TIIF 2026 Investment Push: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev kicked off the Tashkent International Investment Forum with meetings with leaders including Albania, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus and Azerbaijan, as Uzbekistan courts more trade and investment ahead of the formal opening. US Partnership Plan: Uzbekistan proposed a special economic zone designed for American firms, promising a familiar regulatory setup, reliable utilities, easier administration, strong logistics and state support, plus a joint investment platform to fund strategic projects. Islamic Finance Growth: The Central Bank says Uzbekistan is expanding Islamic finance in stages, with 12 microfinance organizations already offering Sharia-compliant products; Islamic financing reached about US$22m in early 2026. South Korea Industrial Clusters: Uzbekistan and South Korea agreed on new industrial clusters, including a biotechnology cluster and joint industrial zone, following TIIF–2026 discussions. Tashkent Road Safety Warning: Tashkent recorded 47 vehicle fires in five months, with officials pointing to unsafe aftermarket modifications and poor maintenance. World Cup Focus (Uzbekistan in spotlight): Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo warned his team not to underestimate debutants Uzbekistan, ahead of their Group K opener in Mexico City; meanwhile, Portugal begin their campaign against DR Congo with Cristiano Ronaldo chasing a historic sixth World Cup goal.