Author: master

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On April 7, on the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union held in Tashkent, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla.

The high guest conveyed the sincere greetings of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres to the Head of our state.

The discussion focused on the development of multifaceted partnership with UN institutions, particularly with the office of the Special Representative in the area of protecting the rights, freedoms, and legal interests of children.

The Special Representative highly appreciated the effective reforms led by Uzbekistan’s leader in protecting children from all forms of violence, the repatriation of women and children from conflict zones, as well as the eradication of child labor.

The importance of developing cooperation in the development of international legal instruments on children’s rights, improving national legislation, and the work of national institutions for the protection of children’s rights was emphasized.

The issues of holding a regional conference on the prevention of violence against children in Tashkent and a roundtable on sharing Uzbekistan’s practical experience at the UN headquarters were also discussed.

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On April 7, during the 150th anniversary session of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with the heads of parliaments of Arab states.

The meeting was attended by the Chairman of the Arab Parliament, Muhammad bin Ahmad Al- Yamahi, Speaker of the Council of Representatives of the Parliament of Bahrain Ahmad bin Salman Al- Musallam, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Egypt Hanafi Ali  El-Gebaly, Chairman of the Shura Council of Oman Khalid bin Hilal Al-Maawali, Chairman of the Shura Council of Qatar Hassan bin Abdullah Al-Ghanim, and Chairman of the Committee of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates Ali Rashid Al-Nuaimi.

Issues of further development of multifaceted relations with Arab countries, including strengthening parliamentary ties were reviewed. 
At the beginning of the meeting, the heads of the delegations conveyed the sincere greetings and best wishes from the leaders of their respective countries to the leader of Uzbekistan.

It was noted with great satisfaction that in recent years, the comprehensive partnership between Uzbekistan and Arab countries has been developing dynamically.

Historical high-level visits have taken place, and active mutual contacts and exchanges have been maintained.

Relations with the United Arab Emirates and the State of Qatar have reached the level of strategic partnership, while comprehensive cooperation has been established with Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

The development of all-round cooperation with the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman has also progressed steadily.

The portfolio of investment projects with these countries has exceeded $50 billion. Projects are underway in the fields of “green” energy, chemical industry, agriculture, IT, transportation and logistics, infrastructure, and tourism. Around 500 joint ventures have been established, and the number of direct flights exceeds 150 per week.

Current regional issues, including the resolution of the situation in the Middle East were also addressed.

The schedule of upcoming high-level events was discussed, including the second summit of the “Central Asia–Gulf Cooperation Council” dialogue planned in May this year in Samarkand.

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On April 7, on the sidelines of the 150th anniversary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with a delegation from the Republic of India, headed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament), Om Birla.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Speaker conveyed the sincere greetings and best wishes of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Head of our state.

Issues of further expanding Uzbek-Indian strategic partnership relations were reviewed.

It was noted with satisfaction that multifaceted cooperation has been developing consistently. In recent years, there has been steady growth in trade turnover, an increase in successful cooperation projects, and the expansion of air communication.

Projects are being implemented in the fields of energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, IT, and agriculture. 

Branches of four Indian universities operate in Uzbekistan.

During the conversation, the importance of establishing close inter-parliamentary exchanges, active contacts at the level of relevant committees, creating friendship groups and youth platforms, as well as effectively utilizing the potential of the regions of both countries, was emphasized.

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Distinguished heads of delegations!

Dear participants of the forum!

Ladies and gentlemen!

I cordially welcome you all at our conference dedicated to the key challenge of the present day – the global climate change.

I am sincerely grateful for their attendance to my colleagues – leaders of the European Union and Central Asian countries;

Our reliable partners from the United Nations;

International financial institutions, global and national environmental organizations.

Your participation at this forum is an example of commitment to joint actions in the search for effective solutions to the most pressing issues of sustainable development.

I am convinced that here in the ancient city of Samarkand, which from early centuries has been one of the centers generating new ideas and knowledge, trust and constructive partnership, we can jointly develop efficient measures to address modern climate challenges.

Welcome to Uzbekistan – Samarqandga xush kelibsiz!

Distinguished participants of the forum!

Last year was the first one ever when the average global temperature rose by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

The past decade was the hottest period in the entire history of meteorological observations.

