In an era of global interconnectedness, the burgeoning partnership between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates serves as a compelling example of the transformative power of international collaboration. Over the past few years, these two nations have developed a relationship grounded in mutual respect, shared aspirations, and a commitment to innovation in public governance.
This partnership is not merely a diplomatic initiative but a dynamic exchange of knowledge, technologies, and policy frameworks. It illustrates how bilateral cooperation can strengthen institutional resilience, promote the rule of law, and enhance the quality of public services for the benefit of citizens in both countries.
Foundations of Shared Ambitions
The relationship between Uzbekistan and the UAE is rooted in a shared vision of progress. Both nations aim to modernize their governance systems with a focus on digital transformation, transparency, and legal reform. For Uzbekistan, a country implementing a sweeping reform program under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the UAE provides a model of effective governance and innovation. Meanwhile, the UAE views Uzbekistan as a key partner in Central Asia, offering untapped potential for collaboration and investment.
The foundation of this partnership lies in a series of agreements and initiatives aimed at improving governance, streamlining legal procedures, and fostering a culture of openness and accountability in public institutions. Currently, Uzbekistan and the UAE maintain active collaboration in various fields, including trade, science, technology, tourism, and agriculture. Notably, the two nations have signed 32 bilateral documents, including 3 interstate, 14 intergovernmental, 6 interagency agreements, and 9 other documents.
This cooperation reflects Uzbekistan's broader strategy to align its legal and governance systems with international standards, leveraging the UAE's expertise in advanced technologies and governance best practices. For instance, last year’s visit by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Justice, Akbar Tashkulov, to the UAE marked a significant milestone in strengthening ties. During a meeting, Tariq Humaid Al-Tayer, Chair of the Advisory Council of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that the UAE considers Uzbekistan a trusted friend and a proven partner, with mutual collaboration bringing shared benefits to both nations.
During this meeting, the two sides affirmed that their strategic objectives align across multiple domains. The UAE expressed support for President Mirziyoyev’s initiative to establish an international commercial court in Tashkent. This support extends to ensuring the effective organization of the court’s operations, a key element in enhancing Uzbekistan’s investment appeal and safeguarding investor capital.
Cooperation in Justice and the Rule of Law
Uzbekistan and the UAE are working jointly to reform their judicial systems. Their programs focus on simplifying procedures, ensuring access to legal assistance, and introducing innovations such as electronic document management systems. These initiatives aim to make legal services more accessible and efficient.
The UAE’s support in training Uzbek specialists and assisting in harmonizing the legal framework with international standards underscores the importance of this partnership. This exchange of expertise is complemented by joint efforts to align Uzbekistan’s legal infrastructure with global standards, particularly in areas such as commercial law and intellectual property rights. Such collaborations enhance Uzbekistan’s legal infrastructure, laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.
Strengthened bilateral relations between the ministries of justice of both countries, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, pave the way for long-term cooperation in law and justice. The memorandum establishes a legal framework for effective and mutually beneficial collaboration in legal and judicial matters.
Planned activities under the memorandum include joint events such as forums, conferences, and courses on legislative and legal issues, professional development programs for lawyers, expert meetings, and training for officials and specialists. Additionally, the memorandum fosters collaboration in judicial and forensic fields.
Transforming Public Services and Digitalization
One of the most notable aspects of this partnership is its focus on improving public services. Renowned for its citizen-centric governance approach, the UAE plays a key role in advising Uzbekistan on modern service delivery mechanisms. This collaboration has contributed to the further development of Uzbekistan’s network of public service centers, simplifying access to essential services and reducing bureaucracy for citizens.
Moreover, the UAE’s experience in digitalization has been instrumental in shaping Uzbekistan’s digital government strategy. The implementation of electronic document management systems, the creation of online legal information resources, and the development of e-governance platforms are direct outcomes of this bilateral engagement. These initiatives have not only improved access to public services but also laid the groundwork for greater transparency and accountability in Uzbekistan’s institutions.
Digital transformation has become a central theme of the bilateral agenda, reflecting a shared recognition of technology as a driving force for governance reforms. Uzbekistan’s efforts to digitalize its judicial and administrative systems have been significantly bolstered by the UAE’s expertise. From blockchain property registries to AI-powered legal analytics, the partnership is pushing the boundaries of innovation in public administration. These efforts are not only about adopting technologies but also fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within Uzbekistan’s public sector.
A Vision for the Future
The success of the Uzbekistan-UAE partnership offers valuable lessons for other countries in the region. It demonstrates that bilateral cooperation can transcend traditional economic projects and security concerns to focus on governance and institutional reforms. By leveraging each other’s strengths, the two nations are creating a model of constructive engagement that prioritizes shared benefits and long-term sustainability.
