Repatriating Islamic State Fighters and Families: Balancing Security and Humanity

With the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, repatriating foreign fighters is a pressing issue at the intersection of global security, humanitarian principles, and national responsibility. Central Asian governments — namely, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan — have emerged as proactive players in repatriating their citizens from camps in northeastern Syria. While these efforts are laudable, they come with challenges and unanswered questions. Tens of thousands of people, many of them women and children associated with former ISIS or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - a terrorist organization known for its extreme ideology and violent actions of its’ fighters — remain trapped in the camps of northeastern Syria. Their lives are defined by squalor and uncertainty, and they face a bleak future. Central Asian nations have stepped up where many others have faltered, asserting their responsibility to help their citizens who languish there. Yet, this commitment is not without its limits. Repatriating men — many of whom were fighters — remains a challenge that even the most ambitious programs have struggled to address. This issue looms large, as it intertwines with broader questions. These include reintegration, security risks, and the potential for radicalization, both in prison systems and broader society. The scale of efforts undertaken by four of the Central Asian countries is significant. Together, they have repatriated around 2,200 citizens: Kazakhstan, the most, 754 individuals, followed by others with numbers ranging from 381 to 533. These figures represent more than just logistical achievements. They reflect these governments' commitment to humanitarian principles. However, the path has not been entirely smooth, as some of the repatriated women and children have returned back to conflict zones. As counterintuitive as this may seem, they might do so out of ideological commitment, social ties, coercion or threats, trauma bonding, or difficulty reintegrating into their home societies. All this suggests cracks in reintegration programs that must be addressed. The strategies employed by the Central Asian states, despite their common goal, differ in focus and execution. Kazakhstan’s “Operation Zhusan” is often mentioned as a model of coordination and commitment. It has gone beyond mere repatriation to a vision embracing comprehensive reintegration, including other services, such as DNA testing to identify orphaned children. Yet such efforts rely heavily on state resources and long-term political will, neither of which can be taken for granted. Uzbekistan’s Mehr ("Kindness") initiative has particularly focused on protecting children and supporting the unification of families. Yet even with international appreciation, Uzbekistan faces the same challenges as its neighbors: how to sustain this momentum and address lingering societal stigmas toward returnees. Kyrgyzstan paused its repatriation operations in Iraq due to legal roadblocks and has turned its attention to Syria. However, Kyrgyzstan relies significantly on international cooperation, as its own economic resources for such activities are comparatively limited. So far, it has repatriated 511 citizens. Tajikistan’s steady progress highlights even more pointedly the role of international cooperation with organizations like UNICEF and the European Union. The Tajik authorities have worked closely with these partners to provide psychological and educational support for returnees. Questions remain about the long-term success of reintegration, particularly for individuals who may struggle to find acceptance in their communities. However, repatriation is not just a strategic necessity, but a moral obligation. For women and children, the barriers to reintegration include societal stigma, mental health struggles, and the absence of economic opportunities. Repatriated men face a different set of concerns. Not least, the risk of radicalization can be significant in instances of incarceration. Even outside of the prison system, ISIS sentiments and the urge to impose or fight for extremists and oppressive ideologies may persist. The countries of Central Asia have taken constructive steps to address such challenges where others have hesitated: in Europe and North America, repatriation efforts have frequently been delayed or limited by debates over security risks, public opinion, and resource allocation. Many Western nations have opted for a case-by-case approach or declined broad repatriation. The much more comprehensive Central Asia approach, by contrast, demonstrates both responsibility and the presence of compassion in governance. Important international observers have considered such efforts as a global model for balancing security and humanitarianism. Thus, even NGOs such as Human Rights Watch, critical of other aspects of Central Asian governance, have noted the humanitarian focus of these repatriation efforts. Likewise, respected think-tanks such as the International Crisis Group, have highlighted Central Asia's approach as noteworthy; and UN agencies like UNICEF have praised aspects of reintegration and repatriation programs, particularly those aimed at children and vulnerable populations. Yet, the Central Asian experience demonstrates the importance of looking beyond repatriation to focus on long-term reintegration. Central Asia has shown that progress is achievable, but also fragile. It requires continuous investment, not just in financial terms, but in terms of societal and political commitment, as well as continuing international assistance. Time and again, we are reminded that terrorism is a global challenge, indifferent to borders. Without opportunities for integration and a shared future within civil society, those disconnected from it will continue to pose a threat globally.

