UNODC in Iran has been actively present in the Islamic Republic of Iran since 1999 and considers Iran as one of the strategic partners for drug control and crime prevention in the region. It has been supporting the Islamic Republic of Iran by providing technical assistance and training for years ever since its establishment, the UN website announced in a press release on January 3.

The comprehensive curriculum of this study visit encompassed various activities and topics, inter alia session on “Construction and structure of an optimal canine center, management of an optimal canine center; staffing of an optimal canine center; breeding, health, treatment, food, etc. for drug-detecting dogs”, the report added.

The theoretical courses including different lectures and seminars, were complemented by practical training.

The attendees learned about the specific ways of training and dealing with working dogs. They also acquired needed practical knowledge for managing kennels.

According to the report, the members of the Iranian delegation visited the veterinary ward and had the opportunity to directly ask their questions from the specialized medical staff. The head of the medical center provided the delegation with pertinent information and answered questions regarding structure, staffing, equipment, and other technical aspects of the management of the veterinary ward.

At the end of the training and pursuant to the official ceremony at the Regional Customs Canine Centre of Uzbekistan, memorial trees were planted to symbolize enduring fellowship among partners in Iran and Uzbekistan and continuous cooperation in the future.

Highlighting the importance of international cooperation in the fight against narcotics, Alexander Fedulov, the UNODC representative in Tehran, hoped that future activities of a similar nature would continue upon the provision of support by donors.

Global support essential in fight against narcotics

Iran anti-narcotics police chief, Iraj Kakavand, in a meeting with Fedulov, called it essential to support Iran in the fight against drug trafficking.

During the meeting, which was held in October 2023, Fedulov said the Islamic Republic of Iran has always been committed to a serious and decisive fight against narcotics at the regional and global level, IRIB reported.

Iran has spent a huge sum of money fighting the war on drugs, and apart from that, many anti-narcotics forces have sacrificed their lives in this way. The high number of martyrs and injured shows Iran’s serious determination to deal with this scourge, the UN official added.

“Considering the fact that the Islamic Republic of Iran is at the forefront of the fight against drug trafficking, the UNODC and the international community support of Iran should be proportionate to the activities and actions at the regional and global level.”

He stated since new smuggling routes and concealment methods are emerging, it is necessary for the anti-narcotics police to be equipped with new detection equipment and tools. Needless to say, the UNODC in Tehran plays a prominent role in providing some of these tools.

Kakavand, for his part, highlighted the need to promote regional cooperation and said, “The Anti-Narcotics Police of Iran has always announced its readiness to collaborate and improve cooperation with all the countries in the region and the world to eradicate narcotics.”

Holding meetings with the anti-narcotics police of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the form of a tripartite initiative in previous years is a strong proof of this claim, he noted.

Iran dealing with narcotics

Iran is known as the first station and the front line of dealing with all kinds of drugs due to its location on the European transit route of Afghan drugs.

During the current Iranian calendar year that started on March 21, 2023,  drug seizures have increased by 21 percent compared to the same period last year.

Since the beginning of the current year, some 470 tons of narcotics have been seized from smugglers all over the country, Mehr News Agency quoted Kakavand as saying.

“We are witnessing a 21-percent rise in seizures of narcotics originating from Afghanistan,” he added.

A large number of smugglers have also been identified and arrested in this regard, Kakavand stressed.

The fight against narcotics is very expensive due to the complexity of the mafia level of this business, a cost that the Islamic Republic of Iran has been paying alone for years despite the support claims of the international community.

On average, more than 90 percent of opium discoveries, 27 percent of heroin discoveries, and 59 percent of morphine discoveries in the world are made by Iran, Mohsen Naziri Asl, Iran’s permanent representative to the United Nations in Vienna, said.

Some 716 tons of narcotics were discovered and seized in the past Iranian calendar year (March 2022-March 2023), he added.

The flow of narcotics into Iran has decreased by about 15 percent over the past four years, Eskandar Momeni, the secretary general of the anti-narcotics headquarters, has said.

The impact of dismantling the financial foundations of drug traffickers has increased by about 10 times over the past three to four years, he said, adding “This has led to a decrease of 15 percent in the entry of drugs into Iran.”

“The rising trend of drug production in Afghanistan started about 20 years ago, after the occupation of Afghanistan by NATO and the United States.

Therefore, the smuggling of narcotics has increased almost 50 times, that is, from about 200 tons in 2000 to more than 9,000 tons,” Momeni said, ISNA reported.

In May 2023, Momeni said some 1,700 regional and international drug gangs were dismantled by Iran in the past year.

Momeni signed a memorandum of understanding with Ghada Fathi Waly, the director general of the UNODC on the sidelines of the 66th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) that was held in Vienna from March 13-17.

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In a ceremony held at Uzbekistan Embassy in Tehran and in presence of Qeshm Air officials and some tour operators and travel agencies, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Tehran Bakhodir Abdullaev announced the news and said that Qeshm Air is to start direct flights from Tehran to Tashkent and Samarkand of Uzbekistan as of December 22 and it will help the ties between the two countries develop and tourism activities of both states pick up.

Addressing the ceremony, Mr. Abdullaev pointed to the historic and amicable ties between Iran and Uzbekistan which is getting stronger day in day. He went on to say that on September 14-16 of this year, President Seyed Ebrahim Raisi had a visit to Tashkent and had effective high-level talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. He added that 18 MoUs and agreements were signed during the visit in order to further expand multifaceted cooperation between the two states and one of the agreements was simplification of visa procedures for representatives of business and scientific circles and tourist groups and cooperation program in the field of tourism in 2022-2025.

The Uzbek Ambassador added that currently Zagros Airline operates direct flights between Uzbekistan and Iran once a week, noting that until the end of December, both countries will start more direct flights on the routes of Tehran-Tashkent and Tehran-Samarkand and Qeshm Air will be in charge of these flights.

He added that he is sure that the increase of direct flights between the two countries will ease the traffic, create another favorable opportunity for the development of the tourism industry and as the result, the friendly relations between both nations will continue to strengthen.

