Dear Women,

I am honored to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on International Women’s Day. This day is a tribute to your strength, resilience, and the vital role you play in shaping families, communities, and nations. This year, the United Nations highlights the theme, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” It is a call to action - to unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for all, and to build a future where no one is left behind.

This year holds special significance as we mark the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and 25 years of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. These milestones remind us that sustainable peace and development are only possible when women are at the center of decision-making.

Women of Central Asia are the backbone of progress - strengthening ties between nations, ensuring security, and driving economic and social development. Despite the double and even triple burdens you carry, you remain the force that sustains and advances this region. You are not only the foundation of families and communities but also leaders in business, politics, and civil society.

As mothers, sisters, wives, entrepreneurs, activists, and political leaders, you are shaping the present and future of Central Asia. Your strength, resilience, and vision continue to inspire and transform the region.

As the Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: “There is overwhelming evidence that investing in women is the most effective way to lift communities, companies and countries.  Women’s participation makes peace agreements stronger, societies more resilient and economies more vigorous.  And that is why the empowerment of women and girls is at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

Dear Women,

Today, we celebrate you - your achievements, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to building a better world for all.

Happy International Women’s Day!