Tashkent Marks History as Host of 150th IPU Assembly with Visionary Address from President Mirziyoyev The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered a landmark address at the opening of the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), held for the first time in the Central Asian region, in the heart of Tashkent. With over 2,000 delegates representing 140 countries, the Assembly convened under the central theme: “Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice.” In his comprehensive and forward-looking remarks, President Mirziyoyev warmly welcomed global parliamentary leaders and emphasized the symbolic and strategic importance of hosting this prestigious gathering in Uzbekistan. He hailed the event as recognition of Uzbekistan’s democratic reforms and parliamentary evolution, underscored by the recent constitutional changes adopted via a national referendum in 2023. Global Challenges Require Parliamentary Leadership Acknowledging the turbulent global landscape—marked by conflicts, economic crises, climate emergencies, and social inequality—President Mirziyoyev made a compelling call for parliaments to play an expanded role in promoting peace, justice, and sustainable development. “Parliaments are bridges of friendship and powerful voices for people’s aspirations,” he said, urging greater parliamentary diplomacy in response to global issues. He reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s unwavering support for peaceful resolution of conflicts, referencing Ukraine and advocating a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also called for constructive engagement with Afghanistan and emphasized the centrality of the UN in global governance. Key Areas of Focus: Development, Climate, Gender, and Youth President Mirziyoyev outlined five urgent global priorities for parliamentary action: 1. Conflict Resolution & Peace – A strong appeal for diplomatic solutions and upholding international law. 2. Climate Change – A push for parliamentary support of green energy, Paris Agreement commitments, and long-term ecological strategies, echoing discussions held at the Samarkand Climate Forum. 3. Women’s Empowerment – Celebrating increased female representation in Uzbekistan’s parliament (now at 38%), the President proposed a new UN resolution to enhance the role of Asian women in development. 4. Youth Involvement – Proposing the creation of a Global Platform of Youth Parliaments within the IPU framework, to foster next-generation leadership and cooperation. 5. Social Protection & AI Governance – Highlighting Uzbekistan’s success in reducing poverty from 35% to 8.9% in eight years, the President invited delegates to an international poverty conference in Uzbekistan this September. He also emphasized the need for a model law on AI ethics. Strengthening Parliamentary Institutions in Uzbekistan Domestically, President Mirziyoyev presented an overview of the sweeping parliamentary reforms under the “Uzbekistan–2030” strategy. He highlighted the expansion of legislative powers, increased roles of local councils (Kengashes), and creation of youth parliaments. He stressed Uzbekistan’s commitment to transparency, social justice, and international cooperation, noting active relations with over 100 parliaments worldwide and meaningful participation in major global forums. Towards a Unified Parliamentary Future As the IPU Assembly gears towards adopting the Tashkent Declaration, President Mirziyoyev expressed confidence in the event’s historic outcomes. “No society can develop through legislation alone—we must unite in spirit and action to uphold democratic values and social justice,” he said. The Uzbek leader concluded his address by wishing all delegates health, success, and continued dedication to the global goals of sustainable development, democracy, and human dignity.