Uzbekistan Prepares to Assume Non-Aligned Movement Chairmanship

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — An Uzbek delegation led by Sodiq Safoev, First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, participated in a high-level commemorative meeting in Belgrade marking the 65th anniversary of the founding of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). The event took place from 31 August to 1 September 2026.

High-ranking representatives from more than 30 nations attended the forum, including delegations headed by presidents, heads of government, speakers of parliament, deputy prime ministers, and foreign ministers. Opening the meeting, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic highlighted the historical importance of Belgrade as the site of the first NAM conference in 1961, noting that the founding principles of the movement remain relevant in current global dynamics.

Addressing the forum, Safoev emphasized the role of the Non-Aligned Movement in contemporary international relations and outlined Uzbekistan’s key priorities ahead of its upcoming chairmanship of the organization for the 2027–2029 term. The delegation highlighted international initiatives proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev concerning peace and security, economic cooperation, climate change mitigation, and youth engagement.

During the visit, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic held talks with the Uzbek delegation. Both sides noted the positive trajectory of Uzbek-Serbian bilateral relations, supported by ongoing political dialogue between the two heads of state. The discussions focused on expanding inter-parliamentary ties, trade, investment, and joint economic projects.

The Uzbek delegation also conducted bilateral meetings with Marina Raguš, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, alongside leaders of other foreign delegations.