Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Rahimjon Khakimov, deputy speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis, met with young politicians and experts from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan as part of the regional programme “Young Leaders: Central Asia + Azerbaijan,” the press service of the Legislative Chamber reported.
During the meeting, participants were briefed on reforms being carried out in Uzbekistan under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, including measures to protect young people’s rights, unlock their potential and expand their participation in public life and government.
Particular attention was given to opportunities for education, professional skills development, employment and support for youth entrepreneurship. The work of youth leaders in mahallas, or local communities, was presented as one way to address young people’s concerns at the local level. These leaders help promote initiatives and provide practical assistance.
Participants also learned about the work of the Legislative Chamber and opportunities for young people to take part in the lawmaking process. The role of the Youth Parliament under the lower house of the Oliy Majlis was highlighted in promoting youth initiatives, engaging young people in legislative work and preparing future political leaders.
The visitors thanked the Uzbek side for its hospitality and open dialogue. They stressed the importance of building trust between countries in the region, strengthening friendly relations and expanding cooperation among young people.
The meeting continued with a question-and-answer session. Participants exchanged views on prospects for interparliamentary cooperation, sharing experience among young leaders and implementing joint initiatives.
Khairiniso Rasulova, national adviser at the Secretariat of Tajikistan’s National Development Council under the president, expressed interest in Uzbekistan’s reforms and emphasised the importance of preparing young people who can think strategically and respond to contemporary challenges. She said such meetings could become a regular platform for dialogue and contribute to regional development.
Dinara Sadvakasova, head of the sector for cooperation with public associations at the Secretariat of Kazakhstan’s People’s Council, said participants had been interested in learning about Uzbekistan’s approaches to youth engagement.
She expressed confidence that the “Young Leaders” programme would help strengthen mutual understanding, develop people-to-people diplomacy and expand regional cooperation.
Programme participants also shared their impressions of the meeting and discussed opportunities for further cooperation.
