In the article, the author writes that Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Brussels on October 23–24, 2025, was a turning point in relations between Uzbekistan and the EU thanks to the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA). According to him, the document replaced the outdated 1996 PCA and will elevate the dialogue to the level of a strategic partnership covering five key areas with an emphasis on democratic principles, the rule of law, and human rights. The author emphasizes that for the EU, this is a window into the rapidly growing market of Central Asia and a platform for “green” transformation and critical resources, while for Uzbekistan, it is a deepening of integration with Europe, expanded access to markets under GSP+, and accelerated modernization of the energy, the digital sector, and the agro-industrial complex.   The author then outlines the preparatory diplomacy for the visit: intensive contacts between Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov and Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva with European leaders and institutions (Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Belgium), discussions on digitalisation, logistics and the green agenda, as well as practical projects in Belgium, including EU-AGRIN (drip irrigation using solar systems, climate-resistant seeds, irrigation modernisation and wastewater treatment). In his view, the humanitarian track strengthens the country’s cultural presence in Europe and complements the economic agenda.   Finally, the author backs up his argument with statistics and expert opinions: growth in bilateral trade and investment, an active EBRD portfolio, high use of GSP+, GDP dynamics, structural shifts in industry and services, and poverty reduction. The author concludes that the EPCA institutionalises Tashkent’s multi-vector course: this is not a “U-turn” but a well-thought-out diversification of ties that strengthens sovereignty and consolidates Uzbekistan’s role as a bridge in the new Eurasian architecture of sustainable development.   Read on UzA   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

As part of their working trip to Azerbaijan, Khayotjon Ibragimov and Nargiza Umarova took part in an expert discussion on the topic “Azerbaijan – Central Asia: What are the prospects for integration?” with the participation of Azerbaijani and Kazakh experts, including representatives of the Analytical Center STEM (Baku) and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.   The conversation focused on practical mechanisms for bringing the two regions closer together, with Azerbaijan acting as a natural bridge between Central Asia and European markets. Participants discussed the interconnection of transport and logistics routes, the coordination of tariff and customs policies, the development of energy ties, and green projects.   The discussion emphasized that sustainable rapprochement is possible through a combination of three levels of action: intergovernmental coordination, industry partnerships, and academic and expert support. In such a constructive track, Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia are capable of transforming existing corridors into full-fledged production and logistics chains with high added value, and humanitarian ties into a long-term resource of trust and predictability.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In an interview with UzA, Dr. Abbos Bobokhonov emphasized UNESCO’s role in strengthening global cooperation in education, science, culture, and information, and noted that collaboration with Uzbekistan has been consistently expanding in terms of content and scope. As a UNESCO member since 1993, Uzbekistan has been working effectively with this organization to preserve, restore, and introduce its rich historical and cultural heritage to the world community. This is evidenced by the inclusion of 7 Uzbek sites in the World Heritage List, such as Itchan Kala, the historic centers of Bukhara and Shakhrisabz, “Samarkand – Crossroads of Cultures”, the Western Tien Shan, the Zarafshan-Karakum corridor of the Great Silk Road, and the Turan lowland, as well as the international recognition of 16 elements of intangible heritage, including Shashmaqom, Baysun culture, Katta Ashula, Askiya, Palov, Navruz, and others.   The interview also highlighted innovative cooperation with UNESCO: following the pandemic, in collaboration with the Agency for Innovative Development under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, documents on mapping research and innovation are being prepared and stored on the organization’s electronic platform; the potential of universities in five regions is being studied, and research is being conducted in the field of scientific and innovative technologies. These initiatives serve to strengthen the national scientific ecosystem and accelerate international scientific exchange.   Dr. Bobokhonov also emphasized the significance of the historic decision adopted in Paris in November 2023 to hold the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand from October 30 to November 13, 2025. This initiative, supported by 194 countries, was interpreted as UNESCO’s first session outside France in the last 40 years, a high commendation of Uzbekistan’s effective diplomacy and cultural and educational progress. The conference, to be hosted in Samarkand – a crossroads of ancient civilizations, is expected to further enrich the agenda of cultural dialogue, mutual understanding and sustainable development in the region and strengthen Uzbekistan’s international standing.   Read the full interview on the UzA website   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