You Can Now Pay Your Fare on Tashkent’s Subway with the Palm of Your Hand

The Tashkent subway has introduced a pilot project for the “MyID Palm” fare payment system, which uses biometric technology to identify passengers by the unique vein pattern in their palms​. This innovative system was developed by local scientists in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, the payment service “ATTO,” and Octobank. It marks a significant advancement in biometric identification for public transportation. The system relies on palm vein scanners to read each passenger's unique vein pattern. According to the developers, this data is securely protected against unauthorized access and forgery. The goal of the technology is to enhance both security and convenience in fare payments. Currently, “MyID Palm” devices have been installed at 12 stations along the Chilanzar line, where they are operating in test mode. Plans are underway to expand this system to all metro stations in Tashkent. To use the service, passengers need an “ATTO” transportation card and the associated mobile application to create a biometric profile. The activation process involves scanning their palm at a designated info kiosk located at one of the stations equipped with the technology. Testing of the palm payment system began in late October 2023, with Druzhba Narodov station becoming the first to enable this feature​. Earlier, in September 2023, the Tashkent subway began testing a Face ID payment system, which allows passengers to pay their fare using facial recognition technology​. These advancements signal a move toward a more modernized and user-friendly public transportation system in Uzbekistan's capital, with both residents and visitors benefiting from the improved efficiency and security of biometric payment solutions.

Tensions Rise as Uzbek Leaders Respond to Ramzan Kadyrov’s Remarks

Uzbekistan has placed two residents of Chechnya, Bislan Rasayev and Shamil Temirkhanov, on Interpol’s wanted list. The Times of Central Asia has previously reported that the two men are accused of multiple crimes, including a plot to assassinate Komil Allamjonov, the former head of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's information policy department, and Dmitry Li, head of the National Agency for Prospective Projects (NAPP). Rasayev and Temirkhanov were reportedly offered $1.5 million for the assassinations. Chechnya's leader Ramzan Kadyrov has called the arrest warrants "fabrications". Kadyrov claims that pro-Western media are spreading baseless rumors about divisions within Mirziyoyev’s family as part of a larger effort to destabilize the country’s leadership. The attempt on Allamjonov's life is said to have taken place on October 26 outside his home in Tashkent’s Kibray district. According to Uzbek media, two unidentified individuals fired multiple shots at Allamjonov’s car before fleeing the scene. No injuries were reported. Opposition outlets speculated about a “Chechen connection,” suggesting Kadyrov’s possible involvement in the attack. In an earlier statement, Kadyrov said that “if I had really planned something, I would have completed it with a 100% result.” He also expressed skepticism about the investigation’s timeline, noting that Li was identified as a secondary target only months after the probe began. Kadyrov suggested that the case could be part of internal “behind-the-scenes games” orchestrated by certain groups. In response, Uzbek officials and lawmakers condemned Kadyrov’s statements and threats. Rasul Kusherbayev, a former deputy and adviser to the Minister of Ecology, described Kadyrov’s comments as terrorism. “Open threats to officials in Uzbekistan are terrorism. Those who make such statements or attempt such actions must be held accountable,” he said. Kusherbayev also criticized the Uzbek government for remaining silent in the face of these threats. “Why should the government of Uzbekistan remain silent? How long will we tolerate those who openly threaten us with chauvinistic views? The response should go beyond mere statements - it should involve concrete measures. If necessary, flights to Grozny should be canceled, and every Chechen citizen entering Uzbekistan should be strictly vetted,” he added. Odiljon Tojiyev, a deputy of Uzbekistan’s Legislative Chamber, similarly denounced Kadyrov’s interference in Uzbekistan’s internal affairs and his threats against Uzbek officials. He warned that such actions could harm relations between Uzbekistan and Chechnya. “I call on the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Russian Federation to assess Ramzan Kadyrov’s threats against Uzbek officials. Moreover, Kadyrov should issue a public apology to the people of Uzbekistan. If he is truly a friend, he should assist Uzbekistan’s Prosecutor General’s Office in locating and extraditing Bislan Rasayev and Shamil Temirkhanov,” Tojiyev stated. Kadyrov’s remarks and the allegations surrounding the assassination attempt have brought tensions between Uzbekistan and Chechnya into the spotlight. While Uzbekistan values its friendly relations with Russia and its regions, the controversy has prompted calls for firm action to protect the country’s sovereignty and ensure accountability.

