The Republic of Uzbekistan has adopted Law No. O‘RQ-1034, "On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Connection with the Improvement of the Alcohol and Tobacco Market Regulation System."

On February 21, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, held a telephone conversation to discuss pressing issues related to further developing and strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance between Uzbekistan and Russia.

Costa Rica has agreed to accept 200 citizens deported from the United States, including individuals from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, and India, reports Dunyo news agency.

In the Oliy Majlis, a meeting took place between Senate Chairperson Tanzila Norboyeva and the newly appointed Ambassador of Canada to Uzbekistan, Christopher Duggan. The parties discussed the prospects for strengthening multifaceted cooperation, including investment, science, education, and tourism.

Tashkent and Belgrade are discussing visa simplification and protecting the rights of Uzbek citizens working in Serbia.

The UK has officially confirmed its full support for Uzbekistan's path to membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). The parties also agreed to expand technical assistance to accelerate the integration process.

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will participate in a discussion on Ukraine's future in Washington. This decision came after the emergency meetings of EU leaders concerned about the rapprochement between Moscow and Washington.

US President Donald Trump said Ukraine needs to hold elections despite the military situation. He also expressed concern about how Kyiv spends the financial and military aid provided by Washington.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) provided $125 million to Uzbekistan for the modernization of the water resources management system. The funds will be spent on the introduction of intelligent technologies, increasing the efficiency of water supply, and adapting to climate change. The project will also cover the digitalization of water consumption accounting and training of specialists.

On February 18, 2025, the Republic of Uzbekistan passed Law No. ORQ-1031, "On Guarantees for the Protection of Bank Deposits."

A Presidential Decree No. PQ-61 was issued, titled "On Additional Measures to Support the Employment of Higher Education Graduates."

Today, February 18th, the Turkic Ski Cup - 2025 tournament took place at Uzbekistan's renowned Amirsoy ski resort. This sporting event went down in history as the first ski competition between the Turkic states.

A tragic accident occurred at the "Zhomart" mine in Kazakhstan, where seven miners were trapped under the rubble. Rescuers worked through the night, but by morning, it became clear: there were no survivors. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev demanded an immediate investigation, and authorities promised support to the families of the deceased.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as part of his visit to Kuwait, visited the "Palace of As-Salam" museum - the former residence of foreign leaders, transformed into a unique repository of history and culture. During the visit, the prospects for deepening cultural cooperation between the two countries were discussed.

The Uzbekistan U20 national team continues its strong performance at the AFC U20 Asian Cup in China. In the second round of the group stage, Farhod Nishonov’s squad secured an early ticket to the quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory over Indonesia.

The legendary Chevrolet Spark has undergone a radical transformation—now it’s a compact crossover. The updated model has been named Chevrolet Spark EUV.

One of the world’s most prestigious esports organizations, Natus Vincere (NAVI), has officially announced the formation of its chess team. The roster includes three well-known chess players: Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Wesley So, and Alexander Bortnik.

Elon Musk offered to buy OpenAI for $97.4 billion, but the company unexpectedly rejected his proposal. The CEO of OpenAI responded to the billionaire with a witty remark: "No, thanks. If you want, we can buy Twitter for $9.74 billion."

A secret drug laboratory has been uncovered in Tashkent, with more than 23 kg of powerful substances seized, UzA reports.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated at today’s meeting with young people that if young individuals with a C1 level in foreign languages take the initiative to open specialized learning centers in remote and rural areas, they will be provided with an interest-free subsidy of up to 120 million soums.