Uzbekistan

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev publicly urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to freeze the conflict in Ukraine and return to negotiations based on the 'Istanbul 2.0' formula during the Russia-Kazakhstan Forum in Omsk on July 24-25. Tokayev walked a diplomatic tightrope, calling for a halt to hostilities while strongly reaffirming Kazakhstan's strategic cooperation and allied relationship with Russia. He declined to act as a mediator, stating Russia could manage on its own. Shortly after, Putin signed executive orders authorizing negotiations with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to update existing military-technical cooperation agreements, though the timing may be coincidental. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded negatively to the freeze proposal, insisting Russia must achieve its goals. The article highlights the complex multidimensional relationship between Central Asian states and Russia amid the Ukraine war.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 09:48 AM UTC

Geneva, Switzerland, will host the 2026 FIDE World Chess Championship match between reigning champion D. Gukesh of India and challenger Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan from November 25 to December 15. Both players are 20 years old, making this the youngest world title match in chess history. Gukesh won the title by defeating China's Ding Liren in Singapore two years ago, while Sindarov earned his challenger status by winning the Candidates tournament. FIDE interim president Viswanathan Anand stated that several countries, including India, the United States, and Cyprus, had expressed interest in hosting, but FIDE chose Geneva for its tradition of bringing nations together. The match marks the return of a world championship event to Switzerland 22 years after the 2004 Brissago match.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 02:05 PM UTC

Uzbekistan has established its first tax-free cryptocurrency mining zone, the Besqala Mining Valley, covering the entire Republic of Karakalpakstan. Approved by the Ministry of Justice on July 8, the zone exempts crypto mining income from taxes until 2035, but only locally registered legal entities can participate. The initiative, developed by the National Agency for Prospective Projects (NAPP), follows a presidential resolution from April 17. Uzbekistan maintains a regulated approach to crypto: mining is restricted to legal entities, must use renewable energy (solar or hydrogen in Besqala), and requires a five-year permit from NAPP. Violations now carry criminal liability under 2023 amendments to the Criminal Code. While the zone aims to boost economic development in the isolated Karakalpakstan region and improve energy oversight, concerns persist about environmental impact, electricity theft, and potential strain on the national grid. In 2024 alone, 91 mining farms were caught stealing electricity.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 12:10 PM UTC

Uzbekistan has established its first tax-free cryptocurrency mining zone, the Besqala Mining Valley, covering the entire territory of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. Approved by the Ministry of Justice on July 8, the zone exempts income from crypto mining until 2035, but only locally registered legal entities can participate. The regulation, developed by the National Agency for Prospective Projects (NAPP), follows an April presidential resolution. Uzbekistan maintains a controlled approach to crypto: mining is corporate-only, requires permits, and must use renewable energy. Violations now carry criminal liability under 2023 amendments to the Criminal Code. The zone aims to improve oversight of energy consumption, as 91 mining farms were caught stealing electricity in 2024. Miners in Besqala can use various renewables and pay double for grid electricity. However, environmental concerns—e-waste, water use, noise—remain unaddressed, and the vast territory (40% of Uzbekistan) may complicate monitoring. The zone could boost the isolated, environmentally stressed Karakalpakstan region.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 12:10 PM UTC

The Swiss Federal Criminal Court has fined Lombard Odier & Cie SFr3 million ($3.7 million) for failing to prevent an Uzbek money-laundering network from operating through its Geneva branch. A former relationship manager, identified only as C., received a two-year suspended prison sentence for aggravated money laundering, having managed approximately $140 million in tainted funds. The court found that the bank had evidence suggesting assets originated from corruption but did not conduct adequate due diligence. The case is linked to Gulnara Karimova, an Uzbek businesswoman and former diplomat, whose case was dismissed because her detention in Uzbekistan made a fair trial impossible. Prosecutors alleged that the bank lacked safeguards to prevent concealment of funds connected to 'The Office,' a structure allegedly created by Karimova. Lombard Odier stated it disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal, noting that it proactively reported suspicions to Swiss authorities in 2012. Over $400 million in related assets in Switzerland will be confiscated.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 11:46 AM UTC

