Uzbekistan - The Times Of Central Asia

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Tashkent International Investment Forum

Mirziyoyev and Mishustin Reaffirm Strategic Alliance as Russia Says Uzbekistan Projects Top $50 Billion

TASHKENT, June 17, 2026 — President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin in Tashkent on June 16, as the Russian premier arrived to take part in the Fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF). In their meeting, the two leaders reviewed progress on implementing agreements reached at the highest level within the framework of Uzbek-Russian relations and their strategic partnership. Mirziyoyev and Mishustin backed deeper private-sector ties, regional cooperation in oil, gas, mining and agriculture, and expanded cultural and educational exchanges, points also raised in Mishustin's separate meetings with Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Saida Mirziyoyeva, head of the presidential administration. They expressed satisfaction at a 20% rise in bilateral trade turnover since the start of the year, and noted that major joint projects in energy, metallurgy and other priority sectors are continuing. [caption id="attachment_50632" align="aligncenter" width="1774"] Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and Mikhail Mishustin, PM of the Russian Federation. Image: RF website[/caption] Those parallel meetings underscored that the relationship now extends well into the cultural and academic sphere alongside the commercial one. Aripov congratulated Mishustin and “all our Russian friends on Russia Day. I wish the multi-ethnic people of Russia peace, stability, and continued prosperity,” he said. Aripov went on to note that two-way trade has more than tripled over the past decade to surpass $13 billion, with the combined portfolio of joint projects now standing near $47 billion. Mirziyoyeva, in turn, highlighted recent cultural exchanges held around the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, including a Mariinsky Theatre premiere of the opera “Tamerlane” and exhibitions at the Hermitage and the Fabergé Museum, while officials on both sides pointed to the large number of Russian university branches operating in Uzbekistan as evidence of deepening educational ties. Of key significance in the Uzbek-Russian relationship is the construction of Uzbekistan's first integrated nuclear power station, which will be built to a Russian design. Putin and Mirziyoyev marked the launch by video link during the St. Petersburg forum, as concrete was poured at the project site. Russian engineers are also involved in the construction of the country's largest hydropower plants. A joint center for managing drilling operations has been created, and a major project is underway to upgrade the Central Asia-Centre gas pipeline and expand its capacity. [caption id="attachment_50634" align="aligncenter" width="1774"] Image: President.uz[/caption] Mishustin’s TIIF Address Speaking at the TIIF opening ceremony on June 17, Mishustin set the bilateral relationship against the backdrop of a strained global economy. “The global economy is undergoing a profound transformation these days amid growing turbulence and escalating trade wars, the wide application of protectionist measures and unfair competition. Of course, all this means that we, our countries, must work on systemic objectives. The way we address them will define whether we succeed in fostering steady economic development for our countries and improving the quality of life for our people,” he said. Mishustin told the forum that “Russia is among...

