Uzbekistan: Sustainable Development Requires Continued Efforts

In the context of globalization, climate change, economic instability and shortage of food resources, active interaction within the UN framework is becoming an important reference point for addressing the complex challenges of our time.

The upcoming 78th session of the UN General Assembly will launch a new phase in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and set targets for the period until 2030. In addition, it will identify concrete proposals and ideas for further sustainable interaction of all UN member states.

Uzbekistan with its strategic position in Central Asia pays great attention to the development of cooperation with the UN and other high profile international and regional organizations. The development of relations with international organizations plays an important role in the integration of our country into the world community.

In this direction, it is important to note that Uzbekistan's ties with the UN and its specialized structures such as UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO, UNESCO, UNODC, UNAIDS, UN Women, UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, ILO and FAO have been strengthening year by year.

Thanks to the initiatives and proposals of the leader of Uzbekistan, the country's cooperation with the UN has risen to a whole new level over the past five years.

In particular, the Head of State delivered a speech at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly held on September 19, 2017, the 75th jubilee session organized in the format of a videoconference, and the 76th session of the General Assembly. During these sessions, Uzbekistan's initiatives aimed at strengthening international and regional security, further development of education, spirituality, ecology, tourism, protecting human rights and in other areas were expressed.

Uzbekistan's efforts in recent years have been internationally recognized by the adoption of the following United Nations General Assembly resolutions

- Enhancing Regional and International Cooperation for Peace, Stability and Sustainable Development in Central Asia;

- Strengthen Connectivity Between Central and South Asia;

- Education and Religious Tolerance;

- Sustainable Tourism and Sustainable Development in Central Asia;

- Declaration of the Aral Sea Region as a Zone of Ecological Innovations and Technologies;

- On Strengthening the Role of Parliaments in Accelerating the Achievement of the SDGs.

It is important to mention that in 2015, the world community witnessed the embodiment of a new global sustainable development agenda. The 70th anniversary of the UN Summit in New York provided a platform for more than 150 states to join efforts to address global challenges such as poverty, economic instability and environmental crises.

At the heart of the new agenda were 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with 169 targets covering economic, social and environmental aspects of development. Having supported this initiative, Uzbekistan is actively integrating the SDGs into the national development strategy.

The New Uzbekistan Development Strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals go hand in hand, emphasizing socio-economic development, environmental stability and improving the quality of life of citizens.

The principle "For the sake of human honor and dignity" is the basis of the reforms carried out in Uzbekistan. These reforms are aimed at creating an active civil society and guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of every person, consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 in our country will be carried out in accordance with the fundamental principle of the UN "Leave no one behind" to ensure the rights and legitimate interests of every person.

In this direction, it is important to emphasize the adopted National Human Rights Strategy of Uzbekistan. It provides for the implementation of the recommendations of the United Nations Human Rights Council and treaty committees. In adopting the national strategy, the views not only of expert circles but also of the general public and international organizations were taken into account.

Uzbekistan was the first Central Asian State to establish a system of national human rights institutions, which includes a parliamentary ombudsman, a children's ombudsman, a business ombudsman and a national human rights center.

In today's world, the role of parliaments in achieving the SDGs is of particular importance. The UN General Assembly emphasizes the need for active involvement of legislatures in monitoring and implementing the SDGs, stressing the importance of voluntary national reviews.

Special attention should be paid to the UN resolution "On Strengthening the Role of Parliaments in Accelerating the Achievement of the SDGs" adopted on December 14, 2022, initiated by our President at the 75th session of the General Assembly.

This document emphasizes the importance of the role of parliaments in renewing the commitment to unity, solidarity and multilateral cooperation for a sustainable and durable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The document was co-authored by 80 states from all continents of the world, as well as UN agencies and other international organizations. It is expected that this document will become a unique guide for parliamentarians, mobilizing their efforts to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs.

Special attention is given to gender equality, which should be at the heart of efforts to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. This, in turn, will facilitate women's full, equal and meaningful participation in legislative bodies and parliamentary processes.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has adopted more than 40 legislative acts and important conceptual documents related to gender equality, in particular the Law "On the Guarantee of Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men," the Law "On the Protection of Women from Harassment and Violence," and the Law "On Amendments and Additions to Article 15 of the Family Code."

Of particular importance in this area are the specific measures taken to ensure gender equality, in particular, the adoption of the National Program to Increase the Activity of Women in All Spheres of Economic, Political and Social Life for 2022-2026 and the Strategy for Achieving Gender Equality in the Republic of Uzbekistan by 2030.

As a result, today the share of women employed in health care and education is 77 %, in economy and industry 46 %, and about 2,000 compatriots work in leading positions in state and public organizations.

Opportunities for women's education have been expanded over 6 years, with the number of women enrolled in higher education institutions increasing 6-fold.

The important role and contribution of young people to the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda is recognized, as is the need to ensure the full, equal and meaningful participation of young people in parliamentary processes.

In this direction, Uzbekistan is implementing the Concept for the Development of State Youth Policy until 2025, which is based on the principle of "working with youth in the interests of youth" set out in the UN Youth 2030 Strategy.

It should be emphasized that the Youth Parliament under the Senate was established in 2020, which consists of 100 members of young activists. The purpose of the Youth Parliament is to increase political and legal awareness and literacy of young people, social activity, protection of their rights and legitimate interests.

In turn, it is important to emphasize that over the past three years, 250 thousand young people have been allocated the equivalent of more than 500 million dollars in soft loans. 210 youth industrial and entrepreneurial zones have been created in the country and 2.5 thousand investment projects worth more than 300 million US dollars have been realized. As a result, the number of young entrepreneurs has doubled and exceeded 200 thousand.

Within the framework of sustainable development, our country is actively involved in providing quality education and access to it, seeking to create the basis for long-term social and economic growth. Education is seen not just as a tool for transferring knowledge, but also as a mechanism for building skills that meet the requirements of the modern labor market.

As a result of the reforms adopted over the past 5 years, the number of higher education institutions in the country has almost tripled to 210, and the coverage of higher education has increased from 9% to 38%, which opens up wide opportunities for young people to master modern knowledge and professions.

