Startup Finance Push: Uzbekistan will launch the “Future Entrepreneur” program (2027-2030), with IT Park Uzbekistan backing tech projects and the UzVC National Venture Fund financing up to 30 startups in priority sectors; each can get up to 5 billion soums via interest-free, unsecured convertible loans/SAFE, with the state capped at 49% and an initial 150 billion soums earmarked for 2027. Regional Connectivity Milestone: The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project marked a breakthrough as the first Kyrgyz-section tunnel was drilled through (Kosh Dobo North No. 2), alongside ongoing work on dozens of tunnels, bridges, stations, and a planned rail link from Kashgar to Andijan. SCO Governance & Security Talk: At the SCO summit in Bishkek, leaders emphasized security and counter-terror coordination, while Uzbekistan-linked officials highlighted Xi’s “four global initiatives” as interconnected across development, security, civilization, and governance. Parliamentary Rights Signal: Uzbekistan’s upper house urged non-selective application of international human rights law and humanitarian law at a conference in Samarkand. Travel Rule Update: Thailand ends Uzbekistan’s visa-free arrangement for most travelers on Sept. 15, replacing it with nationality-specific entry categories and new stay limits. Uzbekistan-Serbia Diplomacy: President Mirziyoyev is set to visit Serbia Sept. 7-8 for talks on trade, investment, transport, industry, labor migration, and a package of agreements.