As the result, today all of us feel the negative effect of climate crises – growing scales of wildfires and desertification, melting of glaciers, increasing shortage of water resources, air pollution.

I would like to underline, that all of us bear responsibility for the preservation of the environment.  This is the key item of our agenda.

The countries of the region have developed and unanimously approved the Strategy for climate change adaptation in Central Asia.

Uzbekistan is committed to continuing close engagement with all regional partners for practical implementation of common tasks and objectives.

We have also been cooperating successfully with European partners within programs for mitigation of the consequences of drying up of the Aral Sea, sustainable water use, expanding “clean” energy sources. Such partnership makes an important contribution to sustainable “green” development in Central Asia.

There is no doubt that today the European Union is a global leader in facilitating and promoting the issues of combating climate change. We are committed to further deepening practical engagement in this area.

Ladies and gentlemen!

Climate change is inextricably linked to food and energy security.

Fertile lands are rapidly decreasing while the region’s population is growing and in 25 years from now it can surpass 100 million people.

Today, over 20 percent of land in the region is exposed to degradation.

A quarter century later, crop yields may decrease by a third.

In this regard, I believe it is vital for us to combine our scientific potential to increase the adaptation capacity of our forestry and agrarian sectors, as well as strengthen food security as part of HORIZON EUROPE Program.

In order to reduce the area of degraded lands and mitigate the consequences of climat changes, Uzbekistan has been carrying out large-scale greening in the framework of the “Yashil Makon” project. Additionally, over 2 million hectares of the deserted Aral Sea region is now covered with drought-resistant plants.

In this context, I propose to hold a Regional tree-planting campaign “Green Belt of Central Asia” annually on the eve the Navruz holiday.

I am confident that this campaign will turn into a good tradition, a symbol of unity in enduring natural cataclysms. 

Dear participants of the forum!

Uzbekistan has begun transition to resource-efficient and ecologically clean model of economic development.

“Green” energy is one of the key directions in this regard.

We intend to increase the share of renewables to 54 percent in the next five years. This will allow us decrease the greenhouse gas emissions by almost 16 million tons. 

I would like to underline that we will do our best to fast-track the fulfillment of Uzbekistan’s obligations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent in accordance with Paris agreement.

At the same time, we are not going to stop there.

We propose to establish the Secretariat of the EU’s “Water-Energy-Climate Change” Initiative in Tashkent to mobilize financing, technologies and competencies.

In addition, as part of the implementation of common strategic objectives, this Forum is going to see the presentation of the Concept of the region’s “green” development.

I am confident, its adoption and the following implementation will create a strong basis for Central Asia’s environmentally-oriented development.

Distinguished members of delegations!

It is estimated that by 2040, with to the reduction of the flows of Amudarya and Syrdarya rivers, the countries of Central Asia will face an “extremely high” level of water stress.

We are already experiencing the consequences of one of the major tragedies – the drying up of the Aral Sea.

In order to ensure sustainable use of water resources, we are paving irrigation networks with concrete, we have established an industrial base for manufacturing water-saving technologies, which have already been implemented on almost half of our irrigated lands (it is almost 2 million hectares). 

These measures enabled us to save over 8 billion cubic meters of water last year.

In this regard, we urge our partners to join the efforts and launch a Regional Program for Implementation of Water Saving Technologies in Central Asia.

We intend to host an International Water Saving Technologies Forum in the Aral Sea region to facilitate an expert level discussion of these issues. 

We also build on close cooperation with the EU as part of the “Copernicus” Program for continuous observation of glaciers and early risk assessment on mountain ecosystems of the region.

The Climate Residence established at the Green University in Tashkent can serve as a common scientific and expert platform to study and monitor the climate processes in Central Asia.

In addition, the Aral Cultural Summit will begin in Nukus tomorrow, to draw attention to environmental problems of our region through the prism of cultural projects.

Dear friends!

In conclusion, I would like to remind a well-known saying which goes as follows: “we do not inherit Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children”. Today, our task is to do our best for our future generations could live on sustainable, safe and prosperous world.

To this end we need to strengthen dialogue, combine the efforts of all countries united by a common noble goal.

Thank you for your kind attention.