Abdullaev further said that Uzbek President Mirziyoyev adopted the development strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 and in this program, further expansion of existing relations with partners in South Asia and the Middle East region indicated.

He stated in particular, the acceleration of mutual cooperation in the trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres with Iran and improvement of its legal framework have been defined as one of the main tasks.

He noted that the World Tourism Organization declared Samarkand the World Tourism Capital in 2023, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation declared Khiva the Islamic World Tourism Capital in 2024.

Abdullaev said that over 300,000 tourists have visited Uzbekistan and only some 350 Iranians have been among the foreign tourists. He expressed hope by increasing the direct flights, the number of tourists between the two countries would increase.

Then Head of Central Asian Office of Qeshm Air Mr. Seyed Ali Mofidi, for his part, hailed the sincere cooperation of Uzbek officials for the launch of direct flights of Qeshm Air to Uzbekistan and said that the flights will officially start on December 22, reiterating that in case the flights are welcomed by the passengers, the number of flights will increase.

He stated that from late March, the tourist capacity will increase, adding that Iran and Uzbekistan have many cultural commonalities which can help the tourist activities.

Then the CEO of Qeshm Air Mr. Ramin Hamzeh, for his part, welcomed the launch of direct flights to Uzbekistan by this airline and said that airliners play key role in development of tourism, adding that although the launch of flights to Uzbekistan is because of cultural bods and commonalities but economic issues also matter, reiterating that direct flights can develop tourism of both states.

He noted that Qeshm Air will use its modern plane Airbus 320 for these flights and will offer the best services for these flights, adding that Qeshm Air and IranAir are the only two Iranian airlines which can fly to EU countries.

CAPTION: Uzbekistan Ambassador Mr. Abdullaev (R), the CEO of Qeshm Air Mr Hamzeh (C) and Head of Central Asian Office of Qeshm Air Mr. Mofidi (L) speak to participants in the ceremony on Saturday December 3.

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Speaking on the sidelines of his press conference on the upcoming presidential election in Uzbekistan, Abdullaev hailed the improvement in the bilateral trade with Iran and said that the trade volume of Tehran and Tashkent in the first half of 2021 has been around $250 and the trade balance has been almost equal.

On Iran’s admission as one of the permanent members of the SCO, the Uzbek diplomat hailed it and said his country has been one of the supporters of this membership. He expressed hope that this membership would strengthen the relations between Iran and Uzbekistan.

He also said that Uzbekistan has invited representatives of Iran’s Majlis to be present in Tashkent during the presidential election on October 24.

Abdullaev reiterated that in any international event being held in Uzbekistan some representative from Iran is present.

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In his speech, the President of Uzbekistan stressed that over the past five years, serious changes have taken place in the national electoral legislation. He emphasized that, according to leading international experts, in the new Uzbekistan, the gradual improvement of electoral legislation and the practice of holding elections has reached a qualitatively new level.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that the presidential elections will be held for the first time on the basis of the Electoral Code adopted on June 25, 2019.

“These elections are a very important political event for all of us, which provides answers to key questions about the future development of Uzbekistan, about how to build the future of our children, our families, our country. Therefore, both our multinational people and the world community are following this political process with great interest and attention, ” the Head of State emphasized.

Observers from about 50 countries and dozens of international organizations are expected to take part in the upcoming elections.

“In this sense, I believe that the upcoming elections will be held on the basis of high democratic criteria and will clearly reflect the growing political thinking, social activity and cultural level of the people of the new Uzbekistan”, Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

It should be noted that five candidates from five parties registered in the country will take part in the presidential elections in Uzbekistan: Liberal Democratic Party – Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Ecological Party – Narzulla Oblomurodov, Social Democratic Party “Adolat” – Bakhrom Abdukhalimov, Democratic Party “Milliy Tiklanish” – Alisher Kadirov and the People’s Democratic Party – Maksud Varisova.

For a complete presentation to the attention of readers, we offer to read the full text of the speech of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan at the solemn ceremony dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the state independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which covers a wide range of historical, cultural, spiritual, scientific, political, socio-economic development of Uzbekistan during the years of independence, as well as the achievements of this country.

Dear compatriots!

Dear guests!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Today is a great holiday in our country, a great celebration.  The multinational people of Uzbekistan are celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the independence of their beloved Motherland with great joy.

We celebrate Independence Day for the first time in this beautiful park, which was given a symbolic name – “Yangi Uzbekiston”.

I sincerely congratulate you and in your person all our people, I express my best wishes to you.

Dear friends!

As you know, for centuries the cherished dream of our people was a free life in a just society.  In the name of achieving this sacred goal, he fought selflessly, courageously overcoming the most difficult trials on his way.

No foreign yoke and violence could break the people in their noble striving for freedom.  Our entire ancient history testifies to this.

On August 31, 1991, a truly great historical event took place, which became a turning point in the fate of the republic.  Our people, always confidently looking into the future with great hopes, have fulfilled their age-old dream – gained state independence.

On this significant day, all of us, all our people, remember the First President of the country, the respected Islam Abduganievich Karimov, who proclaimed the independence of Uzbekistan and headed the state in the most difficult and difficult period of its history, about what huge transformations were carried out under his direct leadership thanks to  courage and resilience of our people.

During the years of independence, a large and very important work has been done to build a new state and society.  The Constitution of the country was developed in a short time.  The foundations of modern statehood, legislative, executive and judicial branches of power have been formed.

The Armed Forces have been created, capable of reliably protecting the state sovereignty of the country, the inviolability of its borders, and the peaceful and calm life of the people.

The national currency was introduced – the soum, gold and foreign exchange reserves were formed.  Our ancient history, national identity, rich cultural heritage and spiritual values   have been revived.

Our people, having shown strong will and great potential, have traveled a long way of development in a short period of time by historical standards.

Uzbekistan has taken a worthy place in the world community.

I am proud that, together with many compatriots, I took an active part in such great historical processes.

Dear participants of the celebration!

