A view from New Delhi: The strategic discussions in Tashkent signify a promising future for the partnership between Uzbekistan and the United Nations

Dr. Pravesh Kumar Gupta, an Associate Fellow at Vivekananda International Foundation (India) in his comments presented by Dunyo IA reflects on the results of the official visit of the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to Uzbekistan.

– United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres commenced his tour of Central Asia with Uzbekistan as his first destination. In the capital city of Tashkent, he met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and was honoured with the Highest Order of the Dostlik Award.

During their meeting, the Secretary-General and the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delved into the ongoing cooperation between the United Nations and Uzbekistan.

The Secretary-General emphasized the country’s strong commitment to embracing renewable energy and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels during a visit to the Riverside Solar Photovoltaic Plant.

Since President Shavkat Mirziyoyev came into power, there has been a significant surge in regional collaboration in Central Asia. This positive trend has garnered recognition and praise from the UN Secretary-General. He asserted, "In a Central Asia that was not always united, you, Mr. Presidents, have successfully created, alongside your fellow heads of state of Central Asia, a new environment. An environment of dialogue, an environment of cooperation, where the difficulties of the past are being systematically resolved, laying the groundwork for my dream — the full integration of Central Asia to benefit the people of this wonderful region". President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was praised for being a bridge-builder, an honest negotiator, and a messenger for peace. Additionally, he was commended as a leader dedicated to achieving prosperity with justice, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The mahalla system in Uzbekistan has played a crucial role in the country’s societal structure and governance. This traditional system of self-governing neighbourhoods has been an integral part of Uzbekistan’s social fabric for centuries. It encompasses not only social and community organization but also provides support and assistance to its members, fostering a strong sense of unity and cooperation within the society. During his visit, the UN Secretary General took the time to explore a local mahalla, paying close attention to the various services and facilities it offers. He stressed the significance of the mahalla as a distinctive institution that significantly contributes to the overall development of the country.

Secretary-General António Guterres also acknowledged that the government of Uzbekistan has formulated a comprehensive policy in complete harmony with the Sustainable Development Goals. He also highlighted that during the recent universal periodic review, Uzbekistan accepted the majority of the recommendations, demonstrating its commitment to upholding international standards and agreements. Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the United Nations’ commitment to providing comprehensive support to Uzbekistan in implementing tailored policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

During his visit, he engaged in strategic discussions with Tanzila Narbayeva, the esteemed Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with a focus on exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation and joint initiatives between the United Nations and Uzbekistan.

In conclusion, the visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres to Uzbekistan not only highlighted the increasing cooperation between the country and the United Nations but also underscored the positive developments in Uzbekistan. The discussions emphasized Uzbekistan’s commitment to renewable energy, regional stability, and the implementation of policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The recognition of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s role in promoting regional integration and the acknowledgement of the significance of the traditional mahalla system further underscored the positive developments in Uzbekistan. The strategic discussions aimed at exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation and joint initiatives signify a promising future for the partnership between Uzbekistan and the United Nations, instilling optimism about the country’s future.