News

Uzbekistani nationals, alongside citizens of other countries and a film crew led by Russian director Fyodor Bondarchuk, are being evacuated from Iran to Azerbaijan, according to TASS.

Authorities plan to evacuate 88 people with the support of Baku. By 14:02 Tashkent time, the first bus carrying Russian nationals had already arrived in Azerbaijan.

On June 13, Israel launched missile strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities, killing army personnel and scientists involved in the country’s atomic programme.

In response, Iran struck back by hitting Israel’s Ministry of Defence building. Tehran reported that 95 Iranians...

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide a loan of $6 mln to Angren Group, the only manufacturer of fibreglass sheets in Uzbekistan, according to the bank’s press service.

The funding will support the purchase of new equipment and expand the company’s fibreglass sheet production. Part of the loan will also go toward corporate restructuring.

The Japan–EBRD Cooperation Fund is financing the project.

The EBRD noted that Angren Group remains Uzbekistan’s sole producer of fibreglass sheets, a material commonly used in plasterboard production.

Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that the EBRD would allocate $250 mln to...

Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov and his Belarusian counterpart Maksim Ryzhenkov visited the Uzbekistan–Afghanistan border, according to Dunyo. The two officials travelled across the Friendship Bridge, which connects Termez and Hairatan.

During the visit, Saidov and Ryzhenkov discussed the expansion of trade routes through Afghanistan. They also explored opportunities for coordinating humanitarian assistance and ensuring stability in border regions.

The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the meeting as a symbol of strong partnership and mutual trust.

«Regional security, humanitarian cooperation, and practical steps to strengthen ties — all these were...

Uzbekistan has recorded its most expensive vehicle licence plate sale to date. On June 13, the plate number 10 777 ZZZ sold at an online auction for UZS 1.56 bn, equivalent to over $122,000 at the Central Bank’s current exchange rate.

The lot initially started at UZS 187.5 mln, but intense bidding pushed the price more than eightfold.

In addition to the final bid, the buyer paid a commission of UZS 78.2 mln and a deposit of UZS 18.75 mln, bringing the total transaction amount to UZS 1.657 bn.

This marks the highest price ever paid for a licence...

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport, Ilkhom Makhkamov, has clarified the rules governing taxi operations, confirming that drivers from other regions are permitted to work in Tashkent—provided their licence explicitly states the capital as their area of operation.

According to the minister, a taxi licence must indicate the specific region in which the driver is authorised to operate. If a driver holds an interregional licence without Tashkent listed, they are not allowed to work in the capital. Each licence is valid for one region only, and drivers cannot simultaneously operate in both their home region and Tashkent.

Earlier, the Ministry’s spokesperson,

Uzbekistan Airports has confirmed the cancellation of several international flights to and from Tashkent following the closure of Iranian airspace.

On June 13, FlyDubai cancelled its FZ-1945 and FZ-1946 flights on the Dubai–Tashkent–Dubai route.

Air Arabia also suspended operations for flights G9-270 and G9-271 between Sharjah and Tashkent.

In addition, Asia Union Airlines cancelled its 7Q-141 and 7Q-142 flights operating on the Tashkent–Medina–Tashkent route.

Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that several aircraft were diverted to land in Tashkent after Iranian airspace was closed.

The Ministry of Justice of Uzbekistan has officially registered Tukhum Barak, a traditional dish from the Khorezm region, as a geographical indication.

Tukhum Barak is known for its distinctive preparation method, unique ingredients, and deep roots in the ancient culinary traditions of Khorezm. It is widely enjoyed across the region and represents the area’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.

With this recognition, the dish now benefits from legal protection, safeguarding its quality and reputation. It also strengthens its position as a regional brand of Khorezm.

A geographical indication is a type of intellectual property that certifies a product’s special characteristics linked...

Former England footballer and Manchester United star David Beckham has been knighted, officially becoming Sir David, Kommersant reports. The honour was awarded as part of King Charles III’s official birthday celebrations.

The honours list also includes The Who frontman Roger Daltrey and acclaimed actor Gary Oldman.

Beckham earned 117 caps for the England national team, played 394 matches for Manchester United, and appeared in 124 games for LA Galaxy. As of early 2025, his net worth is estimated at $450 mln.

Since retiring, Beckham has remained a prominent public figure. As of June, he co-owns Inter Miami football club. He...

Iranian missiles have struck an Israeli nuclear facility in Dimona, according to Russian broadcaster VGTRK.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that the attacks specifically targeted decision-making centres and military-political command posts within Israel.

Iran’s Air Force also reported the downing of two Israeli F-35 fighter jets and several drones. However, Israeli officials have denied claims regarding the loss of any aircraft.

This marks the third wave of Iranian missile strikes launched in retaliation for Israel’s overnight attack on June 13. Tehran has named the military operation Truthful Promise-3.

According to Iranian authorities, at least 78 people...

UAE-based airline Flydubai has cancelled its scheduled flights for June 14 to Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and several other destinations, according to RIA Novosti citing the airline.

The Flydubai press office stated that the safety of passengers and staff remains the company’s top priority.

Another UAE airline, Air Arabia, has also suspended flights to Uzbekistan and other CIS countries until June 14.

The cancellations follow rising tensions in the Iran–Israel conflict. On the night of June `13, Israel launched strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities, prompting a retaliatory response from Tehran.

Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported

Iran has entered the third stage of its military operation against Israel. According to IRNA, Iranian missiles have struck the building of Israel’s Ministry of Defence.

Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports that Israel’s military and political leadership may have been inside the building during the bombardment. As of now, Tel Aviv has not officially confirmed this information.

The missile strike triggered an explosion and a subsequent fire. In total, Iran launched more than 100 missiles, including hypersonic ones.

Media sources close to the Lebanese organisation Hezbollah claim that the home of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was also hit.

Netanyahu...

Moody’s has affirmed Uzbekistan’s credit rating at Ba3 (BB-), while raising the outlook from stable to positive, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan.

The outlook revision reflects improvements in economic policy effectiveness, driven by structural reforms implemented across the country.

Moody’s highlighted Uzbekistan’s energy sector reforms as a sign of the government’s willingness and capacity to undertake complex transformations in the future.

The agency also noted progress in expanding the number of independent directors on the boards of state-owned enterprises and banks. The recent adoption of the law on conflict of interest and other regulatory initiatives received positive feedback.

Due...

The Uzbekistan Ministry of Sports has announced the start of the application process for the 2025–2026 academic year at the Uzbekistan State Sports Academy.

The academy has launched 16 undergraduate and six graduate programs. It will train athletes in Olympic disciplines, as well as managers, specialists in adaptive sports, sports psychology, marketing, and sports law.

Applications will be reviewed by the National Olympic and Paralympic Committees. To apply, candidates must submit secondary education documents, copies of diplomas, certificates or awards, and recommendation letters from sports associations.

The admissions committee will prioritize applicants with strong athletic achievements and awards...

On the evening of June 13, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reported a massive rocket attack launched from Iran. According to Israeli military sources cited by The Times of Israel, approximately 100 rockets were fired toward the country.

Air defence systems were activated and air raid sirens sounded across various parts of Israel. Authorities urged residents to seek immediate shelter and remain there until further notice.

The IDF confirmed that defense systems are actively intercepting incoming threats. Details on the impact and consequences of the attack have not yet been released.

Kursiv Uzbekistan reports that Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry expressed concern...

The Central Bank of Uzbekistan has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Global Financial Technology Network (GFTN) under the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the regulator’s press service announced.

The agreement outlines joint efforts to develop Uzbekistan’s fintech strategy. It also includes plans to launch joint training programmes, organise hackathons, and host forums.

Singaporean experts will support Uzbekistan in implementing digital platforms for venture financing and advancing green economy initiatives.

Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that the Central Bank had kept its key interest rate at 14% per annum.

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on Israel and Iran to exercise maximum restraint following Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. The Ministry warned that the escalation has already led to casualties and poses a serious threat to regional stability.

«We urge all parties to show restraint, immediately cease hostilities, and move towards political and diplomatic solutions,» the statement read.

The Ministry also highlighted concerns over the potential for a wider conflict if the situation continues to deteriorate.