Over these years, the number of teaching staff in higher education institutions increased 1.6 times, the share of higher education in the total volume of educational services increased to 51%, the number of foreign students studying in higher education institutions of Uzbekistan increased 4 times and amounted to 5.1 thousand people, the volume of expenditures on research and development in higher education institutions increased 1.3 times, the number of general education institutions at the beginning of 2023 reached 10.6 thousand.

Particular attention is paid to improving the working conditions of teachers and tutors, improving their qualifications. In particular, teachers' salaries have increased 2.5 times on average over the past period.

Uzbekistan is also actively working to develop human potential and improve the quality of life of the population. Large-scale programs are being implemented to improve health care, ensure access to quality medical care and reduce maternal and newborn mortality. Uzbekistan was also working to reduce health inequalities and ensure access to healthy food and water.

In 2022, more than 20 laws, decrees and resolutions and other necessary regulations related to health care were adopted and are being consistently implemented.

In particular, in 2022 alone, more than 100 family doctor's offices, polyclinics and more than a thousand district health centers were established in the most remote and hard-to-reach areas. As a result, an additional 3.5 million people have been covered by primary health care.

The amount of funds for 70 types of medicines, given free of charge to the population by family physicians, has increased threefold compared to the previous year.

Today, socio-economic reforms and programs aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship, improving the business climate and creating new jobs are being actively adopted. Measures have also been taken to combat poverty and social exclusion, providing support to the most vulnerable segments of the population.

In the last 6 years, the scale of social assistance has increased fivefold and covered more than two million families. If in 2016 the budget allocated $181 million for these purposes, today the amount has been increased to $1.5 billion.

So far, certain results have been achieved. In 2022, one million residents are removed from the poverty line. This number is expected to increase significantly this year.

The environmental component of sustainable development is also not neglected. Uzbekistan is taking an active part in the international fight against climate change and implementation of programs to improve the state of natural ecosystems, as well as striving for sustainable modernization of energy, transport, agriculture and other sectors in order to reduce pollutant emissions and improve energy efficiency.

As a result, in accordance with the initiative of the Head of State, saxovul and other desert plants have been planted on an area of 1.732 million hectares in 2019-2022, and the area of green areas has been increased by 2 million hectares.

It is determined that works in this direction will be systematically carried out in the following years. In particular, in 2023-2026 it is planned to create "green covers" on the area of 400 thousand hectares on the dried up bottom of the Aral Sea. This is, undoubtedly, a significant contribution to solving the consequences of the ecological catastrophe, which goes far beyond the regional scale.

At the moment, one of the large-scale and effective initiatives of the Head of Uzbekistan is the national project "Yashil Makon" (Green Space), launched in 2021.

With the start of this important work, 85 million seedlings were planted in the fall season of 2021, and 126 million seedlings were planted in the spring season of 2022.

This initiative aims to prevent the negative effects of climate change by increasing green spaces in our country, planting tree seedlings and their effective maintenance.

This nationwide project plans to plant more than 200 million tree and shrub seedlings per year. As a result of this program, 1 billion trees and shrubs will be planted in the next five years.

It is important to emphasize that Uzbekistan's successes in the field of sustainable development have become possible thanks to the decisive actions of the Head of State Shavkat Mirziyoyev, nationwide support of his programs and initiatives for the development of the state and their endorsement by international partners.

The adopted reforms aimed at sustainable development have allowed Uzbekistan to rise eight positions in the UN SDG index, which testifies to the significant successes and changes taking place in the country, and this confirms the correctness of the chosen course on sustainable development.

All initiatives presented by Uzbekistan within the UN framework have made a significant practical contribution to maintaining world peace, stability, protecting human rights and ensuring sustainable development. Our country adheres to the principle of further expansion and deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation with the UN and its specialized agencies.

The example of Uzbekistan shows that sustainable development is a process that requires constant efforts and harmonious interaction between all spheres of society.

Given the above, Uzbekistan deservedly attracts the attention of the international community with its achievements in the field of sustainable development. This experience is not only a valuable lesson for other countries, but also an inspiration for creating a more equitable and prosperous future for the next generations.

Shavkat Alimbekov,

Leading Researcher at

the International Institute of Central Asia

Interaction of the Republic of Uzbekistan with the UN in Ensuring Regional Security and Stability in Central Asia

In recent years, the leadership of Uzbekistan, while implementing a fundamentally new proactive foreign policy strategy, has paid special attention to building practical cooperation with international organizations. One of the priority directions in this regard is the development and strengthening of multifaceted cooperation with the United Nations (UN) and its specialized structures.

Currently, Tashkent is comprehensively expanding its contacts with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other UN entities. In this context, particular importance is attached to ensuring security and stability in Central Asia and enhancing its role in the international relations system.

Thanks to the revitalization of Uzbekistan's partnership with the UN, significant progress has been made in fostering a new atmosphere of mutually beneficial cooperation in Central Asia, based on mutual trust and good neighborliness.

As a result, there has been a noticeable consolidation of regional states, which have become more active in advancing joint regional and international initiatives, programs, and projects aimed at promoting sustainable development in Central Asia.

For instance, while from 1991 to 2016, about 20 resolutions were adopted in the UN at the initiative of Central Asian states, and from 2016 to the present, 18 resolutions have been adopted.

These documents address important issues such as sustainable development, security, peacebuilding, and trust-building in the region, as well as the preservation of water resources, climate change, ecology, and the prevention of radiological threats. Protecting the rights of youth and promoting tolerance have also gained significant attention.

         Moreover, Uzbekistan has become an active participant in advocating for the interests of Central Asia within the UN framework. For instance, between 2018 and 2022, six UN General Assembly resolutions were adopted at the initiative of our country. These resolutions include "Strengthening Regional International Cooperation for Peace, Stability, and Sustainable Development in the Central Asian Region" (June 2018), "Education and Religious Tolerance" (December 2018), and "Declaration of the Aral Sea Region as a Zone of Environmental Innovations and Technologies" (May 2021).

Furthermore, within the framework of the UN Human Rights Council, a resolution on "The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Human Rights of Youth" was adopted in October 2021. In UNESCO, the "Khiva Process" was recognized in November 2021, following the international forum "Central Asia at the Crossroads of World Civilizations" held in Khiva from September 14 to 16, 2021.