The Korea Football Association has officially announced that the South Korean national team will play four international friendly matches in South Korea during the September-October international break. Two opponents for October have been confirmed: South Korea will face Venezuela on October 2nd, followed by Uzbekistan on October 6th. The opponents for the two September friendlies have not yet been determined. Additionally, the appointment of the next head coach for the South Korean team remains unresolved, with the Korea Football Association stating it will make a decision after more careful evaluation. The matches are part of South Korea's preparation for future competitions.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 02:03 AM UTC

According to Guangzhou Daily, the Chinese Football Association has finalized the national team's training opponents for the second half of 2024, ahead of the 2027 Asian Cup. In September and October, four international A-level friendlies will be held at home against Uzbekistan, North Korea, Tajikistan, and Palestine, chosen for stylistic similarity to Asian Cup group opponents. In November, the national team will train and play two international A-level friendlies in Guangzhou, forming a four-nation tournament with three invited foreign teams. The matches will be held at Tianhe Stadium, marking the first time in seven years that the venue hosts an international A-level match involving the Chinese national team.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 01:28 AM UTC

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Nurafshon Makhsus Tekhnika plant in Nurafshan on July 22, 2026, showcasing the country's growing domestic arms industry. The KRANTAS-brand facility, built with a $50 million investment, unveiled 6x6 and 8x8 armored personnel carriers, a 155mm To'fon self-propelled howitzer, and a modernized T-64 tank with a South Korean Doosan engine. The plant employs over 300 specialists and uses machinery from the US, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Russia, China, and Turkey. Co-founder Akmal Karimov emphasized that the vehicles were designed from scratch by Uzbek engineers, not licensed from foreign brands. The armored carriers have completed state trials and are preparing for serial production.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 08:39 AM UTC

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Nurafshon Makhsus Tekhnika plant on July 22, 2026, showcasing the country's growing domestic arms industry. The KRANTAS-brand facility, built with a $50 million investment, unveiled 6x6 and 8x8 armored personnel carriers, a 155mm To'fon self-propelled howitzer, and a modernized T-64 tank. The T-64 upgrade replaces its original Soviet engine with a South Korean Doosan DP222LC engine. The company claims the vehicles are designed from scratch by Uzbek engineers, not licensed from foreign firms. The plant has produced over 300 vehicle bodies and supplied $21 million in equipment last year.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 08:39 AM UTC

Manchester City has extended the contract of Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov until 2031, securing his future at the club. The 22-year-old, who joined from RC Lens in January 2025 for €40 million, had a previous deal running until 2029. Khusanov expressed his ambition to impress manager Enzo Maresca and earn a regular starting spot. He played 37 matches for City last season and recently participated in the World Cup with Uzbekistan in North America. The club also faces upcoming contract decisions, as Rodri, Jack Grealish, and Mateo Kovacic are set to become free agents next summer.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 10:50 AM UTC

Manchester City has announced that Abdukodir Khusanov, the 22-year-old Uzbekistan international center-back, has signed a new five-year contract extending his stay at the club until 2031. Khusanov joined City in January 2025 and has made 47 appearances, becoming a key player in the 2025/26 season. He formed a solid defensive partnership with Marc Guéhi, starting 16 of the final 19 Premier League matches and playing a crucial role in winning the FA Cup and League Cup. Khusanov was also a finalist for the Etihad Player of the Year award and helped Uzbekistan qualify for the World Cup for the first time. Football Director Hugo Viana praised his physical and technical attributes, calling him a future world-class defender. Khusanov expressed happiness and determination to impress new manager Enzo Maresca.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 10:05 AM UTC

The article previews UFC Fight Night 282 (UFC Abu Dhabi), headlined by former light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev vs. short-notice replacement Bogdan Guskov on July 25, 2026, at Etihad Arena. The main event was altered after Khalil Rountree Jr. withdrew due to injury. Ankalaev seeks to rebound from a title loss to Alex Pereira, while Guskov aims to extend his five-fight unbeaten streak with a 100% finish rate, becoming the first Uzbekistani fighter to headline a UFC card. The co-main event features Ramazan Temirov vs. Steve Erceg, and a ranked heavyweight bout between Rizvan Kuniev and Tyrell Fortune. The article provides a 'Hype Score' for all 13 fights, with the main event scoring 80/100 and the overall card rated 60/100 ('Solid'). Submission specialist Valter Walker's prelim bout is highlighted as a potential title eliminator.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 11:23 PM UTC

