Islamic Civilization Forum: Uzbekistan hosted the 1st International Forum on Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Samarkand and Termez, with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev urging a shift away from Islamophobia toward shared moral values for peace and dialogue. Cultural Exchange: Azerbaijan’s “Summer School of Azerbaijani Culture” brought Uzbek students to Ganja to visit Nizami Ganjavi sites and learn about the poet’s legacy. Sports—Chess: Azerbaijan’s women’s national chess team held a training camp in Shabran for the 46th World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand this September. Sports—Boxing: India’s boxers dominated Asian U-19 and U-23 championships in Jakarta, with multiple finalists and bronze medals—an event that also featured Uzbek athletes. Sports—Hockey5s: Hockey India named squads for the Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship in Muscat (July 20–25), where Uzbekistan is listed among the women’s teams. Health & Lifestyle: Uzbekistan’s overweight and obesity rates remain among the highest in Central Asia, while the Health Ministry issued heat-safety guidance as temperatures may reach 41–46°C. Policy & Society: The IMF says Uzbekistan’s pension reform draft is underway but needs actuarial work before major changes; UNFPA data also highlights harsher attitudes toward mothers working with young children. Travel & Mobility: Uzbekistan and Belarus agreed to extend registration-free stays to 10 days, alongside a broader strategic partnership package. Education: University and vocational admission tests run July 14–23, with permits and strict entry rules for hundreds of thousands of applicants.