POLITICS | 18:54 / 21.05.2025
221
7 min read

President Mirziyoyev backs two-state solution in Gaza conflict, calls for diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine

On May 21, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a speech at the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), held in Budapest, Hungary.

Photo: Presidential Press Service

“Today’s summit is taking place against the backdrop of rapidly evolving global dynamics and increasingly unpredictable developments. Geopolitical and geo-economic tensions, regional conflicts, and the growing consequences of climate change pose serious challenges for all of us. Therefore, it is more important than ever to strengthen our countries’ common approaches and positions on addressing urgent global issues. We believe that even the most pressing problems must be resolved in accordance with international law and the UN Charter,” the President of Uzbekistan stated.

Mirziyoyev reaffirmed his support for resolving the war in Ukraine through diplomatic means.

“We support practical efforts aimed at resolving the situation around Ukraine through diplomacy and negotiations... The violation of the ceasefire in Gaza and the resumption of hostilities is a matter of deep concern to us all. Unless the ‘two states for two peoples’ principle is realized, it will be impossible to achieve a just solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. When speaking of global and regional security, we must also take into account the complex situation in Afghanistan and work together to find a solution. The adoption of a joint statement on Afghanistan highlights the seriousness with which our organization treats this issue,” Mirziyoyev said.

The president also made several proposals based on the summit’s agenda.

“Last year, we proposed the development of a ‘Treaty on Strategic Partnership, Eternal Friendship, and Brotherhood among Turkic States.’ The importance and relevance of this document have only grown. Without a doubt, this treaty will bring our peoples closer together and reinforce the long-term legal framework of our multifaceted cooperation. I propose signing this document at the upcoming summit in Baku.

We face a clear objective — to significantly increase mutual trade volumes in the coming years. To that end, we propose the creation of a ‘TurkTrade’ online platform and the adoption of a practical Trade Promotion Program.

To increase freight traffic along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and to simplify customs and border procedures, I call for the rapid implementation of ‘single window’ and ‘green corridor’ systems. To further expand cooperation in this area, we plan to host the International Multimodal Transport and Logistics Forum of Turkic States in Tashkent this November.

I would also like to highlight the role of the Turkic Investment Fund, which will undoubtedly stimulate the flow of capital. We believe it is essential to establish a joint venture capital company to support innovative projects. It would also be expedient to launch a ‘Unified Investment Portal’ that fully reflects the investment potential of our member states.

Another issue to address: it is time to elevate practical cooperation in industrial production to a new level. In this regard, I propose developing an Industrial Cooperation Program aimed at creating significant manufacturing capacities in sectors such as chemicals, energy, mining, light industry, pharmaceuticals, leather and footwear, food, and construction materials.

At the recent International Climate Forum in Samarkand, important proposals were put forward to strengthen regional and global cooperation in the field of green development,” the president noted.

He also praised the establishment of the OTS Institute for Drought Prevention in Budapest, initiated by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Mirziyoyev proposed the development of a joint “Roadmap for Drought and Environmental Problem Prevention” to support the institute’s activities and expand its engagement in targeted projects.

“I would like to draw your attention to another important issue. It is both an honor and a responsibility for us to deeply study and promote the legacy of our great ancestors, who made immense contributions to global science and culture and are a source of pride for us all. With the goal of advancing science and expanding educational opportunities for our youth, we have inscribed the noble principle ‘There is no salvation except through knowledge’ into the Charter of the Turkic World. In pursuit of this goal, we are establishing the International University of Turkic States in Tashkent. Distinguished professors and scholars from Turkic countries are expected to teach at this institution. We believe it will help enhance the intellectual capacity and worldview of the younger generation and contribute to their acquisition of modern knowledge,” the President said.

In addition, Mirziyoyev proposed that Uzbekistan host the next meeting of the Council of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation.

He emphasized the need to modernize the structure and operations of TURKSOY—the International Organization of Turkic Culture – in line with current global demands, in order to raise its prestige.

At the end of his address, Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that world-renowned Turkish scientist, biochemist, and Nobel Prize laureate Aziz Sancar had been awarded the Alisher Navoi International Prize.

Related News