TASHKENT, July 7. /Dunyo IA/.  United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan Sabine Mahl, granted an interview to the Dunyo IA correspondent, highlighting the strategic significance of the UN General Assembly resolution “Strengthening regional cooperation and economic integration to ensure sustainable development in the Central Asian region” adopted at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, prospects for comprehensive cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN system, as well as the role of youth in sustainable development.

-  This resolution, initiated by the President of Uzbekistan, was adopted by consensus in just eight months. In your view, to what extent does such prompt support reflect the changes that have occurred in the region in recent years, and what does it say about the current level of interaction between Uzbekistan and the UN system?

-  We sincerely welcome the adoption of this resolution, put forward at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. As is well known, the document was proposed on behalf of the entire Central Asian region, which underscores its unifying nature and regional significance.

The particular importance of the resolution is confirmed by the fact that 66 states acted as its co-sponsors. This testifies to the broad international support for the initiative and the recognition of its relevance to the global agenda.

First and foremost, the resolution is of great practical significance for the peoples of Central Asia, as it is aimed at strengthening regional cooperation, developing good-neighborly relations, expanding mutual trust, and jointly finding answers to modern challenges.

It is precisely this approach that creates a solid foundation for ensuring sustainable peace, stability and prosperity in the region. Therefore, we view the adoption of this resolution as a truly important and timely step.

For our part, the UN Country Team in Uzbekistan, which brings together 25 agencies, funds, and programs, continues to cooperate closely with the country's government. We provide comprehensive support for the implementation of the initiatives put forward, as well as the ongoing reforms, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the further socio-economic progress of Uzbekistan.

– What role will your office play in achieving the goals of the resolution?

– As is well known, UN resolutions are adopted by member states. This is precisely why this initiative clearly demonstrates the leadership role of Uzbekistan, which, together with other Central Asian countries, consistently promotes the regional agenda on the international stage.

In recent years, we have witnessed a number of such initiatives, and this inspires confidence in the future. The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has repeatedly met with the UN Secretary-General. In particular, last year their meeting took place in Turkmenistan within the framework of the conference on landlocked developing countries held in Avaza.

During these meetings, the importance of multilateral cooperation was invariably emphasized. Today, when the principles of multilateralism are no longer taken for granted, it is especially important that Uzbekistan not only consistently supports this approach but also reaffirms its commitment through concrete international initiatives. The country demonstrates how effective the joining of forces can be in solving common tasks.

Central Asia today is a vivid example of the results that can be achieved through constructive dialogue and mutual trust. Regional cooperation, good-neighborly relations, and joint work make it possible to successfully resolve issues related to water resources, climate change, sustainable development, and other transboundary challenges. Unfortunately, such positive examples are far from being found in all regions of the world today.

For its part, the UN Country Team in Uzbekistan intends to continue providing comprehensive support to the country. We are ready to continue facilitating the implementation of reforms and national initiatives through expert, programmatic, and information-educational work, remaining a reliable partner of Uzbekistan on the path of its further sustainable development.

– How do you assess the evolution of relations between Uzbekistan and the UN over the past few years?

– I believe that the prospects for our cooperation are indeed very good. It is a great honor for us to work in Uzbekistan and to be the country's partner on its development path.

Certainly, the adoption of resolutions is of great significance. This is an important stage when UN member states join forces to shape the global agenda and jointly find answers to key world challenges. However, the practical work carried out directly within the country itself is no less important.

Today, a solid and effective partnership has been established between the UN system and Uzbekistan. Our agencies, funds, and programs implement projects across a wide range of areas, providing support to the ongoing reforms.

Recently, we signed the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Uzbekistan, defining the strategic priority for the next five years: promoting the effective use of the demographic dividend. This is about maximizing the potential of the country's young population through investments in human capital.

This includes supporting the healthcare system through the training of medical workers, upgrading their qualifications, and developing infrastructure. In the field of education, we cooperate with educators, improve teacher training programs and promote expanding youth access to quality education. In the area of social protection, our agencies interact closely with the National Agency for Social Protection, helping to improve the relevant system.

Significant attention is paid to issues of the environment and sustainable development. Recently, Samarkand became the venue for a major event of the Global Environment Facility, which once again confirmed the growing role of Uzbekistan in promoting the international environmental agenda. A special place in our work is occupied by initiatives related to the Aral Sea region, where environmental issues are closely intertwined with the tasks of ensuring the well-being and security of the population.

Thus, cooperation between UN and Uzbekistan covers a wide spectrum of areas. Our agencies continue to provide comprehensive support to the reforms implemented in the country and stand ready to further facilitate the achievement of its long-term sustainable development goals.

– In conclusion of our interview, I would like to ask you to share a message with our audience.

– I am convinced that the participation of youth in all social processes is of immense importance. It is crucial for young people to show initiative, actively participate in the life of their mahallas, youth organizations and local communities, strive to find their place in the country's development and make a personal contribution to its future.

It is equally important that the younger generation not only contributes to the further progress of Uzbekistan but also receives real opportunities to benefit from its results. It is the youth who are one of the main driving forces of sustainable development, innovation, and positive transformations.

In my view, the most important thing is to remain active, not to be indifferent to what is happening around, to participate in public life, and to openly express your ideas and proposals. The voice of youth must be heard, and its initiatives must find practical embodiment in concrete decisions and actions. Only with such an approach can the sustainable and inclusive development of society be ensured.