Uzbekistan–Nuclear Push: Russia and Uzbekistan have formally kicked off construction of Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant, with Vladimir Putin and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev launching the project in St. Petersburg via video link; the deal is framed as a major energy and industrial step for Central Asia. Aviation & Policy: IATA’s chief economist warned that aviation disruptions from the Iran war won’t “snap back” to pre-crisis patterns, citing lasting route and revenue damage—an issue with direct relevance for Uzbekistan’s connectivity planning. Social Protection Reform: An Uzbekistan delegation studied Finland’s best practices in social welfare, inclusive education, legal services, and digital public services, aiming to modernize state institutions and improve support for vulnerable groups. Construction Regulation: Uzbekistan plans to simplify construction services from 1 July and is moving toward a risk-scoring approach for developers, signaling tighter, more predictable governance for building projects. Central Asia Trade Links: Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee’s business mission to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan delivered 96 agreements worth $1.65bn, with a “hub-to-hub” push in finance, innovation, tech, and aviation. World Cup Context for Uzbekistan: With Uzbekistan set for its World Cup debut in Group K (Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo), coverage highlights the tournament’s expanded 48-team format and Uzbekistan’s matchups as fans gear up for the June 11 start.