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In order to preserve the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan and strengthen national values, the “Center for Certification of Railway Products” LLC has introduced the “Day of National Costume” every Friday

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Exclusive interview

of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev

to Euronews on the eve of the first “Central Asia – European Union” summit in Samarkand

EURONEWS: In recent years, the world has been changing rapidly: geopolitical instability, growing economic risks, climate challenges – all this requires new formats of international cooperation.  

In this context, the Central Asia-EU summit in Samarkand looks like a turning point in the relations between the two. Why is it now that interaction is reaching a new level? 

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: Our regions are linked by deep historical roots, coinciding interests, and a common desire for close partnership. We have a clear vision of the agenda of interaction with the European Union, based on almost thirty years of cooperation. 

Our partnership with the European Union is a two-way relationship from which both sides should benefit. 

The Central Asia-European Union format of cooperation is a unique platform of interaction and is unparalleled in its scale and institutional scope. The European Union, which unites 27 states, including the three G7 countries (Germany, France and Italy), is the largest integration association building systemic interaction with Central Asia at the interregional level.

Cooperation with the EU covers a wide range of areas – from the economy and investment to sustainable development, security and digital transformation – and is based on long-term strategic priorities. 

We regularly meet with our European colleagues. Visits to the region by leaders of the world’s leading countries have become noticeably more frequent. Uzbekistan has established a strategic partnership with Italy, Hungary and France. Germany and the Central Asian countries have become regional strategic partners. 

Today, the EU is consistently developing trade and investment ties with the Central Asian states.  

Over the past seven years, the trade turnover between Central Asian countries and the EU has quadrupled, amounting to 54 billion euros. 

We are pleased to see the growing interest of European businesses in the opportunities for trade and investment interaction with Uzbekistan and other countries of the region. 

The positive processes observed in the region are increasing interest in Central Asia, turning the region into an important partner of world powers and leading states at the geopolitically important crossroads of the main routes between East and West, North and South. This is reflected in the “CA Plus” formats, which allow maintaining an open dialogue, creating favorable conditions for mutually beneficial cooperation of all stakeholders. 

Under these conditions, the establishment of a strategic partnership between the countries of our region and the European Union during the summit in Samarkand will open new areas in the development of interregional cooperation and interconnectivity. 

EURONEWS: Could you tell us more about the choice of Samarkand for holding the summit? What kind of symbolic value does it have in terms of dialogue and opportunities?

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: Samarkand is a city that has been a centre of trade, science and diplomacy for centuries. Its glory was built on its ability to unite cultures, peoples and ideas. Today, it is once again becoming a platform where Europe and Central Asia can discuss the key challenges of our time.  

Samarkand occupies a special place in the centuries-old history of international relations of the peoples living in the vast area of Central and South Asia and the Middle East. It was from here that Amir Temur, the ruler of Maverannahr more than six centuries ago, was in active contact with European monarchs to ensure free and safe trade. 

At present, Samarkand is restoring its special role in international life, preserving and multiplying the historical political and diplomatic heritage of the country in a new, broader format.  

Historically, the world from Samarkand is seen as one and indivisible, not divided. This is the essence of a unique phenomenon – the “Samarkand spirit”, based on which a fundamentally new format of international interaction is being constructed. 

EURONEWS: How would you characterise the key changes that took place in the region in the past years, and what priorities do you set during the period of Uzbekistan’s chairmanship in the Central Asian Five?  

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: First of all, I would like to emphasise that Central Asia is the top priority in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy due to a number of factors. First, if we look at the political map of the modern world, it will become obvious that the overwhelming majority of armed conflicts, confrontations and outbreaks of violence take place between neighboring states. This applies to the Middle East, the post-Soviet space, South Asia, Africa and other regions of the world. 

Unfortunately, Central Asia has not become an exception.  

In different periods there have been armed clashes, the situation has been complicated by unresolved territorial disputes, water and energy problems, transportation and communication issues, as well as security challenges.  

All this could not continue indefinitely. Contradictions were escalating, disagreements were deepening, and the emerging uneasy situation posed a serious threat to the security of the region. 

Realising this situation, we made a strategic decision to build constructive, good-neighbourly and mutually beneficial relations with neighbouring states step by step in Central Asia. This approach is based on mutual trust and respect, consideration and recognition of common interests. 

Central Asia has undergone a profound transformation in recent years and has acquired a new identity as a space of constructive dialogue, trust and comprehensive cooperation. This has become possible due to the common political will of the leaders of our countries, and today we can confidently speak about the irreversibility of this process. 

