World leaders congratulate Uzbekistan on 35th anniversary of independence

World leaders and international organizations congratulated President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the country’s 35th independence anniversary, highlighting its socioeconomic development, regional role and expanding partnerships in trade, investment, energy, transport and other areas.

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President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has received congratulations from foreign leaders and representatives of international organizations on the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s state independence. The congratulations came from foreign heads of state and government, parliamentary leaders, representatives of international and regional organizations, business representatives, as well as political, public and religious figures.

Foreign partners noted Uzbekistan’s socioeconomic development and changes implemented in the country in recent years. They also highlighted Uzbekistan’s role in maintaining peace and stability in Central Asia, developing good-neighborly relations and regional cooperation, and participating in international affairs. The congratulations also addressed the development of cooperation with Uzbekistan in trade, investment, transport, energy, culture and humanitarian affairs. Foreign partners conveyed wishes to Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan and expressed confidence in the continued development of bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

Putin highlights Russia-Uzbekistan strategic partnership

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Mirziyoyev on the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence, highlighting relations between Moscow and Tashkent. Putin noted Uzbekistan’s economic and social development and its international standing.

“Russian-Uzbek relations are characterized by a strategic partnership and alliance. Moscow and Tashkent have established productive cooperation in all key areas, as well as effective interaction in international affairs,” Putin said.

The Russian president also said the two countries would continue expanding cooperation.

“Through joint efforts, we will undoubtedly ensure the further expansion of our full range of partnerships – for the benefit of the friendly peoples of Russia and Uzbekistan, and in the interests of strengthening regional security and stability,” he said.

Putin concluded by wishing Mirziyoyev health and success and the people of Uzbekistan prosperity.

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Xi addresses China-Uzbekistan strategic partnership

Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. Xi noted Uzbekistan’s development over the past 35 years, particularly during the past decade, and referred to China and Uzbekistan as friendly neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners in the new era. The Chinese president recalled that he and Mirziyoyev met twice last year and outlined plans for the further development of bilateral relations.

“I place particular emphasis on the relations between our countries and stand ready to work with you to advance the construction of a Chinese-Uzbek community with a shared future for the benefit of the peoples of both countries,” Xi said. He concluded by wishing Uzbekistan prosperity and its people peace and well-being.

Trump points to trade, energy and regional connectivity

U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on behalf of the American people, referring to the country’s history and culture as Uzbekistan marked 35 years of independence. Trump addressed the development of the Uzbekistan-U.S. strategic partnership alongside reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan.

“Over the past year, we have made significant progress in advancing shared interests, including securing our borders, increasing bilateral trade and investment, strengthening energy ties, and expanding regional connectivity,” Trump said. The U.S. president said Washington expects to further develop bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation.

Tokayev addresses Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan cooperation

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on behalf of Kazakhstan. Tokayev referred to Uzbekistan’s achievements in strengthening statehood, supporting sustainable development and expanding its international role. He attributed these developments to the strategy of building a “New Uzbekistan.” The Kazakh president also addressed relations between the two neighboring countries, including friendship, good-neighborliness and cooperation between their peoples.

“We highly value the centuries-old friendship, good-neighborliness, and mutual support of our peoples. Our multilateral cooperation is developing at an unprecedented level, fully in keeping with the spirit of strategic partnership and alliance,” Tokayev said.

He expressed confidence that continued joint work would build on existing results and further develop Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan cooperation.

Japarov points Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan strategic partnership

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. Japarov referred to structural reforms, economic growth and changes in living standards in Uzbekistan. He also addressed the development of Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan relations, describing them as a strategic partnership and alliance. The Kyrgyz president referred to Mirziyoyev’s recent state visit to Kyrgyzstan and noted progress in resolving border issues between the two countries.

“As a result of our joint efforts and actions, border issues have been resolved, and cooperation in trade, economic, investment, transport, transit, cultural, and humanitarian spheres has been elevated to a new level,” Japarov said.

He also pointed to historical and cultural ties between the two countries and the level of bilateral trust. Japarov said he expects to make a state visit to Uzbekistan at an agreed time and continue developing cooperation between the two countries.

