic cooperation within the SCO is primarily associated with expanding technological and investment cooperation, industrial partnerships, deeper processing of raw materials, and access to new markets. The wide range of partners within the organization enables the country to diversify its sources of investment, production linkages, and export destinations.

It is the practical implementation of multilateral mechanisms that will determine the next stage of economic cooperation within the SCO. In this context, the anniversary Bishkek Summit, to be held under the motto “25 Years of the SCO: Together Towards Sustainable Peace, Development and Prosperity,” will become an important milestone in the further institutional development of cooperation. The organization approaches the summit with a number of decisions already adopted and initiatives that moved into the practical development stage in 2026. Their implementation will demonstrate how consistently the SCO can transform agreements into joint economic projects and sustainable mechanisms of cooperation.

Leading international media outlets - including “CNN”, “Forbes”, “The Wall Street Journal”, “The Economist”, “Arab News” and “China Daily” - characterize the project as a “global-scale megaproject”, “pearl of Central Asia and a space that is shaping the modern understanding of Islamic civilization”.

The opening of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has sparked broad international interest and has become a focal point for the world's leading media. Publications about the Center have appeared in more than 20 countries and in 7 languages - including English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Turkish and Russian - reaching a total audience of over 1.5 billion people. These materials, prepared by international journalists, analysts and experts, reflect the high level of interest in the project from the global professional community.

International media emphasize the symbolic nature of this event. As “Arab News” notes, “the opening of the Center, initiated by President of Uzbekistan, took place during the holy month of Ramadan, just as the laying of the first stone did eight years ago, giving the project a special historical and spiritual continuity”. Meanwhile, “Khaleej Times” writes that the Center represents a “unique space where cutting-edge technology and modern scientific approaches are harmoniously combined”.

As “Forbes” notes, “under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country is implementing a strategy of sustainable development and economic openness” and amidst rapid technological changes and growing global tensions - ranging from geopolitical conflicts to discussions on cultural identity - Center of Islamic Civilization “is transforming its civilizational heritage into a modern tool of soft power”. “The Wall Street Journal” points out that the Center “unites a rich historical legacy”, highlighting its integrative function.

“China Daily” refers to the Center of Islamic Civilization as “one of Uzbekistan's key cultural and scientific projects”, contributing to the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Uzbekistan and China, while “The Korea Times” notes that the complex “reflects the humanistic and enlightening essence of Islamic civilization” and “serves as a modern platform for cultural dialogue and scientific collaboration”.

“Euronews” characterizes the Center as a “new hub for heritage and research”, bringing together scientific research, education and modern exhibition practices. The Spanish publication “ABC” notes that “Uzbekistan is reviving the legacy of the Great Silk Road”, linking the project to the region's historical role as a center of civilizational exchange.

In turn, Hungarian publication “Hello Magyar” emphasizes that “the complex's architectural concept is impressive not only for its grandeur but also for its full compliance with modern urban planning and environmental sustainability standards”, noting its architectural expressiveness and alignment with contemporary sustainable development requirements. The Turkish publication “Yeni Konya” characterized the Center of Islamic Civilization as a “monumental and majestic center that can be considered one of the most important historical, cultural and artistic achievements of the Islamic world in the last century”.

In Azerbaijani media, specifically the publication “Caliber.az”, Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has been described as a “candidate for the Guinness World Records”, highlighting its immense scale and uniqueness.

Center is becoming more than just a new museum; it is part of a broader narrative - a story of how countries rediscover their heritage and make it accessible to the world. Today, the Center is already open to visitors. Experts also note the Center's potential influence on the development of cultural tourism. This new complex is capable of becoming a key attraction for international visitors, strengthening interest in Uzbekistan as a destination with a unique historical and intellectual legacy. However, judging by the attention from the global press, its significance extends far beyond tourism.

Today, climate change stands as one of the most urgent and complex global challenges, with its negative effects being particularly acute in ecologically fragile regions under high anthropogenic pressure. One such area is the Aral Sea region, where the consequences of climate change are having a far-reaching impact on the state of natural resources, the living standards of the population, and economic activities.