Today we are building a new state and a free civil society based on the principles of democracy and democracy, giving priority attention to such an important task as the strengthening of peace and stability – our truly priceless heritage.

We all, of course, understand how important this is in the current conditions, when all over the world, including in our region, at our borders, tensions are growing, and various challenges and threats are intensifying.

Large-scale democratic reforms are being implemented at a dynamic pace, aimed at strengthening the political and legal foundations of our state and society, modernizing the country, strengthening the role of parliament and political parties, and public control in this process.  Particular attention is paid to ensuring human rights and legitimate interests, freedom of speech and religion – the main principles of democracy.

The National Human Rights Strategy was adopted.  Such negative phenomena as forced and child labor, which have been a big problem for us for many years, have been completely eradicated.

In accordance with the appeal of the United Nations to reduce the number of stateless persons, in 2020 alone, more than 50 thousand of our compatriots were granted the citizenship of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

As you know, an independent and strong judiciary is the main condition for ensuring human rights, strengthening democracy and the rule of law.  Based on the priority tasks in this area, more than 40 laws, decrees and resolutions were adopted.  Serious practical work is currently being carried out on this basis.

As its logical continuation the other day, in connection with the Independence Day, I signed a decree, according to which 215 persons serving sentences who sincerely repented of their deeds and firmly embarked on the path of correction were pardoned, and today they have the opportunity to return to their families, to their  family and friends.

For the first time in its history, the Republic of Uzbekistan was elected a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, which was a vivid confirmation of the international recognition of our reforms in this direction.

Dear compatriots!

It should be especially noted that the last five years have become a period of difficult trials for all of us, the entire country and people.  In particular, the coronavirus pandemic that began in 2020 and the economic crisis caused by it created serious problems for Uzbekistan as an integral part of the global world.

According to the UN, this pandemic was the biggest global test since the Second World War.

If you remember, in the early days of the pandemic, we set ourselves the task of getting out of this difficult situation even stronger.  With the support of the Almighty, thanks to the solidarity and selfless work of our people, we are worthily overcoming these difficult trials.

The large-scale reforms being carried out in the country today marked the beginning of a new stage in our development – the era of New Uzbekistan.

And today we have every reason to say that over a historically short period, a completely new atmosphere has formed in the country in the political, legal, socio-economic, scientific, spiritual and cultural terms.

According to the analysis of the International Monetary Fund and reputable rating agencies, Uzbekistan is one of the few countries in the world that, in the current difficult conditions, manage to ensure financial and economic stability, the recovery of industrial sectors and the growth of economic activity.

The same findings are cited in a recently published analytical report by the American investment bank J.P.  Morgan “Uzbekistan: on the way to the zenith”.

In this regard, I would like to cite some data regarding structural reforms in our economy and the main macroeconomic indicators.

During the period 2017-2020, economic growth in the country amounted to 18.3 percent, the gross domestic product reached $ 60 billion.  It should be noted that foreign trade turnover increased from $ 24 billion in 2016 to $ 36 billion at the end of 2020.  The volume of industrial production amounted to 369 trillion soums, an increase of 23.4 percent compared to 2016.  As a result, the share of industry in GDP increased from 19.5 to 27.4 percent.

Thanks to economic liberalization and simplified customs procedures, exports in 2020 amounted to $ 15.1 billion, which is 25 percent more than in 2016.

Reflection of the positive results of our reforms in various world ratings created opportunities for the country’s entry into international financial markets.  In particular, this year foreign investors were sold state Eurobonds in the amount of $ 635 million and 2.5 trillion soums, corporate bonds of Ipoteka Bank – for 785 billion soums and Uzavtomotors Joint Stock Company – for $ 300 million.

We have managed to significantly strengthen investor confidence in our economy.  This is evidenced by the fact that the total volume of investments in a short period of time increased by 2.1 times, including foreign investments – almost 3 times.

The tax system has been reformed over the past three years.  The number of types of taxes has been reduced, and turnover taxes have been abolished.  The value added tax rate has been reduced from 20 to 15 percent, and an integral chain of this tax has been created.

In 2017-2020, the total capital of our banks increased by 5.7 times, or by $ 5 billion.

Within the framework of structural changes in the electric power industry, the oil and gas industry and the utilities sector, the functions of state and economic management have been separated, important steps have been taken to create a competitive environment in these industries.

Along with this, new infrastructure facilities have been created.  Thousands of kilometers of roads, power transmission and gas supply lines have been built and repaired.

The public transport sector is developing consistently.  In particular, two new underground metro stations and an overground metro line with a length of about 12 kilometers have been commissioned in Tashkent.  Construction work has been completed on the Sergeli metro line with a length of 6.2 kilometers.

It should be noted that a number of large investment projects are currently being implemented in Uzbekistan.  Among them, as you know, the construction of the third copper-processing plant of the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine worth $ 2 billion, which we recently launched.

Recently, a solar power plant built at the expense of $ 110 million in investments was commissioned in the Karmaninsky district of Navoi region, and this was the first important step in the development of new energy in Uzbekistan.

Two new plants were put into operation in the Navoiazot Joint Stock Company – for the production of nitric acid, as well as ammonia and urea.  Thanks to the implementation of these projects, the total cost of which is $ 1.5 billion, the volume of production of Navoiazot products will triple.

All these important events indicate the beginning of a new stage in the history of domestic industry.

The number of small businesses and private entrepreneurship in our country has doubled, 1 million 400 thousand new jobs have been created in this area.  Of particular importance is the fact that more than half of these enterprises were organized only in the last three years.

In order to ensure freedom of entrepreneurial activity, 16 laws and more than 100 resolutions have been adopted.  Over the past year, the procedure for registration has been simplified, the terms for issuing licenses and permits have been reduced.  To protect the rights of entrepreneurs, a moratorium was introduced on all types of inspections.

As a result of the creation of favorable conditions for ensuring self-employment of the population, 500 thousand citizens registered their labor activity during the year.