The Code of Voluntary Commitments of States during a Pandemic, developed by Uzbekistan, has been circulated as an official document of the UN General Assembly, contributing to global efforts to combat COVID-19.

Additionally, the Tashkent and Bukhara Declarations have also been recognized as official UN documents, calling for international support for multi-confessional and intercultural dialogue and the promotion of multilateral cooperation in the prevention and counteraction of terrorism.

Collectively, all the resolutions and documents initiated by Central Asian countries within the UN have undeniably laid a strong foundation for uniting the efforts of regional states and the international community in ensuring the political, economic, social, and environmental security of Central Asia.

Several key factors have played a significant role in the successful promotion of Uzbekistan's interaction with the UN:

Firstly, intensive diplomacy by the President of Uzbekistan and the intensification of political dialogue within the UN. Starting in 2016, thanks to the political will of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Tashkent has actively participated in the activities of the UN General Assembly and its specialized agencies. In particular, the President of Uzbekistan took part in and addressed the 72nd, 75th, and 76th sessions of the UN General Assembly, as well as the High-Level Segment of the 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

During this period, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held three meetings with the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (in June and September 2017 and April 2019), which allowed for comprehensive discussions and coordination of effective measures to develop mutually beneficial cooperation, primarily in ensuring regional security and sustainable development in Central Asia.

It is worth noting that on November 10-11, 2017, during an international conference under the auspices of the UN in Samarkand, titled "Central Asia: One Past and a Common Future, Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Mutual Prosperity," Central Asian states emphasized the need for closer and coordinated cooperation among Central Asian countries in anticipating new challenges and threats. They also stressed the importance of strengthening the central role of the UN in addressing security challenges in the region.

         The conference's communiqué called on all UN entities, other international organizations, and interested partner countries to increase and strengthen their cooperation with the countries of Central Asia on issues related to regional security and sustainable development. This cooperation should align with the priorities, interests, needs, and national programs of Central Asian countries, providing them with the necessary technical, expert, legal, financial, and other assistance.

Furthermore, during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Samarkand in September 2022, a meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and UN Deputy Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo took place, resulting in the adoption of a "Roadmap" for further development of practical cooperation.

         In 2022 and January 2023, Uzbekistan hosted the first Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed.

There are 11 Plans of Practical Measures for the Development of Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN and its specialized agencies, adopted and being implemented between 2021 and 2023. These measures undoubtedly contribute to enhancing the resilience of Central Asia to external challenges.

Secondly, it promotes a constructive agenda in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, and other transnational challenges.

         Today, Uzbekistan is a party to 14 major international legal instruments and actively participates in global efforts to counter international terrorism.

Our country was among the first to support the fight against this threat, including the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS), which has become a comprehensive, collective, and universally recognized legal framework for uniting national and international efforts in countering terrorism.

Uzbekistan has become an active participant in the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in Central Asia, which was adopted in 2011. The implementation of this Strategy has allowed for the strengthening of regional consensus on common principles and approaches to counterterrorism, the establishment of effective mechanisms for cooperation on both a bilateral and multilateral basis, the enhancement of counterterrorism potential, and the strengthening of regional security.

The logical continuation of practical activities in this direction was the holding of the International High-Level Conference on "Regional Cooperation of Central Asian Countries within the Framework of the Joint Plan of Action for the Implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy," proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the 75th session of the UN General Assembly.

The organization of this conference allowed for the identification of new priorities and directions for cooperation, giving a fresh impetus to regional cooperation in countering the threats of extremism and terrorism. The Tashkent Declaration and the updated Joint Plan of Action for the Implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in Central Asia adopted as a result of the forum, will be of paramount importance for the region's sustainable development.

At the same time, effective implementation of the tasks set requires the strengthening of mechanisms for continuous monitoring and coordination of interaction among Central Asian countries. In this regard, in October 2022, a "Roadmap" was signed between Uzbekistan and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office. As part of this "Roadmap," work has commenced on the establishment of a United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office in the region.

Simultaneously, with the growing threat of cyberterrorism and for effective counteraction to the use of digital technologies for terrorist purposes, Uzbekistan has intensified efforts to implement the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre's (UNCCT) Program on Cybersecurity and New Technologies in Central Asia, adopted in 2020.

In particular, from September 25 to 26 of this year, for the first time in Tashkent, a regional seminar on this topic is planned in collaboration with the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia. During the event, the parties intend to discuss the creation of a virtual network on cyberterrorism in Central Asia.

Uzbekistan also actively cooperates with the United Nations and its specialized agencies in countering transnational threats related to drugs and crime.

Specifically, effective cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in implementing practical projects to strengthen national and regional capacity is underway. At the initiative of Tashkent, a regional program for Central Asian countries for 2022-2025 was developed and signed jointly with UNODC in 2021, providing a solid foundation for work in this direction.

Uzbekistan also plans to develop a Joint Anti-Drug Action Plan with UNODC covering Central and South Asian countries.

One of the important institutions in countering drug-related crimes is the successful operation of the Central Asian Regional Information Coordination Centre for Combating Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances, and their Precursors (CARICC) in Tashkent. CARICC has significantly increased the level of coordination and cooperation in this area.

Continuing efforts in this regard, an agreement reached in 2021 between the President of Uzbekistan and the Executive Director of UNODC resulted in the opening of the UNODC Information Centre in Tashkent in May 2023. Its main tasks include assisting in strengthening the state borders of Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan and countering the illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, firearms, human trafficking, and illegal financial flows.

Thirdly, the expansion of cooperation on establishing peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Uzbekistan consistently advocates for the peaceful, political, and diplomatic settlement of the situation in Afghanistan. In this regard, Uzbekistan's pragmatic and constructive policy towards Afghanistan has become comprehensive and dynamic since Shavkat Mirziyoyev assumed the presidency of the country. Thus, Tashkent has intensified its efforts to address the Afghan issue and continues to call for the coordination of all countries' efforts to stabilize the situation in Afghanistan within the framework of the UN.

