Nuclear Energy: Rosatom has started construction of an export small modular nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan’s Jizzakh Region, with first concrete poured on 4 June and the project expected to supply up to 14% of the country’s electricity demand. Agriculture & Food Tech: Malaysia and Uzbekistan agreed to deepen cooperation in agriculture and agri-food, including aquaculture, sustainable irrigation tech, and R&D, with smart technologies highlighted to boost productivity. Investment & Fintech: Uzbekistan’s Senate rejected a draft constitutional law for the Tashkent International Financial Center, sending it back for revisions over judge-appointment criteria and clearer court boundaries. Regional Business Push: The V Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF-2026) runs June 16–19, aiming to build on TIIF-2025’s $30.5B in signed deals. Energy/Trade Diplomacy: Uzbekistan and Egypt approved a 2026–2028 cooperation program and signed agreements to expand political, economic, and diplomatic ties. Digital Finance Platform: Uzbekistan and the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) will host the Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum in Tashkent on Aug 24–26, focusing on open banking, stablecoins, cross-border payments, Islamic finance, and innovation. Health & Education: Nestlé’s Health Routes program results were reviewed in Tashkent, with 12,000+ schoolchildren reached in 2025–2026 through interactive lessons. AI & Mining Outlook: Uzbekistan is pushing AI and digital projects in mining through 2030, alongside broader U.S.-Uzbek tech and AI partnership talks.