When in 2017 at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly Uzbekistan came up with the initiative to hold consultative meetings, we proceeded from a simple but important idea: no external partners would be able to help us build peace, stability and prosperity in the region if we ourselves do not start with a trusting and candid dialogue.

This process has proven to be effective. Today we are resolving the most complex issues at the negotiating table, coordinating joint initiatives and moving forward confidently. 

This year, the 7th Consultative Meeting will be held in Tashkent. At such meetings we do not just discuss the agenda and “reconcile our clocks”, but make concrete decisions that change the face of the region. One of the brightest recent examples is the complete settlement of the issue of delimitation of the state border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. This is a breakthrough that the parties have been working towards for many years. 

To stimulate trade, border trade zones are being created, joint investment funds are being launched, and major infrastructure and industrial projects are being implemented. 

Central Asia is becoming an important link in global transportation chains. We are actively developing the Trans-Caspian and Trans-Afghan transport corridors, which will allow our countries to expand access to key global markets. 

Thus, Central Asia is no longer on the margins of history, but is turning into a dynamically developing region that is shaping its own strategic agenda. Political consolidation, the achieved high level of trust and joint economic initiatives in the region have created new opportunities for sustainable development. 

During its chairmanship of the Central Asian Five, Uzbekistan will pay special attention to three key areas: strengthening regional security, deepening economic integration and environmental sustainability.  

We are facing a historic chance to make our region not only sustainable but also prosperous. I am convinced that by joint efforts we will be able to realise this potential. 

EURONEWS: What reforms carried out in Uzbekistan stimulate the strengthening of economic partnership with the European Union, and what measures on the EU side can bring the links with Central Asia to a new level?   

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: In Uzbekistan, we are consistently creating a favourable business environment, developing market institutions, and improving the investment climate. Key steps in this direction include the introduction of a “one-stop-shop” system for foreign investors, the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market, and the reduction of the tax burden on businesses. 

As a result, our country’s economic cooperation with the European Union has shown positive dynamics. In 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with EU countries reached $6.4 billion, increasing by 5.2% compared to the previous year.

More than 1,000 enterprises with European capital now operate in Uzbekistan, and the total volume of investment projects amounts to €30 billion. We anticipate that the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) with the EU will open new opportunities for strengthening trade and investment ties. 

We are ready to supply the EU market with a greater volume of high-quality, environmentally friendly products that meet the highest European standards. In the modern world, the development of efficient transport and logistics corridors is becoming increasingly important, and Central Asia can serve not only as a “bridge” between Europe and Asia but also as an active participant in global economic processes. 

In this context, we propose aligning the EU’s Global Gateway strategy with key transport projects in our region, as well as jointly developing an Action Plan to advance the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. This will drive investment growth, infrastructure development, and the introduction of innovative technologies. 

To elevate economic interconnectedness to a qualitatively new level, it is essential to further simplify trade procedures, improve access for Central Asian goods to European markets, and harmonise technical standards and certification processes. A crucial role is played by attracting European businesses to participate in infrastructure projects, developing the digital economy, and fostering innovation-driven cooperation. 

We also support the activation of financial assistance mechanisms, including through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, and other international financial institutions. Creating favourable conditions for the growth of small and medium-sized businesses in the region, with the participation of European partners, will help strengthen economic resilience and improve the standard of living for the population. 

EURONEWS: Central Asia is one of the few regions with significant reserves of energy resources and vast potential for the development of renewable energy. What role can your region play in ensuring Europe’s energy stability, especially considering recent trends toward renewable energy sources? 

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: Central Asia can become a reliable partner, capable not only of ensuring stable energy supply but also of making a significant contribution to global decarbonisation. 

A major area of cooperation lies in the ongoing project, involving Central Asian countries, to create a Green Strategic Corridor through the Caspian and Black Seas to Europe. The implementation of this initiative will lay a solid foundation for our mutually beneficial energy connectivity. 

An important institutional platform for cooperation in renewable energy could be the establishment of a Central Asia-EU Clean Energy Partnership. This initiative would facilitate collaboration on the production of green hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. 

Currently, Uzbekistan and other countries in the region are actively expanding their renewable energy capacity. The implementation of green energy and climate projects will also support the development of a carbon credit market in Central Asia.