Long-Awaited Construction of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Officially Launched

On December 27, Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov, the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission of the People's Republic of China, Zheng Shanjie, and Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjayev participated in a ceremony to mark the start of construction on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. The event occurred in the village of Tosh-Kutchu in Kyrgyzstan’s Jalal-Abad region, where they laid the first stone for this significant regional transportation project.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Japarov highlighted the importance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway as more than just a transportation route, describing it as a critical strategic bridge linking the East and West. "This route will ensure the delivery of goods from China to Kyrgyzstan, as well as to the countries of Central Asia and the Middle East, including Turkey, and on to the European Union. The project will strengthen interregional ties, help diversify transport routes and increase the competitiveness of the region as an international transport and transit hub, which is in line with the goals of the Central Asian countries," Japarov said.

Zheng Shanjie delivered a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting that the new land corridor connecting Asia and Europe will significantly increase the flow of people and trade among the three countries. According to the message, the project is expected to drive regional prosperity by fostering industrial and resource development, boosting trade, and attracting investment.

Exploring Uzbekistan’s Cultural Tapestry – Trio Fadolín’s From Near and Far in NYC

Earlier this month, the Bruno Walter Auditorium at Manhattan’s Lincoln Center resonated with the vibrant sounds of From Near and Far, a new musical project by the New York-based ensemble Trio Fadolín. The performance, part of the New York Public Library’s cultural programming, captivated audiences with its rich exploration of Uzbek musical traditions and beyond. Suspense, melancholy, and drama were interwoven with personal stories shared by Ljova (Lev Zhurbin), a member of the ensemble and virtuoso of the fadolín — a one-of-a-kind string instrument custom-made for him — blending the tonal depth of the violin, viola, and cello. The program featured compositions by Ljova, Uzbek composer Dmitry Yanov-Yanovsky, and Ljova’s father, the renowned Soviet-era composer Alexander Zhurbin. Adding a poignant layer to the evening, Alexander Zhurbin attended the concert in person, providing a tangible connection to the ensemble’s exploration of cultural and familial roots. Alexander Zhurbin, 1985 Much of Ljova’s career has been dedicated to uncovering and performing music from underrepresented regions, introducing audiences to sounds often unfamiliar in the West. Born in Moscow, he immigrated to New York in 1990 with his parents, quickly immersing himself in the city’s multicultural and musical landscape. As a composer, arranger, and bandleader for his ensemble, Ljova and the Kontraband, he has collaborated with globally acclaimed groups including the Yo-Yo Ma-founded Silkroad Ensemble (now called Silkroad). Ljova’s work defies boundaries, blending Eastern and Western influences to honor and innovate musical traditions. The trio's members — Ljova, violinist Sabina Torosjan (born in Estonia), and cellist Valeriya Sholokhova (born in Ukraine) — found a shared connection to Uzbekistan through their personal histories, which became the foundation for From Near and Far. TCA spoke with the trio about their musical and familial ties to Uzbekistan.   TCA: Can you share how your personal histories connect you to Uzbekistan? Ljova: My father, Alexander Zhurbin, wrote the Soviet Union's first rock opera, Orpheus and Eurydice, in 1975. It played in stadiums and was in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest-running musical in Russia. He was born in Tashkent and lived there until his mid-20s when he moved to Leningrad — now St. Petersburg — to study, and then to Moscow to work as a composer in film, TV, musicals, and the concert stage. Sabina: Just like many people from the former Soviet Union, I have a mixed background. I grew up in Estonia. My mother’s side of the family was Ukrainian Jews and my father’s side was Armenian. The interesting connection to Uzbekistan is that it is where my father was born. His father was sent to work there as a veterinarian at the time, in Biruni, Uzbekistan. But shortly after my father was born, his family returned to Yerevan. Valeriya: My grandfather’s family sought refuge there during World War II and survived those difficult years in Uzbekistan. However, they returned to Ukraine as soon as they were able. There are pictures of my grandfather as a child wearing an Uzbek tyubeteyka, and I am deeply grateful for the safe haven that Uzbekistan provided for my family during that time. I find this photograph particularly moving because it symbolizes how Central Asia offered my grandfather a place where he could wear a head covering — albeit with a Central Asian twist — in safety. Remarkably and unironically, I haven’t seen another picture of him wearing a head covering until he moved to the United States, over 70 years later.   