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Elder David A. Bednar, a senior leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan in Tashkent on November 16, 2025. The meeting focused on economic growth for youth and ongoing efforts to reduce poverty in Uzbekistan.
President Mirziyoyev highlighted the country's priorities, saying that economic development for young people remains a central concern. He also noted progress in reducing poverty and expanding opportunities for Uzbek citizens.
Elder Bednar emphasized the importance of cooperation between faith groups and governments: “When people of faith and goodwill work together to bless others, hearts are softened and lives are changed,” he said. “We are deeply grateful for the warm friendship of the people and leaders of Uzbekistan.”
Uzbek officials expressed appreciation for humanitarian work by Latter-day Saint Charities, which is supported by donations from church members. They noted that collaboration between charitable organizations and government institutions can help improve schools and strengthen communities.
Before meeting with President Mirziyoyev, Elder Bednar held discussions with several key government figures, including Mrs. Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration; representatives from the Senate; members of the National Agency of Social Protection; and an advisor to the president.
Mrs. Saida Mirziyoyeva discussed priorities such as English teaching, health initiatives, and women's empowerment during her meeting with Elder Bednar. Both parties explored potential collaboration with Relief Society, the church’s global women’s organization.
In a separate conversation with H.E. Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairperson of Uzbekistan's Senate, Elder Bednar acknowledged Uzbekistan’s cultural focus on family life and motherhood. Their discussion centered on shared values regarding support for women, children, and families.
Presidential Advisor Ruslan Davletov spoke about guiding Uzbekistan’s youth—who make up 60 percent of its population—through principles like faith-based education and moral leadership. Both sides agreed that governments, families, and religious groups share responsibility in helping young people develop character.
“We refer to the young people in our church as the rising generation,” said Elder Bednar. “We are very focused on helping the youth learn the values that will help them to become very productive citizens. We teach them good principles and let them govern themselves.”
During his visit with Mr. Mansurbek Olloyorov from Uzbekistan’s National Agency of Social Protection, Elder Bednar discussed joint efforts to assist vulnerable populations through social protection programs rooted in compassion—a value both organizations share.
A significant topic was continued cooperation between Latter-day Saint Charities and Uzbek authorities on water sanitation projects (WASH) in local schools. In partnership with local agencies, these initiatives have provided improved restroom facilities, hand-washing stations, clean water storage systems across three schools using durable septic toilet designs maintained by trained staff.
Elder Gerard from Central Europe Area Presidency commented on project outcomes: “The new facilities have made a world of difference,” he said. “Children now attend school more regularly, and parents feel confident sending their daughters to class.”
Since 1985 Latter-day Saint Charities has worked globally—including over 191 countries—to deliver clean-water infrastructure projects paired with hygiene education aimed at long-term self-reliance.
This visit builds upon earlier meetings between church leaders and Uzbek officials held in Salt Lake City as part of an ongoing dialogue intended to foster mutual respect while supporting family- and community-strengthening initiatives.
Uzbekistan continues national modernization efforts focusing on better school infrastructure along with expanded access to clean water—priorities complemented by technical support from The Church’s humanitarian programs tailored for local needs.
“The Church is established in more than 150 different nations," Elder Bednar added." We reach out everywhere we go to see if we can serve and bless and help other people. That is the essence of our religion.”