This mechanism will enable enterprises to attract investment in clean technologies while serving as a platform for international cooperation in carbon trading. 

In addition to the 14 newly commissioned solar and wind power plants, we plan to implement more than 50 similar projects with a total capacity of 24,000 megawatts.   

Over the next five years, we aim to increase the share of renewable energy sources to 54%. This will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 16 million tons and contribute to Uzbekistan’s early fulfilment of its commitment to cut emissions by 35% under the Paris Agreement.   

Another important focus is the modernisation of energy systems, which will enhance efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint. 

EURONEWS: How do you assess the prospects of discussing security issues at the upcoming summit? What cooperation areas between Central Asia and the EU are of particular interest to you?  

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: We are witnessing a profound transformation of the international relations system. The world is undergoing large-scale changes, the consequences of which remain difficult to predict.   

Ensuring regional security has always been and remains one of the highest priorities for the countries of Central Asia. That is why, in 2023, we set the goal of bringing a new agenda for Central Asia-EU cooperation in this field to expert discussions.   

We recognise that our region and the European Union face common security threats and challenges, including the fight against terrorism, extremism, and transnational crime, such as drug trafficking. In this regard, cooperation with the European Union in the field of security is one of the key areas of our partnership.   

Given current realities, we believe it is essential not only to continue collaboration within existing programs but also to develop new initiatives aimed at countering cyber threats and extremism. 

EURONEWS: Afghanistan remains a key focus of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. While many countries refrain from engaging with the interim government and integrating Afghanistan into regional and international cooperation, Uzbekistan actively interacts with its southern neighbour.   

What drives Uzbekistan’s approach to Afghanistan, and what are the prospects for maintaining the high intensity of cooperation between our countries on this issue? 

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: Uzbekistan’s approach to Afghanistan has always been pragmatic and strategically oriented toward the long term. We have never isolated or turned away from our neighbour.

We have always believed that Afghanistan’s development is impossible without constructive engagement with neighbouring countries, including Uzbekistan as its closest and most important partner.   

It must be acknowledged that many who initially disagreed with our policy on Afghanistan are now compelled to recognise its correctness and inevitability.

We were convinced that the previous regime in Afghanistan would not be able to maintain power due to several factors — its inability to establish full control over the country’s territory, its unwillingness to engage in dialogue with the opposition, its lack of intent to form an inclusive government, and widespread corruption that permeated all levels of the former administration.   

The current leadership has managed to stabilise the situation in Afghanistan and redirect its resources toward infrastructure development, including airports, domestic railway networks, and water and energy facilities, as well as toward reducing opium cultivation.

According to UN data, following the Taliban’s 2023 ban on drug sales, opium cultivation in Afghanistan has decreased by 95%. Efforts are also being made to support rural communities and promote alternative agriculture to build a future for Afghanistan free from opium dependency.   

In today’s context, Afghanistan should be viewed through the lens of emerging strategic opportunities. It is critically important to integrate Afghanistan into global economic processes, including through the implementation of infrastructure projects on its territory. 

In this context, we are ready to work together with the European Union and other international partners to jointly promote a positive agenda and initiatives that will help Afghanistan not only to overcome the current crises  but also to develop in the long term. The primary task at this stage, in our view, is to continue to provide assistance to Afghanistan in the field of education. 

I am convinced that stabilising the situation in Afghanistan and its reconstruction are in the common interests of the Central Asian countries and the European Union. 

EURONEWS: How can Central Asia and the EU jointly address climate threats and what are the opportunities for partnership? 

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: Climate change is a challenge that can no longer be ignored. Central Asia faces droughts, glacier melt, and water shortages, while Europe is experiencing extreme heat, wildfires, and ecosystem changes.

As one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change, Central Asia recognises its responsibility and is ready to work with Europe on long-term solutions.   

A key priority for us is advancing the green agenda in Central Asia. At the upcoming Samarkand Summit, we plan to present the Regional Green Development Concept, which aims to lay a solid foundation for effective regional partnerships in sustainable natural resource management and the adoption of green technologies.   

We propose developing a Green Partnership between the EU and Central Asia, where we can join efforts to finance projects on renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, and digital climate monitoring.   

