THE PLACE AND ROLE OF UZBEKISTAN IN ENSURING SECURITY AND STABILITY IN THE CENTRAL ASIAN REGION

Abstract

This article examines Uzbekistan's role and position in ensuring security and stability in the Central Asian region and establishing alliances aimed at long-term strategic goals. The analysis includes Uzbekistan's initiatives to address the environmental threats facing regional countries, particularly the Aral Sea issue; severe social problems in Afghanistan; terrorism and extremism; and the influx of psychotropic substances, as well as efforts to reduce their negative impact on youth. Furthermore, the article explores challenges to economic stability in Central Asia, including transit routes affecting the economic and social resilience of the region. The impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and wars in the Middle East, which have exacerbated difficulties in trans-regional trade routes, are also discussed, along with the importance of strengthening integration processes to mitigate these consequences on the region.