Islamic Civilization Forum: Uzbekistan hosted the First International Islamic Civilization Forum (July 7–11) in Tashkent, Samarkand and Termiz, bringing about 300 participants from 40+ countries to discuss Islamic heritage, moderation and scholarship, and ending with the Tashkent Declaration proposing 10 global initiatives. Diplomacy & Culture: On the forum sidelines, the OIC and Pakistan’s culture ministry discussed expanding cultural cooperation and new joint initiatives. Women & Governance: Uzbekistan appointed Dilnozaxon Kattakhonova as Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Committee of Family and Women, replacing Zulaykho Mahkamova. Labor Rights: A Tashkent conference pushed “global standards” for trade union organization in Uzbekistan’s oil, gas and mining sectors, aiming to strengthen social dialogue and workers’ rights. Sports & Inclusion: Uzbekistan’s presence was noted across regional events, from para judo in São Paulo to hockey in Oman, while Uzbekistan also featured in the Asian Women’s Hockey Federation Cup. Culture Spotlight: The Savitsky State Museum of Art in Nukus—often called “the Louvre in the Desert”—highlights Karakalpak heritage alongside Russian avant-garde works. Controversy Abroad: A Kerala family alleges religious targeting in the death of MBBS student Savariya Basanth in Uzbekistan, after claims of pressure to convert to Islam.