FERGANA, April 3. /Dunyo IA/. On March 31^st of this year, an international scientific and practical conference entitled “Friendship stele – a symbol of good-neighborliness, trust and strategic partnership between fraternal countries” was held in Fergana as part of the Central Asian and Azerbaijan Friendship Forum, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Event, organized by the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Compatriots Abroad of Uzbekistan, was attended by scholars and experts, parliamentary representatives, heads of ministries and agencies, government and public figures and leaders of non-governmental organizations from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the conference, Shakhlo Hamrakhodjaeva, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan (ISRS), emphasized the positive changes taking place in the Fergana Valley in recent years. According to her, thanks to the joint efforts of the Central Asian states, the region is experiencing profound transformation, including in the resolution of one of the most complex and sensitive issues – border disputes.

Expert emphasized that the signing of the Khujand Declaration of Eternal Friendship and the Treaty on the Junction Point of State Borders was a clear confirmation of these processes, marking the emergence of a new political reality based on dialogue, mutual respect and the desire to join forces for a common future.

According to Shakhlo Khamrakhodjaeva, Fergana Peace Forum, held at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev last October, was a practical continuation of this process. A key feature of the event was its inclusiveness: it brought together representatives of civil society, local communities, as well as youth and women activists.

The ISRS representative noted that the significance of this platform was also confirmed at the regional level. Thus, speaking at the 7^th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, the President of Uzbekistan put forward the initiative to transform this format into a regular International Forum. The idea received broad support from the leaders of the region's countries.

Overall, Shakhlo Khamrakhodjaeva expressed her conviction that the transformation of the Fergana Valley into a space of peace and sustainable development is a clear example of the effectiveness of regional cooperation. Further strengthening of trust, development of economic ties and joint implementation of strategic initiatives will contribute to stability and prosperity not only in Central Asia but also in the broader interregional space.