Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 19 March, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree titled “On Measures to Elevate National Unity and Strengthen Ties with Compatriots Abroad to a New Level,” outlining key directions for development in this field.

Among the priority objectives are fostering interethnic harmony, forming a unified national identity through friendship, solidarity, tolerance, and social cohesion, as well as ensuring the rights and legitimate interests of all ethnic communities living in Uzbekistan. The decree also emphasizes engaging Uzbek diasporas in the country’s socio-economic development, promoting Uzbekistan’s positive international image, and enhancing people’s diplomacy.

The reform introduces structural changes: the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Friendly Ties with Foreign Countries under the Ministry of Culture has been replaced by the newly established Committee on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad. This body will now report directly to the Presidential Administration and the Cabinet of Ministers. At the regional level, responsibility for this sector will be assigned to the Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Karakalpakstan, as well as deputy governors of regions and Tashkent overseeing public and religious organizations.

To reinforce national unity, Uzbekistan will host the annual forum “Uzbekistan – One Homeland!”, highlighting the contributions of various ethnic groups to the country’s development. Cultural streets called “Uzbekistan’s Cultural Wealth” will be established in Karakalpakstan, regional centers, and Tashkent, showcasing traditions and customs of different ethnic communities. Additionally, large-scale environmental initiatives titled “Our Strength is in Unity” will be launched with the participation of multiethnic volunteers, alongside media projects covering the historical and modern contributions of diverse ethnic groups to Uzbekistan.

Special attention will be given to harnessing the intellectual potential of Uzbeks living abroad. Under the UNDP TOKTEN (Transfer of Knowledge Through Expatriate Nationals) program, qualified specialists will be engaged in education, healthcare, agriculture, and the private sector, as well as contributing to the development of artificial intelligence across various fields.

Moreover, new mechanisms will encourage Uzbekistan’s diaspora to participate in the country’s socio-economic life. These measures include stimulating direct investments and capital market contributions, attracting charitable funds for social projects, promoting tourism among compatriots, and strengthening cultural and social ties through twin-city initiatives and friendship societies.