Uzbekistan has announced its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2035-2036 term. The move reflects the country’s growing ambitions on the global stage, as it seeks to enhance its role in international diplomacy and regional stability.
At a recent international meeting, Uzbek officials outlined the country’s key priorities in working with the UN. They emphasized Uzbekistan’s commitment to global cooperation, fostering regional security, and supporting Afghanistan’s economic recovery.
Strengthening Ties with Afghanistan
Uzbekistan’s expanding international engagement was further highlighted during a high-level visit by a delegation from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, led by Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. The delegation met with Uzbek officials, including Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khojayev, to discuss trade and economic cooperation.
Talks focused on strengthening trade, transit, and investment ties. Uzbekistan expressed its readiness to establish a joint trade zone on the border, featuring processing plants for pine nuts and cotton, packaging and logistics centers, and food production facilities. Uzbek investors also showed interest in Afghanistan’s oil and gas sector and industrial projects, including plans for a cement plant in Namangan.
Relations between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan have grown in recent years, with projects like the Termez International Trade Center boosting bilateral trade. Tashkent has also reaffirmed its commitment to tackling global challenges, including drug trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime.
Environmental and Development Initiatives
Uzbekistan has placed environmental protection at the center of its development strategy. The government has declared 2025 the “Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy” and is taking steps to address the consequences of the Aral Sea crisis. Efforts include large-scale reforestation projects, water conservation measures, and the expansion of renewable energy sources. Uzbekistan has called for increased international support to sustain these initiatives.
Additionally, Uzbekistan invited UN member states to participate in the UN Public Services Forum, scheduled to take place in Samarkand in June 2025. The forum will focus on improving public services and accelerating progress toward global development goals.
