Uzbek President urges establishment of Palestinian state based on 1967 borders

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said on Wednesday that nothing can justify the unprecedented humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Gaza and Lebanon, including the devastating attacks on civilians, especially innocent children, the elderly, and women.

Speaking at a summit of heads of state from the Organization of Turkic States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan's capital, Mirziyoyev emphasized that the only viable solution to the longstanding conflict is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

He said global geopolitical tensions have intensified recently, with growing competition and mistrust among major powers impacting other nations, adversely affecting trade, investment, transportation, energy, and agriculture.

He called for consistent dialogue within the organization on political and security issues and urged a unified stance on international matters that reflected the common interests of Turkic nations.

Mirziyoyev also condemned any moves to restrict the operations of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), reiterating, "The only solution to this long-standing conflict is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legal frameworks and resolutions."

He hoped the upcoming Arab-Muslim summit in Riyadh would result in a final political solution to the crisis.

- ‘Strategic Partnership, Eternal Friendship and Brotherhood Agreement'

Stressing the need to expand and fortify the organization's legal framework, Mirziyoyev proposed that member states adopt the Strategic Partnership, Eternal Friendship, and Brotherhood Agreement to deepen bilateral and multilateral relations among Turkic states.

He also highlighted the importance of fostering economic opportunities, proposing agreements on tariff reduction, trade facilitation, streamlined customs procedures, and the development of e-commerce platforms.

To further support investment, the Uzbek president emphasized strengthening the Turkish Investment Fund, establishing a Turkish Development Bank, and organizing a Turkish Investment Forum, with Uzbekistan as the host for its first session.

He also pointed out the need for efficient use of transportation corridors, suggesting that transit tariffs along the Middle Corridor should be kept affordable, with simplified border processes and modernized logistics systems.

He also advocated for collaborative research on shared history and suggested introducing courses on Turkic history, culture, and art in schools. He also announced Uzbekistan's readiness to become a full member of the Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation.