BAKHTIYOR SAIDOV, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, said resolving global issues at the national level is crucial for maintaining the stability, well-being and prosperity of its people.  The consistent implementation of the SDGs is the cornerstone of the country’s policy.  The "Uzbekistan — 2030" development strategy is fully aligned with these goals and it has significantly reduced poverty, improved public access to education, transitioned to a green economy and improved gender equality.  “Our GDP has more than doubled, and the poverty rate has fallen almost four times in less than 10 years,” he said, adding that developing countries face challenges in accessing the global financial resources needed to achieve the SDGs.  “Reform of the international financial system is necessary so as to establish a modern financial architecture,” he said.  Humanity’s future is closely linked to the development and application of modern technologies.  “New scientific advancements should bring people and nations closer together, not separate them,” he added.

Turning to the changing climate, he said Central Asia is among the most vulnerable regions as increasing air temperatures jeopardize food and energy security.  For example, the level of water availability per capita in the region has dropped by half over the past few decades.  “We call on the international donor community to expand projects in the Aral Sea region aimed at mitigating the devastating consequences of the Aral Sea disaster,” he said.  The Aral Sea became the first region to receive the UN designation of zone of environmental innovation and technology.  Central Asian countries are unified on climate action and have developed a Regional Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and a Climate Council to create a national climate change programme.  “At the same time, we are aware of the need for broad international cooperation to effectively overcome these challenges,” he added.

Empowering women and girls and youth is an important part of the country’s policy.  “Youth represents our common future,” he said.  “In Uzbekistan, where over half of the population is under 30, effective youth policy is vital to build a New Uzbekistan.”  The country is implementing the UN Youth Strategy, yet the rising radicalization and increased violence involving youth is alarming.  “We must focus on fostering the proper spiritual and moral education of young people to prevent their involvement in radical movements,” he said.  He supported increased cooperation on this issue through Assembly resolutions.  The global threat of terrorism also requires unified international action.  “In the fight against this evil, there should be no place for selective approaches and double standards,” he said.  The Central Asian States cooperate closely to ensure regional security.  Together with the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, the countries have successfully launched the Central Asia Regional Expert Council on Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Returnees.

Central Asia remains a top priority in Uzbekistan's foreign policy.  “We will continue to consolidate our efforts to transform the region into a zone of lasting peace, stability and dynamic development,” he said.  The region remains one of the least integrated in the world in terms of its transportation and communication networks.  To counter the high cost of transportation to the nearest seaports, the region is focused on connecting to major global markets and revitalizing the Great Silk Road.  Uzbekistan follows a pragmatic policy towards Afghanistan, which is integral to Central Asia, contributing to its economic reconstruction and development of its transport and energy infrastructure.  “In order to achieve stability, it is crucial to uphold the UN’s central role in resolving the Afghan issue and developing coordinated strategies to ensure sustainable development,” he said.