As Uzbekistan continues to implement its ambitious reform agenda, its partnership with the UAE is poised to grow even stronger, moving beyond current achievements. Joint projects in governance, justice, and innovation illustrate how international cooperation can serve as a powerful tool for strengthening institutional resilience and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Uzbekistan and the UAE are paving the way for future generations, showing how mutual respect and the exchange of expertise can lead to sustainable progress. Their collaboration stands as a testament to the transformative potential of international partnerships in building societies that are not only prosperous but also equitable and inclusive.
A new building for Uzbekistan’s national archive to be constructed
Recently, during the official visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to the United Arab Emirates, a series of mutually beneficial bilateral agreements were signed to strengthen the friendly relations and elevate international cooperation between the two nations.
One of these agreements, titled “Agreement Between the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on Attracting Grant Funds,” aims to enhance the preservation of archival documents that reflect the material and spiritual life of the Uzbek people. These documents hold historical, scientific, social, economic, political, and cultural significance.
What Is the Core Focus of the Agreement?
According to the agreement, the parties will collaborate to attract a grant of approximately $20 million from the Government of the UAE to construct, equip, and commission a new building for the Uzbekistan National Archive in Tashkent.
Significant preparatory work has already been carried out. Notably, the State Program on Construction of Archive Buildings and Storage Facilities for 2020–2025 was approved by the Presidential Decree No. PQ-4463 on September 20, 2019. This program outlines the construction of archive buildings across Uzbekistan and their provision with necessary equipment and facilities.
On March 25, 2019, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Uzarchiv Agency and the National Archives of the UAE. Since then, UAE representatives and specialists have visited Uzbekistan’s National Archive several times. Naturally, the archival materials, with records dating back to the 9th century and possessing immense historical, cultural, and scientific value, have garnered considerable interest.
What Valuable Documents Are Stored in Uzbekistan’s State Archives?
The archives currently house over 16 million storage units, of which 9.3 million belong to the State Archival Fund. The archival system includes 3 national archives, 14 regional branches, and 101 provincial, city, and district archives, along with 116 personal document archives.
Documents dating from the 9th century to the present day are preserved here. The oldest document is from the 9th century and is a waqf (endowment) deed written in 868 CE (254 AH) by Ismail Samani (ruler from 892 to 907) regarding his mausoleum and endowments for his descendants. The “Waqf Document Collection” consists of 1,597 compiled volumes, with most originating from Bukhara, while others are from Khiva, Tashkent, Samarkand, Herat, Balkh, and even sacred cities such as Mecca and Medina.
The archives also preserve collections related to prominent historical figures, political parties, and cultural and scientific institutions. For instance:
• The Waqf Document Collection (9th century–early 20th century)
• The Chancellery of Khiva Khans (early 17th century–early 20th century)
• The Divan of the Bukhara Amir’s Kushbegi (early 14th century–early 20th century)
• The Archives of Kokand Khans (early 18th century–late 19th century)
These collections are of exceptional interest due to their rarity and serve as fundamental sources for historical research.
Of particular note is the “Khiva Khanate Archive” (Fund I-125), recognized for its authenticity and international significance. This collection provides unique insights into state administration, military conditions, and civilian life during the late 17th to early 19th centuries. The collection was inscribed on UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” program in 2017.
Another noteworthy collection is the “Bukhara Amir’s Kushbegi Office” (Fund I-126), containing 9,441 compiled volumes from 1718 to 1920. It includes documents on Bukhara’s foreign policy, military affairs, communications, logistics, administrative structure, and public health. This collection is also included in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” program.
Is Uzbekistan Ready for the Implementation of the Grant Project?
In conclusion, the UAE’s provision of technical assistance and grant funds has laid the foundation for implementing the construction project for Uzbekistan’s new National Archive building. In May 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan issued a relevant decree, allocating 3.2 hectares of land on Yangi Uzbekistan Street in Tashkent for the project.
The project is also included in the Cabinet of Ministers-approved “Targeted Program for Attracting External Assistance and Collaborating with Donors in 2024.”
The Importance of Archives
An archive is a treasure where the past, present, and future converge. Through archives, the connection between eras, as well as the cultural and social history of a nation, is preserved. As a source of historical and cultural information, archives are invaluable. They provide a sense of pride in the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the Uzbek people, with their unique ethnic traditions.
The Grant Agreement between the governments of Uzbekistan and the UAE establishes a legal framework for these ambitious projects. The new National Archive building, with a capacity of 4 million storage units, is expected to serve as a vital hub for preserving the historical documents of Uzbekistan and Central Asia for future generations.
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