“https://president.uz/ru/lists/view/4484”
Speech by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the international conference “Central and South Asia: regional interconnectedness. Challenges and opportunities “
Dear heads of delegations!
Ladies and Gentlemen!
Dear guests!
First of all, I cordially greet all the participants of the International Conference “Central and South Asia: Regional Interconnectedness. Challenges and Opportunities ”.
I express special gratitude to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Antonio Guterres, for supporting our forum.
I am glad to see in this hall and express my deep respect to the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, His Excellency Mr. Ashraf Ghani and the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. Imran Khan.
Taking this opportunity, I express my gratitude to the foreign ministers and high representatives of our main partner states, who are personally participating in the conference, heads of authoritative international and regional organizations, and the world’s leading financial institutions.
Your participation in the forum, despite the difficult conditions associated with the pandemic, is a vivid confirmation of the great attention and determination to develop bilateral and regional cooperation.
Welcome to hospitable and sunny Uzbekistan!
Dear conference participants!
Central and South Asia, located at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, have promoted active dialogue between peoples and civilizations for many centuries.
Thanks to the close interaction of the two regions, new knowledge and philosophical ideas, achievements in medicine and astronomy, geography and mathematics, geodesy and architecture, the art of diplomacy and public administration, high cultural and spiritual and moral values were spread. The peoples of our regions have repeatedly found themselves within the framework of common state formations, as well as a common political, economic and humanitarian space.
Here appeared the Harappan civilization, the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms, the Türkic Kaganate, Khorasan and Maverannahr, the states of the Gaznevids, Temurids, Baburids and others, which left a deep mark on the history of mankind.
Central and South Asia have always been connected by reliable trade arteries, they were a bridge for the countries of the Middle East, Europe and China.
This is also stated in the works of the ancient Greek historian Strabo, who wrote that along the Oks River – now the Amu Darya, “goods were delivered through the Caspian and Black Seas to Europe”.
Back in the third and second millennia BC, a network of trade routes connecting us passed through the Khyber and Bolan passes.
In the space of Central and South Asia, thanks to the spread of Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism, unique folk traditions, distinctive ethnocultural communities have developed, a diverse and rich culture of the East has been formed.
The close ties between our peoples have contributed to rapid intellectual and spiritual progress.
This gave the world such outstanding scientists and thinkers as Charaka and Sushruta, Brahmagupta and Al-Khorezmi, Al-Fergani and Farabi, Beruni, Ibn Sino, and many others.
For several centuries ahead, they determined the development of scientific and philosophical thought.
The work of the classics of our national literatures is well known all over the world. These are, first of all, Khusrav Dehlevi, Alisher Navoi, Abdurahman Jami, Muhammad Haydar, Makhtumkuli, Mirzo Golib, Abai, Rabindranat Tagor, Sadriddin Aini, Chingiz Aitmatov.
They made a huge contribution to the development of the ideas of peace, freedom and humanism, friendship and mutual understanding between different peoples.
The works of the great scientists Abu Raikhan Beruni and Zakhiriddin Muhammad Babur are considered real encyclopedias on the history, science and culture of the regions of Central and South Asia.
The characterization given to Babur by the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru is widely known – that “he was a charming personality, a typical sovereign of the Renaissance.”
In particular, Babur in his fundamental work Baburname wrote that in the sixteenth century a regular caravan route was laid between India and Central Asia through the territory of Afghanistan, along which thousands of camels transported various goods every year. By his decree, caravanserais were improved and wells built on trade routes.
Babur’s grandson, Great Akbar, continuing his work, also left a bright mark in the history of India as a tolerant and far-sighted ruler.
It should be noted that trade relations between Central and South Asia at that time were also carried out with Iran, Arabia, the Ottoman state, China, Russia and other countries.
According to historical data, the ruler of India, Aurangzeb, in 1695 issued the Russian merchant Semyon Little a permission to trade in the country.
It is noteworthy that this decree was written in the Old Uzbek language.
Unfortunately, in the nineteenth century, due to historical circumstances, the interconnection of the two adjacent regions was broken.
Various obstacles arose between Central and South Asia, borders were closed, contradictions intensified, which more and more often turned into conflicts.
The era of cooperation and mutual understanding was replaced by a period of confrontation and mistrust.
We still feel the negative consequences of this – there are no effective cross-border routes, poorly developed trade and economic ties, and the potential of cultural and humanitarian relations is not fully used.
Ladies and gentlemen!
Today, the world has entered an era of global geopolitical transformations that present both challenges and new opportunities.
In these conditions, the revival of mutual ties between Central and South Asia, where about two billion people live today, is becoming an even more demanded and objective process.
I think that the time has come, based on the huge historical, scientific, spiritual and cultural heritage of our peoples, the complementarity of economies, the availability of intellectual potential, to consolidate our joint efforts, which will undoubtedly give a powerful synergy effect.
