GEF Funding Boost: The Global Environment Facility wrapped up its 71st Council meeting in Samarkand, approving $232.5m for 24 projects and endorsing the $3.9bn GEF-9 plan for 2026–2030, with major focus on climate adaptation and biodiversity. Investment Pipeline in Tashkent: The V Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF-2026) runs June 16–19, aiming to build on TIIF-2025’s $30.5bn in signed deals and drawing global banks, sovereign funds and multinationals. Macroeconomy Update: The World Bank lifted its 2026 Uzbekistan GDP growth forecast to 6.4%, citing resilience despite slower global growth and Middle East-driven risks. Finance Law Watch: Uzbekistan’s Senate sent back the Tashkent International Financial Center bill for revisions, flagging judicial appointment criteria and the scope of the commercial court and arbitration-related clauses. Housing & Auto Cooling: A mandatory escrow system introduced in April is already squeezing transactions—vehicle deals fell from 28.6k in January to 16.6k in May, while housing sales also declined. Regional Business Links: Egypt and Uzbekistan signed MoUs during talks in Cairo, including steps toward an Egyptian-Uzbek chamber of commerce and a joint business council to expand trade and investment. Energy Milestone: Rosatom began construction of an export small modular nuclear plant in Jizzakh, targeting up to 14% of Uzbekistan’s electricity demand. Labor Mobility: France opened applications for seasonal farm jobs for Uzbek workers, offering €1,650 monthly salary for limited vacancies. Competition Policy Cooperation: OTS competition authorities met in Shusha, with Uzbekistan’s competition chief participating as states coordinate on consumer and market protection.