AGP Executive Report

Uzbek–Georgia Diplomacy: Uzbekistan and Georgia signed a declaration establishing strategic partnership after Mirziyoyev’s state visit to Tbilisi, with plans to open a new Uzbek embassy in Georgia and expand cooperation in trade, transport, tourism, education, customs, digitalization, agriculture, healthcare, and nuclear/radiation safety. Central Asia Logistics Push: Tashkent is trying to turn rising transit cargo into bigger earnings, proposing more logistics centers, modern border infrastructure, and faster digital customs to capture a larger share of China–Europe freight. Labor Migration Shift: A Central Bank review says Uzbek workers sent home $3.8bn in Q1 2026 (+13%), with Russia still dominant (72.4%) but its share falling as destinations diversify. Energy & Industry: World Bank approved a $300m grant for Tajikistan’s Rogun hydropower expansion; Hyundai Engineering won a major gas processing contract in Kazakhstan. Sports—World Cup Focus: Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 to reach the Round of 16, while Ronaldo’s sister sparked “last dance” retirement talk that Ronaldo later played down; Ghana face unbeaten Colombia in the next Round of 32 match. Business Connectivity: Uzbekistan-based My Freighter signed interline deals with Air Canada and Singapore Airlines to expand cargo routes.

World Cup Drama in Toronto: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal met Luka Modrić’s Croatia in the Round of 32 at BMO Field, with both captains facing what could be their final World Cup chapter; Ronaldo, 41, became the oldest player to feature in a knockout match, and the game swung on a penalty that tied the score before Croatia struck first in the second half. Emotional Tribute: The match also carried weight as Portugal prepared to honor Diogo Jota on the first death anniversary. Portugal Team News: Roberto Martínez kept a veteran-heavy setup, with midfield changes expected around João Neves and Vitinha. Other Knockout Focus: Colombia coach Néstor Lorenzo said Ghana’s approach is unclear ahead of their Round of 32, while Argentina’s Lionel Messi is set to chase more goals against Cape Verde. Uzbekistan in the Spotlight: Uzbekistan’s president arrived in Georgia for high-level talks, and the country advanced plans including a fintech push toward 2030 and new cooperation with UN counter-terrorism efforts. Justice in the Region: A Kyrgyz court issued verdicts in the “Letter 75” case, sentencing several officials to 4 years with probation after acquitting them of abuse of office.

World Cup Focus: Portugal and Croatia kick off the Round of 32 in Toronto on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric facing what could be their final World Cup knockout chapter. Portugal enter after a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan and goalless draws with Congo DR and Colombia, while Croatia bounced back from an opening loss to England with wins over Panama and Ghana. Local Justice: In Tashkent, a criminal case has been launched after a caregiver at a private kindergarten was filmed allegedly cruelly treating children; authorities say staff will be held accountable and licenses may be revoked. Demography Watch: Uzbekistan’s preliminary census results count about 169,000 centenarians (85+), alongside a young-heavy population. Water & Food Security: A new study warns Amu Darya flows in Tajikistan have dropped sharply over decades, while a FAO report says Tajikistan’s undernourishment has improved but healthy diets remain out of reach for many. Regional Economy: Tajikistan and Uzbekistan signed a 2026–2027 finance cooperation plan in Tashkent; SOCAR Trading also began exporting Uzbek naphtha via the Black Sea. Energy & Jobs: The World Bank approved the second phase of financing for Tajikistan’s Rogun hydropower project, aiming to boost clean power and employment. Sports & Culture: A major tennis tournament is underway at Türkiye’s Mount Erciyes, with players including Uzbekistan’s.

World Cup Knockouts (Uzbekistan angle): England edged DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta as Harry Kane struck twice late, after Brian Cipenga’s early opener gave the Leopards a dream start; DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre said the team left a “positive image” despite the exit, while the win sets up England vs Mexico next. Uzbekistan in the spotlight: Uzbekistan’s Joel Kojo has joined FC Navbahor, adding an experienced Ghanaian-born forward to the Uzbek club ahead of the new season. Social policy: Uzbekistan is considering draft legal limits on social media access for children under 16, aiming to regulate use rather than ban smartphones. Economy & trade: Uzbekistan’s trade deficit widened to $7.5bn in Jan–May 2026 as exports fell 15.5% to $12.6bn and imports rose 20.8% to $20.1bn. Education funding: The World Bank approved $100m for Uzbekistan’s primary education upgrade (BILIM) to lift foundational learning in six regions. Business & regulation: Uzbekistan’s competition watchdog classed VFS Global and Vizametric as dominant in outbound visa services, including a specific designation for US visas.

