Anatol Lieven: “Uzbekistan demonstrates a responsible approach to the peaceful use of nuclear energy”

Speaking following the Tashkent Dialogue on the Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone, held in Tashkent on 26 June, Anatol Lieven, Director of the Eurasia Program at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, praised Uzbekistan’s role in advancing regional cooperation in the fields of nuclear security and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

In his view, Uzbekistan’s contribution to strengthening the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone extends well beyond the region itself and can serve as a model for other parts of the world. He noted that the Central Asian states have succeeded in establishing a trust-based framework for cooperation on nuclear non-proliferation.

“This is precisely why Uzbekistan’s initiative is both timely and significant. It demonstrates that the countries of Central Asia are capable of uniting around a shared goal of peace”, A.Lieven emphasized.

The expert also highlighted the growing importance of nuclear energy amid global climate challenges. According to him, the transition to low-carbon energy systems is making the peaceful use of nuclear energy increasingly important, while also requiring a balanced approach to energy development that accounts for the region's environmental characteristics.

A.Lieven noted that Uzbekistan is pursuing a comprehensive energy strategy that combines decarbonization objectives with the need for the rational management of Central Asia's water resources. Such an approach reflects the country’s responsible commitment to sustainable development and regional environmental security.

Concluding his remarks, the expert praised the high standard of the conference’s organization and underscored Uzbekistan's leading role in promoting peace-oriented initiatives. “Uzbekistan has become the driving force behind Central Asia’s key regional initiatives and serves as an example of responsible and peaceful development for the entire region”, Anatol Lieven concluded.

UzA