Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 9 April 2025, the Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Otabay Fazilkarimov, held a meeting with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla.

The UN delegation included key experts, such as the Global Advocate for Justice, Migrants, and Children’s Rights, Pablo Espinella, as well as the Head of the UNICEF Representative Office in Uzbekistan, Rehina Castillo.

The main focus of the discussions was bilateral cooperation in social initiatives aimed at improving children’s welfare and protecting their rights. Specific attention was given to ways of investing in human capital from an early age, which is considered a crucial element for sustainable economic growth and social development.

A significant topic was the creation of an effective coordination platform that would facilitate collaboration between government agencies and international organizations. This platform is set to coordinate strategic initiatives in social protection and enhance the effectiveness of social programs.

Following the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to further develop cooperation and exchange experiences to implement joint social projects.

An important step in strengthening mutual ties will be the establishment of a platform to ensure strategic coordination and the fulfillment of commitments in the area of children’s rights protection.