We are aware that interconnectedness, cooperation, dialogue and, most importantly, trust are the driving force for ensuring stability and sustainable development, improving the standard of living and well-being of the peoples of our regions.
This approach is the imperative of the times.
All this creates the necessary prerequisites for the formation, on the one hand, of a space of interregional cooperation and partnership, free from conflicts and socio-economic shocks, and on the other hand, a vast market for goods and services, investment and innovation.
Taking the initiative to hold this conference, we proceeded from the following.
First, strengthening peace and friendship, trust and good-neighborliness, expanding mutually beneficial cooperation between our countries, building an open and constructive policy meet the common interests of all states of Central and South Asia.
Secondly, we advocate the formation of stable trade, economic, transport and communication ties, which should become the main driver of the further development of our countries and the entire vast region in the long term.
The pandemic has shown that the new challenges facing humanity cannot be overcome without joining and coordinating efforts.
We feel an objective need to strengthen our cooperation through the digitalization of economies, the development of e-commerce and the introduction of innovations.
Thirdly, one of the key links in the practical interconnection of Central and South Asia is the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
We are convinced that our interregional partnership will become an important factor in establishing peace and stability and reviving the economy in this country.
Afghanistan today is at a turning point in its recent history.
We are confident that the wise Afghan people will show a willingness to compromise in order to achieve national consensus.
Comprehensive support by the international community for a political settlement of the conflict in the name of the long-awaited peace on Afghan soil is of fundamental importance.
This will open up new prospects for the integration of Afghanistan into regional processes.
Fourth, the main condition for the sustainable development of our regions and the strengthening of partnership is security and stability.
Our security is indivisible, and it can only be ensured through constructive dialogue and joint efforts.
Dear forum participants!
I am confident that an active and constructive dialogue between the countries of Central and South Asia will open up new opportunities for a fuller realization of their trade, economic, cultural and civilizational potential.
In this regard, I would like to make the following proposals.
First. Our priority task is to create favorable conditions for the development of trade and economic ties and the growth of mutual investments.
A practical contribution to solving these issues would be the development and implementation of effective measures for the free movement of investments, goods and services, the formation of a developed system of transport communications and energy infrastructure.
Just as our common ancestors did, convening the Majlis and Kurultais, Loya Jirga, Wasi Mushavarat and Sabha, we propose an annual interregional forum to discuss topical issues of expanding the economic agenda of cooperation, deepening cooperation and investment interaction between our countries.
Recommendations and proposals developed within the framework of such a dialogue can be transformed into specific programs and projects aimed at creating new jobs, developing potential and ensuring sustainable growth of our economies.
In addition, we are initiating a joint expert study of the issue of concluding a multilateral Agreement on economic cooperation between the countries of our regions.
Second. Creation of modern, efficient and safe transport and logistics infrastructure in Central and South Asia.
The Termez-Mazar-i-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar railway is intended to become a key element of the entire architecture of the interconnection of our regions, the construction project of which has already received wide support, including from leading international financial institutions.
The construction of this railway will make it possible to fully realize the transit potential of the two regions, form the shortest route, significantly reduce the time and cost of transporting goods between South Asia and Europe through Central Asia and the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
Overall, the launch of this cross-border railroad will create a powerful platform for achieving inclusive economic development in Central and South Asia.
It will become a kind of modern version of the ancient northern trade route known as Uttarapatha, which connected the Indo-Gangetic Plain with the southern territories of the Eurasian continent through the historic cities of Taxila, Gandhara and Termez.
An example of the successful implementation of such a trans-regional infrastructure is the North-South international transport corridor, which already connects India with the countries of Central Asia.
In addition, the project for the construction of the Trans-Afghan railway corridor in the future can connect our countries with China and other leading states of the Asia-Pacific region.
This is fully in line with the goals of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Third. The introduction of digital platforms should become the locomotive of economic cooperation between the countries of Central and South Asia.
It is necessary to develop specific measures to implement digital connectivity – in the field of trade, transit and border crossing, to adopt a Joint Action Strategy.
It is important to involve leading experts from our countries, as well as specialized UN agencies in this work.
Fourth. A joint search for ways to ensure food security in our vast region.
Recently, there has been a rapid rise in prices for basic food products; in some regions of the world, the population is experiencing an acute shortage of them.
We propose, under the auspices of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to hold a meeting of the ministers of agriculture of our countries to develop a Program to overcome these challenges.
This document should provide for joint development and research, the introduction of advanced technologies, the implementation of industrial cooperation projects.
Fifth. Consolidation of efforts in the fight against common challenges and threats to stability and security.
Together, we will be able to more effectively confront terrorism, extremism, transnational crime, including in cyberspace.
As a first step, we propose to develop a Joint Anti-Drug Action Plan with the participation of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.
