Mirziyoyev welcomes Russia–Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul

The world today faces serious challenges, with growing threats to global security and sustainable development, and rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics. This was emphasized by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, during his speech at the Fourth Tashkent International Investment Forum held on June 10.

“The global arms race is intensifying again. Military spending by major countries has increased by one and a half times since 2010, reaching \$2.5 trillion. Due to the consequences of the economic crisis and a shortage of financial resources, global GDP growth has been declining for three consecutive years,” Mirziyoyev noted.

He expressed concern over the erosion of international legal norms and the weakening of diplomacy. The President stressed that the world must prioritize urgent issues such as food security, poverty, and climate change. According to him, restoring peace, justice, and trust in human dignity is more important than ever.

“We believe that the situation in Ukraine should be resolved solely through diplomatic means, and we welcome the direct negotiations taking place in Istanbul,” he said.

The President also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, “In the 21st century, there is no justification for the death of so many innocent people before our eyes. The only solution is a fair resolution of the conflict based on international law and adopted resolutions. The Palestinian people have the right to their own independent state.”

Turning to regional issues, Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of Afghanistan’s peaceful and sustainable development. He called for constructive dialogue with the current Afghan government, warning against its international isolation.

“Peace and economic development in this country are vital for the long-term progress of the entire region,” he said.

He concluded by urging global cooperation: “We call on all our partner countries to engage in open and broad-based international cooperation on the issues I have just highlighted. Because investments, which are the main topic of the forum, are a guarantee not only of economic development, but also of peace and stability.”

“Let’s build an investment climate that, in addition to generating income, becomes a strong foundation for upholding human dignity, protecting vital interests, and fostering societal development,” the Uzbek leader added.

Over 7,500 delegates are attending the forum, including nearly 3,000 international guests from around 100 countries. Among the prominent attendees are Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adilbek Kasymaliev, Tajik Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda, Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, Turkmen Deputy Cabinet Chairman Nokerguli Ataguliyev, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development President Odile Renaud-Basso, New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff, and other influential representatives from Russia, China, the U.S., Arab states, and countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

For context, the first round of Russia–Ukraine peace talks was held in Istanbul on May 16, during which the parties agreed on the exchange of 1,000 prisoners and exchanged draft documents concerning a potential peace process. The second round took place on June 2 at the historic Çırağan Palace, with the Russian delegation led by Presidential Assistant Vladimir Medinsky and the Ukrainian side headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The discussions were held behind closed doors.