Rahmon focuses Tajikistan-Uzbekistan relations

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on behalf of himself and the people of Tajikistan.Rahmon referred to Uzbekistan’s development since independence and its international standing. He also described relations with Uzbekistan as a priority of Tajikistan’s foreign policy.

“Tajikistan values and attaches great importance to the time-tested, warm and meaningful Tajik-Uzbek relations, founded on strong historical traditions of friendship and mutual understanding,” Rahmon said.

The Tajik president also referred to cooperation between the two countries across different areas and the development of their strategic partnership and alliance. Rahmon expressed confidence that the two countries would continue working together to use the existing potential in bilateral relations.

Berdimuhamedow notes Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan ties

Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedow congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on behalf of himself and the government and people of Turkmenistan. Berdimuhamedow referred to Uzbekistan’s development since independence, including state-building, living standards and its international standing. He also addressed relations between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, noting cooperation based on good-neighborliness, friendship and mutual support.

“I firmly believe that the strategic Turkmen-Uzbek fraternal relations will continue to develop and deepen through our joint efforts for the benefit of our peoples,” Berdimuhamedow said.

The Turkmen president concluded by wishing Mirziyoyev health and well-being and the people of Uzbekistan peace, progress and prosperity.

Aliyev on Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan alliance

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. Aliyev noted Uzbekistan’s development since gaining independence, including reforms, economic growth and changes in social conditions. He also referred to the country’s position at the regional and international levels.

“Since gaining independence, fraternal Uzbekistan has undergone a path of comprehensive and dynamic development, achieved great success, and earned high authority and respect internationally and in the region,” Aliyev said.

The Azerbaijani president linked the country’s development to reforms implemented under Mirziyoyev and referred to public support for the government’s policies.

“Thanks to your wise leadership and strategic vision, your country has successfully implemented large-scale reforms and creative work in all areas, achieved economic progress, and ensured the social well-being of the population,” he said.

Aliyev said Azerbaijan views Uzbekistan as a fraternal country and ally and referred to his recent state visit to Uzbekistan and meeting with Mirziyoyev.

“As a fraternal country and ally, we consider every success of Uzbekistan our own and are proud of it. Every time I visit your unique and hospitable country, I witness Uzbekistan's important achievements. I recall my recent state visit to this fraternal country and my meeting with you with the most pleasant impressions,” Aliyev said.

He also focused on the current state of bilateral relations, referring to the historical and cultural links between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

“Azerbaijani-Uzbek relations, built on shared historical and cultural ties, unbreakable friendship, and brotherhood, are currently at their peak. Further comprehensive development and deepening of our bilateral ties with Uzbekistan is a priority for us,” the Azerbaijani president said.

Aliyev noted that interstate relations and the alliance between the two countries have continued to develop through bilateral cooperation.

“I am pleased that, as a result of our joint efforts, interstate ties and our alliance are strengthening further day by day, and our multifaceted cooperation is being imbued with new practical content,” he said.

The Azerbaijani president expressed confidence that the two countries would continue cooperation aimed at developing bilateral relations and their alliance.

“I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will continue to successfully fulfill our honorable mission of protecting and preserving Azerbaijani-Uzbek unity, which is our greatest asset, developing comprehensive cooperation, and consistently strengthening our alliance,” Aliyev said.

Erdogan on Turkiye-Uzbekistan strategic cooperation

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the country’s Independence Day, referring to Uzbekistan’s development over the 35 years since independence and cooperation between the two countries. Erdogan noted Uzbekistan’s development in recent years and its international standing, while focusing on bilateral cooperation and interaction within the Organization of Turkic States and other multilateral platforms.

“It is gratifying to see that, thanks to Your Excellency's significant contribution and efforts, our close cooperation is expanding and steadily developing both bilaterally and, above all, within the Organization of Turkic States and other multilateral international forums,” Erdogan said.

He referred to the fourth meeting of the Turkiye-Uzbekistan High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, held in Turkiye on January 29, 2026, as part of the development of the bilateral partnership. The Turkish president also invited Mirziyoyev to attend two upcoming international events in Turkiye.

“I will also be delighted to welcome you, dear brother, to our country for the 13th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, which will take place on October 29–30, 2026, in Ankara, and the COP31 High-Level Leaders' Meeting, scheduled for November 11–12, 2026, in Antalya,” Erdogan said.

