AGP Executive Report

India-Uzbekistan Diplomacy: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tashkent for a two-day state visit, personally received by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at Tashkent-Khumo airport, then both laid flowers at the Independence Monument in Yangi Uzbekistan Park—signaling a push to deepen ties in trade, investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and people-to-people links. SCO Momentum: Modi’s Uzbekistan stop feeds directly into the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek (Sept 1), where Uzbekistan lawmakers say the bloc’s “Shanghai Spirit” is meant to unite security and economic cooperation rather than target others. Regional Security Agenda: Ahead of Bishkek, Uzbek officials framed SCO priorities around counter-terrorism, connectivity, and a region free from extremism, while analysts continue debating whether SCO can deliver beyond talk. Uzbekistan’s Development Push: On the eve of Independence Day celebrations, Mirziyoyev marked a “new era” for Uzbekistan, setting a $300bn GDP goal by 2030 and outlining national programs for the next decade. Afghanistan Policy: Uzbekistan reiterated a constructive approach toward Afghanistan, as international sanctions updates continued to circulate around Taliban figures.

SCO Summit Diplomacy: India’s PM Narendra Modi is set to arrive in Tashkent on Aug 29 for a two-day state visit with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, his fourth trip to Uzbekistan, with delegation-level talks expected to cover trade and investment, defence, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people ties, while aligning “Viksit Bharat 2047” with “Uzbekistan-2030.” Regional Security Framing: Modi also reiterated that India’s SCO push is anchored in security, connectivity and opportunity, aiming for a region “free from the scourge of terrorism.” Bilateral Agenda Details: The visit includes cultural stops at the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, signaling a strong people-to-people track alongside economic cooperation. SCO@25 in Bishkek: After Tashkent, Modi heads to Bishkek for the 26th SCO Summit on Aug 31–Sep 1, as leaders including Xi and Putin are scheduled for multiple sidelines and follow-on talks. Uzbek Governance Update: Uzbekistan’s Legislative Chamber and Senate approved a new constitutional law strengthening the Administration of the President, including lifetime immunity for officials. Economy Outlook: President Mirziyoyev said Uzbekistan’s GDP is projected to reach $300bn by 2030, alongside a push toward a high-tech, high-productivity model and 2 million high-paying industrial jobs.

Uzbekistan–Singapore Trade Push: Tashkent and Singapore signed a joint statement to begin negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement, alongside MOUs on investment/industry/trade and a planned JV investment—aimed at a “modern, business-facilitative” FTA. Uzbekistan–China Institutional Dialogue: Saida Mirziyoyeva met China’s top legislative and foreign-affairs leadership in Beijing, stressing implementation of joint transport, trade, education and culture initiatives under the comprehensive strategic partnership. SCO Summit Diplomacy: Prime Minister Modi will visit Uzbekistan (Aug 29–30) then Kyrgyzstan for the Sept 1 SCO 25th-anniversary summit in Bishkek, with trade, defense, digital connectivity and energy on the agenda and a likely Modi–Putin meeting on sidelines. Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Banking Deal: ABB Davr Bank was launched in Tashkent after ABB’s acquisition of a controlling stake in Davr Bank, with plans for corporate governance upgrades, digital transformation and SME-focused services. Energy & Industry Links: Uzbekistan and SOCAR discussed expanding energy and industrial cooperation tied to the Ustyurt project (about $2B) and potential new initiatives. Gold Revenues: Uzbekistan resumed gold exports in July, selling about $1.3B and lifting 2026 exports to $2.804B through July. Cyber & Security Watch: A report says a China-nexus cyberespionage actor is using AI to improve stealthy malware operations targeting Central Asian governments, including Uzbekistan. Islamic Civilization Media Forum: Uzbekistan hosted an international media forum in Tashkent and Samarkand on Islamic civilization and responsible journalism amid AI-driven misinformation risks.

SCO Summit Prep in Tashkent: India’s PM Narendra Modi is set for a four-day trip starting Aug 29, with meetings in Tashkent with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on trade, investment, defence, critical minerals, energy, digital connectivity, education and technology, plus planned visits to the Shastri memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Modi then heads to Bishkek for the 26th SCO summit (Aug 31–Sep 1), where India’s priorities are security, connectivity and opportunity, and where a sidelines meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is confirmed. Private-Sector Linkages: Qatar and Uzbekistan are exploring new textile and light-industry investment opportunities through business-to-business talks involving Uzbekistan’s light industry development agency and Qatar Chamber officials. Aral Sea Restoration: Chinese and Uzbek scientists report progress on ecosystem recovery efforts after the Aral Sea lost over 90% of its area since the 1960s. Islamic Cultural Diplomacy: Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center announced an international calligraphy competition to create a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an as part of a Tashkent media forum.