It is important to note that in all of President Uzbekistan's speeches at the United Nations, special attention is given to the resolution of the Afghan issue. Concrete initiatives are put forward to assist in achieving stability in this country. These initiatives also demonstrate Tashkent's commitment to preserving the central role of the UN in resolving the Afghan issue and its interest in uniting the efforts of the entire international community to establish lasting peace in Afghanistan.

In particular, Sh. Mirziyoyev has repeatedly stated at the UN General Assembly that 'issues of peace and stability in Afghanistan should remain at the center of the UN's attention' and 'the role of the UN in resolving the situation in Afghanistan needs to be strengthened, and its voice should be louder than ever.'

Another important contribution of Uzbekistan in this direction was the hosting of the 2018 High-Level International Conference on Afghanistan in Tashkent under the auspices of the UN. This conference marked a new stage in mobilizing the efforts of the international community to address the Afghan issue.

Similarly, the International High-Level Conference 'Central and South Asia: Regional Connectivity, Challenges, and Opportunities,' held jointly with the UN in Tashkent in 2021, reinforced the ongoing efforts of our country.

A distinctive feature of Uzbekistan's Afghan policy is that Tashkent views Afghanistan not only in terms of security threats but also as a country capable of acting as a bridge between Central and South Asia and strengthening trade and economic ties between the two regions.

Furthermore, Tashkent continues to call on the UN and the international community not to reduce international aid and attention to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a source of permanent threats once again.

That is why Uzbekistan is taking active steps to consolidate the efforts of the entire international community in transforming Afghanistan into a peaceful, stable, and prosperous state, free from terrorism, war, and narcotics. In particular, the Uzbek city of Termez, located on the border with Afghanistan, plays an important intermediary role by facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid sent by foreign countries to Afghanistan.

The international logistics hub in Termez, known as the 'Cargo Center,' was opened in 2021 at the initiative of President Sh. Mirziyoyev under the auspices of the UN currently serves as the main point of dispatch for UN humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. In just two years, it has delivered over 1,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan from the World Food Programme, UNICEF, and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan is interested in developing a unified international approach to the Afghan issue that would bring together the positions of various states in Afghanistan and expedite the country's exit from the complex socio-economic situation.

To achieve this goal, President Sh. Mirziyoyev has initiated the formation of a high-level International Negotiating Group under the auspices and with the support of the UN. Its implementation will help strengthen international consensus on key issues related to the settlement of the situation in Afghanistan and keep the Afghan issue at the center of global attention.

This, in turn, will mobilize resources from the international community for the implementation of infrastructure and socio-economic projects that will create a foundation for long-term and sustainable peace in Afghanistan.

Fourth, progressive cooperation with the UN on youth policy.

In the context of the growing population in Central Asian countries, where youth make up a significant demographic group - about 30%, Uzbekistan, aware of the increasing demand for socialization, education, and employment from the youth, actively collaborates with the UN in this direction. Effective youth policy is a crucial condition for ensuring stability and sustainable development in Central Asia.

That is why President Sh. Mirziyoyev pays special attention to positioning youth not as a risk but as agents of positive change and a source of new opportunities for the sustainable development of Central Asian countries and the region as a whole.

In this context, significant work has been done in recent years. In particular, the Samarkand International Forum on Youth Rights was successfully held under the auspices of the UN in August 2020, resulting in the adoption of the Samarkand Resolution 'Youth 2020: Global Solidarity, Sustainable Development, and Human Rights.' The document defines the important role that youth can play in promoting peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights, as well as the significance of active, meaningful, and inclusive youth participation in decision-making processes, especially in Central Asian countries.

Also, in December 2022, in Samarkand, in collaboration with international partners, including the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and its Regional Office, UNICEF, UNDP, and others, a Global Forum on "Human Rights Education" was organized. The Samarkand Action Plan for 2023-2025 on the development of human rights education was adopted as a result, outlining tasks, proposals, and recommendations for the international community, national governments, educational and research institutions, and civil society institutions for the effective implementation of human rights education and training. It is important to note that the initiative to hold this forum was put forward by the President of Uzbekistan at the 76th session of the UN General Assembly and the 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

A significant achievement can be considered the UN General Assembly resolution on "Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance" initiated by the President of Uzbekistan, Sh. Mirziyoyev. The document aims to ensure universal access to education, eradicate illiteracy, and promote tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding in the interest of strengthening security and peace.

Furthermore, Tashkent actively advocates for the adoption of the UN International Convention on Youth Rights, which should emphasize the need for active youth participation in democratic processes, provide the right to comprehensive support and family protection, the right to social support and care, legal capacity, equality before the law, participation in decision-making at national and international levels, protection from violence and exploitation.

Undoubtedly, Uzbekistan's measures to ensure the interests of youth help address challenges and open up opportunities for harnessing the potential of young people, thereby enhancing the stability and security of Central Asia.

Fifth, consolidating efforts to address regional climate change issues.

Currently, the Central Asian region is increasingly experiencing the consequences of global climate change. Climate change contributes to the exacerbation of water scarcity, land degradation, desertification, and the increasing number of natural disasters, which pose a critical problem for the region and a serious threat to sustainable development.

According to the United Nations, Central Asia is experiencing a faster rate of warming than other parts of the world. While the average global temperature has increased by 1.1°C since 1900, the average annual temperature in our region has increased by 1.6°C, rising from 13.2°C to 14.8°C. According to forecasts, by 2050, air temperatures could rise by another 1.5°-3°C.

In this context, as well as recognizing the importance of the issue and the need for effective measures to address the mitigation and adaptation to the effects of climate change, the climate agenda becomes a priority for Uzbekistan. President Sh. Mirziyoyev has repeatedly stated that "Uzbekistan attaches serious attention to the issues of combating climate change, protecting the environment, and biodiversity. This is our human duty to present and future generations."

Today, it can be confidently affirmed that these words are substantiated by concrete actions. Thanks to Tashkent's efforts, the Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea Region was established in 2018 under the auspices of the UN, which has become a reliable platform for practical assistance from the international community to the population of the region living in an environmentally challenging area. To date, the Fund has attracted $134.5 million in financial resources from donor countries.

The UN also supported the establishment of the International Innovation Center for the Aral Sea in 2018. The center's tasks include the development of scientific research and practical work, improving the ecosystem and sustainable livelihoods, and the introduction of advanced research and innovation in the salt-affected lands of the dried-up Aral Sea.

