Skip to Main Content

Strengthening International Collaboration to Advance Sustainable Development in Uzbekistan

By The SDSN & Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies

On July 11, 2026, the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies (IMRS) hosted a meeting with Professor Jeffrey Sachs, President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in the field of sustainable development and promoting the integration of evidence-based approaches into public policymaking. Participants included SDSN member institutions in Tashkent and representatives from the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

In his remarks, Prof. Sachs noted that recent research in global economic geography points to a gradual shift towards Asia as the center of global economic activity. As he notes, this trend creates new opportunities for the countries of Central Asia to become important participants in international scientific, economic, and infrastructure cooperation, while further enhancing the region's strategic role in the development of new Eurasian connections. Particular attention was given to Uzbekistan's growing role at the crossroads of major transport, trade, and scientific corridors linking Europe and Asia. Amidst ongoing changes in the global economy and the evolving geopolitical landscape, Central Asia is becoming increasingly important as a platform for international cooperation, sustainable development, and regional integration.

Prof. Sachs also shared that climate change, environmental sustainability, and efficient water resource management remain among Uzbekistan's most significant long-term challenges. He highlighted the growing importance of the sustainable management of transboundary water resources, particularly within the Amu Darya River basin. In his view, addressing these challenges requires significant scientific research, international cooperation, and sustained regional dialogue.

Further, Prof. Sachs stressed that improving the quality of education, strengthening the research capacity of universities and scientific institutions, and increasing investment in research and development (R&D) are essential prerequisites for enhancing economic productivity, technological competitiveness, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Participants also emphasized that, in today's rapidly changing world, evidence-based policymaking is a key prerequisite for the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda. They highlighted the growing need to strengthen international scientific cooperation; foster partnerships among universities, think tanks, government institutions, and international organizations; consolidate the country's scientific and analytical capacity; enhance Uzbekistan's engagement in the global research agenda; and promote the effective integration of international best practices into public policy design and implementation.

At the conclusion of the meeting, all parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further expand cooperation, strengthen scientific and expert support for sustainable development, enhance international research collaboration, and reinforce Uzbekistan's role in the global network of knowledge and innovation in support of the SDGs.

Under the tripartite agreement signed in November 2024 between the SDSN, Agence Française de Développement (French Development Agency), and the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the formal establishment of SDSN Uzbekistan was a key deliverable. Recently, the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) submitted a joint proposal to co-host SDSN Uzbekistan, and to date, Uzbekistan has eight member institutions.

The hope and vision of this strategic partnership and establishment of the new national network is to mobilize expertise to support the Uzbekistan government’s efforts to advance the SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement.

Professor Jeffrey Sachs and Tursunov Kabul Beknazarovich, Deputy Chairman of the Budget and Economic Affairs Committee of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The First Deputy Director of IMRI assists Professor Jeffrey Sachs in donning a traditional Uzbek dress (chapan).
Bakhtishod Khamidov, Deputy Director of the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies.
Representatives from SDSN Member institutions, including Eshchanov Baxtiyor (New Uzbekistan University, Head of International Department), Yusubov Kaxramon (Westminster International University in Tashkent, Head of Finance), and Gulyamova Ozodaxon (Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature, Head of International Department).
Group photo featuring A.O. To‘ychiyev (Rector of the Tashkent Branch of Turin Polytechnic University), Umarov Akram (University of World Economy and Diplomacy First Vice Rector for Academic Affairs), and Sherzod Safarov (Central Asian University, Dean of СAU Business School).