Uzbekistan Independence Day diplomacy: Uzbekistan marked its 35th independence anniversary with a solemn reception in Turkmenistan’s Tashkent Park, featuring Uzbek cultural displays and remarks from the Uzbek ambassador on reforms under “New Uzbekistan” and a rights-first agenda. Regional connectivity: Major progress continues on the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, with the first tunnel drilled through on the Kyrgyz section—an early milestone as 27 tunnels, 43 bridges and key stations move ahead. Finance & fintech: A report highlights Uzbekistan’s state-led fintech push, with the Central Bank of Uzbekistan shaping the rules and backing innovation via a venture fund and an innovation hub. Parliament & global cooperation: A senior Uzbek senator urged unity amid the “polycrisis,” stressing that development, security, civilization and governance are linked—and that multilateral institutions must work better. Judicial diplomacy: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant called BRICS to become a “living Nalanda University,” promoting healthy disagreement and faster, predictable justice. Sports in Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan’s Kamilla Rakhimova faced a US Open distraction as Aryna Sabalenka complained about a strong marijuana smell from the stands, though Sabalenka advanced. Travel access: Uzbekistan signed an agreement to accept India’s UPI, making payments easier for Indian visitors.