The desiccation of the Aral Sea has led to a sharp change in the region's microclimate, an increase in air temperature, a decrease in precipitation, intensified wind activity, and a greater frequency of dust and sand storms. These processes are causing land degradation, water scarcity, and a decline in biodiversity. Consequently, agricultural productivity is diminishing, the pressure on drinking water supplies is mounting, and a serious threat to public health is emerging.

Climate change adaptation measures in the Aral Sea region primarily encompass a comprehensive set of actions aimed at sustainable water resource management, strengthening hydro-technical infrastructure, establishing protective forest plantations on the dried seabed, reducing land degradation, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing the climate resilience of the population.

In the New Uzbekistan, the issue of adapting to climate change is one of the priority directions of state policy.

Under the leadership of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, numerous initiatives are being advanced at the international level to ensure environmental sustainability, protect natural resources, and adapt to climate change.

Notably, on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, a special resolution "On declaring the Aral Sea region a zone of environmental innovations and technologies" was adopted at the 75th session of the UN General Assembly on May 18, 2021.

Today, programs aimed at transforming the Aral Sea region into a zone of environmental innovations and technologies, developing green infrastructure, and increasing the population's resilience to climate change are being consistently implemented. This is crucial for combating the negative environmental and public health consequences of the Aral Sea's desiccation, addressing the resulting problems, and improving the living conditions of the local population by ensuring their employment.

In his speech at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025, the leader of Uzbekistan will emphasize that the negative consequences of the Aral Sea's desiccation must remain a constant focus of the global community. It will be noted that in recent years, 2 million hectares of salt-tolerant desert plants have been planted on the dried seabed, and by 2030, green cover will be established across 80 percent of this area.

The International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) is a key institutional center that develops practical solutions for climate change adaptation.

The Agency of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), operating within the IFAS system, plays a crucial role in implementing climate change adaptation measures in the Aral Sea region.

Specifically, within the framework of the "Creation of Small Water Bodies in the Amu Darya Delta (Phase II) " project, mechanisms for a stable water supply to the lake system have been improved. This is enabling the redistribution of water resources, regulation of the hydrological regime, and strengthening of the region's ecological balance.

In parallel, the reconstruction of the Muynak Canal has significantly increased its water conveyance capacity. Water distribution efficiency has improved, the water supply to the lakes has stabilized, and water losses have been considerably reduced.

Furthermore, as part of the reconstruction of the "Ribache" reservoir dam, hydraulic structures were reinforced, water discharge systems were modernized, and the risk of erosion was significantly diminished. This contributes to strengthening water security and ensuring the effective and rational use of water resources.

In the area of ecological restoration, protective forests are being established in the Akhantay and Akkum areas. Forest reclamation measures carried out on the dried seabed are helping to reduce wind erosion and salt migration processes. Through these efforts, the microclimate in the region is stabilizing, and landscape degradation is being prevented.

At the same time, the social dimension is also vital for ensuring environmental sustainability. To this end, competitions, educational campaigns, and promotional events aimed at raising ecological awareness among youth are regularly organized.

Additionally, modern models for the sustainable use of water and land resources are being introduced for the local population and farms. In this process, special attention is focused on the widespread adoption of water-saving technologies, effective management of land resources, rational land administration, and the implementation of agricultural practices adapted to climate change.

As a result of these measures, it is possible not only to mitigate environmental problems but also to raise the population's standard of living, ensure economic stability, and strengthen the region's resilience to climate change.

A Digital and Scientific Approach: A New Stage in Climate Adaptation

At the current stage, climate change adaptation processes are not limited to traditional methods but are being integrated with modern digital technologies and scientific approaches. Specifically, these include:

- real-time monitoring of hydrological and meteorological data;

- analyzing the condition of territories based on satellite imagery;

- planning and optimal allocation of water resources;

- and collecting and managing data through digital platforms.

These approaches enable the early detection of climate change impacts, the reduction of risks, and the efficient use of resources.

At the same time, international cooperation is crucial for the effective implementation of climate change adaptation measures in the Aral Sea region. In particular, through collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), efforts are underway to enhance the region's climate resilience through sustainable water resource management and the introduction of integrated approaches.

