TASHKENT, August 19, 2025 — Former President of Serbia, Boris Tadić, highlighted Uzbekistan’s crucial role in promoting peace, growth, and transformation across Central Asia. He delivered these remarks at the ‘Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Europe – Cooperation for Common Development’ forum in Tashkent.
Uzbekistan’s Role in Regional Development
Tadić stated that achieving stability and progress in Central Asia without Uzbekistan is challenging. The country’s impact extends beyond politics, affecting essential areas for regional advancement such as digitalization, economic growth, technological innovation, and education. Uzbekistan’s youthful and educated population plays a vital role in this transformation.
Additionally, Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, showcased by its historic cities like Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva, enhances its influence and soft power in Central Asia.
Advancing Diplomatic Dialogue
Tadić praised international platforms like the Baku Forum for fostering cooperation among regional leaders. These venues bring together policymakers and thinkers to enhance diplomatic discussions. Tadić offered his expertise as an intellectual mediator to bolster Uzbekistan’s relations with Azerbaijan and pledged his support for engagement with broader multilateral institutions in the region.
International Cooperation Opportunities
The forum identified several priorities for regional development and integration:
- Constructing transport and logistics networks connecting Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Europe
- Implementing climate resilience strategies with a focus on water management, energy, and sustainable agriculture
- Promoting digital transformation initiatives and integrating artificial intelligence
Tadić expressed his dedication to making practical contributions to Uzbekistan’s future growth through ongoing dialogue and bilateral cooperation with regional partners.
