Uzbekistan’s Historic City of Khiva Named "Youth Capital of the Turkic World"

The ancient city of Khiva, Uzbekistan, has been designated the "Youth Capital of the Turkic World" for 2026. The official launch ceremony for the initiative took place on October 12. The title was passed to Khiva from Almaty, Kazakhstan.

The ceremony was attended by Alisher Sa’dullayev, Director of the Youth Affairs Agency of Uzbekistan; Nuru Guliyev, Deputy Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States; and T. Davletov, the Mayor of Khiva. Representatives from government agencies, public organizations, the business sector, and youth groups from various Turkic nations also participated in the events.

As part of the initiative, a Young Leaders Forum and a Young Entrepreneurs Forum were organized in Khiva. Throughout the two-day program, discussions focused on youth entrepreneurship, the development of leadership potential, environmental education, and strategies for countering modern-day threats. Participants exchanged ideas regarding innovative initiatives, startups, and opportunities for mutual cooperation. During the forums, discussions were held on a joint program to enhance ecological literacy among the youth of the Turkic world, as well as on draft action plans aimed at preventing the spread of extremist and radical ideologies among young people.

The primary objective of the “Youth Capital of the Turkic World” initiative is to strengthen friendship and cooperation among the youth of Turkic states, expand the exchange of experience, and develop the entrepreneurial, leadership, and innovative potential of young people.

Throughout the year, international events, forums, and conferences are scheduled to take place in Khiva. These will serve to support new youth-led initiatives and foster regional cooperation.