Additionally, in partnership with the Global Water Partnership (GWP), mechanisms for ensuring water security and the rational use of resources are being developed. Meanwhile, projects implemented with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) involve monitoring the ecosystems of the Aral Sea's wetlands to assess the impacts of climate change and develop adaptation measures.

Adapting to climate change in the Aral Sea region is not merely about addressing environmental problems; it is a fundamental condition for achieving sustainable development.

The ongoing systemic reforms show that through a scientific approach, modern technologies, and institutional cooperation, sustainable solutions can be achieved even amid the most complex environmental crises.

The primary task now is to prioritize climate change adaptation in every sector and integrate it into our way of life.

This is because adapting to climate change is not just a present-day task, but a strategic responsibility to future generations.

Birodarjon Burkhonjonov,

Head of the Agency of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea.

Today, one of the priority areas of state policy in Uzbekistan is focused on expanding forested areas, increasing green coverage, mitigating the negative impacts of climate change, and ensuring environmental sustainability. In order to achieve effective results in these areas, studying advanced foreign experience and adapting it to the country’s climatic conditions is of particular importance. In this context, the participation of a delegation of representatives of the Forestry Agency under the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of Uzbekistan in a training and practical seminar organized during their visit to the Republic of Turkey in October 2025 was of significant importance.

The seminar, organized in cooperation between the Forestry Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Turkey, enabled participants to familiarize themselves with Turkey’s experience in forest establishment, restoration, ecological classification, and sustainable forest management. In particular, on the first day of the seminar, Turkish specialist Ahmed Yalvach delivered a detailed presentation on modern approaches applied in the development of forestry.

Within the framework of the practical visit, Turkey’s advanced experience in establishing and managing nurseries, creating forests using the “terrace” method in mountainous areas, developing “green belts” around cities, and establishing green public parks in urban and district areas was studied.

In addition, members of the delegation closely examined the activities of nurseries operated by the Seydikemer and Gökova Forestry Departments located in Muğla Province. Notably, the Seydikemer nursery, established in 1983, covers an area of 144 hectares and has an annual production capacity of 1.5 million seedlings. The Gökova nursery, occupying more than 61 hectares, stands out with its capacity to produce up to 7 million seedlings per year.

It was emphasized that special attention to seed collection, storage, and laboratory analysis in these nurseries allows the production rate of high-quality seedlings and saplings to reach 90–95 percent. Participants studied the practical experience of Turkish specialists in establishing mother plantations, caring for seedlings and saplings, and grafting techniques.

The delegation members were also introduced to the use of greenhouses, in vitro laboratories, modern equipment, and mechanisms for managing seasonal work processes. The experience-sharing activities were conducted in an atmosphere of open dialogue and professional cooperation.

In conclusion, cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkey in the forestry sector has acquired a practical dimension, contributing to the adoption of advanced practices, enhancement of specialists’ capacity, and the formation of a sustainable ecological environment in Uzbekistan. The knowledge and skills gained within the framework of this cooperation will play an important role in further improving the national forestry system.

Тошкент шаҳрида Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича илк тизимли баҳолаш натижалари муҳокама қилинди ҳамда паст углеродли иқтисодиётга ўтиш шароитида технологик модернизациянинг устувор йўналишлари маҳаллий ва халқаро экспертлар иштирокида муҳокама қилинди.

Тошкент, 2026 йил 28 апрель. Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази (Марказ) Бирлашган Миллатлар Ташкилотининг Тараққиёт дастури (БМТТД) билан ҳамкорликда Ўзбекистон цемент саноатида углерод чиқиндиларини камайтириш масалаларига бағишланган давра суҳбатини ўтказди.

Тадбирда давлат ташкилотлари, соҳа мутахассислари, олимлар, саноат корхоналари, молия ташкилотлари ҳамда халқаро ташкилотлар вакиллари иштирок этди.

Тадбирдан мақсад цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича ўтказилган баҳолаш натижаларини муҳокама қилиш, шунингдек тармоқни технологик модернизация қилиш ва паст углеродли ривожланишга ўтиш бўйича амалий ёндашувларни ишлаб чиқишдан иборат бўлди.