FIFA World Cup

World Cup: Diaz’s quality shows as Colombia beat Uzbekistan 3-1

In the breathless air of Mexico City, Colombia overcame a spirited Uzbekistan 3-1 in the first-ever FIFA World Cup game involving a Central Asian side. In a match which was otherwise low on quality, the difference-maker was Bayern Munich’s Luis Díaz. He created Colombia’s first goal, scored the second after Uzbekistan had briefly equalized, and gave the favorites a cutting-edge that they had otherwise lacked. For Uzbekistan, the defeat was not a humiliation. Abbosbek Fayzullaev’s second-half equalizer, the first World Cup goal scored by a Central Asian country, will go down in history. There was even a spell late when Colombia were made to sweat, camped in their own half against a side that many saw as easy pickings. In the end, Jaminton Campaz's third in the eighth minute of stoppage time gave the result a gloss that perhaps flattered the South Americans, who were not at their best. Worlds Apart It is hard to think of two more contrasting countries than Uzbekistan and Colombia. One is arid and double-landlocked, the other tropical, with coasts on the Pacific and the Caribbean. One is a staunch tea culture, the other one of the world’s great coffee exporters. Colombia is in the middle of a febrile election campaign, with a runoff vote due on June 21 that pits the far-left and the far-right. Uzbekistan, by contrast, has never had an election where the winner has received less than 80%. Fortunately, they both quickly found common ground on the pitch by playing some insipid, uninspiring football. Uzbeks are rightly famed for their hospitality, and there was no shortage of accommodation for the Colombian forwards as Uzbekistan welcomed the opposition into their half, sacrificing possession to maintain a solid defensive shape. Sitting back and inviting pressure was always a risk. Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, 2,200 meters above sea level and the scene of the World Cup finals of 1970 and 1986, was full of canary yellow Colombia shirts whose raucous cacophony grew as their side dominated possession of the ball. Toward the end of the first half, the spaces began to widen. Diaz hit the post, and soon after he fashioned the breakthrough, floating a delightful ball over the top for the onrushing Daniel Muñoz, the Crystal Palace right back who, until that point, had had little to do. His improvised finish sent the hordes of Colombians into delirium. Uzbekistan did well to keep the game tight until the break, after which they played higher and with more aggression. On the hour mark came the moment that those watching across Uzbekistan will have been dreaming of. Eldor Shomurodov, who had spent much of the game isolated up front, sent a crashing volley that forced the Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas into a hurried save. The ball spilled loose, leaving Fayzullaev with the simplest of tasks to nod home from point-blank range. Uzbekistan had their first World Cup goal. For five glorious minutes, it looked like another vindication for FIFA’s expanded tournament. The 48-team format has...

Bilateral Relations

Uzbekistan Mahallasi Opens in Turkey’s Earthquake-Hit Hatay

A residential complex built by Uzbekistan in Turkey’s Hatay Province has officially become the center of a new neighborhood named “Uzbekistan Mahallasi,” marking another milestone in the growing partnership between the two countries. According to Uzbekistan’s Dunyo Information Agency, an opening ceremony was held in the Arsuz district of Hatay. Officials also inaugurated Shavkat Mirziyoyev Boulevard, along with Tashkent and Samarkand Streets. The event brought together senior officials from both countries, including Nuriddin Ismoilov, Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis; Jurabek Rakhimov, governor of Khorezm Region; Numan Kurtulmuş, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey; Hatay Governor Mustafa Masatlı; and representatives of local authorities and residents. The housing development is part of Uzbekistan’s assistance to Turkey following the devastating earthquakes that struck southern Turkey on February 6, 2023, causing widespread destruction across Hatay and several neighboring provinces. Speaking at the ceremony, Kurtulmuş described the project as a symbol of gratitude to the Uzbek people for their support during one of Turkey’s most difficult periods. “Today, it is a source of special pride for us to immortalize names in Arsuz that reflect the great historical and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan,” Kurtulmuş said. “This step symbolizes the respect and appreciation for the Uzbek people, who stood by us and extended their support during our most difficult days.” Kurtulmuş also described Uzbekistan as one of the important centers of Islamic civilization and the Turkic world. He highlighted reforms being implemented under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and praised the country’s “New Renaissance” development agenda. Hatay Governor Mustafa Masatlı highlighted the practical significance of Uzbekistan’s contribution to the province’s recovery. He said naming the residential area “Uzbekistan Mahallasi” would serve as a lasting symbol of friendship between the two nations. “On behalf of the residents of Hatay, I express my profound gratitude to the friendly and fraternal people of Uzbekistan,” Masatlı said. The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting for the newly named boulevard and streets, which honor Uzbekistan’s president and two of the country’s historic cities. The opening follows the completion of the housing project earlier this year. In January, Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took part in a ceremony to open the Uzbekistan residential complex and handed apartment keys to local residents. The complex consists of 24 apartment buildings with more than 300 fully equipped apartments and modern infrastructure. It was built by Uzbekistan in the Arsuz district, one of the areas affected by the 2023 earthquakes.