TCA: What was the inspiration behind From Near and Far and how do you connect with Uzbekistan’s rich musical and cultural traditions? Ljova: We had commissioned my dad to write a piece for our trio, his Three Muses, and performed it several times on our programs, including at The Kennedy Center and Lincoln Center, but this time out, we thought to contextualize it within a program of other music from Uzbekistan. We discovered a trio by Uzbekistan-born composer Dmitry Yanov-Yanovsky — who lives in Tashkent to this day — that was previously commissioned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Both the work of Dmitry Yanov-Yanovsky and my father came from a classical music tradition. I wanted to bring a strain of folk music into the concert as well, to complement the program, hence, my suite of Central Asian Dances was born. At this moment, my connection is musical and culinary, the two best ways to travel without leaving home. I know a few Uzbek-born musicians here in New York, and of course, I've been to the restaurants. I hope to visit and travel to Uzbekistan one day, to visit and experience the land where my dad and grandparents spent their younger years, and where so many of the Jewish community found refuge in difficult times. I want to see Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Ferghana, to get a sense of the sweep… to see the Silk Road. Sabina: In the past few years, I’ve met more and more incredible people and artists from Uzbekistan and, as a result, have been more exposed to the incredibly rich culture. From what I’ve been exposed to, it’s very beautiful, soulful, and easy to connect to. Valeriya: I believe we share an appreciation for Uzbekistan and a fascination with its rich cultural tapestry. What initially began as a lighthearted joke during our first recording project together — a set of waltzes by a New Jersey-based composer of Uzbek origin — about how all the artists in the studio had roots in Uzbekistan, eventually grew into the program we’ve built for the NYPL. In the wake of the full-scale Russian invasion, we’ve also been focusing on music from former Soviet republics, intentionally moving away from a “Russian”-centered repertoire. This has allowed us to delve into and celebrate the musical heritage of Uzbekistan, for which we are deeply grateful.   TCA: During the From Near and Far concert, you mentioned discovering Uzbek music through some unique and unexpected sources. Can you share how your search shaped your repertoire? Ljova: I drew inspiration from the Hungarian composer Bela Bartók, who was among the first ethnomusicologists to preserve in recorded and notated form the folk music of the Magyar people, as well as Romani, Slovaks, Rusyns, Serbs, and others. His electrifying suite of Romanian Folk Dances, from 1915, is a staple at concerts worldwide. I wanted to write something similar, but using themes from Uzbekistan, particularly from the Bukharian Jewish Community. I was aware of the group Shashmaqom, whom I was lucky to hear perform in New York several times as part of presentations by the Center for Traditional Music and Dance, but I also wanted to hear other sources. Alexander Khafizov is a highly in-demand clarinetist on the concert and social circuit in New York, a YouTube star with millions of views, but, in his spare time from performing, he is also an excellent barber. I thought he might be a good starting point for research on where to find Bukharian Jewish music, but he just said, "Go to YouTube." When pressed further, he suggested Yulduz Turdiyeva. Thus began my journey, and the seeding of my YouTube algorithm. In parallel, I started googling and came across a trove of Bukharian melodies collected by ethnomusicologist Elena Reikher from the Bukharian diaspora community in Israel. As I started trying to find recordings of the pieces she collected, I found other music that was recommended by the algorithm. I kept all the pieces I liked in a hidden YouTube playlist.   TCA: What are the unique challenges or distinct aspects of playing your instruments when interpreting traditional and contemporary music from Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian region? Ljova: One of the great things about the fadolín is that it's new. We are building the repertoire afresh. Sabina: In the program that we presented, some of it still fell into the category of “classical music” and as a result was more familiar to my ear, and didn’t require a different approach, but the suite written by Ljova based on different Central Asian songs required me to get more familiar with the songs themselves and the style of performance. The different meters, very beautiful flowing melodies, and driving rhythms made the piece really fun to play. Valeriya: Playing Central Asian melodies on a string instrument like the cello is a truly enjoyable experience. While the cello evolved in Western Europe, it shares a connection with its distant bowed cousins in Central Asia. One unique challenge is performing microtonal music, quarter-tones that are unfamiliar to the Western ear. Exploring these pitches on the cello was both rewarding and great fun, allowing me to portray the music and culture I deeply admire.   TCA: How have Western audiences responded to your interpretations of Central Asian-influenced music and do you plan to present music from this region in upcoming projects? Ljova: This was our very first concert focusing on music from Central Asia in such an expanded way. I'm hopeful that we will get to perform these pieces many more times, and I'm hoping to find time to work on more Central Asian folkloric sources for a future project. It's such a trove of beautiful music, sentiment, and flavor. Sabina: I thought our program was very well received by the audience, and I’m really looking forward to repeating it and adding to it. Valeriya: We have performed Lev’s Central Asian Suite to great public acclaim. Audiences from all walks of life have shared how fun and relatable they found the music. After all, folk music has a unique way of resonating and speaking directly to its listeners. We are thrilled to have these pieces as a vibrant addition to our repertoire.

