Dr. Akkan Suver spoke at the international conference "The Role of Civil Society in Strengthening Democracy: Global Challenges and Prospects" in Tashkent, accompanied by Secretary General Sezgin Bilgic.

He praised Uzbekistan's transformation into a dynamic investment centre under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, highlighting structural reforms, investor protections, regional integration and the country's growing role as a bridge between Europe and South Asia.

Dr. Suver noted that Uzbekistan attracted USD 188 billion in investment between 2017 and 2024, including USD 87 billion in foreign direct investment, and emphasized its balanced relations with both Western and Eastern partners.

He described civil society's three essential roles as amplifying the public voice in reform, strengthening public oversight and creating platforms for political participation. Civil society, he said, must be treated as a central partner in national transformation.

Dr. Suver also praised the strategic partnership between the Development Strategy Centre and the Marmara Group Foundation and their joint work strengthening friendship between Turkiye and Uzbekistan.