CIS: a space for trust, cooperation, and shared development

Amid evolving political and economic challenges, cooperation within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is taking on renewed significance. In an interview, Irina Tokareva, a deputy of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, shares her views on the outcomes of the recent CIS summit in Turkmenistan, key priorities for regional cooperation, and the implications for economic development and citizens’ well-being.

– A meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State took place in Turkmenistan on October 9. How significant was it in the current international environment?

– Today, the world is experiencing profound political and economic shifts. International tensions are rising, new challenges are emerging, and the conditions shaping trade and cooperation among countries are changing. In this context, it is especially important to keep dialogue open, build trust, and seek solutions that serve shared interests.

I believe the CIS is significant above all because it brings together countries connected by a shared history, long-standing economic ties, and close people-to-people contacts. These connections shape the lives and futures of millions, as well as the interests of families, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals.

Therefore, today it is important not only to preserve the experience of cooperation built up over the years, but also to give it renewed substance. International meetings should lay the groundwork for concrete decisions that foster economic development, strengthen security, and improve citizens’ quality of life.

– In his address, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined several areas for further cooperation. Which of these do you consider the most significant?

– In my view, it is essential to take a comprehensive approach to cooperation, covering everything from industrial collaboration and food security to modern technologies, transport connectivity and humanitarian ties.

All these areas are closely interconnected. Economic development is impossible without efficient logistics, technological modernization requires a skilled workforce, and sustainable development depends on security and trust among partners.

At the same time, I would like to emphasize one principle in particular: people must be at the center of all government policies. We assess the significance of international initiatives not only by economic indicators or the number of agreements signed, but also by the opportunities they create for people and by how much they contribute to job creation, higher incomes, access to education, and a decent standard of living.

– The President proposed moving beyond a simple exchange of goods to establish joint production chains. What would this mean for Uzbekistan’s economy?

– It means moving towards a deeper and more substantive economic partnership. This involves not only buying and selling goods, but also jointly manufacturing products, establishing enterprises, attracting investment, exchanging technologies and entering new markets.

For Uzbekistan, this approach creates additional opportunities. We can expand industrial cooperation, promote entrepreneurship, harness the potential of special economic zones, and strengthen business ties with CIS partners.

However, the social impact of these processes is especially important to me. New production facilities mean jobs, professional development opportunities for young people, advanced training for specialists, and additional sources of income for families.

Therefore, I am convinced that the effectiveness of economic cooperation should be assessed not only by trade volumes but also by its impact on employment, citizens’ well-being, and the sustainability of regional development.

– How does food security help strengthen cooperation?

– Food security is directly linked to social stability and the well-being of citizens. Access to food, reliable supplies, and predictable prices are vital for every family, especially those with low incomes.

In this context, the President’s proposed mechanisms for advance notification and consultation before introducing restrictions on food and fertilizer exports are particularly important. Such an approach enables partners to assess the potential consequences of decisions promptly and seek mutually acceptable solutions.

I believe that, given the interdependence of our economies, responsibility towards partners is becoming particularly important. The greater the coordination among countries, the more opportunities there are to prevent risks and ensure stability in food markets.

– Particular attention is being paid to developing transport corridors. How important is this for Uzbekistan?

– Transport connectivity is of strategic importance to our country. Efficient routes, modern logistics centers, and simplified transit procedures help reduce costs, accelerate deliveries, and expand opportunities for domestic producers.

Uzbekistan is interested in developing international transport links, as this helps strengthen its export potential and enhance the competitiveness of its products.

However, coordinated action by all participants is essential. It is necessary to improve freight transport regulations, develop digital information exchange, eliminate administrative barriers and make transport procedures more predictable.

Ultimately, these improvements benefit not only large companies but also small and medium-sized businesses. More efficient logistics creates additional opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses, helps producers enter new markets, and improves the affordability of goods for consumers.

– Artificial intelligence, robotics and other advanced technologies are becoming ever more important. What are the prospects for cooperation in this field?

– Modern technologies are already shaping economic competitiveness, the quality of public services and the skills required in the workforce. Therefore, CIS countries should not remain merely consumers of ready-made solutions, but develop their own expertise, scientific research, and skilled workforce.

I believe that joint projects in artificial intelligence, robotics, new materials and energy technologies can bring together the scientific and intellectual potential of our countries.

However, technological development must be accompanied by a strong emphasis on education. We need to create conditions that enable young people to acquire in-demand skills, gain up-to-date knowledge and apply it in practice.

At the same time, it is important to remember that technology must serve people. Its adoption should increase labor productivity, improve service quality, and expand opportunities for citizens, rather than create new barriers for those who need support.

– The President also spoke about energy and environmental sustainability. Why is this issue becoming increasingly important?

– Because sustainable development is impossible without responsible management of natural resources. A reliable energy supply, efficient use of water and energy, the development of renewable energy sources and the introduction of resource-saving technologies are important both for the economy and for people’s everyday lives.

Expanding cooperation in resource-efficient and circular economies deserves particular attention. This involves using raw materials more efficiently, reducing waste and introducing solutions that deliver greater benefits while consuming fewer resources.

In my view, such approaches should be seen as part of our long-term responsibility to future generations. We must strive to ensure that economic growth is accompanied by the preservation of natural resources and improvements in people’s living conditions.

– Cybercrime remains one of today’s major challenges. What forms of international cooperation do you consider necessary?

– Today, digital technologies offer tremendous opportunities, but they also bring new risks. Cyber fraud affects ordinary citizens, entrepreneurs, banks and government systems. People may lose savings built up over many years, making this not only a technological issue but also a social one.

Interviewed by Lira Shafique, UzA