Тадбирда сўзга чиққан Марказ директорининг ўринбосари Нозимжон Ортиқов тармоқни ривожлантириш ва углерод изини камайтириш ўзаро боғлиқ вазифалар эканини таъкидлади. Унинг сўзларига кўра, цемент ишлаб чиқаришни модернизация қилиш бир вақтнинг ўзида иқтисодий ўсишни таъминлаш ва тармоқнинг экологик барқарорлигини ошириш имконини беради.

Ўзбекистондаги БМТТД доимий вакилининг ўринбосари Анас Карман қурилиш соҳасининг мамлакат иқтисодиётидаги муҳим ўрнини таъкидлаб, цемент ишлаб чиқаришда паст углеродли ечимларни жадал жорий этиш зарурлигини қайд этди.

Марказ мутахассислари Абдурашид Бозоров ва Бахтиёр Исмоилов цемент саноатида иссиқхона газлари чиқиндилари бўйича комплекс базавий баҳолаш натижаларини тақдим этди. Ушбу баҳолаш иқлим ўзгариши бўйича Ҳукуматлараро экспертлар гуруҳи методологияси асосида тайёрланган.

Цемент саноатини декарбонизация қилиш Ўзбекистоннинг халқаро иқлим мажбуриятлари нуқтаи назаридан алоҳида аҳамият касб этмоқда. Янгиланган мақсадларга мувофиқ, мамлакат 2035 йилга қадар ялпи ички маҳсулотнинг углерод сиғимини 2010 йилга нисбатан 50 фоизга камайтиришни режалаштирмоқда. Шунингдек, 2060 йилга бориб углерод нейтраллигига эришиш имкониятлари ҳам кўриб чиқилмоқда.

Шу билан бирга, цемент саноати барқарор ўсишни намоён этмоқда. Сўнгги йилларда ишлаб чиқариш ҳажми икки баравардан ортиқ ошиб, 2019 йилдаги 10,5 миллион тоннадан ҳозирги кунда 20 миллион тоннадан зиёд кўрсаткичга етди. Экспертлар фикрича, инфратузилма ва қурилиш соҳасининг ривожланиши туфайли талаб юқори даражада сақланиб қолади.

Тақдим этилган маълумотларга кўра, мамлакатда йиллик умумий қуввати тахминан 37 миллион тонна бўлган 24 та цемент заводи фаолият юритмоқда. Шу билан бирга, амалдаги ишлаб чиқариш ҳажми тахминан 21,5 миллион тоннани ташкил этмоқда.

Таҳлиллар шуни кўрсатадики, энг йирик 13 та корхона умумий ишлаб чиқариш ҳажмининг қарийб 95 фоизини таъминламоқда. Бу эса ишлаб чиқаришнинг юқори даражада жамланганини кўрсатиб, технологик модернизация учун қулай шароитлар яратиш зарурлигини англатади.

Марказ баҳолашларига кўра, цементнинг асосий таркибий қисми бўлган клинкер ишлаб чиқариш босқичида углерод диоксиди чиқиндилари йилига тахминан 9 миллион тоннани ташкил этади (энергия сарфи, ёқилғи ва транспорт харажатлари ҳисобга олинмаган ҳолда). Шу муносабат билан, йирик корхоналарни модернизация қилиш тармоқда чиқиндиларни камайтириш салоҳиятининг асосий қисмини таъминлаши қайд этилди.

Тадқиқот натижалари, жумладан цемент ишлаб чиқаришнинг тахминан тўртдан уч қисмини таъминлайдиган 16 та етакчи корхона ўртасида ўтказилган сўров ҳамда халқаро кўрсаткичлар билан таққослама таҳлиллар тармоқда углерод изини камайтириш бўйича катта имкониятлар мавжудлигини кўрсатмоқда. Хусусан, бу салоҳият цемент таркибини оптималлаштириш, ишлаб чиқаришда энергия самарадорлигини ошириш ва муқобил ёқилғи турларидан фойдаланишни кенгайтириш билан боғлиқ.