Thanks to this approach to the development of entrepreneurship, Uzbekistan has risen from 141st to 69th place in the World Bank’s Doing Business international rating in five years.  Of course, this is a significant indicator, but still insufficient for us.  Therefore, we will consistently continue this work.

As you know, we recently held a meeting with entrepreneurs in a new format.  More than 10 thousand representatives of the business sector from all over the country took part in it.  In preparation for the open dialogue, more than 15 thousand proposals and initiatives were studied in detail, practical measures were outlined to resolve the issues raised by entrepreneurs.

We will continue to create all conditions for entrepreneurs to introduce real market relations and, on this basis, develop the country’s economy. After all, entrepreneurs are the main support and locomotive of our economy and our reforms.

No one should forget this truth.

Today in our country, information and communication technologies are widely introduced, which are the most promising sector of the modern economy. For this, dozens of IT parks, small industrial zones, training centers for the training of specialized specialists are being created, and special projects are organized for gifted programmers.

We are constantly focusing on the development and improvement of the village, where most of the country’s population lives, increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of the agricultural sector, and creating jobs here.

We have ruled out government interference in pricing in agriculture, and the state order for the procurement of cotton and grain has been canceled.  122 cotton-textile clusters have been created, yields are increasing.  The system of financing agriculture is being revised.

We introduced a new system of working with regions, their integrated development in conjunction with industries.  As a result, the financial capabilities of the regions have expanded.  In 2021 alone, it became possible to attract an additional 3 trillion soums for the implementation of territorial programs.

Today we can say that Uzbekistan is emerging from the most difficult period of the global crisis.

The pace of development of economic sectors can also be judged by the fact that real incomes of the population as a whole increased by 28 percent compared to 2016.  Currently, the average nominal monthly wage is 2.7 million soums, which is 2.1 times more than in 2016.

According to the recently signed Decree, from September 1, salaries, pensions, scholarships and benefits will be increased again.

We will continue to attach great importance to the consistent growth of incomes and living standards of the population.

You all know very well that a new system for solving social problems has been created in our country.  For this purpose, methods of targeted work are being introduced according to the principle of “iron notebook”, “women’s notebook”, “youth notebook”, “notebook of mercy” in the context of each family and mahalla.

The programs adopted as part of the reforms serve to improve the social environment in society and increase the well-being of the population.  For example, only within the framework of the programs “Obod kishlok” and “Obod mahalla” in almost 8 thousand villages and mahallas, repair and construction work and landscaping for a total of 20 trillion soums are underway.  I think that says a lot.

To carry out all this great practical work, we have identified the guiding idea “We live in a new Uzbekistan – a free and prosperous country!”

Our priority task is to provide the population with housing.  During 2017-2020, more than 140 thousand affordable and high-quality houses and apartments were built.  This figure is almost 11 times higher than in 2016.  The system of mortgage lending is being consistently developed.

It should be noted that in our country, construction on a similar scale has not yet been carried out.

For families in difficult life situations, the down payment for new housing is paid from the state budget.  We will continue to work in this direction; this year alone, about 50 thousand families will celebrate housewarming.

Dear friends!

We all well understand that health care, science, education, culture and art, sports play a key role in the development of the state and society, ensuring the well-being of the people.

Today, the healthcare sector of our country is changing dramatically, as is the content of this activity.  First of all, we are raising the quality and efficiency of primary health care and the introduction to a healthy lifestyle to a new level.  The material and technical base of polyclinics and multidisciplinary hospitals is being strengthened, and their personnel potential is growing.

In accordance with modern requirements, the ambulance system has been reorganized and its financial support has been strengthened.  The number of ambulance stations increased from 800 in 2016 to 1666 at present, and the number of brigades from 1648 to 2685.

As you know, in the past, many of our citizens were forced to travel abroad to carry out complex medical operations.  As a result of reforms in the development of the sphere, many of these operations are now being carried out in our country.

In 2016, 10 specialized medical centers and only 2 of their regional branches operated in the republic.  Today the number of such centers has reached 20, with 124 branches in the regions.  In continuation of this work, 48 more regional branches of such centers will be created this year.

Thanks to timely reforms, our health care system has withstood an extremely heavy burden during the pandemic.  All the necessary measures to protect the health and life of people were promptly developed.  In particular, special medical centers have been created to combat coronavirus, a stock of medicines and protective equipment has been formed.

60 oxygen stations opened in the regions ensure uninterrupted oxygen supply to specialized hospitals.  The development of a vaccine has begun in the country.

The State Budget for 2021 provides for 3 trillion soums to fight the pandemic, measures are being taken to protect public health and mass vaccination against coronavirus infection.

Reforms aimed at providing the country’s population with effective and high-quality medical care will be consistently continued.

Dear compatriots!

I want to remind again the wise words of our outstanding educator Abdullah Avloni: “Education and upbringing for us is the most important issue, our happiness, our very life and destiny depend on its solution.”

In recent years, this approach has become the criterion of our work in the field of education.  Indeed, if we change education, education will change a person.  If a person changes, our entire society will change.

Therefore, we pay special attention to improving lifelong education, raising children with harmoniously developed personalities, and training highly qualified teaching staff.

All of you are well aware of the changes in the field of preschool education, which is the primary link in the system.  In order to pursue a unified state policy in this area, we have created the Ministry of Preschool Education.

If in 2017 there were 5,211 kindergartens in the country, this year their number, please note, reached 19,316.   Thanks to the introduction of public-private partnership mechanisms and the opening of family kindergartens, the provision of a number of benefits, more than 13 thousand private preschool educational institutions have been created.  As a result of these reforms, we were able to increase the coverage of children with preschool education to 62 percent, including children aged 6 years – up to 77 percent.

Educational institutions of a new type are being created, in particular, Presidential, creative and specialized schools.  In 2020 alone, 56 such schools were created in the country in mathematics, 28 in chemistry and biology, 14 in computer science and information and communication technologies.

New approaches are being actively introduced in the field of education.  Tell me, was it possible just four or five years ago to imagine such a rapid growth in the number of private schools and kindergartens?