 Professor Azamat Seitov gave his comments to Gazeta.uz ahead of the summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States in Dushanbe. His assessment focuses on the current role of the CIS three decades after its founding and possible trajectories for the union's development.   According to the expert, the question of the “meaning of existence” of the CIS reflects a deeper problem: in recent years, the actual activity of the platform has declined, and some of the interactions have moved to other formats, in particular the SCO. The institutional “density” of decisions in the CIS has also decreased – summit documents are mainly advisory in nature, which limits the potential of the multilateral agenda.   At the same time, Seitov emphasizes that the CIS remains a sought-after platform for dialogue for a number of post-Soviet states, especially against the backdrop of increased international turbulence. In his opinion, the purpose of the organization is no longer to restore former ties, but to build a practice-oriented dialogue and launch specific regional initiatives. These include projects aimed at strengthening transport and logistics links, diversifying markets, expanding cultural and humanitarian exchanges, and increasing resilience to contemporary challenges.   The key thesis of the commentary is the need for the CIS to occupy a “new niche” by focusing on areas with the greatest potential for synergy. As an instrumental solution, the expert proposes a transition to “modular programs,” within which countries will be able to selectively join projects that correspond to their national interests and resource capabilities. According to Prof. Seitov, this approach will preserve the flexibility of the structure and increase the effectiveness of cooperation.   Particular emphasis is placed on the interests of Uzbekistan, which today are largely economic in nature. Through the mechanisms of the CIS, it is possible to promote initiatives on digital interaction, harmonization of standards, joint applied projects, and the exchange of best management practices. Provided that it is reformatted and focuses on measurable results, the Commonwealth could evolve into a more focused and effective platform for applied regional cooperation in the medium term.   Read more at Gazeta.uz   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

In an interview with the UzA news agency, Hamza Boltaev systematically comments on Uzbekistan’s initiatives to ensure stability and development in Afghanistan. First and foremost, he emphasizes the importance of the “Termez Dialogue” in strengthening regional norms of trust and cooperation, using as context the issues raised in the President’s speech at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly: a neutral platform for negotiations, linking the security agenda with the economic agenda, and establishing pragmatic ties between neighbors.   Boltaev highlights the concept of the Termez-Mazar-i-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar railway as a key project among economic and infrastructure initiatives. In his opinion, this corridor will harness Afghanistan’s transit potential, revitalize regional trade, logistics, and employment; at the same time, it will demonstrate to the international community that “economic integration is the most sustainable mechanism for ensuring security.”   From this perspective, he summarizes the practical value of Uzbekistan’s initiatives in three areas: (1) creating a permanent platform for discussion and coordination (the “Termez Dialogue”), (2) connecting Afghanistan to regional chains through infrastructure (railway and logistics hubs), (3) investment projects that promote socio-economic stabilization. In conclusion, Boltayev notes that this approach aims to resolve issues of international recognition and security through practical cooperation and harmonization of interests, rather than ideological disputes.   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.

A recent article by Aziza Mukhammedova, Leading Research Fellow at IAIS, co-authored with Dr. Farhana Qazi and Halima Nasiri, offers a comprehensive analysis of Afghanistan’s potential pathways toward stability.   The authors identify three fundamental pillars for the country’s future — education, infrastructural connectivity, and Islamic legitimacy. They argue that the interplay of these factors can help Afghanistan overcome its protracted crisis and pave the way toward sustainable peace and prosperity. Particular emphasis is placed on restoring women’s access to education, advancing regional trade and transport corridors (notably the Trans-Afghan Railway), and strengthening the role of Islamic scholars, whose rulings and fatwas can provide the cultural and religious authority necessary for reforms to gain acceptance.   The article underscores that without institutionalized educational initiatives, long-term financing, and systematic monitoring, Afghanistan risks remaining trapped in radicalization and isolation. Conversely, if these measures are consistently implemented, the country could transform from a source of instability into a vital bridge between Central and South Asia.   Read the full article on Daily Islamabad Post   * The Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) does not take institutional positions on any issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the IAIS.