On Friday, 13 June, Israeli forces targeted Iran’s military and nuclear facilities, reportedly...

The transfer value of Barcelona midfielder Lamine Yamal has surged by €110 mдтon since July 2024, placing him at the top of Forbes’ ranking of the world’s most appreciated footballers in 2025.

Yamal’s current estimated market value stands at €200 million, making him the most expensive football player globally.

Second on the list is Pedri (Pedro González López), Yamal’s teammate at Barcelona. His value rose by €60 million, reaching €150 mln.

Rounding out the top three is Paris Saint-Germain’s Desire Doué, whose value also increased by €60 million to a total of €90 mln.

Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that Cristiano Ronaldo

Starlink will begin providing satellite internet services in Kazakhstan, according to the Ministry of Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The company has committed to complying with national legislation and signed a corresponding agreement with the authority.

Sales of Starlink satellite terminals are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025.

«The company has agreed to fulfil all requirements under our legislation concerning information security and communications. This year, they will carry out all necessary measures so that our citizens can officially and legally access satellite internet,» said Minister of Digital...

Barcelona midfielder Lamine Yamal has seen the biggest increase in transfer value worldwide in 2025, according to Forbes.

Since July 2024, his market value has surged by €110 mln, reaching €200 mln — making him the most valuable footballer in the world.

Yamal’s teammate Pedri (Pedro González López) ranks second, with a €60 mln increase bringing his valuation to €150 mln.

Completing the top three is PSG’s Désiré Doué, whose value also rose by €60 mln to reach €90 mln.

Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that Cristiano Ronaldo had become the world’s highest-paid athlete.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide $250 mln to upgrade 110 irrigation pumping stations across Uzbekistan, according to the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The agreement was signed during the Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF-2025). In addition to upgrading pumping equipment, the loan will fund modernisation of related infrastructure and installation of solar panels on station buildings.

The project is expected to save 251,000 kWh of electricity annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 117,000 tonnes per year.

The ministry added that the EBRD’s portfolio in Uzbekistan includes...

South Korean company AHA plans to build a plant in Fergana to manufacture electronic boards and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, according to the regional hokimiyat.

The project was discussed between Fergana Region Hokim Khayrullo Bozorov and AHA CEO Koo Ki-Dong. Both sides agreed to begin with a pilot production phase.

The investor estimates the total cost of the project at $20 mln. The plant will produce goods for both the domestic market of Uzbekistan and international clients.

AHA is known for manufacturing equipment for medical and educational institutions. Its product line includes interactive boards, digital cutters, smart monitors...

In the first quarter of 2025, Uzbek nationals committed the highest number of crimes among all foreign citizens in Russia, accounting for 35.5% of the total. The data was presented by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs during an international conference on migration and sustainable development.

Tajikistan ranks second with 16.6%, followed by Kyrgyzstan at 11.5%.

During this period, foreign nationals committed approximately 12.5 thousand criminal offences in Russia — a 15.3% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Despite the rise in criminal activity, the total number of foreign nationals involved in unlawful acts has decreased. Between...

Sony is preparing to raise the price of its PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) subscription, driven by the growing popularity of its Premium and Extra plans, VGC reports, citing PlayStation executive Hideaki Nishino.

Three years ago, only 30% of users chose the more expensive tiers, but even after a global price hike in 2023, that share rose to 38%. According to Sony, this trend reflects increased interest in higher-value subscriptions due to improved content variety and quality.

The company plans to reinvest additional revenue into enhancing the PS Plus service—expanding its game library and offering more personalized features for users.

Walmart and Amazon are exploring the development of their own stablecoins, following recent moves to liberalize cryptocurrency regulations in the United States, according to a report by Bloomberg.

By leveraging blockchain technology, both companies aim to significantly reduce acquiring costs and streamline banking operations. Additionally, issuing their own stablecoins—digital currencies pegged to traditional fiat currencies—would enable faster payment processing.

The daily transaction volume of USDT, the world’s most popular stablecoin issued by Tether Holdings, has already surpassed $155 bn.

News of Walmart and Amazon potentially entering the crypto space has had immediate market impact, leading to a drop in share...