Fergana Peace Forum: Boosting Central Asian Unity
OSCE supports dialogue and regional unity at the inaugural Fergana Peace Forum. Discover efforts for peace, progress, and economic potential. Read more!
The first-ever Fergana Peace Forum recently concluded at Fergana University, bringing together over 300 participants from Central Asia, the CIS, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Held from October 15-16, 2025, the forum focused on “Uniting efforts for peace and progress,” aiming to foster dialogue and strengthen regional cooperation in the Fergana Valley.
During two days of intensive discussions, attendees explored various strategies to enhance trust and good-neighborly relations within the Fergana Valley. Key topics included unlocking the region’s economic potential, promoting cultural and humanitarian collaboration, and empowering youth to drive sustainable peace initiatives. This inaugural Fergana Peace Forum highlighted the critical role of multilateral engagement in regional stability.
Kate Fearon, Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, emphasized the importance of regional diplomacy. She noted that the Fergana Valley is becoming a prime example of successful peaceful resolution and diplomacy. The OSCE remains dedicated to supporting Central Asian countries in consolidating peace, stability, and sustainable development in this unique region.
Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, spoke during a panel on cultural and humanitarian cooperation. He highlighted the Fergana Valley as not just a geographical area but a vibrant cultural and human community, bound by shared history and values. Strengthening these connections, particularly through cross-border youth cooperation, is essential for building lasting peace, and the OSCE plans to consider concrete projects in this area.
The forum concluded with a Communiqué. This document called for the establishment of a permanent platform to facilitate ongoing dialogue, build mutual trust, and develop a shared strategy for the Fergana Valley’s sustainable future. The event was a collaborative effort by several key organizations, including the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, the OSCE, and with support from the United Nations and the European Union.
Source: https://www.osce.org/project-coordinator-in-uzbekistan/599870
Tags: Fergana Peace Forum, OSCE, Central Asia, Regional Cooperation, Uzbekistan, Peacebuilding, Youth Engagement, Diplomacy
Categories: International Relations, Peace & Security