Tashkent International Investment Forum

Data, Minerals, and the New Tashkent: Uzbekistan Pitches Its Next Growth Phase at Investment Forum

Uzbekistan used the opening of this year’s Tashkent International Investment Forum to make a broader pitch than investment alone: the country is presenting itself as a platform for data-driven governance, value-added mineral processing, and large-scale urban development. The fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum is being held in the Uzbek capital from June 16-18, bringing together government officials, international financial institutions, business leaders, and investors as Uzbekistan seeks to reinforce its position as one of Central Asia’s leading investment destinations. Held under the theme “Investment Resilience: New Frontiers, New Partnerships,” TIIF 2026 comes as Uzbekistan continues to promote reforms aimed at attracting capital, expanding industrial production, developing digital infrastructure, and moving higher up global value chains. Mirziyoyev Sets Out Investment Priorities Addressing the forum on June 17, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented Uzbekistan’s recent economic performance as evidence of growing investor confidence. He said the country had attracted more than $150 billion in foreign investment in recent years, including $123 billion over the past five years. According to the president, nearly 4,000 foreign guests from more than 100 countries are attending this year’s forum, reflecting its expanding international profile. The event brought together heads of state, prime ministers, representatives of international financial institutions, and business executives from around the world. Mirziyoyev said Uzbekistan remained committed to creating a favorable investment environment through reforms designed to protect investors’ rights and broaden economic opportunities. He said GDP grew by 7.7% in 2025, foreign investment reached $43 billion, international reserves exceeded $70 billion, and Uzbekistan rose 14 places in the Index of Economic Freedom, joining the group of economies classified as “moderately free.” He also emphasized the pace of economic growth. Four years ago, he said, Uzbekistan set a target of reaching a $100 billion economy by the end of 2026; now, he said, GDP is expected to exceed $180 billion this year. Mirziyoyev also announced plans to establish the Tashkent International Financial Center, a tax- and customs-free zone operating under a special legal regime based on English common law principles. He said the center would offer zero rates on profit tax, value-added tax, property tax, and customs duties, while guaranteeing free capital movement and payments in any currency. Delta Y: A Data Infrastructure Startup Looks to Uzbekistan One of the companies drawing attention at the forum was Delta Y, a Lisbon-based data infrastructure startup seeking to help governments and cities turn fragmented information into practical decision-making tools. Founded in 2025, Delta Y describes itself as a “data infrastructure layer” for governments, institutions, and advisory firms. Its goal is to use data engineering and artificial intelligence to turn disconnected datasets into usable analysis. Co-founder Afonso Carvas said the idea emerged from his experience working with data teams in technology companies and from a broader question: whether governments and cities could gain access to the same quality of data infrastructure used by leading global companies. That question eventually led the company to Uzbekistan. Why Uzbekistan? Carvas said Delta Y first began looking at Uzbekistan after a...

Tashkent International Investment Forum

Mirziyoyev Says Uzbekistan’s Doors Will “Always Remain Open” as Fifth Tashkent Investment Forum Begins

