Locations
Assalamu aleykum,
Distinguished guests, esteemed partners, and most importantly, the inspiring individuals whose stories we will hear today,
It is truly an honor to stand before you as we gather to celebrate the resilience, ingenuity, and determination of the people of Uzbekistan. Today, as we mark 60 years of UNDP’s work globally, we are reminded that development is not just about numbers or indicators —it is, first and foremost, about people.
This event, the first in the UNDP Talks series, is an opportunity to do something different. We are not here to talk about what we did—we are here to listen. We will hear firsthand stories of how people have overcome challenges, taken charge of their futures, and transformed their lives. Their stories are not just about innovative initiatives and poverty reduction—they are about dignity, empowerment, and hope.
These stories are more than individual successes. They are proven solutions that can be replicated and scaled — ready models for creating broader impact. That is why UNDP is committed to not just piloting but sharing and expanding the best practices that work – some of which you can find here today in the stories of people.
For 60 years in the world, UNDP has been a partner in progress, co-creating solutions with communities rather than simply implementing projects. We listen, we adapt, and we stand alongside people as they carve out their own pathways to prosperity.
For 32 years in Uzbekistan, our partnerships — with the government, civil society, international community, and the private sector — produce impactful solutions. And we are endlessly grateful to our partners for their immense trust and support.
Today we will see the real change-makers: the women, young people, farmers, and entrepreneurs who with the right conditions prove every day that sustainable development starts from within communities.
As we look to the future, our commitment remains clear: to do more, to do better, and to ensure that no one is left behind. Because when we invest in people, we invest in a brighter, more resilient world.
To those who have traveled kilometers to share their stories today — thank you for your courage and for proving that change is possible.
To our partners — thank you for walking this journey with us.
And to everyone here — let’s not just celebrate success, let’s scale it, let’s share it, let’s spread the word. Let’s work together to turn solutions into larger impact and make development truly for the people, by the people.
Thank you. Rakhmat! (Uzbek: thank you).
