C5+1 Culture Diplomacy: Central Asian ministers of culture and the U.S. met in Tashkent to push joint heritage protection, museum partnerships, and digitization of historical sites, with plans for exchanges and festivals across art, literature, theater, cinema, and music. Uzbekistan–Russia Economic Ties: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev told SPIEF that trade with Russia has more than tripled to $13B and highlighted deeper connectivity and industrial cooperation, calling Russia a “time-tested strategic partner.” AI for Jobs: Digital Technologies Minister Sherzod Shermatov said Uzbekistan’s AI strategy is human-centered, aiming to create jobs and bring remote work home as foreign IT offices expand. Education & Skills Boost: ADB will support Samarkand’s kindergarten expansion via PPP, while Ferghana and Germany launch a new vocational education cooperation phase to train for in-demand sectors. Uzbekistan–Malaysia Relations: Senate Chair Tanzila Narbayeva met Malaysia’s ambassador to expand cooperation in education, science, innovation, and cultural-humanitarian ties. Culture Sector Support: Uzbekistan is expanding tax incentives and social benefits for culture and arts workers, alongside broader reforms to film industry governance.