A significant achievement was the unanimous adoption of a special resolution by the UN General Assembly during its 75th session in 2021, proposed by the President of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev declared the Aral Sea region a zone of environmental innovation and technology. Approximately 60 states co-authored the resolution, in which the UN General Assembly expressed support for regional initiatives and measures aimed at improving the environmental, social, economic, and demographic situation in the Aral Sea region.

In addition to this, in 2023, the Central Asian University for Environmental Studies and Climate Change was established in Tashkent, which will be engaged in the training, retraining, and advanced training of specialists, scientists, researchers, leaders, and entrepreneurs capable of addressing important environmental, socio-economic, and scientific and technical problems of Uzbekistan and Central Asia.

Uzbekistan actively participates permanently in the annual sessions of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. During the 27th session held in 2022, the Uzbek delegation advocated for the consolidation of efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, the promotion of renewable energy sources, climate adaptation projects, desertification, and land degradation control, the introduction of water-saving technologies, and other climate actions in Central Asia.

Another important aspect is that the UN has supported Uzbekistan's intention to host the first "Samarkand International Forum for Solidarity for the Sake of Common Security and Prosperity" in the spring of 2024, dedicated to climate change issues. The forum will also include discussions on opportunities for international cooperation in reducing risks and threats in the Central Asian region and attracting climate financing.

Considering the escalating challenges and emerging new threats to the Central Asian region, Uzbekistan, led by President Sh. Mirziyoyev will continue to strengthen cooperation with the UN in ensuring regional security and sustainable development in Central Asia. This will also be facilitated by the dynamic pace of regional processes and cooperation and the consolidation of efforts by Central Asian countries to address regional issues.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan's participation in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly will contribute to the formation of a broad and effective agenda for further engaging the potential of global cooperation in strengthening the security and stability of the region.

Overall, it can be noted that Uzbekistan's proactive diplomacy within the framework of the UN to promote the interests of Central Asia opens up wide opportunities and prospects for practical interaction with the international community. Uzbekistan's and Central Asia's openness to developing global relationships will transform challenges into opportunities, ultimately contributing to the formation of a new model of regional cooperation in changing circumstances.

Murad Uzakov,

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

Uzbekistan has established a strong foundation for the timely and high-quality achievement of national goals and sustainable development tasks

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a universal plan for a better future for all of humanity. Under the auspices of the United Nations, in 2015, all member states adopted 17 interconnected goals. These goals are primarily aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting our planet, improving the quality of life, and enhancing prospects for all people.

In Uzbekistan, in 2022, Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 83 "On Additional Measures to Accelerate the Implementation of National Goals and Tasks in the Field of Sustainable Development for the Period up to 2030" was adopted. This reaffirms Uzbekistan's firm commitment to achieving the global Agenda for the period up to 2030 in comprehensive partnership with all UN member states to implement the sixteen national sustainable development goals.

The National Goals and Tasks in the Field of Sustainable Development for the Period up to 2030, the Action Plan for the Effective Implementation of National Goals and Tasks in the Field of Sustainable Development for the Period 2022–2026, as well as Uzbekistan's National Development Strategies, all serve the realization of Sustainable Development Goals.

To organize systematic work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the government of Uzbekistan has established a special coordination council, including the Parliamentary Commission for Monitoring the Implementation of National Goals and Tasks in the Field of Sustainable Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the Period up to 2030. As a result, sustainable development goals have been balanced with developed and implementable strategies, concepts, and roadmaps for the economic, social, and environmental development of the country and its regions.

The strengthening of parliamentary control in achieving the SDGs is the outcome of the United Nations General Assembly resolution of December 14, 2022, which approved the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan regarding "Enhancing the Role of Parliaments in Accelerating the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals."

         The results achieved in the implementation of Uzbekistan's national goals and tasks have been approved and recognized by the international community.

The primary principle of the new Uzbekistan, "In the Name of Human Honor and Dignity," aligns with the UN principle of sustainable development, "Leave No One Behind."

According to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Inter-agency Task Force on Financing for Development report, in 2023, Uzbekistan ranked 69th out of 166 countries in the Sustainable Development Goals Index, marking an 8-point increase in its ranking.

The SDR Index report highlights positive growth in sustainable development indicators for 11 out of 16 goals in Uzbekistan. This includes poverty reduction, food security and nutrition, health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, industrialization, innovation and infrastructure, sustainable cities and communities, climate action, peace, justice, and effective institutions.

The Voluntary National Reviews prepared in 2020 and 2023 on the implementation of Uzbekistan's national goals and tasks for sustainable development until 2023 were positively assessed by the UN.

Uzbekistan has achieved significant results in all Sustainable Development Goals, which have been balanced and interconnected with the implementation of the "Action Strategy on the Five Priority Areas of Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2017–2021."

Specifically, Uzbekistan has achieved the following results regarding the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 1: Uzbekistan has taken measures aimed at substantially reducing poverty.

These measures involved the development of legislative, institutional, and economic mechanisms to address and combat poverty. From 2015 to 2022, the national poverty rate decreased from 30.4% to 14.1%. The coverage of the population receiving social benefits increased from 0.8% to 2.5% during this period, with a sevenfold increase in government spending.

Goal 2: Significant efforts have been made to ensure food security and nutrition.

Uzbekistan ranked first in the Top 10 countries with the most progress in food security in 2019-2022, according to the Global Food Security Index. Extensive work has been done in land relations, with 400,000 dehkans (small-scale farmers) receiving 100,000 hectares of arable land, enabling the additional production of 1.5 million tons of food products.

Goal 3: Measures have been implemented to promote a healthy lifestyle and well-being for all at all ages.

From 2015 to 2022, the maternal mortality rate decreased from 18.9 to 13.9, child mortality in children under 5 years decreased from 15.1 to 11.4 per 1,000 live births, and infant mortality decreased from 7.9 to 4.5 per 1,000 live births. In 2022, the incidence rate of newly detected tuberculosis was 46.9 per 100,000 populations, which is an 11.6% decrease compared to 2015.

Goal 4: Extensive work has been done to provide comprehensive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.