Another important area in which it is necessary to coordinate efforts, we consider the fight against the threat of terrorism.
We are ready to organize a special expert meeting on these issues with the participation of representatives of the two regions.
This meeting could take place on the sidelines of the upcoming international conference in November this year in Tashkent dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the Joint Action Plan for the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in Central Asia.
Sixth. Environmental issues and stimulation of “green” development require the closest attention.
All countries of Central and South Asia are experiencing rapid industrial and demographic growth amid global climate change.
Under these conditions, common problems are water scarcity, air and environmental pollution, soil degradation and desertification.
A sad consequence of the extremely negative impact of environmental challenges is the problem of the drying up of the Aral Sea, which is increasingly acquiring a planetary character.
We need to take all possible measures to mitigate its consequences, as well as prevent similar disasters in the future, relying on the experience of our ancestors, who strove to live in harmony with nature.
Seventh. We stand for a fuller disclosure of the unique tourism potential of Central and South Asia.
In this context, recognizable travel brands, new, affordable products and routes are needed, especially given the growing interest in pilgrim tourism, the widespread introduction of the concept of “Tourism in a new environment”, with the mutual recognition of vaccination certificates.
We propose to develop, within the framework of the World Tourism Organization, a Program for Central and South Asia, which will be aimed at popularizing the historical and cultural heritage of our peoples.
Eighth. Expansion of scientific, cultural and humanitarian exchanges is one of the important conditions for strengthening friendship and trust.
In this regard, we propose to hold an international forum “Historical heritage of Central and South Asia” in Uzbekistan – in Termez under the auspices of UNESCO.
The implementation of joint programs in the field of education and science, culture and sports, with the wide involvement of young people, which makes up the majority of the population of our states, is acquiring priority importance.
We all well understand that youth is our priceless wealth.
The fate and future of our countries and peoples depend on how the young generation will grow up, what kind of education and upbringing they will receive, what conditions and “social elevators” we will create for them.
For effective interaction in youth issues, I propose to create a permanent Youth Council of the countries of Central and South Asia.
Ninth. High achievements in the field of science, technology and innovation are an important factor in the accelerated development of our countries.
It is necessary to encourage the conduct of joint research and innovative work, the organization of scientific and educational internships, programs for the exchange of experience.
In this regard, we propose to introduce a facilitated visa regime for scientists and researchers, as well as create an online platform for cooperation between universities and research centers in Central and South Asia.
Tenth. Today, more than ever, it is important to develop thoughtful decisions based on a systematic study and analysis of development trends and the interconnectedness of our regions.
On the eve of our forum, the International Institute of Central Asia was opened.
We propose on the basis of this analytical center to create a permanent expert pool of prominent scientists and researchers from our countries to promote regional cooperation.
In addition, based on the results of today’s conference, I propose to develop and submit for consideration by the UN General Assembly a draft special resolution on strengthening the interconnection between Central and South Asia and in general in the Eurasian space as an important factor in stable and sustainable development.
This document should consolidate common approaches, basic principles and directions of our dialogue.
It is also advisable to reflect in the draft resolution our readiness to hold regular high-level forums on the regional connectivity of the countries of Central and South Asia.
Dear conference participants!
Speaking about the role of our country in these processes, I would like to emphasize the following.
Our forum is taking place in an important historical period of the formation and development of the new Uzbekistan.
We are consistently carrying out systemic democratic reforms in all spheres of public life.
They are large-scale and irreversible. This is the fundamental choice of our people.
The main achievement of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy was the cardinal changes in the development of good-neighborly relations in Central Asia – with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
By joint efforts, we have managed to create an absolutely new atmosphere of trust and mutual support in our region.
We have created an effective platform for regular dialogue and joint identification of “new points” and growth drivers.
We plan to hold the next Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in early August in Turkmenistan.
I would especially emphasize: Uzbekistan is a reliable, stable and predictable partner aimed at developing constructive and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Ladies and gentlemen!
Dear guests!
The historical and civilizational community of Central and South Asia, the coinciding interests of our countries and peoples – this is a solid foundation on which we can build a common prosperous future.
The time has come to realize that without strengthening cooperation, effective regional interconnection, we will not be able to overcome the challenges our countries face today. We need to develop a clear vision of the prospects for joint sustainable development and prosperity.
Together we have to turn Central and South Asia and our entire Eurasian continent into a stable, economically developed and prosperous space.
I wish all the forum participants fruitful work!
Thank you for attention.
16 July 2021
Tazeen Akhtar Editor Daily Azkaar & www.pakistanintheworld.pk Translated full transcript of the address of President Uzbekistan H.H Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the participants of Central Asia South Asia International Conference 16 July 2021 / Published in Daily Azkaar on 02 Aug 2021 / It is the first ever Urdu Translation published in any of Pakistani Newspaper / www.azkaar.com.pk