Lukashenko on Belarus-Uzbekistan strategic partnership

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. Lukashenko referred to Uzbekistan’s development since independence, including the strengthening of sovereignty, socioeconomic development, changes in living standards and the country’s international standing.

“Over the past years, the country has achieved significant success in strengthening its sovereignty. The sustainable socioeconomic development of the state, the growing well-being of citizens, and the republic's growing international standing are evidence of the correctness and effectiveness of your policy,” Lukashenko said.

The Belarusian president also referred to relations between Minsk and Tashkent and their strategic partnership.

“I am confident that the unwavering friendship and mutual trust between Minsk and Tashkent will continue to guarantee the deepening and expansion of multifaceted Belarusian-Uzbek cooperation within the framework of our strategic partnership,” he said.

Egypt seeks new areas of cooperation with Uzbekistan

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the country’s Independence Day. El-Sisi noted the current level of relations between Uzbekistan and Egypt and reaffirmed Egypt’s readiness to coordinate with Uzbekistan to develop cooperation in additional areas.

“I would like to take this opportunity to particularly note the high level of relations between Uzbekistan and Egypt. I reaffirm our readiness to continue coordinating on a number of issues in order to develop new areas of cooperation in various fields for the benefit of our peoples,” el-Sisi said.

The Egyptian president concluded by wishing Mirziyoyev success and the people of Uzbekistan continued well-being and prosperity.

Iran focuses on broader trade, transport and energy cooperation with Uzbekistan

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian congratulated Mirziyoyev, the government and the people of Uzbekistan on Independence Day. Pezeshkian referred to the historical, cultural and civilizational ties between Iran and Uzbekistan and said relations between the two countries have developed on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests.

“I am confident that through continued close consultations and the implementation of the agreements reached, bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Uzbekistan will continue to develop,” Pezeshkian said.

The Iranian president described Uzbekistan as an important and reliable partner for Iran in Central Asia and reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to developing cooperation at bilateral, regional and international levels. He concluded by wishing Mirziyoyev health and success and the people of Uzbekistan progress and prosperity.

Pakistan points further development of strategic partnership with Uzbekistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on behalf of himself and the government and people of Pakistan. Sharif referred to relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan as being based on shared faith, historical ties and cultural connections. He also recalled Mirziyoyev’s visit to Pakistan earlier this year and the agreements reached within the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council.

“The meaningful talks and agreements reached within the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSC) gave new impetus to our interaction in the areas of trade, investment, regional connectivity, energy, education, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges,” Sharif said.

The Pakistani prime minister reaffirmed his country’s commitment to developing its strategic partnership with Uzbekistan through continued engagement and coordination in areas of mutual interest. Sharif concluded by wishing Mirziyoyev health and success and the people of Uzbekistan peace, progress and prosperity.

EU and Uzbekistan continue cooperation under strategic partnership

European Council President Antonio Costa congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence on behalf of the European Union. Costa referred to Uzbekistan’s economic development in recent years and its role in regional connectivity, cooperation and economic development in Central Asia. He also noted Mirziyoyev’s role in relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union, regional peace and stability, multilateral cooperation, climate policy and the transition to a green economy.

Costa recalled his meeting with Mirziyoyev at the first Central Asia–European Union Summit in Samarkand in April 2025, when relations were elevated to a strategic partnership. He also referred to their meeting in Brussels in October 2025 and the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the EU. The agreement’s provisional application began in March 2026. According to Costa, the agreement created additional opportunities for cooperation in sustainable connectivity, critical raw materials, green energy and digitalization.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with you to further deepen our strategic partnership and realize our shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable Central Asia and Europe,” Costa said.

Macron focuses on France-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and space cooperation

French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of independence. Macron referred to cooperation between France and Uzbekistan following reciprocal presidential visits and identified energy, transport, healthcare, education and urban infrastructure among the main areas of bilateral engagement.

“Following our reciprocal visits, France has been a reliable and long-term partner of Uzbekistan in such crucial areas as energy, transport, healthcare, education, and urban infrastructure,” Macron said.

