Vatican and Uzbekistan Strengthen Diplomatic Ties in Shared Pursuit of Peace

Uzbekistan and the Vatican have taken another step toward deepening diplomatic cooperation as Pope Leo XIV formally accepted the credentials of Uzbekistan’s new ambassador, Abat Fayzullaev, on 6 December 2025. The ceremony, held in the ornate Sala Clementina of the Apostolic Palace, marked a milestone in Tashkent’s growing engagement with the Holy See.

Addressing thirteen newly accredited ambassadors, Pope Leo XIV underscored the Vatican’s commitment to diplomacy, dialogue, and global peace, principles he said must be actively pursued rather than passively hoped for.

«Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but an active and demanding gift, one that is built in the heart and from the heart,» he told the diplomats.

The Pope urged governments to renounce «pride and vindictiveness» and avoid «the temptation to use words as weapons,» warning that rising geopolitical tensions are straining global unity. He reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s stance against inequality, human rights abuses, and systemic injustice, pledging continued advocacy for the poor and marginalized.

His message resonates with Uzbekistan’s own emphasis on stability and harmony. Uzbek officials frequently highlight peace as a national priority, with Kahramon Sariyev, Chairman of the Committee on Interethnic Relations, noting that «the greatest goal humanity has always strived for is peace and harmony.»

Pope Leo XIV also praised the role of religion and interfaith dialogue in fostering peace, a sentiment strongly echoed across Central Asia. Uzbekistan and its neighbors have championed interreligious cooperation through platforms like the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, aimed at promoting respect among diverse cultures and faiths.

Fayzullaev’s accreditation signals growing alignment between the Vatican and Uzbekistan on global issues, from diplomacy to intercultural dialogue. As both sides call for deeper cooperation rooted in mutual respect, the relationship is set to expand in ways that support peace-building across Central Asia and beyond.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Uzbekistan has taken a major step toward becoming Central Asia’s fintech hub after President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a sweeping decree on 28 November approving a regulatory sandbox for stablecoin payments, set to launch on 1 January 2026.