TASHKENT, June 17 — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev opened the Fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF) on Wednesday with a message aimed squarely at the nearly 4,000 mostly foreign delegates packed into the hall: Uzbekistan's doors are open, and the country intends to keep them that way. Speaking under this year's theme, "Investment Resilience: New Frontiers, New Partnerships," Mirziyoyev framed the forum as more than a transactional venue for capital, but as a platform to initiate and deepen long-term mutually beneficial partnerships. He described what he called the "Tashkent investment spirit" — a phrase he used to capture the event's evolution into what he called a symbol of shared success between Uzbekistan and the partners willing to back it. The sentiment ran through his closing remarks, where he told the room that “the most important partner in turning ambitious plans into reality is an investor who arrives with good intentions. Therefore, the doors of New Uzbekistan will always remain open to foreign investors who come to our country with trust and ideas.” The guest list underscored the forum's growing diplomatic prowess. Mirziyoyev personally thanked Albanian President Bajram Begaj, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Belarusian Prime Minister Aleksandr Turchin, Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Kyrgyz Cabinet Chairman Adylbek Kasymaliev, and Tajik Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda, alongside senior representatives from the EBRD, the New Development Bank, the World Bank, the IFC, the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the European Investment Bank. Mirziyoyev cited a series of economic indicators to support the message. Uzbekistan has secured more than $150 billion in foreign investment since launching reforms, with $123 billion arriving in the last five years. In 2025, GDP expanded by 7.7%, foreign investment climbed to $43 billion, and reserves rose above $70 billion. According to Mirziyoyev, the economy is on track to exceed $180 billion this year, comfortably outpacing the $100 billion goal announced at the first forum four years ago — a sign, he said, of sustained momentum, underscored by a 14-position improvement in the Index of Economic Freedom. The pledges come as Uzbekistan seeks to deepen the economic opening launched under Mirziyoyev, with officials using the forum to market legal guarantees, capital-market reforms and new infrastructure projects to foreign investors. Mirziyoyev structured the rest of his address around six priorities. The first centers on legal guarantees for investors, anchored by the new Tashkent International Financial Center — a zero-tax-rate zone for corporate income, VAT, property, and customs duties, governed by English common law and backed by an independent commercial court staffed with foreign judges. The second targets capital markets, building on $16 billion in international bond placements and the recent National Investment Fund listing, which he called the London Stock Exchange's largest IPO in five years, with sovereign “sukuk issuance” planned next. The third priority is industrial value addition. Here, Mirziyoyev pointed to Uzbekistan's $3 trillion in estimated subsoil wealth and announced that foreign investment will be extensively channeled into the "Metals of...

Critical Minerals

Uzbekistan’s $4.2 Billion Critical Minerals Plan Aims to Turn Raw Materials Into Industry

Uzbekistan has placed a $4.2 billion critical minerals program at the center of its industrial policy, as Tashkent seeks to turn Soviet-era mining strengths into higher-value production for modern supply chains. The country has long sold metals and minerals, but the program reviewed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on June 15 puts more emphasis on refining, laboratory work, skilled workers, and finished industrial goods. The new 2026-2030 program, which sets out 120 projects, aims to lift critical minerals output to $1 billion by 2028 and $2 billion by 2030. The first tranche, planned for this year, covers 12 projects worth $166 million and production of high-purity selenium, tellurium, and rhenium. It also includes 21 import-substituting products, including powder metallurgy auto parts and sulfuric acid. The plan landed as investors gathered in Tashkent for the Fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum. Mirziyoyev used the forum to make a broader reform pitch. “We are always open to investors interested in cooperating with Uzbekistan and ready for an equal and mutually beneficial partnership,” he said in his opening speech. He also announced plans for a Tashkent International Financial Center with zero rates for profit tax, value-added tax, property tax, and customs duties. Critical minerals give that investment pitch a clearer focus. Global buyers are looking for supplies that do not depend on a handful of processing hubs, while resource-rich countries want more of the value to stay at home. Uzbekistan is trying to move into that field with metals it already produces, especially tungsten and molybdenum, and with smaller but valuable materials used in electronics, aerospace, energy equipment, and advanced manufacturing. The Uzbekistan Technological Metals Complex, known as TMK or UzTMK, is the state vehicle for much of this work. The company says its portfolio includes tungsten, molybdenum, rhenium, graphite, selenium, tellurium, lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Its stated model is “mine-metal-market,” meaning a chain from extraction to metal products and buyers. The June 15 package adds practical details. Uzbekistan wants more than concentrates and semi-finished goods. The presidential briefing listed metal powders, alloys, rods, wire, industrial parts, and finished products. For tungsten and molybdenum, that means deeper processing inside Uzbekistan rather than sending value abroad. Chirchik, east of Tashkent, is set to play a larger role. The government plans to expand the Metals of the Future technopark and build up an R&D center there. The site is designed to support start-ups, commercialize applied research, and produce high-purity metals. A planned nano-analysis laboratory would process up to 1,000 samples a day once fully operational. Officials say it could replace $6.5 million in imported analytical services and generate $4 million through service exports. The lab is one of the more practical parts of the program. Mining projects need more than deposits and investment pledges. They need reliable samples, resource estimates that meet international standards, steady power, and proven processing methods. A credible laboratory in Chirchik would not remove all those risks, but it would make it easier to move from geological data to financed projects. Global demand...