There is a sustainable trend of increasing the enrollment of children aged 3 to 6 in pre-school education (from 20.8% in 2015 to 68.3% in 2022). The percentage of schools with internet access and computers for educational purposes increased to 99.7% in 2022 (compared to 87.9% in 2017). The percentage of young women with higher education increased fivefold from 2015 to 2022, and the percentage of youth aged 18-27 with higher education increased from 8% to 30%. The number of functioning higher education institutions increased from 69 in 2015 to 199 in 2022.

Goal 5: Significant progress has been made in promoting gender equality and expanding the rights and opportunities of all women and girls.

In 2022, according to the Women, Business, and the Law Index by the World Bank, Uzbekistan was among the 27 countries that implemented significant reforms in the field of women's rights and gender equality. Exceptional results were attained in specific components, notably in areas such as women's mobility, entrepreneurship, and assets. The percentage of women in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis increased from 16% in 2015 to 28.2% in 2022, and in leadership positions, it increased from 27.7% to 28.2%, respectively.

Goal 6: Targeted measures have been implemented to conserve and sustainably use water resources and promote sanitation.

The percentage of the population with centralized drinking water supply increased by 5.2 percentage points over the last 7 years and reached 69.7% in 2022. The indicator for the "degree of integrated water resources management" increased from 49 to 56 during this period.

Goal 7: Positive changes have occurred in ensuring access to modern sources of energy.

The percentage of the population with access to electricity is 100%, and the use of clean energy sources increased from 94.5% in 2015 to 97.3% in 2022.

Goal 8: Measures have been taken to promote sustainable economic growth.

The growth rate of real GDP per capita was 2.7% in 2017 and 5.6% in 2022. GDP per employed person increased by 1.9 times.

Goal 9: Steps have been taken to create sustainable infrastructure, promote comprehensive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

From 2015 to 2022, passenger traffic increased from 120.1 to 146.5 billion passenger kilometers, including road traffic from 109.1 to 131.0 billion passenger kilometers, and air traffic from 6.8 to 10.9 billion passenger kilometers. The value added in the manufacturing industry as a percentage of the country's GDP per capita increased from 14.1% in 2015 to 20.5% in 2022. The percentage of the population covered by mobile networks using 3G/4G technology increased from 70% to 95% in the last three years.

Goal 10: Reduction of social inequality in all its forms within the country has been achieved.

From 2019 to 2021, the growth rate of household income per capita among the least affluent 40% of the population increased from 16.9% to 22.4%.

Goal 11: Specific measures have been taken to ensure environmental sustainability and the comprehensive development of cities and human settlements.

The construction of housing has been significantly expanded, leading to an increase in the availability of housing per capita from 15.7 square meters per person in 2015 to 18.2 square meters per person in 2022. During this time, more than 300,000 apartments and individual residential houses were constructed, which is ten times more than in the previous years of independence.

Goal 12: Measures have been taken to transition to rational consumption and production patterns.

The generation of toxic waste of classes 1-3 danger on a per capita basis decreased from 13.1 kg in 2019 to 8.0 kg in 2022.

Goal 13: Concrete measures have been taken to combat climate change and its consequences.

According to the international EDGAR database, in 2021, Uzbekistan's carbon intensity of GDP was 0.465 tons of CO2 per $1,000 of GDP at PPP (in constant 2017 prices), which decreased by 7.0% compared to 2019. Afforestation has been established on an area of more than 1.5 million hectares on the dried seabed of the Aral Sea.

Goal 15: Specific measures have been implemented for the protection and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems and the rational use of forests.

The forest area as a percentage of Uzbekistan's total land area increased from 8.3% to 8.7% over 7 years. The proportion of protected areas increased by 2.0 times.

Goal 16: Significant work has been done to promote the building of a peaceful and open society.

In the World Bank's 2021 World Governance Indicators (WGI) index, Uzbekistan improved its position in all six components. In particular, in terms of "Government Effectiveness," Uzbekistan ranked 116th out of 208 countries, improving its previous ranking by 22 positions. In the United Nations e-Government Development Index in 2022, Uzbekistan rose to the 69th position out of 193 countries, up from the 81st position in 2019, due to the accelerated adoption of digital technologies.

Goal 17: Positive shifts have been achieved in global integration and targeted increases in resources directed towards sustainable development.

Uzbekistan has opened its doors to cooperation with all countries, including Central Asian countries. Over 7 years, the overall share of government revenues as a percentage of GDP has increased from 16.5% to 22.7%. The percentage of the population using the Internet from 2017 to 2022 increased from 48.7% to 83.9%.

In summary, Uzbekistan has established a strong foundation for the timely and high-quality achievement of its national sustainable development goals and tasks by 2030. Based on the achievements made, the following steps are envisaged for achieving these national goals and sustainable development tasks:

Full alignment of national sustainable development goals and tasks with the Development Strategy of the New Uzbekistan until 2030. The priority areas identified include: creating favorable conditions for unlocking the potential of every individual; ensuring the well-being of the population through sustainable economic growth; preserving water resources and environmental protection; upholding the rule of law and establishing a government oriented toward serving the people; and consistently pursuing a policy based on the principle of a "Safe and Peaceful State."

Expanding the participation of civil society institutions in monitoring and assessing the results of achieving national goals and tasks. This involves taking into account proposals and recommendations from private entrepreneurs and residents of different regions of the country to enhance the effectiveness of measures taken.

Increasing public awareness and the population's knowledge about the efforts being made to achieve national goals and tasks. Regularly conducting special sociological surveys in cities, districts, and mahallas (local communities) about priority measures to meet the needs and requirements of the population, based on sustainable development measures.

Expanding the opportunities for state budgeting of measures to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in addressing socio-economic challenges such as poverty reduction, social stratification, targeted social protection, improving the quality of education and healthcare services, gender equality, and addressing social risks and climate change-related issues, as well as ensuring food, energy, and environmental security.

Continuing the dialogue between the state and the private sector, international organizations, and further expanding international cooperation with all countries worldwide, including those in Central Asia. This includes implementing UN initiatives proposed by Uzbekistan for regional cooperation and enhancing the role of parliaments in ensuring the rights of youth integrated with the SDGs.