Шу билан бирга, тармоқни янада ривожлантириш ва “яшил” инвестицияларни жалб этиш молиялаштириш шароитларини такомиллаштиришни, замонавий технологияларга кириш имкониятларини кенгайтиришни, тартибга солувчи жараёнларни соддалаштиришни, шунингдек малакали кадрлар тайёрлаш ва экологик тоза маҳсулотларга бўлган талабни шакллантиришни талаб этади.

Энергия самарадорлигини ошириш, клинкер улушини камайтириш, ортиқча иссиқликни қайта ишлатиш технологияларини жорий этиш ва углеродни ушлаб қолиш ечимларини ривожлантиришни ўз ичига олган чора-тадбирлар мажмуасини амалга ошириш чиқиндиларни барқарор камайтириш ҳамда тармоқ рақобатбардошлигини ошириш имконини беради.

Иқтисодий тадқиқотлар ва ислоҳотлар маркази

Жамоатчилик билан алоқалар бўлими

The state visit of the President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Seok-yol at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has ended.
During the three-day visit, high-level talks were held, at the end of which the leaders signed a joint statement on further deepening and comprehensive expansion of the Special Strategic Partnership. A bilateral set of documents was received.
The heads of state participated in a joint business forum with the participation of representatives of leading Korean companies and banking and financial institutions.
The presidents visited the Technopark in Tashkent and got acquainted with the existing potential for industrial cooperation.
Today, the dialogue between the heads of state continued in Samarkand. The presidents and their wives got acquainted with the historical and architectural masterpieces of the ancient city.
After the end of the visit, President Yun Sok Yol and his wife were escorted by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his wife at the airport.

Over the past five years, the open dialogue between the President of Uzbekistan and entrepreneurs has evolved from a new feedback format into a stable mechanism of economic policy. Its importance is defined not only by the number of appeals received or proposals voiced. The main result has been a consistent transition from removing individual barriers to changing the rules of doing business themselves – in taxation, lending, access to land and infrastructure, export support, digitalization of services, and protection of entrepreneurs’ rights.

The logic of the five meetings held so far is clearly reflected in their dynamics. The first dialogue in 2021 focused on removing the most urgent post-pandemic restrictions and restoring trust between the state and the private sector. The second established a categorized approach to businesses and territories. The third set the goal of helping companies grow from microbusiness to small business, from small to medium-sized and large enterprises. The fourth expanded access to capital, land, energy, and markets. The fifth focused on legalizing entrepreneurial activity, developing digital financial services, simplifying tax administration, supporting startups, and protecting investments.

It is important to note that entrepreneurship indicators are the result of the full range of economic reforms, not only the annual meetings. However, the open dialogues have become the platform where business problems are translated into specific decisions, and their practical implementation is reviewed at the next meeting.

As Uzbekistan approaches the upcoming sixth dialogue, scheduled for August 2026, the country has a fundamentally different business climate from the one with which this process began.

2021: The First Dialogue

The first open dialogue took place on August 20, 2021. At that time, entrepreneurship was emerging from a difficult pandemic period, and businesses needed affordable financial resources, predictable taxation, simplified exports, protection of property, and reduced administrative pressure.

More than 15,000 appeals were received before the meeting, and about half of them were resolved on the spot. Following the discussion, the President outlined seven main areas of work and proposed holding the open dialogue annually. August 20 was designated as Entrepreneurs’ Day.

One of the central issues was access to financing. To strengthen banks’ resource base, $600 million was allocated through the Fund for Reconstruction and Development, and Eurobonds worth about $417 million were placed in the national currency. Foreign-currency loans of around 6,000 entrepreneurs, totaling about $1 billion, were converted into the national currency. This reduced currency risks for borrowers and expanded opportunities for long-term local-currency lending.

Conditions for microfinance organizations were simplified, while in the tax sphere the reduction of the tax burden and simplification of administration continued. For exporters, a mechanism was introduced to refund 80% of VAT within 7 days instead of 60 days, without additional inspections.

Significant changes also affected exports and logistics. Enterprises exporting goods with high added value were given the opportunity to receive compensation for up to 50% of transport costs for deliveries to neighboring countries and up to 70% for deliveries to the EU. The requirement for repeated national certification of a number of types of equipment, components, and raw materials already certified in countries with advanced quality control systems was abolished.

