On January 16, 2026, a roundtable discussion titled “Uzbekistan’s Domestic Modernization and Foreign Policy Potential: Economic Transformation, Human Capital Development, and Strengthening International Standing” was held at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy. The event was jointly organized by the Center for Progressive Reforms, the Center for Foreign Policy Studies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the Institute of Advanced International Studies.

The discussion was dedicated to the priority directions outlined in the Address of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan on December 26, 2025. The key topics included economic transformation, human capital development, and enhancing the country’s international standing. Throughout the deliberations, participants emphasized that the consistent implementation of internal reforms is a critical factor in strengthening Uzbekistan’s foreign policy potential, fostering an open and competitive market environment, and ensuring sustainable development.

The event gathered representatives from state governance bodies, diplomatic institutions, analytical centers, and academic circles. The opening ceremony featured remarks by Sodiq Safoyev, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and Rector of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy; Mirshohid Aslanov, Director of the Center for Progressive Reforms; Sanjar Valiev, Director of the Center for Foreign Policy Studies; and Akram Umarov, Director of the Institute of Advanced International Studies.

“More than 10 trillion sums will be allocated to support entrepreneurship, which is nearly equivalent to 1 billion US dollars. A total of 140 trillion sums in credit resources will be targeted specifically at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, with 43 trillion sums to be allocated for women’s and youth entrepreneurship. From an investment perspective, this is becoming an important driver of economic growth. For the first time, we are witnessing real competition among investors for attention to Uzbekistan,” emphasized Sodiq Safoyev.

The roundtable comprised three thematic sessions that focused on effective governance, competitive economy, sustainable development, investments, as well as the role of social and human capital in the development of the “New Uzbekistan.” Participants noted Uzbekistan’s increasing engagement on the international stage and highlighted that internal reforms play a decisive role in expanding the country’s foreign policy opportunities and enhancing its global competitiveness.

At the conclusion of the event, expert conclusions and practical recommendations were formulated to further strengthen Uzbekistan’s foreign policy potential through domestic reforms. The need to deepen dialogue between academics and experts in this field was also underscored.