Portuguese fencers Filipe Frazão and Miguel Frazão have secured their places in the main draw of the men's épée event at the Fencing World Championships in Hong Kong. After advancing through the group stage, both won their preliminary matches on Thursday. Filipe received a first-round bye, then defeated Roman Petrov of Kyrgyzstan (15-7) and Swiss fencer Ian Hauri (15-7) to reach the round of 64, where he will face Hungarian Tibor Andrasfi. Miguel beat Estonia's Oliver Laasik (15-13), Hong Kong's Ho Fung Lau (15-13), and Uzbekistan's Meyirkhan Timurov to qualify, and will face Italian third seed Matteo Galassi. Other Portuguese fencers had mixed results: Max Rod reached the second preliminary round but lost to Hauri (15-8), finishing 135th; Xavier Melo lost in the first round (15-9 to India's Joseph Bennet), placing 173rd. In women's épée, Maria Alvim and Fabiana Bonito were eliminated earlier. Portugal's participation continues with Maria Caride in foil and Gustavo Bonifácio in sabre, plus the team épée competition, reactivated this season for Olympic qualification.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 11:44 AM UTC

On July 23, 2026, the group draw for the women's football event of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games was announced. The Chinese national women's football team has been placed in Group G alongside the Philippines, Uzbekistan, and Hong Kong, China. The tournament will feature 12 teams divided into three groups, with matches scheduled from September 14 to October 2, 2026. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarterfinals. The draw is considered favorable for China compared to the men's team's draw, according to community comments.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 07:57 AM UTC

The 2026 Asian Games men's football group draw has been announced, placing China in Group B alongside the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and North Korea. The draw, reported by Hupu on July 23, also revealed Group A featuring Japan, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan, and Hong Kong China; Group C with Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Philippines, and Kuwait; and Group D comprising South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. The article notes reader reactions calling the group a 'group of death' and expressing hope for China to top the group. The tournament is scheduled to take place in 2026, though specific dates and venues were not provided in this report.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 05:44 AM UTC

The Indian sub-junior boys' hockey team maintained its winning streak at the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship in Muscat, defeating Oman 14-0 and Pakistan 7-4 in the Elite Pool. Captain Ketan Kushwaha scored four goals against Oman, while Karan Gautam completed a hat-trick against Pakistan. The Indian sub-junior girls' team drew 2-2 with China after trailing early, with Nousheen Naz scoring twice, but conceded a late equalizer. The girls then thrashed Uzbekistan 16-0, with Naz scoring four goals and Sandeepa Kumari and captain Sweety Kujur each scoring hat-tricks. The tournament serves as a qualifier for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:47 PM UTC

Central Asian states are increasingly aligning with China in the global AI race, as evidenced by high-level participation at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. Leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan attended, where Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined Beijing's AI leadership ambitions. A new World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) was established, headquartered in Shanghai. Kazakhstan signed over 70 deals worth $15 billion, covering AI, digital infrastructure, transport, energy, and critical minerals. Kyrgyzstan agreed to build a fertilizer plant and a veterinary vaccine facility. Turkmenistan signed a broad package including energy and AI cooperation. The article highlights the contrast between US and Chinese AI development models and underscores China's growing influence in Central Asia through technology and infrastructure investments.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:00 PM UTC

According to TA Manchester City correspondent Sam Lee, Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov and winger Jeremy Doku have both reached contract extension agreements with the club, with new deals running until 2031. Khusanov, 22, joined from Lens in January 2025 and has become a key defender and fan favorite, making 37 appearances last season and helping City win the FA Cup and League Cup. Doku, 24, scored 8 goals and provided 14 assists in 47 games last season. The Belgian international instructed his agent to handle the extension while at the World Cup, expressing no desire to leave. The club sees Khusanov as a key piece under new manager Maresca. Earlier, Phil Foden also signed a new four-year contract until 2030 with an option for an additional year.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:26 PM UTC

The Quantbox Chennai Grand Masters Chess Tournament in Chennai, India, features top grandmasters including Alireza Firouzja, world champion D. Gukesh, and Arjun Erigaisi. Firouzja took an early lead by defeating Pranesh and Gukesh, while Erigaisi beat Hans Niemann and later Gukesh to share the lead. The tournament, held at The Westin Velachery, has seen mostly draws, with Firouzja and Erigaisi tied at 3.5 points after five rounds.