We study world experience in this area and introduce new standards, modern teaching methods.  In particular, the procedure for obtaining a license to open a private school has been simplified.  Thanks to broad government support, the number of non-state educational institutions has now reached 195.

All this gives positive results, as evidenced by the fact that in 2017-2020 our students won 30 medals at international subject Olympiads.

Last year, 339 vocational schools, 194 colleges and 195 technical schools were created for young people to acquire modern, in-demand professions.

Today our reforms, life itself dictate the need for the accelerated development of the higher education system.  So, over the past 5 years, 64 new higher educational institutions have been created in the country, and now there are 141. The quotas for admission to universities have been increased by 3 times.

Please note that the enrollment of youth in higher education reached 28 percent, while in 2016 it was at the level of 9 percent.  In the near future, it is planned to bring this figure to 50-60 percent.

The focus of our attention is constantly on the support of the population in need of social protection, especially the youth.  For this this year, additional admission quotas have been allocated under state grants: 3155 – for young people with disabilities, 1580 – for graduates of Mehribonlik homes and Children’s Towns, another 2000 – for girls from low-income families.

Today our young people who are proactive and devoted to the Motherland, possessing independent and innovative thinking, a sense of responsibility, achieve high results of the world level in various fields and directions.

Thus, a number of our talented athletes became winners and prize-winners of the recent XXXII Summer Olympic Games in Japan, which made us all very happy.

The Summer Paralympic Games in Tokyo continue these days.  The members of the national team of Uzbekistan, taking part in these games, have won 5 gold, 4 silver and 6 bronze medals to date and are showing unprecedented resilience and will to win.

We wish new successes to our brave sons and daughters who worthily defend the honor of our Motherland.

Dear friends!

Those who were born in the first year of Uzbekistan’s independence turned 30 this year.  In the East, this age is considered to be the period of maturity.

Addressing the wonderful young generation of our country, I want to say: for all of us – parents, mentors, teachers, all our people – the greatest happiness is to see you, peers of independence, free and independently thinking individuals who boldly enter life with pure thoughts and aspirations.

I am sure that, having mastered modern knowledge and achievements of progress, you will make a worthy contribution to the work we have begun.

With your dedication and selfless work, you will certainly build a New Uzbekistan and bring about the Third Renaissance in our country.

Never turn off the chosen path, my dear children!  I wish you all health, happiness and success!

Dear compatriots!

All of you are witnessing important reforms carried out in recent years in order to further improve the Armed Forces and increase the state’s defense capability based on our principle of “The Army and the People are One”.  The National Guard and the State Defense Industry Committee were created.

Constant attention is paid to training modern military personnel, providing servicemen with housing, supporting their families and veterans of the Armed Forces.

Today, the national army of Uzbekistan is becoming a mobile, compact combat force capable of adequately repelling any threat, and this is our most important achievement.

Of course, the army is strong not only in weapons and equipment.  The army is strong first of all by its soldiers and sergeants, officers and generals, who are ready to give their lives for the Motherland.

Today, brave men and women serve in the ranks of our Armed Forces, for whom the defense of the Motherland is the meaning of life.  They honorably continue the glorious traditions of the military art of our great ancestors Amir Temur, Jalaliddin Manguberdy, Babur Mirzo.

We all know well and highly value the selfless service and courage of our valiant defenders, faithful to their oath in good faith, to fulfill their duty in any conditions.

We are proud of these people who have dedicated their lives to fulfilling a responsible mission – to defend the Motherland with a reliable shield and prove this in practice every day.

In order to strengthen peace and stability in the country, the system of ensuring the security of the state, society and the individual is being radically reformed.  Its lower level has been reorganized – the system of preventive inspectors.  Currently, they closely interact with the mahalla authorities.

It should be noted that compared to 2017, the number of crimes decreased by 12 thousand.  In the first six months of this year, almost 50 percent of mahallas, and there are 9,251 in total, not a single crime was committed.  This undoubtedly testifies to the positive results of our reforms and requires their consistent continuation.

Dear participants of the celebration!

As you know, from the first days of Uzbekistan’s entry into a new stage of development, we have been pursuing an open, pragmatic and constructive foreign policy.

Over the past short period, the political authority and role of our country in the region and the world have grown significantly.  In the world community, the tendencies towards strengthening trust and cooperation with Uzbekistan are growing.

First of all, relations of friendship and good-neighborliness with the states of the region were established.  Borders were opened, people restored the interrupted ties with their relatives and friends, were able to freely move from one country to another.

In world political science such a concept as “Central Asian spirit” has appeared.  In the international arena, more and more initiatives are being put forward on behalf of the region.

It has become a good tradition to hold regular meetings of the heads of state of Central Asia.  At the recent Consultative Meeting held in Turkmenistan, new promising areas of cooperation were identified.

In recent days, we have all watched with concern the events in neighboring Afghanistan.  We support the early establishment of peace and stability in this country.

We are confident that Afghanistan will be able to become a bridge in strengthening the interconnectedness of Central and South Asia.

Uzbekistan remains committed to the principles of supporting friendly and good-neighborly relations with Afghanistan and non-interference in the internal affairs of this country.  We consider it extremely important to carry out the transit of power in Afghanistan, taking into account the generally recognized norms of international law, peacefully on the basis of national consensus.

In recent years, effective agreements and agreements have been reached with Russia, China, South Korea, Japan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and other states.  New steps have been taken to further develop pragmatic cooperation with the United States of America and Western countries.

Interaction with such international structures as the United Nations, the Islamic Cooperation Organization, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Commonwealth of Independent States has been raised to a qualitatively new level.  In 2019, our country became a full member of the Cooperation Council of Turkic-speaking States, which opened up new opportunities for us economically, politically and culturally in the international arena.

In a short time, Uzbekistan, in the status of an observer state, has established effective ties with the Eurasian Economic Union.  In 2020, the country held the chairmanship of the Commonwealth of Independent States for the first time.  Despite the difficult conditions of the pandemic, this activity in Uzbekistan was organized successfully and was highly appreciated.

