Crime Crackdown in Tashkent: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev ordered tougher action against crime in the capital, warning that entrepreneurs won’t invest where public security is weak and telling officials to ensure peace and trust in every mahalla. Uzbekistan–South Korea Deal Surge: In Seoul, Uzbekistan and South Korea signed 13 cooperation documents and prepared a roughly $12 billion project portfolio, including an $8 billion strategic partnership program with Korea’s Export-Import Bank, spanning critical minerals, AI/data centers, rail and defense. Moody’s on Growth Drivers: Moody’s says the Middle Corridor and major transport, logistics and energy projects are boosting diversification across Central Asia and the Caucasus, with spillovers reaching Uzbekistan. AI Infrastructure Push: Moody’s also highlights AI investment as a growth lever for the region, pointing to Uzbekistan among countries making progress on data centers and digital networks. Visa Update for Indians: Uzbekistan will allow eligible Indian citizens with valid multiple-entry visas (from select countries including the US/UK/Schengen) to stay visa-free for up to 30 days with a confirmed onward/return ticket. Chess Olympiad Countdown: FIDE interim president Viswanathan Anand and AICF chief Nitin Narang handed the ceremonial torch to Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov ahead of the Samarkand Olympiad (Sept 15–27). Cargo Aviation Link: Uzbekistan launches regular Tashkent–Nanjing cargo flights from Oct 12, three times weekly, to strengthen industrial and e-commerce logistics.