TORUŃ, May 26 /Dunyo IA/. Within the framework of the 13th International Asian Congress held under the theme “Shaping an Uncertain Future in a Changing World: Geopolitical Interconnections,” Uzbekistan participated as an honorary guest, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The congress, traditionally held since 2014, serves as an important platform for dialogue and exchange of experience among diplomats, academics, experts, and business representatives involved in cooperation between Central Europe and Asia, as well as for developing practical proposals to expand mutually beneficial partnerships.

The event brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps from more than 30 countries, including Uzbekistan, China, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan, among others. Participants also included representatives of the Government of Poland, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), the Polish-Asian Chamber of Commerce, regional authorities of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, the Toruń city administration, academic and research institutions, media representatives, and major business stakeholders.

The Uzbek delegation was led by Eldor Tulyakov, Director of the Development Strategy Center.

At the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by Adam Marszałek, President of Wydawnictwo Adam Marszałek, Radosław Fliśniuk, representative of the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Michał Koniuch, Vice-Marshal of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, Paweł Gulewski, Mayor of Toruń, Senator Ryszard Bober, as well as heads of diplomatic missions of various countries in Poland.

Speakers, including representatives of the Polish Foreign Ministry and the Toruń city administration, emphasized that Uzbekistan is a reliable and strategically important partner for Poland in Central Asia. They also highlighted the importance of further strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, trade-economic, cultural-humanitarian, and educational spheres.

Representatives of the Embassy of Uzbekistan and members of the Uzbek delegation presented ongoing reforms under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev within the framework of the New Uzbekistan concept. Particular attention was given to the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy, strengthening democratic institutions, economic liberalization, improving living standards, and creating a favourable investment climate and business environment.

The congress participants showed strong interest in presentations and videos highlighting Uzbekistan’s rich historical heritage, culture, and modern tourism infrastructure. Information was also provided on visa-free travel for citizens of nearly 100 countries, simplified e-visa procedures, and state subsidies supporting tourism development. It was noted that efforts are underway to increase the number of regular direct flights on the Warsaw–Tashkent route, launched in 2024.

As part of the congress, Uzbekistan Culture Days were also organized, featuring an exhibition and photo gallery showcasing the country’s cultural heritage, historical traditions, and national values, which received wide appreciation from participants.

In addition, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Development Strategy Center of Uzbekistan and the Polish Research Center for Oriental and African Studies, aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.