World Cup Knockouts (Uzbekistan angle): England kick off their Round of 32 clash with DR Congo in Atlanta today, with Thomas Tuchel warning against complacency and DR Congo chasing a historic last-16 spot after reaching the knockouts for the first time in 52 years; the match is set at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading England’s attack while Yoane Wissa has been DR Congo’s standout. Uzbekistan Census Update: Uzbekistan has released preliminary results from its population census, putting the figure at 39,047,321, with data collected via online surveys and door-to-door enumeration and showing a largely Uzbek-speaking population. Energy & Industry: Uzbekistan’s power transition is increasingly tied to energy security as gas output declines, while the World Bank approved a second financing phase for Tajikistan’s Rogun hydropower project that could boost regional electricity flows. Smart Farming: FAO opened its first Global Conference on Smart Farming, pushing technology and water-smart methods to help farmers produce more with fewer resources. Digital Business: Google appointed Coob Ads as an official Google Ads sales representative in Uzbekistan and several nearby markets starting July 1.

World Cup Knockouts: England kick off their Round of 32 run in Atlanta against DR Congo, with Thomas Tuchel’s side topping Group L but facing injury worries—Reece James and Jarell Quansah are ruled out, and Djed Spence is expected at right-back. DR Congo, back at the World Cup after 52 years, are riding momentum after a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan and now believe they can upset another heavyweight. Portugal-Croatia Stakes: Portugal head into Toronto to face Croatia in the Round of 32, with Bernardo Silva saying criticism is “part of the process” as the team aims to improve after finishing second in Group K. Uzbekistan Census Update: Uzbekistan’s population has surpassed 39 million, with preliminary census results putting it at 39,047,321 as of Jan. 15, 2026. Regional Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Indonesia agreed to deepen inter-parliamentary ties, including work toward a free trade agreement and mutual recognition of halal certification. Education & Culture: Uzbek participants swept top prizes at a Central Asia and Russia Korean language contest in Tashkent. Health Access at Border: Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan agreed round-the-clock ambulance passage through the “Tayan” checkpoint in emergency cases.

Heat Alert: Uzbekistan is bracing for an exceptionally hot July, with Uzhydromet forecasting monthly temperatures 1.5–3°C above normal; the biggest spikes are expected in the north and desert zones, with daytime highs often 33–43°C and local peaks up to 45°C. World Cup Round of 32: England begin the knockout phase on July 1 in Atlanta against DR Congo, with the match set for Mercedes-Benz Stadium and broadcast on BBC One in the UK and Fox in the US; England topped Group L, while Congo arrive after a historic 3-1 comeback win over Uzbekistan. Diplomacy: Saida Mirziyoyeva met France’s Jean–Noël Barrot to expand cooperation in energy, transport, infrastructure, education and healthcare, reaffirming France as a key strategic partner. Census Snapshot: Preliminary census results register 56,860 foreign citizens living in Uzbekistan for over a year, led by Tashkent (19,300) and the largest groups from India and Russia. Anti-Corruption: A Fergana ecology official was arrested after allegedly taking a $10,000 bribe to ignore environmental violations. IMF Talks: President Mirziyoyev met IMF Deputy Managing Director Bo Li to discuss deeper support for reforms, digital payments, statistics and exchange-rate stability. Culture Abroad: Uzbek artist Vyacheslav Akhunov’s Venice Biennale exhibition highlights decades of censorship and delayed projects.

World Cup Knockouts (Uzbek angle): DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa is relishing the Round of 32 clash with England in Atlanta after Congo’s historic 3-1 comeback win over Uzbekistan, their first-ever World Cup knockout appearance. Portugal vs Croatia Build-up: João Félix urged Portugal fans to stay calm after a shaky Group K, saying the team is confident ahead of the Round of 32 against Croatia. Ronaldo Spotlight: Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother Maria Dolores posted a proud message after his record-breaking World Cup run, including his brace that made him the first player to score in six World Cups. Central Asia Travel & Business: AirAsia MOVE added Uzbekistan Airways as a new direct partner, boosting routes via Tashkent. Central Bank Watch: Uzbekistan’s gold push continues, with the central bank adding 24 tonnes in early 2026 to reach 414 tonnes. Regional Economy: Kyrgyzstan increased corn exports to 15,000 tons, shipping to Uzbekistan among other markets. Nuclear Policy: Uzbekistan is moving ahead on nuclear capacity planning, including a regional nuclear safety partnership and reactor-related plans.

