Today, during a meeting with journalists, Azizbek Urunov, Special Representative of the President of Uzbekistan on WTO issues, answered questions from a correspondent of Dunyo Information Agency:

-How does WTO membership align with the “Uzbekistan - 2030” strategy?

-It fully aligns with it. Uzbekistan’s accession process to the World Trade Organization effectively began in the early days of the large-scale reforms launched under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017. In the initial years, the primary focus was placed on urgent and systemic economic reforms.

These included the liberalization of currency policy, a comprehensive revision of foreign trade policy and a significant reduction and simplification of import tariffs, which helped strengthen competition in the economy and the domestic market.

The active phase of WTO accession negotiations began in 2020. Prior to that, over a period of three to four years, the country deliberately prepared its economy and regulatory framework to meet WTO requirements. A frequently asked question is why the accession process has taken so long, given that Uzbekistan submitted its application back in 1994. Meaningful progress only began after 2020, as before that time the economy and its regulatory mechanisms objectively did not meet WTO standards.

Before 2016, foreign trade was subject to strict regulation. For example, there was a practice of approving a limited list of enterprises authorized to export, particularly in the agricultural sector. The main participants in foreign economic activity were state structures and foreign trade companies affiliated with sectoral ministries.

However, WTO principles are based on equal conditions for all market participants and non-discriminatory access to foreign trade activities. That is why, as part of the reforms, foreign trade policy was comprehensively revised and liberalized. Today, any enterprise has the right to engage in foreign economic activity.

This was not merely an issue of currency convertibility, but rather a set of comprehensive reforms of the entire foreign trade regulatory system, including the elimination of exclusive rights held by state enterprises and the creation of a competitive environment.

I believe it is no secret that the WTO accession process is under the personal oversight of the President of the country. Over the past two to three years, a qualitative breakthrough has been achieved and today Uzbekistan is at the final stage of the negotiation process.

– What long-term national interests does Uzbekistan aim to protect through its accession to the WTO?

As a developing country, Uzbekistan, in accordance with WTO agreements, retains the right to protect certain sectors of the economy in the event of specific difficulties. At the same time, it is important to remember that the fundamental goals of the WTO are to improve the welfare of the population, create jobs and ensure sustainable economic development for member countries.

From a strategic perspective, WTO membership serves two key objectives for Uzbekistan.

The first is exports. Without an active export policy and integration into global value chains, achieving long-term and sustainable economic growth is virtually impossible. Relying solely on the domestic market has inherent limitations. As the domestic market becomes saturated, growth potential diminishes and further development is only possible through expanding presence in foreign markets.

The second objective is investment, primarily quality investment. It is important not only to attract capital but also to ensure its technological, institutional and managerial value. WTO membership sends an international signal that the country’s economy operates under transparent, predictable and investor-friendly rules.

This creates additional conditions for the development of industry and the service sector. Today, about half of Uzbekistan’s GDP is generated by the services sector, indicating its enormous potential for further growth.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s geographic location offers significant opportunities. The country is surrounded by dynamically developing markets such as China, the European Union, the Middle East, and India. The active economic development of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and other countries generates steady demand for agricultural and industrial products as well as services. This creates favorable conditions for integrating Uzbekistan into global value chains.

– Is it already possible today - at least approximately, in monetary terms - to estimate the total benefit to Uzbek businesses from the removal of tariff regulations within the framework of Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization?

– Ten years ago, Uzbekistan’s GDP was around USD 50 billion. By the end of 2025, it had reached approximately USD 147 billion.

Whereas an increase of, say, 5 billion dollars used to represent about 10 percent of GDP, today it accounts for only around 3 percent. Therefore, it is more important to talk not about absolute figures, but about the additional momentum for economic growth.

According to World Bank estimates, WTO membership could provide an additional GDP growth of roughly 17 percent over the next 5–7 years. In the longer term, international studies indicate that developing countries that are WTO members typically achieve an extra 1–1.5 percent GDP growth per year compared with non-member states.

Even a 1 percent additional growth per year, accumulated over 5, 10, or 15 years, can significantly transform a country’s economy.

– What specific instruments and legal mechanisms of WTO rules will work to protect the interests of Uzbekistan and its businesses?

– First and foremost, this concerns the protection of export interests. Today, there are often situations where partners are willing to purchase our raw materials but react negatively to shipments of processed products with high added value. In such cases, discriminatory measures aimed at limiting our exports may be applied.

WTO membership will allow Uzbekistan to challenge such actions in Geneva through the dispute settlement mechanisms and on a bilateral basis, relying on the universal principles of the WTO. This provides protection against unilateral and unjustified trade restrictions.

On the domestic market, the key instruments will be so-called trade remedies - anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard measures. Currently, draft laws regulating these mechanisms are being developed in Uzbekistan.

The WTO provides developing countries with a longer time frame for applying protective measures: up to eight years and under special conditions - up to ten years. These instruments allow temporary protection for industries under pressure from imports, provided there is evidence of serious economic harm.

Anti-dumping measures are particularly important. Dumping is usually used to push competitors out of the market, followed by the establishment of monopoly prices. WTO legislation allows countries to effectively counteract such practices.

