Positive developments in Fergana Valley demonstrate a wider trend of consolidation among Central Asian states

On March 31 of this year, an international scientific and practical conference titled “The Friendship Stele – a Symbol of Good-Neighborliness, Trust, and Strategic Partnership between Fraternal Countries” was held in Fergana as part of the Central Asian and Azerbaijan Friendship Forum.

The event, organized by the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad of the Republic of Uzbekistan, was attended by scholars and experts, parliamentary representatives, heads of ministries and agencies, government and public figures, and leaders of non-governmental organizations from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the conference, Shakhlo Hamrakhodjaeva, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ISRS), highlighted the positive changes happening in the Fergana Valley in recent years. She said that, thanks to the combined efforts of the Central Asian countries, the region is undergoing significant transformation, including progress in resolving one of the most complex and sensitive issues – border disputes.

The expert highlighted that signing the Khujand Declaration of Eternal Friendship and the Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders clearly confirmed these processes, signaling the start of a new political era built on dialogue, mutual respect, and the desire to unite efforts for a shared future.

According to Ms. Khamrakhodjaeva, the Fergana Peace Forum, held at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, last October, was a practical continuation of this process. A key feature of the event was its inclusiveness: it brought together representatives of civil society, local communities, and youth and women activists.

The ISRS representative noted that the platform’s significance was also confirmed at the regional level. Thus, speaking at the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, the President of Uzbekistan put forward the initiative to transform this format into a regular International Forum. The idea received broad support from the leaders of the region's countries.

Overall, Ms. Khamrakhodjaeva expressed her belief that transforming the Fergana Valley into a place of peace and sustainable development clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of regional cooperation. Further strengthening trust, expanding economic ties, and jointly pursuing strategic initiatives will promote stability and prosperity not only in Central Asia but also across the broader interregional area.

UzA