This year we will take over the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and are already doing a lot of preparatory work for the upcoming summit of the organization next year.

The effective use of the methods of economic diplomacy has a positive effect on the growth of our exports and the flow of investments to the republic.

Much attention is paid to support and fruitful cooperation with compatriots abroad.  They are involved in the socio-economic processes taking place in the country.  As you know, we have recently created a public fund “Vatandoshlar”, directly dealing with such important issues.

At the same time, our priority task is to strengthen relations of friendship and partnership with all progressive countries of the near and far abroad.

On this joyful day, I wish the distinguished ambassadors of foreign states, representatives of international organizations, our foreign partners, all friends of Uzbekistan, peace and prosperity participating in today’s celebration.  In particular, we express our deep respect to the representatives of the French Senate present here.

Dear friends!

As you know, on October 24 this year, the elections of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan will take place.

Over the past five years, there have been major changes in the electoral legislation of our country.  As noted by authoritative international experts, work on the consistent improvement of the national electoral system and the practice of holding elections has been raised to a qualitatively new level in Uzbekistan.

The next presidential elections will be held for the first time on the basis of the Electoral Code adopted on June 25, 2019.

These elections are an extremely important political event that will answer key questions: what will be the future path of Uzbekistan’s development, how will we build the future of our children, families, and the country as a whole?  Therefore, our multinational people and the world community are following these political processes with great interest and attention.

Observers from almost 50 countries of the world and dozens of international organizations are expected to take part in the elections.

I am sure that the upcoming elections will be held on the basis of high democratic standards and will vividly demonstrate the growing political consciousness, public activity and cultural level of the citizens of the new Uzbekistan.

Dear compatriots!

In recent years, thanks to the conscientious and selfless work of our people, we have achieved important results aimed at ensuring national interests, improving the level and quality of life in the country.

The most important achievement is that the reforms we have begun have acquired an irreversible character, our today’s society has been radically transformed.

No one can stop the development of a society that has been spiritually revived, and a people that is confidently moving into the future, setting themselves great tasks.  Such a people is supported by the Almighty himself, opening all roads for him.

Today, millions of our compatriots have changed their outlook, they consider themselves directly involved in the processes of transformations, the life and fate of their native country.

Today we are a single people, a single nation, confidently moving towards our lofty goals.  Relying on the priceless cultural and spiritual heritage and the creative power of our people, we will definitely build a New Uzbekistan, turn our cherished, noble dream into reality.  Uzbekistan will become a comprehensively developed, prosperous, free, democratic state.

I am happy to see each of you, my dears, all our compatriots, regardless of nationality, language and religion, active participants in the national movement of the creators of New Uzbekistan.

Years and centuries will pass.  New generations will come.  But our independence, which opened up such unprecedented opportunities for the revival of national statehood, prosperity and well-being, will always be the brightest, unfading page in the glorious history of our beloved Motherland.

Once again, with all my heart, I sincerely congratulate you – our veterans, caring women, purposeful youth, all our people – on Independence Day.

On this greatest holiday for all of us, with great filial love and gratitude, I bow low to our courageous, hardworking and generous people.

May our noble people be happy – the creator of all our achievements!

May all the good hopes and dreams of every family, every person living in our beautiful country come true!

Let our independence be eternal!

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The event was organized by the National Center for Human Rights in partnership with the Agency for Youth Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the UN, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the OSCE, the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

The conference was opened by the First Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, Director of the National Center for Human Rights Akmal Saidov.

At the event, the Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan Tanzila Narbaeva made a welcoming speech.

In her report, the head of the Senate noted that the youth issue in Uzbekistan is defined as one of the priority directions of state policy. Over the past 5 years, more than 50 laws and other normative legal acts have been adopted to protect the rights and interests of young people. The first among them was the Law on State Youth Policy.

At present, youth parliaments have been created in the chambers of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament). More than 260 young deputies work in local Kengashes of people’s deputies.

At the opening of the forum, was delivered a message from UN Secretary General António Guterres. The message noted that the UN supports the efforts of the Government of Uzbekistan for its tireless efforts and commitment to ensuring the protection of the rights of youth, which was highlighted in the speech of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan earlier this year at the 46th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The message also emphasized that in the history of the UN, a system-wide strategy was adopted for the first time – the Youth Strategy until 2030, and Uzbekistan is one of the 10 countries in the world in which this strategy is being implemented at an accelerated pace. It is noted that the UN welcomed the creation in Uzbekistan in a short period of time, the Youth Parliament, the UN Youth Advisory Council; declaring 2021 the Year of Youth and Health, ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adopting multiple policies, programs and financial instruments to ensure real youth engagement and empowerment.

The hybrid format of the conference allowed experts of all sizes to speak out – from members of the leadership of reputable international organizations to directly representatives of young people.

In particular, at the opening of the forum, its participants were also greeted by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, UN Secretary General’s Envoy for Youth Jayatma Vikramanayake, Secretary General of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly Mohammed Reza Majidi, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Martin Chungong, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmidt, President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Margaret Sederfelt, Chairman of the CIS Executive Committee-Executive Secretary Sergei Lebedev, Director of the Decent Work Technical Support Group and other heads of international structures Olga Kulaeva.

High-ranking participants in their speeches noted the initiative of Uzbekistan in promoting the interests of the younger generation at the international level. Thus, the idea of holding this forum was proposed by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council. Earlier, at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, the head of the country proposed to develop a Convention on the Rights of Youth.

Such concern of modern Uzbekistan that the voice of young people is even more taken into account in the decision-making process at various levels is natural. In the country, the number of young people under 30 is more than 18 million people, which is almost 55% of the population. This leads to the fact that youth issues are not only the most important area of international cooperation, but also a priority task of the state policy of Uzbekistan.

UN Secretary General’s Envoy for Youth Jayatma Vikramanayake:

“Uzbekistan is a country with enormous potential for rapid development inherent in young people – key members of society, who make up more than half of the country’s population and deserve to have their full potential realized. The commitment of the Government of Uzbekistan to constant dialogue with young people at the highest level and the progress achieved in involving young people in making real decisions deserve high praise.”

OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmidt:

“Supporting the younger generation is a common goal of both Uzbekistan and the OSCE. Uzbekistan has taken a number of important initiatives to promote the rights of youth in the country. Engaging young women and men in global action is key to building peace and security. Our efforts are more important today than ever. I firmly believe that only by involving young people can we find sustainable solutions to today’s and tomorrow’s problems.”

The World Conference on Youth Rights “Engaging Youth in Global Action” was attended by over 500 representatives from more than 30 countries and international organizations.

Following the results of the World Conference, its participants adopted the Tashkent Youth Declaration “Involving Youth in Global Action”. The document reflects the results of the discussions of 3 plenary and 3 parallel sessions of the world forum, contains recommendations and a call to action for young people.

In particular, in such a direction of the Declaration as “Pandemic and Youth”, it was noted that “The pandemic not only highlighted the existing weaknesses and imbalances in the education, health care, employment systems, but also gave impetus to increasing efforts to reform and strengthen them”.

While highlighting the role of young generations in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Tashkent Youth Declaration emphasizes that, unfortunately, youth “are still largely excluded from the formal decision-making and political participation.” In this regard, the participants of the World Conference call on countries to “introduce the position of youth SDG ambassadors, whose tasks will include the preparation of annual reports on the measures taken to achieve the SDGs and broad public awareness of the global development goals.”

The Tashkent Youth Declaration also calls on states to “promote the establishment of youth parliaments, and where they already exist, strengthen them, and establish the World Association of Youth Parliaments”.

The Tashkent Youth Declaration insists on the importance of adopting national youth strategies, applying new forms of “political, economic, cultural and social involvement and participation in solving specific youth issues, using online and offline methods, in particular, to create youth councils under state bodies, national institutions on human rights to promote and support youth rights, taking into account the principles of “Nothing about us without us” and “Leave no one aside”, as well as provide full support to youth organizations involved in human rights issues. ”

The Tashkent Youth Declaration also contains provisions aimed at creating in the countries of the world the necessary conditions for youth to access quality education and health care, to ensure employment, the contribution of young people to the digital economy, to develop and implement mechanisms for protecting the rights of youth.

“Reaffirming the important role of international youth cooperation and joint programs, we support the initiatives of Uzbekistan on the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Youth, as well as the creation of the Youth Council of Central and South Asia, the holding of the Central Asian Youth Forum,” the Declaration adopted by the participants of the World Conference on youth rights.

Secretary General of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly, Mohammad Reza Majidi:

“The initiative of Uzbekistan to host the World Conference on Youth Rights“ Engaging Youth in Global Action ”provided all of us with an excellent opportunity to share our views on such an important issue in partnership with the United Nations. The Government and Parliament of the Republic of Uzbekistan really deserve praise for their global vision of youth and their right.

Today we live in a young world where more than half of the population is under 30. This rich human resource takes the largest share in today’s activities. Therefore, it is very important to pay due attention to the physical and psychological health of young people, as they play a critical role in sustainable development.

In this regard, the involvement of this population group in the process of making political, economic and social decisions, especially in young densely populated countries, is undoubtedly very important. Young people are a largely untapped resource that can greatly contribute to the effort to tackle global problems. “

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TEHRAN (Iran News) – The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Iran hosted a briefing meeting in Tehran on Wednesday for an inaugural international investment event to be held on March 5-6 in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent.

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Chairman of the Central Election Commission Mirza-Ulugbek Abdusalamov opened the session in accordance with the Electoral Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

It was noted that the formation of the Senate was based on the democratic principles of openness and transparency, in full accordance with the requirements of national electoral legislation. Joint meetings of the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, local Kengashes of regions and the city of Tashkent, districts, and towns were held to elect members of the upper house of the country’s parliament. Thus, 84 senators were elected, and 13 more were appointed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The new Senate is composed of prominent citizens with extensive experience and special merits in the fields of economics, law, science, medicine, culture, industry and in other areas of public and social realm.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a keynote speech at the session of the Senate of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis and sincerely congratulated the senators on this high status.

The Head of the state at the first session focused on important tasks to improve the efficiency of the upper house of parliament.

It was noted that a number of important programs have been adopted to solve social problems, which served as the basis for extensive efforts undertaken, and that senators should also take the initiative and come up with corresponding proposals on these issues.

The President said that each committee of the Senate needs to formulate plans for its activities building on the problems in regions. Based on the results of inquiry into the situation at places, the Senate Kengash and committees should conduct field meetings, with the participation of the heads of ministries and other government agencies. This practice will allow us to quickly address problems concerning the population.

“To be sure, you all well understand that being a member of the highest body of representation presumes a great honor as much as a tremendous responsibility. A senator is primarily a person who has been awarded the trust of people and the state”, the President noted.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev also noted the importance of parliamentary control over the consideration of the draft national budget and its execution, of regular hearings of executives on the course of implementation of reforms, and the constant attention to youth issues and education.

Meanwhile, the President maintained that it is imperative to strengthen the role of the upper house of Uzbekistan’s  Oliy Majlis in delivering an atmosphere of the irreconcilable fight against corruption and crime in general in society, as well as boost control over the activities of government bodies aimed at enhancing the role of women in society. The Head of the state pointed to the significance of the active participation of senators in ensuring the further growth in Uzbekistan’s standing in the world, in enhancing the country’s international relations and assisting in attracting foreign investment.

It was noted that the last three years when Uzbekistan made a way to a new stage of its development have become a period of fundamental transformation for the Senate. This body considered about 230 draft laws, of which 190 have been approved over the past three years, which indicates the extent of the work undertaken.

The practice introduced in the Senate whereby ministers of internal and foreign affairs, as well as khokims, stand up to report to the upper house has been noted with satisfaction.