Alongside legislative development, Uzbekistan is preparing national specialists with the support of international experts. Their task is to ensure the competent and professional application of these mechanisms in practice, in the interests of fair competition and the protection of national businesses.

Dunyo IA

Tashkent

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Under the auspices of UNESCO, the “Sharq Taronalari” XIII International Music Festival will be held from August 26 to 30 in the ancient and unique city of Samarkand, known as “The Pearl of the Earth.”
“Sharq Taronalari” is considered one of the largest festivals in Central Asia. The main objectives of the festival are to promote the achievements in national music art to the wider public, to preserve and develop the cultures and traditions of nations, to support talented youth in the fields of music and singing, and to expand international creative ties while promoting the ideals of peace, friendship, and mutual tolerance.
Established in 1997 and held for the first time, the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival welcomed musical groups and performers from 31 countries; by 2019, the number of participating countries had increased to 75 during the XII “Sharq Taronalari” festival.
The XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari”, scheduled for August 26-30, 2024, is expected to be attended by more than 300 representatives from about (As of August 1, 62 countries have expressed their desire to participate in the festival, and applications for participation in the festival continue to arrive these days) 70 countries.
As of today, “Sharq Taronalari” has taken its place among the famous festivals not only in Central Asia but on a global scale. This is vividly evidenced by the increasing number of participants and the countries expressing desire to participate each year, alongside the growing level of the program’s quality.
The following program is planned for the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari”:
On August 26, a solemn opening ceremony of the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari” will be held in the city of Samarkand.
On August 27-28, an International Scientific and Practical Conference on the theme “Music Culture of Eastern Peoples: Principles of Creative Convergence in the Processes of Globalization” is scheduled, expecting the participation of musicologists, scientists from research centers, professors and teachers from musical higher education institutions, and researching doctoral and master’s students.
From August 27-29 (at 7:00 PM), a competition will be held among the participants of the XIII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari,” where the performances will be evaluated by an International Jury in two directions:
Professional (classical) level of folk music and song;
Music and song created by modern composers.
For reference. (Order No. 354 of April 25, 2019, on the approval of the regulations for the holding of the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival (lex.uz))
To evaluate the performances of the competition contestants, an International Jury consisting of no less than seven members will be formed by the Organizing Committee.
The Jury will include highly qualified foreign and local musicologists, renowned artists, composers, and representatives from organizations of international art festivals in foreign countries.
During the evaluation process, the national identity of the songs, the harmony and meaning of the lyrics, the level of the performer’s skills, cultural attire, and stage movement will be the main criteria for the competition.
For the performance, a live ensemble of no more than 12 musicians will be allowed to participate.
The performances of the competition participants will be evaluated by the International Jury in two directions:
Professional (classical) level of folk music and song;
Music and song genres created by modern composers.
Winners of the competition will be awarded diplomas, statuettes, and cash prizes in the following amounts by the Organizing Committee:
“Grand Prix” — 10,000 US dollars;
1st place (in each genre) 2 x 5,000 — 10,000 US dollars;
2nd place (in each genre) 2 x 3,500 — 7,000 US dollars;
3rd place (in each genre) 3 x 2,000 — 6,000 US dollars;
The “Grand Prix” will not be awarded if no worthy candidate is found according to the decision of the International Jury.
According to the decision of the International Jury, only the “Grand Prix” prize will not be shared; the cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places may be shared.
Participants who took part in the competition but did not win will receive a diploma of participation in the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Winners of the competition must participate in the concert program of the solemn closing ceremony of the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Participants who have won the competition (laureates) cannot participate in this competition in the following years but may be invited to the festival as honored guests. Participants who participated in the competition and did not place are entitled to participate in the next competition.
Participants recognized by the organizers, creative unions, foundations, and independent jury members and fans will be awarded special diplomas and cash prizes of 500 US dollars in categories such as “Youngest Participant,” “Best Participant Recognized by Fans,” “Best Instrumental Music Performer,” and other nominations.
Each participant of the festival will receive a certificate of active participation in the “Sharq Taronalari” International Music Festival.
Note: Participants who have won the competition (laureates) cannot participate in this competition in the following years but may be invited to the festival as honored guests. Participants who participated in the competition and did not place are entitled to participate in the next competition.
On August 30, the solemn closing ceremony of the “Sharq Taronalari” XIII International Music Festival will take place in Samarkand, where the winners will be announced and awarded.

List of winners (festivals I and XII) at the “Sharq taronalari” International Music Festival from 1997 to 2019List of award winners at the “Sharq taronalari” I International Music Festival.