India–Uzbekistan Diplomacy: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Uzbekistan on Aug 29–30 and then Kyrgyzstan for the 26th SCO summit in Bishkek on Aug 31–Sep 1, holding delegation-level talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on trade, investment, defense, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people ties. SCO Security Agenda: India says the Bishkek summit will focus heavily on the region’s evolving security picture, with Modi also expected to join other leaders at the World Nomad Games opening. India–Russia Sidelines: Modi is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on SCO sidelines, with trade and energy/fertiliser supply likely on the agenda. Energy Market Signals: ACWA Power and Korea Western Power (KOWEPO) signed an MoU in Tashkent to explore renewable generation, energy storage and related infrastructure in Uzbekistan. Finance & Banking: ABB Davr Bank was launched in Tashkent via ABB’s planned controlling-stake acquisition of Davr Bank, with both presidents participating online. Cultural Heritage Push: Uzbekistan plans a global calligraphy competition to produce a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an, announced during Tashkent’s International Media Forum. Regulated Gaming Step: GLI received approval to certify gaming products for Uzbekistan’s newly operational regulated market.

Uzbek–China Diplomacy: China’s top diplomat Wang Yi met Saida Mirziyoyeva in Beijing, stressing an “all-weather” strategic partnership and backing Uzbekistan’s “New Uzbekistan” agenda while pushing major projects like the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. SCO Momentum: A week of coverage also framed Uzbekistan’s role in the SCO’s 25th anniversary push—security, trade, industry, and regional integration—amid talk of growing interest in joining. Middle Corridor Finance: A CAREC forum in Tashkent heard that the Middle Corridor needs more than rail—terminals, logistics, energy, and digital links—plus private capital and new financing models to unlock faster trade growth. Green Land Agenda: Uzbekistan, China, and Mongolia discussed green technologies for pasture restoration and desertification control at UNCCD COP17, with Uzbekistan citing large areas at risk and the need for science-led, tech-supported restoration. Cultural Diplomacy in Tashkent: The Tashkent International Media Forum wrapped up with a focus on making Islamic heritage accessible for global audiences via film, publishing, AI, and digital storytelling. Business Links: Dubai Chambers launched a Uzbekistan Business Council to deepen trade and investment ties, setting up new bilateral events and connections.

Uzbek-Azeri Alliance: Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev sent birthday congratulations to Azerbaijan’s First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, praising her role in education, science, culture and deepening bilateral ties—another signal of the political warmth behind the recently signed “Eternal Friendship” track. Regional Connectivity: A new analysis says the Middle Corridor needs private capital and financial infrastructure to unlock faster trade growth, with potential tripling of volumes by 2030 if financing and efficiency improve. Islamic Finance Push: Uzbekistan is advancing Islamic finance as part of broader financial connectivity, with the Central Bank outlining staged development from Islamic microfinance to banking and capital markets at the Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum in Tashkent. Trade & Payments: The National Bank of Cambodia and Uzbekistan’s central bank signed an MoU on cross-border payment cooperation, aiming to strengthen digital payments, settlement systems and financial integration. Tashkent Events: Tashkent will host CAITME 2026 and Global Textile Days, bringing 250 companies from 17 countries to boost textile machinery upgrades and export competitiveness. Sports Diplomacy: An Iraqi MMA fighter withdrew from a youth world championship rather than face an Israeli opponent, citing support for the Palestinian cause.

Islamic Civilization & Media Policy: Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center is using AI and modern storytelling to bring Islamic heritage to younger audiences, with media experts urging journalists and filmmakers to adapt content for short-form platforms. UN Climate & Land Degradation: A UN desertification forum in Mongolia spotlighted Central Asia’s land degradation and water stress, pushing for regional cooperation on rangeland management and land restoration. Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Diplomacy: Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a Treaty on Eternal Friendship in Tashkent, setting a $1bn trade target and deepening transport and investment links. Infrastructure Watch (China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan): Tunnel works on the Kosh-Dobo Northern No. 2 line were completed, while major bridge structures on the corridor continue toward long-term completion. Regulated Gaming Market: Uzbekistan’s NAPP officially lists GLI as an accepted testing lab, with licenses already issued as the gambling market moves into its operational phase. Sports & Politics: FIDE rejected Russia’s bid to enter teams in the 2026 Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, keeping sanctions pressure in sport. Regional Connectivity Finance: Uzbekistan and China Exim Bank are accelerating projects worth $1bn+ across hydropower, water, agriculture and transport. SCO Agenda: Preparations for the 2026 SCO summit in Bishkek emphasize security cooperation, anti-terror efforts and cybercrime coordination.

Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Alliance: President Ilham Aliyev’s state visit to Tashkent is framed as a shift from “brotherhood” to practical economic and transport integration, with analysts pointing to production chains and logistics links that could connect Central Asia to the Caspian, Türkiye and Europe. Finance & Banking: Azerbaijan’s state-backed ABB moved into Uzbekistan’s banking sector by acquiring a 51% controlling stake in SME-focused Davr Bank (option to raise to 74%), signaling deeper cross-border capital and credit cooperation. Energy Dispute: The August 14 blackout blame game in Central Asia continues as Kazakhstan says the cascade began with Kyrgyzstan’s Toktogul HPP shutdown, while Bishkek disputes direct causality; a Kazakhstan commission is expected to finalize findings. Regional Connectivity (Rail): Construction milestones on the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway include completion of lower bridge structures in Jalal-Abad and progress on the Kec-Alat River bridge, described as the line’s highest. Tech & Governance: Uzbekistan hosted the Silk Road Finance and Technology Forum in Tashkent, spotlighting digital finance, fintech corridors, regulatory sandboxes, and cybersecurity. Diplomacy & Culture: An international media forum on Islamic civilization opened in Tashkent, alongside a global calligraphy contest planned for Aug. 26 to create a unique Quran manuscript. Sports (Local Impact): India’s U-20 team heads to Tashkent for AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers after an unbeaten run and clean sheets in friendlies.

Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Diplomacy: President Ilham Aliyev’s state visit to Tashkent wrapped up with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, after both sides signed the Treaty on Eternal Friendship and exchanged documents aimed at turning political alignment into concrete projects, including a push to lift bilateral trade to $1bn by 2030 and deepen transport and investment links across the Caspian. Regional Connectivity: Uzbekistan’s deputy PM Jamshid Kuchkarov said Tashkent is pursuing an investment-grade credit rating and WTO accession, alongside market reforms and reduced state footprint, as part of broader integration efforts. Central Asia Security Agenda: Ahead of the SCO summit in Bishkek, analysts flagged terrorism, cybercrime, infrastructure connectivity and economic cooperation as key priorities, with India’s role expected to gain attention. SCO Transport Watch: Uzbekistan–SCO freight traffic rose 40% to 33.5m tonnes in 2025, underscoring the growing importance of land corridors. Energy Shock in the Region: Ukraine-linked strikes on Russian refineries are driving fuel shortages and price spikes across Central Asia, hitting Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan hardest due to heavy reliance on Russian supplies. Sports & Politics in Samarkand: FIDE barred Russian teams from the 2026 World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, extending the political fallout from the Ukraine war into major events hosted in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan–Korea Economic Track: Uzbekistan and South Korea are set to deepen cooperation through the Central Asia–Republic of Korea Summit, with a focus on industry modernization, infrastructure, critical minerals, energy, and human capital.

Parliamentary Power in Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan’s pro-government Adilet Party won a landslide 71% in Sunday’s Qurultay parliamentary election, with 74% turnout, further consolidating President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s authority after constitutional changes that merged chambers and expanded presidential appointment powers. Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan “Eternal Friendship” Push: In Tashkent and Bukhara, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a Treaty on Eternal Friendship and set a $1 billion trade target by 2030, pairing the deal with new transport and investment steps, including a joint investment fund and plans to accelerate Caspian connectivity. Caspian Transit Plans: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan agreed to speed up Middle Corridor infrastructure, including a ferry for Uzbekistan, a joint Caspian fleet, and expanded air links. Uzbekistan’s Financial Openness: Uzbekistan’s Central Bank and GFTN convened the Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum in Tashkent, pitching Uzbekistan as a capital and fintech gateway for Central Asia. Regional Security & Culture: The SCO summit heads toward its 25th anniversary in Bishkek, while the Lachin International Film Festival opened in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur, featuring an Uzbek historical film dubbed into Azerbaijani. Competition Oversight in Telecom: Veon reportedly plans a $200m stake in Uzbek operator Perfectum Mobile, seeking Competition Committee clearance.

Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Treaty Push: Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a Treaty on Eternal Friendship in Tashkent, aiming to lift bilateral trade to $1bn by 2030 and expanding cooperation via the Supreme Interstate Council and a new investment framework. Leaders also highlighted rapid trade growth (to $795m in 2025) and unveiled the Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Investment Company and multiple sector projects, from banking and fuel retail to education and mining. Urban & Cultural Diplomacy: Aliyev toured “New Tashkent,” while leaders opened the National Pedagogical University named after Nizami Ganjavi and laid groundwork for an “Azerbaijan” Park in New Tashkent; first ladies visited the Okhun Gozar art space and the Islamic Civilization Center. Regional Connectivity Narrative: Uzbek officials framed Azerbaijan’s entry into Central Asia consultative formats as a step toward a broader “geoeconomic reality,” with both sides stressing coordinated diplomacy across major international platforms. Security Note (Pakistan): Separate reports from South Waziristan described the killing of a former aide to Taliban commander Mullah Nazir in a shooting, with an investigation underway.

Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Summit: Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev met in Tashkent for the third Supreme Interstate Council session, delivering joint press statements that framed the relationship as a “single geopolitical and geo-economic region” with Central Asia and as a practical alliance built on energy, transport, investment, mining, textiles, agriculture, banking, and tourism. Treaty on “Eternal Friendship”: The leaders signed and exchanged a Treaty on Eternal Friendship, described by analysts as a long-term political and legal commitment that also includes pledges not to let either country’s territory be used by third parties against the other’s sovereignty, security, or territorial integrity. Trade & investment targets: Both sides reiterated a push to reach $1 billion in bilateral trade turnover, citing tripled trade over five years and a growing project pipeline, with the Joint Investment Fund highlighted as “efficient” while broader investment plans extend beyond its $500 million scope. Transport priorities: Uzbekistan pressed for faster construction of a ferry and for a dedicated Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Caspian corridor with a single operator, alongside continued work tied to the Middle Corridor and the Zangezur Corridor. State honors & documents: Mirziyoyev received Azerbaijan’s “Heydar Aliyev” Order, while Aliyev’s visit produced a package of signed agreements including a pension provision and a roadmap for investment projects. US legal ripple: A New York judge struck down a US visa ban affecting 75 countries, including Uzbekistan, after ruling the policy exceeded authority—an external development with potential implications for regional mobility.

US Courts vs Trump Immigration Policy: A Manhattan federal judge struck down the Trump administration’s January suspension of immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, calling it “patently unlawful” and beyond Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s authority; the list includes Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, among many others. Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Economic Push: In Tashkent, the IV Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Interregional Forum drew nearly 400 companies and produced signed documents spanning energy, finance, infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing, with officials stressing deeper regional connectivity and city-to-region cooperation. Energy & Industry Deals: Azerbaijan’s SOCAR is set to enter Uzbekistan’s retail fuel market and invest in a gas-station network, while Uzbek specialists plan an intensive “Dostlug” fruit orchard in Azerbaijan’s Fuzuli region. Diplomatic Calendar: Uzbekistan is preparing for President Ilham Aliyev’s Aug. 23–24 state visit, including the third meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council. Security Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan say their interior ministries are expanding collaboration against terrorism, cyber threats, drug trafficking, and other cross-border crime. Border Drug Case: Uzbek authorities report arresting an Afghan citizen in Termez for allegedly smuggling and attempting to sell 506 grams of opium.

Uzbek-Azerbaijan Summit Prep: Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev is set to visit Uzbekistan on Aug. 23-24, with Tashkent hosting the third Supreme Intergovernmental Council meeting and a regions forum; leaders are expected to sign a package of documents spanning trade, transport, and cultural ties. Energy & Industry Deals: SOCAR says it will enter Uzbekistan’s retail fuel market and invest in a gas-station network, while Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan also signed cooperation documents covering energy, finance, infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing. Regional Investment Push: Baku’s mayor says over $200 billion has been invested in the city over 20 years, inviting Uzbek firms to join new projects. Security Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan’s law-enforcement agencies are strengthening collaboration against terrorism, cyber threats, drug trafficking, and organized crime. Agro Project “Dostlug”: Uzbek specialists will help establish an intensive “Dostlug” fruit orchard in Azerbaijan’s Fuzuli region, with regional pairing aimed at deeper agro-industrial cooperation. Domestic Uzbekistan Politics: A law expanding the Presidential Administration’s powers has boosted Saida Mirziyoeva’s role, fueling succession questions. Border Drug Case: Uzbek authorities report arrest of an Afghan citizen in Termez for alleged opium smuggling and attempted sale.

Energy Market Reform: President Mirziyoyev says Uzbekistan will cut mandatory advance payments for electricity and gas for firms using automated accounting systems (ASCUE/ASCG) from 100% to 15%, after entrepreneurs complained the old rule squeezed cash flow. Construction Cost Rules: The same dialogue outlined 2027 reforms for construction estimates—man-hour payments set at 5% of the minimum wage and contractor profit margins of 7%, with design fees varying by project complexity. Bilateral Diplomacy: Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev frames Baku–Tashkent ties as “natural partners” for East–West transport, linking the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway to the Middle Corridor and TRIPP, and points to the Supreme Interstate Council as a key coordination mechanism. Regional Connectivity: Uzbekistan is set to build a 11 km rail link from Urganch station to the airport, cutting the trip to about 40 minutes, and is also planning a logistics center at Georgia’s Poti port with a 2027 target. Nuclear Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan discussed nuclear safety and a roadmap for expert exchanges, including a proposed regional training center aligned with IAEA guidance. Green Energy: A China-supported 20 MW wind project in Bostanlyk (four 5 MW turbines) has been completed, aimed at cleaner power and reduced gas use. Defense Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan held a Defense Ministry working meeting on ideological work and psychological services, including joint cultural events.