Deportations of Central Asians from the U.S. Increased in 2024

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has released its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report, detailing the agency’s accomplishments over the past year. The report highlights how ICE’s directorates and program offices met their mission objectives. Established in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, ICE is tasked with protecting the American public, ensuring public safety, and promoting national security.

According to the report, ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) deported 271,484 non-citizens with final orders of removal to 192 countries. This total includes 88,763 individuals charged with or convicted of criminal offenses, 3,706 known or suspected gang members, 237 known or suspected terrorists, and eight human rights violators. More than 30% of those deported had criminal histories, with an average of 5.63 convictions or charges per individual. ERO also assisted in identifying and arresting individuals wanted in their home countries for serious crimes, including terrorism and torture.

The Times of Central Asia examined the report with a focus on Central Asian countries.

In 2024, the US deported 572 Uzbek nationals - a dramatic increase compared to 88 in 2013, 21 in 2021, and 55 in 2022.

Deportations of Tajik citizens also surged, reaching 77 in 2024 compared to only four annually in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023.

Kazakhstan saw the deportation of 23 of its citizens this year, up from 14 in 2023.

Deportations to Kyrgyzstan also spiked, with 69 individuals removed in 2024. By comparison, only three Kyrgyz citizens were deported in 2020, eight in 2021, one in 2022, and 14 in 2023.

Meanwhile, deportations of Turkmen nationals remained low, but still showed an upward trend. In 2024, five Turkmen citizens were deported, compared to four in 2019, one in 2022, and three in 2023.

How Christmas is Celebrated in Central Asia

In predominantly Islamic countries, celebrating Christian Christmas reflects a spirit of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. On December 25, people of all backgrounds are welcome to join the celebrations.

Catholics and Protestants are minority Christian groups in Central Asia. Catholicism was introduced to the region as early as the 12th century, but Christianity was eradicated during the Timurid era and later revived under the Russian Empire. Today, Catholics and Protestants in the region are largely descendants of German and Polish immigrants, as well as employees of foreign embassies and international companies.