In regulation, more than 40 duplicating control functions were eliminated. The digitalization of permitting procedures expanded, while the process of receiving subsidies was transferred to a Single Window system.

As a result, by August 2022, the number of exporting enterprises reached 7,500, while total exports grew by 30%. In the first seven months of 2022, exporters received about $14.2 million in transport subsidies, and the geography of exports expanded by another 32 markets. A total of 15,800 land plots were put up for online auction, while more than 54,000 vacant land plots with a total area of over 22,000 hectares were entered into the YerElectron system.

2022: The Second Dialogue

The second open dialogue took place on August 22, 2022. Before the meeting, more than 12,000 appeals were received. Entrepreneurs were mainly concerned with issues related to financing new projects, working capital, connection to infrastructure, allocation of land, tax administration, and inspections.

The main decision of the dialogue was the categorization of businesses. Enterprises were divided by annual turnover: up to about $83,000 as microbusinesses, up to about $834,000 as small businesses, and up to about $8.3 million as medium-sized businesses. This made it possible to apply differentiated regulatory and support measures based on the scale, financial capacity, and stage of development of each enterprise. As a result, smaller companies no longer had to bear the same regulatory burden as larger businesses.

Starting in 2023, a single turnover tax rate of 4% was introduced for microbusinesses, replacing the previous range of 4% to 25%. For enterprises moving to the general taxation regime as their turnover increased, a twofold reduction in profit tax for one year was introduced. This measure helped 370,000 entrepreneurs move to the next stage of development.

Another major decision was the reduction of the VAT rate to 12% from January 1, 2023. At the same time, about $167 million of debt arising from the application of increased tax rates on unused buildings and land plots was written off.

The categorization of districts and cities according to business conditions was also important. Territories were divided into five groups, for which different regimes of taxation, subsidies, interest compensation, guarantees, and infrastructure connection began to be formed. Special tax, credit, and financial conditions were introduced in 60 districts of the republic.

A principle was also established under which a decision to allocate land or property to an entrepreneur can be canceled only by a court. In addition, criminal liability for violating trade rules was abolished.

By August 2023, the results of the second dialogue were already reflected not only in regulatory acts but also in measurable indicators. State support measures began to depend on the scale of a company and the conditions of a territory, while business growth no longer automatically meant a sharp increase in the regulatory burden.

2023: The Third Dialogue

The third open dialogue was held on August 18, 2023. It announced the creation of a comprehensive system for training entrepreneurs, preparing projects, providing financing, and finding new markets and partners.

Fourteen small business centers were established in each region with the aim of helping 150,000 small business entities get on their feet, moving 25,000 companies into the medium-sized category, and creating 250,000 permanent jobs.

To support the transition from small to medium-sized business, an industrial mortgage system was launched, providing businesses with ready-made production facilities. The program “New Uzbekistan: A Country of Competitive Products,” which previously covered 100 leading exporters, was expanded to 500 enterprises. The state moved from general export support to targeted work with companies capable of entering new markets and introducing international standards.

By August 2024, more than 700 issues, initiatives, and new projects proposed by entrepreneurs had been supported. An additional about $667 million was allocated, while another about $1.5 billion was directed to industry, agriculture, services, and entrepreneurial infrastructure.

The turnover of entrepreneurs grew by 25% over the year and reached about $82.2 billion. The number of medium-sized enterprises with turnover from about $834,000 to $8.3 million doubled, while the number of large companies with turnover above about $8.3 million exceeded 2,200, also roughly doubling compared to the previous year.

Joint work by the tax, banking, and financial-economic systems at the level of mahallas and clients helped 16,000 previously loss-making enterprises earn about $542 million in profit in half a year. The number of enterprises in categories “A” and “B” in the entrepreneurship rating increased by 91,000, while another 170,000 companies moved out of the lowest “D” category.

The level of business sustainability was especially telling: the share of enterprises operating for more than three years reached 76%, while the number of such active entities approached 300,000 for the first time.

2024: The Fourth Dialogue

The fourth open dialogue took place on August 20, 2024, in Nukus. During the year, the government, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Business Ombudsman, and khokims worked with entrepreneurial initiatives on a permanent basis. As a result, a number of effective economic measures were adopted.