Water conservation is another critical area where we see significant opportunities for partnership with the European Union, from modernising irrigation infrastructure to joint glacier monitoring and the introduction of advanced water-saving technologies. We also look forward to expanding cooperation with the EU, including through the adoption of European best practices in public-private partnerships.   

Ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation are also key priorities. We have already launched the Green Belt of Central Asia – a large-scale afforestation program aimed at restoring degraded lands, including in the Aral Sea region. We see great potential for collaboration with the EU in this field.   

Additionally, we are committed to improving environmental education and advancing scientific research. Last year, we established the region’s first Green University, which can serve as an effective platform for joint research and the implementation of innovative solutions.  

EURONEWS: Could you please share your expectations of the upcoming meeting at the highest level? What results would you like to see at the summit’s end? 

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: The upcoming summit will be truly historic as it will bring together for the first time the leaders of the five Central Asian countries and the EU in one place.  

We expect that the upcoming summit will be an important milestone in the development of relations between Central Asia and the EU. In recent years, our interaction has reached a qualitatively new level. 

We are counting on the deepening of political dialogue and the development of new mechanisms of interaction, which will make our cooperation more systematic and oriented towards long-term goals.

An important item on the agenda will be the discussion of interregional cooperation, especially in such areas as economy, trade, energy and transportation. 

One of the key results of the summit will be the signing of the Samarkand Declaration, which will reflect the common aspiration of the parties to establish a strategic partnership.  

This declaration will not only consolidate the agreements reached,  but will also lay the foundation for deepening ties between our regions. We hope to reach concrete agreements on expanding investment cooperation, implementing joint infrastructure projects, supporting innovation and digital solutions.  

Of course, many questions will be answered following the results of the summit. However, we can already say that this meeting will be a step towards creating a sustainable, mutually beneficial partnership between the European Union and Central Asia, based on common interests, trust and the desire for joint development. 

EURONEWS: If you had an opportunity to send one message to the European leaders and their citizens, what would it be?  

SHAVKAT MIRZIYOYEV: I would like to take this opportunity to address our European partners. 

Central Asia is open for dialogue and increased interaction. We advocate constructive cooperation based on the principles of mutual benefit and trust in the interests of sustainable development and improving the well-being of our people. 

We highly appreciate the European Union’s support for our aspirations for the region’s openness, prosperity and strengthening of its subjectivity. It is particularly important that the EU shares our goal of transforming Central Asia into a united and dynamic region, ready for open and equal partnership with all stakeholders. 

The upcoming summit will be an important milestone in our relations. We are convinced that the outcomes of the meeting in Samarkand will open up new prospects for further cooperation. 

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The Head of our state was presented information on the progress in implementing highway construction projects.

The total length of highways in Uzbekistan is more than 184 thousand kilometers. According to estimates, 25 percent of roads of international importance in the country are operated with high load. For example, the “Tashkent-Samarkand” highway, designed for 32 thousand vehicles per day, now serves 45 thousand vehicles, and the travel time takes up to 6 hours. By 2030, it is expected that the traffic intensity may exceed 80 thousand vehicles per day.

In the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated October 10, 2023, the prospects of creating modern highways are defined. The main goal is to create convenient conditions for the population, strengthen transportation and logistics links in the national economy.

According to the document, work is underway to build alternative highways from Tashkent to Samarkand and Andijan. In particular, the “Tashkent – Andijan” road project has been developed with the participation of the World Bank. In January this year, an international tender for its construction was announced. In a short period of time, more than 30 leading foreign companies have already shown interest in the project.

The length of the high-speed road will be 314 kilometers. Its commissioning will reduce travel time between Tashkent and Andijan from 5 to 3 hours, increase gross domestic product by 2.6 percent and reduce the number of road accidents by 40 percent.

Another major project is the construction of an additional road connecting Tashkent and Samarkand. A feasibility study of the project has been prepared with the participation of foreign specialists. The new highway with a length of about 300 kilometers will also reduce the travel time between the two cities from 5 to 3 hours and significantly reduce congestion on the existing highway.

In general, the new highways will be modern, convenient and compliant with all current requirements. Various toll services for drivers and passengers will be organized along them.

Domestic construction companies will also be widely involved in the construction process.

The Minister of transport presented the progress of implementing these projects. Measures on acceleration of geodetic works, preparation of sites for construction, attraction of investments and contractors were discussed.

