Strengthening Peace and Security: Uzbekistan’s Strategic Path to Military and Defense Development
Peace and security are foundational pillars for a democratic legal state like Uzbekistan. Here’s an overview of the nation’s approach to fortifying these pillars.
Strengthening Defense Capability
- Focus on consistent improvement of security and defense potential in the face of global threats.
- Goals for defense strengthening are laid out in the Action Strategy (2017) and the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan (2022-2026).
Legislative Regulation in Defense and Security
- The Defense Doctrine of Uzbekistan was approved, emphasizing non-alignment with military-political blocs and prohibiting foreign military bases.
- Laws regulate the activities of law enforcement agencies and special services like the State Security Service and the National Guard.
- A new edition of the Law “On the State Border of the Republic of Uzbekistan” defines regulations in border protection and crossing.
- Additional laws were adopted to maintain public order and protect from natural and man-made emergencies.
Civilian Control of the Armed Forces
- Organizational and legal mechanisms established for civilian control over the military.
- Security Council meetings under the President’s chairmanship include military leadership, public members, and regional heads.
- Local government bodies have a role in strengthening defense, with the creation of the Fund for the Development of the Military Administrative Sectors.
- Parliament exercises civilian control via its chambers and committees, and the Public Council under the Ministry of Defense ensures public oversight.
Control System and Combat Training
- Radical revisions in command and control structure, including the creation of the Armed Forces General Staff.
- A secure communication system was established, along with modernized training grounds.
- Increase in practical training with 2.2 times more parachute jumps and triple the classes in shooting and hiking.
- Quota basis admission for children of military personnel in higher educational institutions; 3,765 recommendations issued.
International Cooperation
- Eight bilateral and multilateral international treaties were signed and ratified (2017-2023).
- Separate plans for military cooperation were approved with countries like the United States Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Germany, France, and India.
- Training of more than 300 servicemen in foreign military educational institutions and hosting of foreign military students.
- Participation and victories in international competitions like “Best Warrior”, “Cambrian Patrol,” “Best Sniper Team,” and “ArMI-2022,” resulting in medals and honors.
In conclusion, Uzbekistan’s dedicated reforms in the military development field have led to strong national Armed Forces, ensuring the country’s independence and the peaceful life of its people. The ongoing responsibilities lie in the hands of each leader to continually enhance the defense capability and potential of the Armed Forces.