Uzbekistan-UN: Cooperation for Universal Sustainable Development

On September 19, 2023, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will take part in the general debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Uzbekistan joined the UN as a new sovereign, independent state on March 2, 1992. Since joining this universal international organization, our country has been productively cooperating with it and its specialized institutions in various areas.

The main priorities of multilateral cooperation are the fight against modern threats and security challenges, the stabilization and restoration of Afghanistan, the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, solving environmental problems, in particular mitigating the consequences of the Aral Sea crisis, socio-economic development, protection and promotion of human rights, tourism development, and others.

According to experts, in recent years, Uzbekistan has become more involved in the activities of the General Assembly and specialized agencies of the UN. In particular, the head of Uzbekistan made speeches at the 72nd, 75th, and 76th sessions of the UN General Assembly, as well as at the High-Level Segment of the 46th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

In June 2017, the visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his negotiations with the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, took place. The head of our state also held meetings with the UN Secretary General in September 2017 in New York (USA) and during the 2nd International Forum "One Belt, One Road" in April 2019 in Beijing (PRC). As a result of these meetings, plans for practical measures to develop cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN were adopted and are being implemented.

The participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in the general debates of the 72nd session of the General Assembly in September 2017 opened a new stage of productive and mutually beneficial cooperation between our country and the UN. During this event, a number of important international initiatives were put forward, which have been successfully implemented over the past three years.

From the UN rostrum, the leader of Uzbekistan put forward a number of important international initiatives on current issues on the global and regional agenda. In particular, on the initiative of the leadership of Uzbekistan, six resolutions were developed and adopted within the UN General Assembly: "Strengthening regional international cooperation to ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Central Asian region" (June 2018), "Education and religious tolerance" (December 2018), "Sustainable tourism and development in Central Asia" (December 2019), "On declaring the Aral Sea region a zone of environmental innovation and technology" (May 2021), "On strengthening interconnectedness between Central and South Asia" (July 2022), "On the role of parliaments in achieving the SDGs" (December 2022).

In addition, within the framework of the UN Human Rights Council, at the initiative of Uzbekistan, a resolution was adopted "On the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for the human rights of youth" (October 2021) and at UNESCO - "The Khiva Process" (November 2021) following the results of the international forum "Central Asia at the crossroads of world civilizations" (September 14–16, 2021, Khiva).

The Code on Voluntary Commitments of States during Pandemics, developed by the Uzbek side, has been distributed as an official document of the UN General Assembly as Uzbekistan’s contribution to the global efforts to combat COVID-19.

Supporting the new spirit of multilateral interaction, Uzbekistan, together with member countries, is currently developing drafts for a number of General Assembly resolutions for their further adoption within the UN.

Since 1993, the UN office has been operating in Tashkent. In Uzbekistan, the "UN family" is represented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),  United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),  UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia (UNRCCA), International Labor Organization (ILO) ), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the UN Volunteers Program led by UNDP.

Agencies such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) also contribute to the work of the UN system. The World Bank, as an independent specialized agency of the UN system, also makes a significant contribution to the work of the organization in our country.

The United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for Uzbekistan is an effective tool for interaction between the government of Uzbekistan and the international community in the context of the implementation of priority areas of socio-economic development in the country in the medium term.

As part of the implementation of the main tasks defined in the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan, political contacts between Uzbekistan and the UN at the highest levels have noticeably intensified in recent years.

Uzbekistan attaches particular importance to efforts to put an end to the many years of bloody war in Afghanistan, which have brought enormous disasters to the Afghan people and become a source of serious threats to the entire region. Our country makes an effective contribution to the implementation of UN programs for the post-conflict reconstruction of Afghanistan; in particular, it has opened a bridge on the Uzbek-Afghan border for international deliveries of humanitarian supplies and is assisting in the construction of many infrastructure facilities on the territory of Afghanistan.

Uzbekistan provides all possible assistance to international organizations and individual countries in carrying out their humanitarian activities in Afghanistan through Termez. Thus, on the initiative of the leadership of Uzbekistan, an International Transport and Logistics Hub was created in Termez to ensure centralized and targeted delivery of humanitarian goods to Afghanistan. The opportunities in Termez are actively used by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Program.

As a result of the Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan, held in March 2018, its final declaration was circulated in April of the same year as an official document of the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly and Security Council. In addition, information about the efforts made by the leadership of Uzbekistan to peacefully resolve the situation in Afghanistan and mention of the Tashkent Conference were included in the report of the UN Secretary-General, "The Situation in Afghanistan and its Implications for International Peace and Security," published in September 2018.

The holding of a conference around Afghanistan in July 2022 in Tashkent also became a great contribution of Uzbekistan to ensuring sustainable peace and stability in this country.

Currently, work is being carried out within the UN to promote the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan to create an International Negotiating Group on Afghanistan.

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN on issues of ecology and environmental protection is intensifying. In this area, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev draws attention to another acute and urgently solving planetary problem—the tragedy of the Aral Sea—and calls for focusing the efforts of the world community on "reducing the destructive impact of this environmental disaster on the livelihoods of millions of people living in Central Asia and preserving the natural and biological balance in the Aral Sea region."

In accordance with the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, put forward during the general debates of the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, in 2018, under the auspices of the UN, a Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) on human security for the Aral Sea region was created, the presentation of which took place in November 2018 at the headquarters of the organization’s apartment with the participation of its Secretary General António Guterres.

As the UN chief stated during the presentation, "this structure will significantly improve the living conditions of the local population and will contribute to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals."

At the initiative of our country and jointly with the UN Office in Uzbekistan, on October 24–25, 2019, an International High-Level Conference on Declaring the Aral Sea Region a Zone of Environmental Innovation and Technology was held in Nukus. About 250 participants from 28 countries, including leaders and representatives of authoritative international organizations, took part in it.

On December 19, 2019, the UN General Assembly at its plenary session adopted a special resolution "Sustainable Tourism and Sustainable Development in Central Asia," the initiative of which was put forward by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in April 2019 in Beijing during a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The draft document, developed by Uzbekistan and submitted on behalf of all five Central Asian countries, was unanimously supported by all UN member states. The document was co-authored by over 50 countries in North and Latin America, Asia, Africa, and other continents, which indicates widespread recognition by the international community of the relevance and timeliness of the initiative of the leader of Uzbekistan.