World Cup Round of 32: Argentina finished Group J perfectly, beating Jordan 3-1 as Lionel Messi became the first player to score in seven straight World Cup finals, setting up a last-32 clash with Cape Verde in Miami. Match Officials: Germany vs Paraguay kicks off today in Foxborough with Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed in charge, assisted by Zakaria Brinsi and Mostafa Akarkad. Korea Fallout: South Korea’s coach Hong Myung-bo resigned after the team’s early exit, with President Lee Jae-myung ordering a full review of the national team programme. Uzbekistan in the spotlight: Uzbekistan’s EV fleet hit 109,200 registered vehicles (up 68% year-on-year), and travel demand is rising after visa-free access to China, with searches and bookings jumping sharply. Trade & Borders: Kazakhstan’s Senate ratified a protocol upgrading two Uzbekistan border crossings to international, 24/7 checkpoints with expanded freight capacity. Culture & Region: “Turkic World Week” opened in Baku to mark the 100th anniversary of the First Turkological Congress, with messages from Uzbekistan and other Turkic leaders.

World Cup Shockwaves: South Korea’s coach Hong Myung-bo resigned Sunday after the team’s early exit from the expanded 2026 World Cup, following heavy criticism from President Lee Jae Myung and a campaign that ended when DR Congo beat Uzbekistan 3-1. Africa’s Breakthrough: DR Congo made World Cup history by reaching the Round of 32 for the first time, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice in a 3-1 comeback over Uzbekistan; the win sets up a knockout clash with England. Group K Drama: Colombia topped Group K after a goalless draw with Portugal, while Portugal advanced as runners-up and will face Croatia; Uzbekistan are eliminated. African Record Run: After Congo’s win and Algeria’s late thriller, nine African teams qualified for the Round of 32—an unprecedented haul for the continent. Uzbekistan Under Pressure: Uzbekistan’s World Cup debut ended without points, and the team’s coach described the exit as “brutal.” Connections (Soccer Edition): Today’s puzzle answers include categories tied to World Cup host cities, stadiums outside the U.S., soccer broadcasters, and record-breaking transfers.

World Cup Knockouts Set: The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is over, and the Round of 32 bracket is now complete. DR Congo Breakthrough: DR Congo stunned Uzbekistan 3-1 in Group K after trailing early, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice (including a penalty) and Fiston Mayele adding another, sending the Leopards to the knockout stage for the first time and setting up a clash with England. Group K Drama: Colombia finished top of Group K after a 0-0 draw with Portugal, while Portugal will face Croatia. England Advance: England topped Group L by beating Panama 2-0, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane on target, and will meet DR Congo next. Africa’s Record Run: Nine of Africa’s 10 teams reached the last 32—Morocco, South Africa, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cape Verde, Egypt, DR Congo and Algeria—an unprecedented haul. Eliminations: South Korea were knocked out, and Uzbekistan also exited after the Group K finale.

World Cup Group Stage Finale: England finished top of Group L after a 2-0 win over Panama, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane sealing the spot and setting up a Round of 32 clash likely against DR Congo or Senegal. Group K Showdown: All eyes turn to Portugal vs Colombia in Miami, where Cristiano Ronaldo starts and Portugal need a win to leapfrog Colombia for first place after their 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan. Atlanta Decider: DR Congo vs Uzbekistan at Atlanta Stadium is a must-win for Congo’s knockout hopes, while Uzbekistan are chasing pride in their debut campaign. Uzbekistan in the Spotlight: Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov scored as the match swung early, and the game’s outcome could also shape who England faces next. Scotland Exit: Steve Clarke stepped down after Scotland were eliminated from the World Cup, their third-place hopes crushed by results elsewhere. Local Fan Life: Atlanta’s streets and fan zones are packed as Congo and Uzbekistan supporters build matchday energy ahead of kick-off.