7 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 03:13 PM UTC

According to Spanish newspaper ABC, an Argentine fan named Gisela Sanchez has launched a petition on Change.org demanding FIFA arrange a rematch of the 2026 World Cup final. The petition, which has garnered over 57,000 signatures, alleges that the referee was 'bought' and made decisions favoring Spain, thereby manipulating the match result. However, match statistics show Argentina had zero shots on target and only 35% possession, while Spain had 20 shots. The main controversy was the sending off of Argentine player Enzo for two yellow cards, which experts say was a correct application of the rules. FIFA regulations only allow rematches for deliberate rule violations, not subjective referee errors. Historical precedents for World Cup rematches are extremely rare, with the most recent being a 2005 qualifier between Uzbekistan and Bahrain due to a serious misinterpretation of the rules. Experts conclude a rematch is almost impossible.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:32 PM UTC

On July 22, the sports statistics website Squawka released a ranking of the most tackles in a single match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The group stage match between Jordan and Algeria recorded the highest number with 55 tackles, placing first. Brazil vs Morocco and DR Congo vs Uzbekistan tied for second with 49 tackles each. The list includes several group stage matches and one Round of 32 game (Germany vs Paraguay), all featuring 45 or more tackles. The data was sourced from X (formerly Twitter) and reported by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports media outlet. The ranking highlights the physical intensity and defensive effort in various World Cup matches.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:43 AM UTC

On July 22, Hupu News reported that statistics website Squawka released a ranking of matches with the most clear-cut chances created in a single game at the 2026 World Cup. The top match was the third-place playoff between France and England, which generated 11 clear chances. Following that, four matches tied for second place with 7 chances each: Norway vs Senegal (group stage), Scotland vs Brazil (group stage), England vs DR Congo (round of 32), and Argentina vs Egypt (round of 16). Five more matches recorded 6 chances each: Germany vs Ivory Coast, Portugal vs Uzbekistan, Turkey vs USA, Algeria vs Austria (all group stage), and Netherlands vs Morocco (round of 32). The data was sourced from X (formerly Twitter).

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:54 AM UTC

The famous statistics website Squawka has released a ranking of yellow cards issued in single matches of the 2026 World Cup. The list is topped by the Round of 16 match between Canada and Morocco, which saw 8 yellow cards. Following closely are two group stage matches: USA vs Australia and Egypt vs Iran, each with 7 cards. Other notable matches include USA vs Paraguay, Ecuador vs Curacao, and Mexico vs England (Round of 16), each with 6 cards. The ranking also includes matches with 5 cards, such as Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina, DR Congo vs Uzbekistan, Brazil vs Japan (Round of 32), and Colombia vs Ghana (Round of 32). The data was shared via X (formerly Twitter) and reported by Hupu Soccer on July 22.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:49 AM UTC

According to a report from Beijing Youth Daily, the Chinese men's national football team will hold a training camp in Guangzhou in November, with warm-up opponents likely to be Asian Cup participating teams. The team will first start a new training session after the 26th round of the Chinese Super League on September 6th. During the September 21 to October 6 international window, they will play four international A-level friendlies in Chongqing against Uzbekistan, North Korea, Tajikistan, and Palestine—all Asian Cup participants. The Chinese Football Association has been contacting opponents to prepare for the Asian Cup early next year, where China is grouped with Iran, Syria, and Kyrgyzstan. The coaching staff, led by Shao Jiayi, is selecting opponents tactically similar to these group rivals. The November window will feature two more friendlies, likely in Guangzhou due to favorable climate and conditions. The Super League break also accommodates the U23 team's preparation for the Asian Games, with squad coordination between the senior and U23 teams already resolved.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:39 AM UTC