The amount of microcredit was tripled to about $25,000, while collateral was no longer required for part of the loan up to about $8,300. Work began on preparing a law on Islamic finance, which was estimated as a source of an additional $5 billion in resources. VAT on land purchased through auctions was abolished. Installment payment terms for land were set at up to 3 years in Tashkent and regional centers, up to 5 years in other regions, and up to 10 years in districts of the fourth and fifth categories.

For industrial enterprises, the procedure for paying for electricity and gas when consumption limits were exceeded was softened. To launch the production of new types of domestic products based on long-term orders, $100 million was allocated.

As a result, by August 2025, 1,600 microenterprises had increased their turnover above about $834,000 and moved into the medium-sized category. Another 143 microenterprises exceeded turnover of about $8.3 million and became large businesses, while 122 small enterprises also entered the large business category.

In 2024 alone, 16 types of licenses and permits were abolished, which, according to estimates, saved entrepreneurs about $29.2 million.

By the time of the fifth dialogue, more than 600 startups were operating in the country. In the first seven months of 2025, they attracted $264 million in foreign investment, four times more than in the whole of 2024.

2025: The Fifth Dialogue

The fifth open dialogue took place on August 20, 2025, in New Tashkent. In preparation for the dialogue, meetings and consultations were held with almost 7,000 entrepreneurs representing 26 sectors. In addition, more than 13,000 appeals and initiatives were received through call centers.

The main result of the five-year cycle was that hundreds of entrepreneurial initiatives had already been enshrined in legislation. The agenda of the fifth meeting focused on further reducing the cost of doing business and supporting the transition from the informal sector to the legal economy.

The largest changes affected 300,000 individual entrepreneurs and 5.5 million self-employed people. A special legal regime was introduced for them until 2030, with digital services from registration to reporting, remote biometrics, electronic wallets for salary payments, and a universal QR code for accepting payments.

In addition, starting from January 1, 2026, individual entrepreneurs and self-employed people with annual turnover of up to about $83,000 pay turnover tax at a rate of 1% instead of 4%. Thus, the tax burden for businesses with turnover of up to about $83,000 was reduced by 3 to 4 times.

According to Presidential Decree No.214 of November 14, 2025, the principle of “Starting a business in 15 minutes” is introduced from January 1, 2026. Under this approach, when registering a business, an entrepreneur immediately receives an electronic digital signature, a bank account, the ability to formalize a lease, register a cash register, and submit the necessary notifications. This further simplifies the start of entrepreneurial activity and makes opening one’s own business more accessible.

It is important to note that 2025 data show that 493,000 enterprises were operating in the country, while 82,400 new enterprises were created during the year. The share of small business amounted to 52.2% of GDP, 36.6% of exports, and 28.5% of industrial production. In construction, its share reached 75.6%; in trade, 83%; and in services, 47.2%.

These figures show that entrepreneurship has become one of the pillars of Uzbekistan’s economy, accounting for a significant share of production, trade, construction, services, and exports. The scale of the private sector that has been formed creates a solid foundation for the further expansion of business activity, higher competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth in Uzbekistan.

Conclusion

The five open dialogues have formed a new tradition of interaction between the state and the business community. Its key feature is continuity: each new year begins with an assessment of already implemented decisions and then expands the horizon of new tasks.

During this period, many effective and useful decisions for business development have been adopted. However, the main outcome lies not so much in the number of measures taken as in the formation of a stable class of entrepreneurs capable of creating jobs, investing, introducing new technologies, and competing in foreign markets.

The sixth dialogue will be important precisely as the next stage of this trajectory. It is expected that particular importance will be attached to decisions that help introduce artificial intelligence and digital technologies into business, train managerial and engineering personnel, improve energy efficiency, implement international standards, and create competitive national brands.

If these expectations are translated into measurable decisions and implemented with the same continuity as in previous years, the open dialogue format will continue to perform its main function: turning the accumulated experience of entrepreneurs into a practical development program for the entire economy.

Khurshed Asadov,

Deputy Director of the Center for Economic Research and Reforms