The meeting participants have also considered issues related to the structural organization of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in accordance with Article 93 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, presented nominees for the posts of Chairperson of the Senate and Deputy Chairmen.

By secret ballot, members of the upper house elected Tanzila Narbayeva Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Likewise, by secret ballot, Sadik Safayev has been elected the First Deputy Chairman of the Senate.

In accordance with Article 86 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, one of the deputy chairmen of the Senate shall be a representative of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. Under this norm, Musa Yerniyazov has been elected the Deputy Chairman of the Senate, also by secret vote.

In the same way Zayniddin Nizamkhojayev has been elected Deputy Chairman of the Senate.

Then the senators formed committees on international relations, external economic ties, foreign investment, and tourism, on budget and economic reforms, on judicial-legal issues and the fight against corruption, on defense and security, on science, education, and health, on women and gender equality, on youth, culture, and sports, on agriculture, water management, and the environment, as well as the Regulatory and Ethics Commission.

The upper house members elected chairpersons, deputy chairpersons and members of each committee and commission.

On all the issues considered, relevant resolutions of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis have been adopted.

In addition, the Prime Minister’s appeal to the newly-elected Oliy Majlis on the resignation of the Cabinet of Ministers has been read out and an appropriate decision made.

The first session of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan has thus completed its work.

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IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK

He said Uzbek President’s policies have boosted political convergence in the region as well as economic cooperation which have been unprecedented and fortified bilateral exchanges.

Mr. Abdullaev reiterated that in the new era, Uzbekistan economy has shifted towards open economy and the country has achieved some successes in this regard like Uzbekistan’s national currency has gained value by 2 percent.

He also pointed to the problems related to the transportation, adding that those problems can be solved in bilateral meetings and both sides can find new ways for transit and transportation.

Abdullaev further said that Uzbek government has always been after facilitating relations with neighboring states, adding that in the past one and a half years, the process for getting Uzbekistan visa for Iranians has been electronic, adding that Iranian investors by investing in big cities of Uzbekistan can get residence.

He also announced Uzbek Embassy’s readiness for cooperation with Iranian airliners, adding that Uzbekistan welcomes launching direct flight between both countries and talks with Uzbek airlines have also been successful and they welcome Iranian airliners.

On launching a joint trade committee in Uzbekistan’s Chamber, the diplomat said that last year, head of Uzbekistan’s Chamber of Commerce during his visit to Tehran had talks on the issue and it was decided to form a coordinating committee in the chamber, expressing hope the joint committee would be set up this year which is an important step for expanding bilateral ties.

Abdullaev went on to say that Iran and Uzbekistan enjoy high potentials for cooperation in transit and Iran’s access to free waters and different destinations is one of those potentials.

Meanwhile Shafei, for his part, said Uzbekistan has positive approach and it makes the condition easier for expanding the trade ties.

He went on to say that the trade between both states has become easier in recent years, adding that there are abundant grounds for cooperation while both countries have neglected them and they should take advantage of them in the current condition.

He said for years Iran and Uzbekistan have cooperated in the agro sector and through the third party country South Korea and those cooperations could continue in Uzbekistan’s land, reiterating both countries have good capacity for cooperation in transport and transit fields.

Shafei also called for enhancing trade exchanges between Iran and Uzbekistan, adding that Iran’s Chamber of Commerce is ready to dispatch or to host economic delegations in order to strengthen economic relations.

He deplored that there is no direct flight between both countries, adding that talks are underway and one of Iranian airliners has announced readiness to resume flight to Uzbekistan. He added that the flight will have a stop in Kyrgyzstan. He urged Uzbekistan Embassy to cooperate more to materialize this big economic measure.

Shafei said that a committee on Iran-Uzbekistan trade has been launched in Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, asking Uzbek Ambassador to consult with Uzbek officials for launching the same committee in Uzbekistan’s Chamber of Commerce.

He also called for setting up a legal office or arbitration center for easing trade between both countries especially for resolving disputes among business activists.

He reiterated that Iran’s Chamber of Commerce is ready to begin a serious and new move for trade with Uzbekistan, adding that Iran’s private sector is also ready for bartering goods and transit of goods.

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The two-day international conference discussed ways of boosting security and economic cooperation between Central Asian countries which kicked off on Tuesday in the capital of Uzbekistan.

The conference, themed “Interconnectivity in Central Asia: Challenges and New Opportunities,” is organized by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nation’s Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA).

The conference was closed with a review of results of the panel discussions.

Addressing the closing ceremony, Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov expressed his gratitude towards the guests who participated enthusiastically in debates for the future of the Central Asia.

He praised the friendly atmosphere of the conference, adding that that all experts and nations of the Central Asia are working to boost the cooperation. He added that countries of the Central Asia want to form a regional group for cooperation but they do not want to launch any organization but they can look at other countries as their model for boosting ties. He reiterated that regionalization should not lead to ignoring globalization but regional countries should also keep their identities. He called for scientific research in any field which strengthen the regional states. He also noted that regional states can cooperate with their neighboring countries like Afghanistan which is very effective in the performance of the regional bloc.

He expressed hope that the results of the conference could be a guideline for the upcoming meeting of leaders of Central Asian states which will be held in April in Tashkent.

Kamilov added that all those efforts are for the sake of peace, security, stability and prosperity of the regional states.

Meanwhile Natalia Gherman, special representative of the UN secretary-general as well as the head of the UNRCCA, hailed the conference and culled it a success.

She said that regional cooperation is key to the sustainable and social development, adding that UN is determined to support the Central Asia regional cooperation but it is up to the efforts of the regional states.

She reiterated that stability and security of the region is very important and all threats for the region should be assessed.

During the two-day event, some panel discussions in fields of energy, economy, cultural and tourism, security and antiterrorism discussed and some proposals were presented which can be on the agenda in the upcoming meeting of leaders of the regional states.

Foreign experts from 36 countries and representatives of leading analytical and scientific organizations in Uzbekistan exchanged views on regional security issues, as well as cooperation in trade, economic, transport, communications, environmental, humanitarian and other areas.

By: F. Taherpoor

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