According to a report by Hupu Football News on July 22, the statistics website Squawka released a ranking of the most missed big chances in a single match at the 2026 World Cup. The list is topped by the England vs Democratic Republic of Congo Round of 32 match with 7 missed chances. Other matches with 6 missed chances include Qatar vs Switzerland (Group stage), England vs Croatia (Group stage), Ecuador vs Curaçao (Group stage), France vs Sweden (Round of 32), Brazil vs Norway (Round of 16), France vs Morocco (Quarter-finals), and France vs England (Third-place match). Matches with 5 missed chances include Turkey vs Paraguay and Portugal vs Uzbekistan, both in the group stage. The data is sourced from X (formerly Twitter).

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:36 AM UTC

On July 22, the statistics website Squawka released a ranking of the most shots off target (wide or missed) in a single match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The list is topped by the Round of 32 match between Belgium and Senegal, which recorded 20 off-target shots. Following are Turkey vs Paraguay and Colombia vs Portugal, each with 18 off-target shots. Other matches on the list include Ivory Coast vs Ecuador, New Zealand vs Belgium, DR Congo vs Uzbekistan, Panama vs England, Spain vs Cape Verde, Haiti vs Scotland, and Australia vs Turkey, with totals ranging from 14 to 16. The data was sourced from Squawka and published by Hupu Football News.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:24 AM UTC

A viral video from the Portugal vs. Uzbekistan group stage match shows Cristiano Ronaldo noticing Uzbekistan player Khusanov covering his mouth. According to the blogger who filmed the video, Ronaldo did not report the player to the referee, unlike Lionel Messi's controversial report of Cucurella in the World Cup final. Instead, Ronaldo signaled to Khusanov that covering his mouth could result in a yellow card. The incident has sparked online debate comparing the actions of the two football superstars, with some users noting that other players have covered their mouths without being reported. The discussion highlights differing fan perspectives on sportsmanship and rule enforcement.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:22 AM UTC

Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear entity, is facing severe financial difficulties due to the Kremlin's war in Ukraine and international sanctions. CEO Alexei Likhachev announced a nearly 50% cut to the investment program for 2025 and a 10% reduction in operating costs over 18 months. This casts doubt on Rosatom's agreements to build Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant on Lake Balkhash and small-scale nuclear plants in Uzbekistan. Both Central Asian nations have alternative partners: Kazakhstan already has a deal with a Chinese company for two plants, and both countries are exploring cooperation with the US on small modular reactors. The financial strain also affects other Russian state giants like Gazprom, whose market cap has fallen to $25 billion.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 06:00 PM UTC

This article from The Athletic recounts the 2026 FIFA World Cup through 22 striking images. It highlights key moments such as Spain's championship victory, Rodri lifting the trophy, Raul Jimenez's emotional goal dedicated to his late father, Cristiano Ronaldo becoming the first player to score at six World Cups, and the USMNT's strong start with a 4-1 win over Paraguay. The tournament featured three host nations, full stadiums, late drama, and record TV viewership. Kylian Mbappe won the Golden Boot. The piece captures the global excitement and poignant stories behind the tournament.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:00 PM UTC

In this Guardian opinion piece, columnist Jonathan Liew reflects on the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, arguing that the tournament revealed the fragility of national identity rather than reinforcing nationalism. He notes that fans from around the world, including Kazakhs cheering for Uzbekistan and Bangladeshis passionately supporting Argentina, adopted temporary allegiances based on personal preference rather than nationality. Liew points to ticket sales data showing most final attendees were Americans, and highlights how celebrities like Mike Tyson and Trevor Noah wore opposing team shirts. He argues that national identity has become a disposable consumer brand, citing examples of far-right nationalists rejecting their own diverse national teams and leftwing fans in Latin America avoiding team shirts co-opted by right-wing populists. The piece concludes that the World Cup, once a bastion of nationalism, now demonstrates the increasing haziness and disposability of nationhood in a globalized world.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 03:20 PM UTC