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On March 25 an Iftar ceremony was organized throughout all regions of the country. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev took part in Iftar held in Tashkent.

In the beginning of the event the Head of State again congratulated the people and the entire Muslim ummah on the holy month of Ramadan.

– In this blessed month, we are happy to spend the ceremony of iftarlik (evening meal in the days of Muslim fasting) together with our people on our fertile land, for which we endlessly thank Allah the Merciful, – said the President.

The noble idea “For the sake of man, for the sake of his happiness” is becoming the bedrock of all public policy. Freedom of conscience and the rights of citizens are reliably protected, which is particularly evident during the holy month of Ramadan. The noble values, such as harmony, kindness and support, patience, endurance, morality, decency, the pursuit of science, are more strengthened in our society.

Special attention is paid to a thorough study of the humanistic meaning of Islam, collection and popularization of the rich heritage of the prominent thinkers. In particular, the Center of Islamic Civilization is being built in Tashkent – a major scientific and spiritual project, which will reflect the achievements of the Islamic world in the sphere of science, education and culture. This center will inspire youth for new discoveries.

Also construction of the Imam Bukhari complex continues in Samarkand – a great hadith scholar. Along with a museum and scientific institutions, a mosque with a capacity of up to 10 thousand worshippers is being built. It’s planned to open the two majestic structures already this year.

In accordance with the decree of the President dated March 14 this year it’s planned to widely commemorate the 1155th anniversary of Imam Maturidi. His tomb site in Samarkand will be improved, the scientific legacy and the teachings of Maturidism will be studied together with foreign scholars.

In order to strengthen inter-ethnic and inter-confessional harmony, the International Forum “Dialogue of Declarations” will be held in September in Tashkent and Samarkand. It will be a unique platform for interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

In accordance with the Constitution, Uzbekistan is a social state implementing a humane and people-centered policy. Only last year, 16 trillion soums worth of material assistance and benefits were allocated. More than 51 thousand children from families in need were placed in kindergartens, 176 thousand people received medical assistance, 182 thousand – social services. 

Through the “Kindness and Support” fund 94 thousand low-income families received assistance worth more than 130 billion soums for treatment, food, clothing and utility bills.

Under the “Women’s notebook” 3.5 million women received assistance for 5.7 trillion soums. In the framework of the “Youth notebook”, 1.3 million young people in need received social assistance worth 1.7 trillion soums. 

Moreover, at the initiative of our pilgrims material assistance worth 6.3 billion soums was provided to low-income and bereaved families.

Creating green zones, planting trees is also a good deed. The nationwide project “Yashil Makon” serves this purpose. This spring, representatives of the clergy planted more than 10 thousand trees and about 32 thousand flowers, and landscaped the areas around mosques and places of pilgrimage.

In the framework of the State program in the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy ecological initiatives are expanded. Recently, at the Interfaith Council held in Khiva, representatives of the religious confessions adopted an appeal calling for active participation in the implementation of the program.

At the current Iftar ambassadors of the foreign countries, representatives of international organizations and religious confessions attended, which became yet another confirmation of the atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect in our country.

In his address, President also touched upon the world situation, expressing regret that most of the contradictions and conflicts are unfortunately taking place in the Islamic world. He underlined that in the conditions of growing threats, the unity and harmony of the Islamic ummah is more urgent than ever. 

Special attention, according to the Head of State, should be paid to protecting youth from alien ideas, and upbringing in the spirit of knowledge and enlightenment. The president quoted the precept of Bahauddin Nakshband: “Let your hands be in labor and Allah in your heart”, underlining the importance of educating young people in the spirit of hard work and professional self-realization. 

These days under the slogan “Ramadan – the month of generosity, unity and benevolence” Iftars are organized in 9.5 thousand mahallas of the country for low-income families, they are provided with assistance. Such good deeds contribute to elevating human value and strengthening unity among the compatriots. 

– As our great ancestor Alisher Navoi wrote: “The deed of the good is to do good”. It is due to goodness and good deeds that life on earth continues and is illuminated with light, – stated Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Surahs from the Quran were recited and prayers were offered to the Almighty that peace, prosperity and kindness would always reign in our country and in the whole world.

Representatives of the older generation, intellectuals, representatives of various religions and confessions, people with disabilities and low-income citizens, about 60 thousand people took part in the Iftar events held in all regions of the country.