In Uzbekistan’s interaction with the UN, special attention is paid to the issues of preserving and strengthening religious tolerance and solving pressing problems related to the lives of young people. The head of our state, during the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in New York, put forward an initiative to develop and adopt the UN General Assembly resolution "Enlightenment and religious tolerance."

Speaking from the high rostrum of the UN, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said that the main goal of the resolution proposed by Uzbekistan is "to ensure universal access to education and the elimination of illiteracy and ignorance." The document is intended to "promote tolerance and mutual respect, ensure religious freedom, protect the rights of believers, and prevent discrimination against them."

In accordance with profound transformations in all spheres of society, Uzbekistan for the first time nominated its candidacy for the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) for 2021-2023 and, with the support of the majority of states, became a member of the leading and most authoritative international body in the field of human rights protection.

Uzbekistan’s cooperation with UNESCO deserves special attention, which has risen to a qualitatively new level in recent years. In 2018, in Paris, in 2019, in Samarkand, and in 2022, in Tashkent, meetings between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay took place.

In 2021, in collaboration with UNESCO, the International Advisory Committee on the Protection of Historical Heritage Sites was created. In the same year, in Khiva, on the initiative of Uzbekistan and together with UNESCO, the International Cultural Forum "Central Asia: At the Crossroads of World Civilizations" was organized. The resolution "Khiva Process: Further Development of Cooperation in Central Asia," developed as a result of this forum, was unanimously adopted by the UNESCO General Conference at its 41st session in November 2021.

In July 2022, Uzbekistan, for the first time in its history, became a member of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage for 2022–2026,

On November 14–16, 2022, the second UNESCO World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education was held in Tashkent with the participation of UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, representatives of about 150 countries, and officials of international organizations. Following the 216th session of the UNESCO Executive Board, held on May 10–24, 2023, in Paris, the resolution "Implementation of the Tashkent Declaration and commitments to take measures to transform early childhood care and education" was unanimously adopted.

12 elements of Uzbek culture are included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity: Shashmakom, the cultural space of Boysun, Katta Ashula, the art of wit Askiya, the traditions and culture associated with pilaf, the traditions of celebrating Navruz, the preservation of traditional technologies for the production of atlases and adras at the Margilan Center for the Development of Crafts, Lazgi, miniature art, Bakhshi art, sericulture, and traditional silk production, and traditional stories about Khoja Nasreddin.

International tourism is actively developing in our country. Cooperation with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which Uzbekistan joined in 1993, plays an important role in this. The UNWTO regional center for tourism development on the Great Silk Road operates in Samarkand. The International University of Tourism "Silk Road" has also been established in Samarkand, which is one of the most famous and prestigious institutions of higher education and the first university in the field of tourism in Uzbekistan.

The 25th session of the UNWTO General Assembly will be held in Samarkand on October 16–20, 2023.

There is active cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) in the fight against infectious and non-infectious diseases, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and strengthening the national health care system. The framework for cooperation between Uzbekistan and WHO is a two-year cooperation agreement between the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan and the WHO Regional Office for Europe.

Delegations from Uzbekistan regularly participate in sessions of the World Health Assembly and the WHO Regional Office for Europe.

Since 2021, WHO has been the lead organization to assist the country in implementing health sector reform and piloting it in a pilot region (Syr Darya), including the introduction of public health insurance.

In recent years, the efforts of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Uzbekistan have significantly intensified. In November 2022, the forum was successfully held in Tashkent with the International Public Foundation "Zamin" "Ensuring children’s rights to a healthy environment", dedicated to World Children’s Day.

On February 11, 2021, in New York, during a session of the UNICEF Executive Board, a new Country Cooperation Program of the Fund for Uzbekistan until 2025 was approved.

The Population Fund (UNFPA) occupies a significant place in the UN system in Uzbekistan in the implementation of programs in the areas of population and reproductive health. Uzbekistan is carrying out productive work with the fund by preparing and conducting a population census.

At the current stage, the fifth UNFPA country program is being implemented, within the framework of which various trainings, seminars, and conferences on reproductive health are being held. Centers for social and legal support for women have been created in the country, and work is underway to update clinical protocols, modernize medical institutions, and train and improve the qualifications of specialists.

In November 2022, together with UNFPA, a Demographic Laboratory was launched in the Republic to strengthen the capacity of government officials on population issues and the development of demographic science and research.

There is an intensification of interaction between Uzbekistan and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). Together with this structure, international forums and conferences on gender and youth issues are organized, projects are implemented in specialized areas, and measures are taken to fully support Uzbekistan’s efforts to increase the role of women in society.

The International Labor Organization (ILO) highly appreciates the progress achieved in Uzbekistan in recent years to create conditions for decent work, eradicate forced and child labor, and protect the rights and freedoms of workers. Our country has ratified 20 ILO conventions, including nine out of the 10 fundamental ones. Taking into account the recommendations of the ILO, a new edition of the Law "On Employment" and a new edition of the Labor Code were developed and adopted.

Currently, the country program on decent work of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2021–2025 is being implemented, which includes such areas as improving the legal framework regulating labor relations, expanding opportunities for education, employment, and decent work for youth, women, and vulnerable groups of the population, and strengthening the institutional capacity of social dialogue and partners.

In recent years, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has become one of our country’s significant partners. Currently, the Road Map for the Development of Cooperation between Uzbekistan and IOM is being implemented. Together with the IOM, projects on labor migration, border management, combating human trafficking, and improving the skills of specialists in recruiting labor migrants are being implemented in the republic.

In short, the efforts of our country are fully supported by the leadership and member countries of the UN, since the initiatives put forward by the Uzbek side are consistent with the goals of the global organization, including the Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at strengthening peace, stability, and prosperity on our planet.

As an active supporter of lasting peace and an initiator of a comprehensive expansion of cooperation in the international arena, Uzbekistan always pays great attention to interaction with the UN and its specialized structures.

Undoubtedly, the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the World Leaders’ Forum will allow Uzbekistan to announce new important ideas and initiatives that will serve to solve the global problems of our time in the name of universal sustainable development.

Information agency “Dunyo”

Tashkent