World Cup Group Finale: Portugal and Colombia go head-to-head in Group K for top spot, with Portugal needing a win after Ronaldo’s record-setting brace in the 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan; Knockout Math for Uzbekistan: DR Congo vs Uzbekistan is a must-win for Congo to keep their Round of 32 hopes alive, while Uzbekistan are “all but eliminated” even if they win; England’s Last Group Push: England, already through, finish Group L against Panama and can still top the group depending on Ghana’s result vs Croatia; Iran’s Pride Game Fallout: Iran’s 1-1 draw with Egypt leaves them waiting on other results, with captain Mehdi Taremi calling FIFA’s tournament setup a “disaster” while also stressing respect for LGBT fans; Uzbek Football Memory: Uzbekistan marks the 1979 Pakhtakor plane crash that killed 178 people, including 17 players, as the country competes on the World Cup stage for the first time; Regional Tech Cooperation: China and Central Asian partners including Uzbekistan sign a plan for a satellite constellation to monitor earthquakes and glacial flood risks.

World Cup Focus (Uzbekistan): Uzbekistan’s coach Fabio Cannavaro says his side must be ready to “suffer” as they face DR Congo in Atlanta, with a win needed to keep knockout hopes alive. Group K Decider (Uzbekistan & Congo): DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre signals a more attacking plan for the must-win clash after a defensive approach vs Portugal and Colombia. Group K Showdown (Portugal vs Colombia): Portugal coach Roberto Martínez insists his team’s only job is beating Colombia in Miami to top Group K, while Colombia’s Néstor Lorenzo warns Portugal’s Vitinha and Cristiano Ronaldo demand special tactical discipline. Uzbekistan in the spotlight: The World Cup continues to highlight Uzbekistan’s Central Asia presence, including coverage of how the tournament is unfolding across host cities. Local Transport (Uzbekistan match day): Atlanta’s MARTA reports about 1.7 million riders moved during World Cup events since June 11, with DR Congo vs Uzbekistan scheduled Saturday. Diplomacy (Uzbekistan ties): Iran’s FM discussed U.S.-Iran MoU implementation with Uzbekistan and other counterparts, stressing de-escalation and fulfillment of commitments. Visa/Travel (Uzbekistan-linked): A U.S. July Visa Bulletin update notes changes to green-card adjudications and filing rules, relevant for applicants with Uzbekistan-related cases.

World Cup Focus (Uzbekistan & Portugal): Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal roared back in Houston, crushing Uzbekistan 5-0 in Group K, with Ronaldo scoring twice and becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups; the win keeps Portugal in the fight for top spot and sets up a high-stakes final group match vs Colombia, while Uzbekistan’s World Cup hopes now hinge on results elsewhere. World Cup Knockout Race (Scotland): Scotland’s path to the last 32 has collapsed fast—qualification odds reportedly slid from 42% to 5.26% after Brazil’s 3-0 win over them and other third-place rivals picked up points; they still need a chain of favorable results across Groups I, H and G. Travel & Visas (UAE): The UAE expanded visa-on-arrival to citizens of the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa and Kenya (with qualifying residence permits), boosting direct travel links to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Central Asia Business & Finance: Moody’s upgraded Uzbekistan’s credit rating to Ba2, citing structural reforms and growth, as development and investment activity continues around the country. UN Diplomacy: The UNGA declared 2027–2036 the International Decade for Strengthening Peace for Future Generations, calling for intergenerational dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution.

World Cup, Uzbekistan in focus: Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 with a record-breaking Cristiano Ronaldo brace, while Ecuador beat Germany 2-1 to reach the last 32; for Uzbekistan, the tournament continues to be a storyline of big moments and tough margins. Qualification pressure: Scotland’s World Cup hopes are now a “waiting game” after a 3-0 loss to Brazil left them third in Group C, with only the best third-placed teams advancing. Sports beyond football: In Tashkent, Thai riders Methasit and Vipavee won elite downhill gold at the 2026 Asian Mountain Bike Championships (June 23-27). Diplomacy and trade: The U.S. and Uzbekistan agreed an “early harvest” on trade and investment, aiming to speed up a reciprocal trade and investment agreement. Regional cooperation: Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan signed an agreement on joint management of transboundary water resources, while the UNGA proclaimed 2027-2036 the International Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations, with Uzbekistan among the sponsors. Business calendar: Uzbekistan will host a “Uzbekistan–Georgia” business forum in Tbilisi on July 1.