Uzbekistan Taps Azerbaijan’s Expertise for First Census in 36 Years

Chairman of Uzbekistan’s National Statistics Committee Behzod Khamraev has said that Uzbekistan is actively drawing on Azerbaijan’s experience as it prepares to conduct its first population census in 36 years.

Khamraev made the remarks during the Third CIS International Statistical Forum in Baku, The Caspian Post reports via local media.

Highlighting the strong and productive cooperation between the statistical agencies of the two countries, Khamraev noted that their collaboration dates back to a 1998 agreement. “We have closely worked together on several fronts, with the upcoming population census being a major focus,” he said.

Uzbekistan plans to hold the census in January next year. Khamraev emphasized that Azerbaijani experts have provided significant support in organizing the census, developing questionnaires, and formulating methodologies. “This cooperation has proven very fruitful,” he added.

The collaboration extends beyond census activities. Khamraev highlighted that Azerbaijan’s implementation of several statistical development programs has served as an important model for Uzbekistan, which drafted its first statistical development strategy in 2019 based heavily on Azerbaijani experience.

Additionally, Uzbekistan is working to optimize statistical reporting, including sample surveys and the use of modern information technologies. “Azerbaijan has advanced practices in these areas, and we value this exchange of expertise,” said Khamraev.

Looking ahead, Uzbekistan, in partnership with the World Bank, is preparing a new national statistical development strategy for 2026-2030. “We are working closely with World Bank experts and aim to finalize the draft by the end of this year. We remain open to ongoing cooperation with Azerbaijan and are ready to share our experience in developing the new strategy,” Khamraev concluded.