Macron separately focused on Uzbekistan’s plans to develop its space program, referring to the scientific legacy of Abu Rayhan Beruni and Mirzo Ulugh Beg. He invited Mirziyoyev to the International Space Summit scheduled to take place in Paris on September 9–10, 2026.

“In my quest to continue this legacy with you, I hope to have the honor of meeting you at the International Space Summit, which will take place on September 9–10 this year in Paris,” Macron said.

Germany reaffirms support for Uzbekistan’s reform agenda

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the country’s Independence Day. Steinmeier recalled his recent visit to Uzbekistan and thanked Mirziyoyev for the reception of the German delegation. He noted that talks held during the visit contributed to the development of cooperation between the two countries.

“The open and constructive exchange of views we had with you made an important contribution to the further deepening of cooperation between our countries,” Steinmeier said.

The German president also referred to Uzbekistan’s ongoing reform policy and reaffirmed Germany’s support for the country.

“I wish you great success in the reform policy pursued under your leadership, and I assure you that Germany will continue to support you as a reliable partner,” Steinmeier said.

He also wished the people of Uzbekistan a future based on peace, freedom, security and prosperity.

Italy focuses on strategic partnership and Central Asia cooperation

Italian President Sergio Mattarella congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. Mattarella noted the development of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Italy in recent years, referring to historical ties and increased political engagement at the highest level. He also pointed to regional cooperation as an element of relations between Tashkent and Rome, particularly engagement under the Italy–Central Asia format.

“In this regard, I wish you success in the upcoming work within the Italy-Central Asia format, which is a crucial tool for deepening mutual dialogue and launching new joint initiatives,” Mattarella said.

The Italian president also referred to Uzbekistan’s relations with the European Union and the recent signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. Mattarella said the development of Uzbekistan-EU relations would contribute to further cooperation between Uzbekistan and Italy.

Uzbekistan’s flag displayed on Tehran’s Azadi Tower

Uzbekistan’s 35th independence anniversary was also marked in Tehran, where the country’s flag was projected onto the Azadi Tower. On the evening of August 31, the landmark was illuminated in the colors of Uzbekistan’s national flag as part of an event marking the country’s Independence Day.

The display included video mapping, with an image of the Uzbek flag projected onto the tower, one of the cultural and historical landmarks of the Iranian capital. The event was organized to mark Uzbekistan’s Independence Day and promote cultural and friendly ties between Uzbekistan and Iran.

Congratulations also received from foreign leaders and international organizations

Congratulations on Uzbekistan’s 35th independence anniversary were also sent by former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Azerbaijani First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Saudi Arabia was represented by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, while Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also sent congratulations.

From the United Arab Emirates, congratulations came from President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Court Chairman Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan; and Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

European leaders included Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Slovenian President Natasa Pirc-Musar, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics, Albanian President Bajram Begaj, Bulgarian President Ilijana Iotova, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Swiss President Guy Parmelin.

Congratulations were also received from King Charles III of the United Kingdom, King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, Pope Leo XIV, San Marino’s Captains Regent Alice Mina and Vladimiro Selva, and Japanese Emperor Naruhito.

Other leaders included Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Vietnamese President To Lam, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani.

Representatives of international and regional organizations also sent congratulations. They included SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev, Organization of Turkic States Secretary-General Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Economic Cooperation Organization Secretary-General Asad Majid Khan, Organization of Islamic Cooperation Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha, Inter-Parliamentary Union Secretary General Martin Chungong, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany, UN Special Representative for Central Asia and UNRCCA Head Kaha Imnadze, China–Central Asia Secretariat Secretary-General Sun Weidong, Eurasian Economic Commission Board Chairman Bakytzhan Sagintayev, SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure Executive Committee Director Ularbek Sharsheyev and International Organization for Migration Director General Amy Pope.

U.S. lawmakers were also among those who sent congratulations, including Senator Steve Daines and House members Carol Miller, Joe Wilson, Don Bacon, Ronny Jackson, Ron Estes, Brian Mast, Adam Smith and Ami Bera. Azerbaijani Milli Majlis member and Uzbekistan Cultural Ambassador Gunay Efendiyeva also sent congratulations. Additional congratulations continue to be received.

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