Uzbekistan–Afghanistan Diplomatic Row: Uzbekistan pushed back after reports from a senior Taliban official questioned whether Islam exists in Uzbekistan “only on people’s lips,” warning the remarks could strain a relationship built on trade, transport, energy and border cooperation. Cultural Diplomacy: Uzbekistan proposed a Greece co-production on Alexander the Great and a joint exhibition linking the Macedonian ruler to Central Asia, including his marriage to Roxane in Samarkand. Mahalla Governance: New decisions aim to strengthen Uzbekistan’s mahalla institution with expanded local budgets and mechanisms to improve neighborhood development, employment and entrepreneurship—while noting uneven local initiative. Legal Migration Talks: Uzbekistan and the U.S. discussed pilot labor migration projects for Uzbek workers in the American agricultural sector, focusing on document prep, consular checks and legal pathways. Destination & Lifestyle: Hyatt opened Beldersoy Resort and SPA in Chimgan–Bostanliq, positioning it as a premium Destination by Hyatt property blending wellness with Uzbek heritage. International Culture Exchange: Azerbaijan’s Culture Summer School participants visited the Alisher Navoi Uzbek Language and Culture Center in Ganja, highlighting shared literary ties and research cooperation.