Kazakhstan

In Kazakhstan, unlike Orthodox Christmas on January 7, December 25 is not a public holiday. There are no large-scale national festivities, but many Kazakhstani people extend warm greetings to their Catholic neighbors. According to the 2021 census, Catholics account for 0.57% of the population (about 19,000 people) and Protestants 0.28% (approximately 9,500) within a total Christian population of over three million​.

Despite the small number of adherents, festive services are held in major cities. The Church of the Holy Trinity in Almaty hosts Midnight Mass and other celebrations, and St. Joseph's Church in Astana also offers services. Both cities organize organ music concerts that attract many non-Catholic attendees. Other cities, including Karaganda, Atyrau, Pavlodar, Petropavlovsk, Kostanai, and Ust-Kamenogorsk, also have Catholic parishes​.

Kazakhstan’s Catholic communities observe traditions that appeal to many, regardless of religion. Christmas fairs, nativity scenes, and festive dishes such as roasted goose, ducks, pies, and Christmas cookies add to the celebrations. Carols and children’s theatrical performances are also a highlight. Christmas services are conducted in Russian, Polish, and English, reflecting the region’s diversity​.

Kyrgyzstan

Catholic communities in Kyrgyzstan are notably multi-ethnic. At the Roman Catholic parish of St. Michael the Archangel in Bishkek, attendees include professionals and students from India, Pakistan, and other nations. According to estimates, the Catholic population in Kyrgyzstan is approximately 1,500, with numbers growing due to newcomers​.

A unique tradition in Kyrgyzstan is the preparation of twelve fasting dishes on Christmas Eve, symbolizing the months of the year and the twelve apostles. This tradition marks the end of the four-week Advent fast and the beginning of the festive mass on the evening of December 24​.

Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan

The Catholic community in Tajikistan is small, numbering about 100, mostly foreigners. The two parishes in the country include one in Dushanbe, while missionaries manage a kindergarten at a correctional labor colony in Nurek. In Turkmenistan, the congregation in Ashgabat is also small, with Christmas services conducted in Russian, English, and Turkmen​.

In Uzbekistan, Christmas celebrations are held in Tashkent and Samarkand, with services occasionally conducted in Korean. The Catholic communities in these countries, while small, maintain vibrant celebrations, with Protestants and some Orthodox Christians also participating​.

A Time for Unity and Celebration

In Central Asia, Protestant and Orthodox Christians often join Catholic Christmas celebrations. The festivities on December 25, featuring Santa Claus and other traditions, mark the beginning of winter holidays and are cherished by people of all faiths.

Important Deal Signed for China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Project

On December 20, Bishkek hosted the signing of an investment agreement between Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers and China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Company LLC. The agreement encompasses the design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.

The announcement came shortly after Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov revealed that construction on the strategic railway, which will connect the three nations, is set to begin on December 27.

The agreement was signed by Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Absattar Syrgabaev, and Zhong Shenggui, Chairman of the Board of Directors of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Company LLC.

The signing ceremony was attended by Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobayev; Li Baojie, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan; and Saidikram Iyazkhodjaev, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan.

In his remarks, Torobayev called the agreement a historic achievement for the three nations, marking the conclusion of a lengthy negotiation process and the start of practical implementation. “This large-scale infrastructure project is of both regional and international significance,” he emphasized.

The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is a pivotal development for the transport strategies of the participating countries. Currently, neither Kyrgyzstan nor Uzbekistan has a direct railway link with China, while Central Asia’s rail connection to China is limited to a route through Kazakhstan. Furthermore, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan lack a direct railway link between them.

The project’s significance was cemented on June 6, 2024, when China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan signed an intergovernmental agreement in Beijing. The 523-kilometer railway will traverse Kashgar (China), Torugart, Makmal, Jalal-Abad (Kyrgyzstan), and Andijan (Uzbekistan). Transit and logistics infrastructure will be developed along the route to support its operations.

Once completed, the railway is expected to transport up to 15 million tons of cargo annually, significantly enhancing trade and connectivity in the region.