1997 Position held Full name Country Awards
(US)
Gran pri Simara Imanova Azerbaijan 10.000
1-place Munojat Yo'lchiyeva Uzbekistan 5000
Shannu Khurana India 5000
2-place Se Liin China 3500
Shahrom Noziriy Iran 3500
3-place Aleksandr Samojikov Russia 2000
B.Ganbat Mongolia 2000
Ramazan Stamgaziyev Kazakhstan 2000
Special Jury Prize Turkmenistan music group "Neksiya" automobile
Egyptian national music ansam
UNESCO trophy
Afganistan music group
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” II international music festival. 1999
Gran pri Nasiba Sattorova Uzbekistan 10.000
1-place Muhammad Omon Saudi Arabia 7000
Yun Kong Son Korea 7000
2-place “Lashari” ensemble Georgia 5000
Jaspinder Narula Xonim India 5000
3-place Olim Boboyev Tajikistan 2000
Ustod Ali Hamidxon Pakistan 2000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” III International Music Festival. 2001
Gran pri - - -
1-place Alim Gasimov Azerbaijon 7000
Sohibjon Niyozov Uzbekiston 7000
Abdunabi Ibrohimov Uzbekiston 7000
2-place “Lashari” ensemble Georgia 5000
Madkhushri Ramsonder Badaltjavhariy India 5000
3-place Milliy musiqa ensemble Greece 3000
Nohide Tokguz Turkey 3000
Special Jury Prize "Altay" group Russia 1000
"Музыканты" group Kyrgyzstan 1000
Festival organizing committee trophy "Angan al-Shabab" group Egypt Maxsus mukofot
List of awards at the "Sharq taronalari" IV International Music Festival. 2003
Gran pri "Uranhay” ensemble Russia (Tuva Republik) 10.000
1-place Dilnura Mirzaqulova Uzbekiston 7000
Fozil Jamshidiy Iran 7000
2-place Ozoda Ashurova Tajikistan 5000
Zabit Nabizade Azerbaijan 5000
3-place Milliy musiqiy ensemble Afganistan 3000
An'anaviy musiqiy ensemble Bangladesh 3000
UNESCO trophy Abduhoshim Ismoilov Uzbekiston 1000
Musiqiy ensemble India 1000
Roman Kehman Israil 1000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” V International Music Festival. 2005
Gran pri - - -
1-place Aygun Biylar Azeribajan 7000
Nodira Pirmatova Uzbekiston 7000
2-place "Viulan" group Italy 5000
Kuwait Academy of music string instrument ensemble Kuwait 5000
Urna Chahar Tuhchi Mongolia 5000
3-place Korean music group South Korea 3000
Shilpakala Academy musical group Bangladesh 3000
"Nazaret" Orchestra Israil 3000
Special Jury Prize National Brass Band Egypt 2000
UNESCO Special Prize musical group led by Hanif Nabizoda Afganistan 1500
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” VI international music festival. 2007
Gran pri Kuwait Music Institute group Kuwait 10.000
1-place South Korean music institute group South Kora 7000
2-place "An-Nil " national musical instrument group Egypt 5000
Music group Italy 5000
3-place "Ratang" group Keniya 3000
"Seri Maharani Gazal" group Malasia 3000
China National Youth Center Group China 3000
YUNESKO sovrini Youngest participant Arzu Aliyeva Azerbaijan 2000
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” VII international music festival. 2009
Gran pri Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Lale Begnazarova Turkmenistan 10.000
1-place Gochag Askerov Azerbaijan 7000
People's artist of Uzbekistan Matluba Dadaboyeva and ensemble of folk instruments Uzbekistan 7000
2-place "Vinalog" rok-pop group South Korea 5000
"Shem Tov Levi" ensemble Israil 5000
3-place Ensemble of folk instruments of the State Institute of musical arts Kuwait 3000
Laura Molika Italy 3000
Special Jury Prize "Kunsu" opera artists China
"Borte" group Mongolia
"Big Mountain" group US
Musiqiy group India
"Shilpakala" national ensemble of the Academy of music Bangladesh
List of recipients at the “Sharq taronalari” VIII international music festival. 2011
Gran pri "Park Jong-Vuk va Park Jonguk" South Korea 10.000
1-place "Dunhuang nude vords" China 7000
"Aysva" Lithuania 7000
2-place "Lider" musiqiy group Russia 5000
"Sato" musiqiy group Uzbekistan 5000
"Ovoi mehriboni" music group Iran 5000
3-place "Talilema" Madagascar 3000
"Chvenburebi" Georgia 3000
"Galkinish" group Turkmenistan 3000
UNESCO Special Prize Ilyos Arabov Uzbekistan
Jivan Gasparyan Armenia
Nazeket Teymurova Azerbayijan
For his contribution to the development of National Music "Huk Mongol" Mongolia
"Dror" Israil
"Yorqin ijrolar"
"Varsi brazers" India
Fan recognition "Hidden Dragen" Japan
Samarkand City Hall Award Afghanistan Institute of Arts team
Registan award of Samarkand regional government Xurshed Ibragimov Tajikistan
Special Jury Award "Bogʻ aro" Uzbekistan
List of awards at the “Sharq taronalari” IX International Music Festival. 2013
Gran pri Rashmiya Agarval India 10.000
1-place "Sadoi Pamir" group Afganistan 7000
"Lanaya" group Burkina Faso 7000
2-place "Pentan" group Great Britain 5000
"Sarihyun Gayageum Byungchangdan" group Republic Of Korea 5000
National opera and drama theatre team China 5000
3-place Abror Zufarov Uzbekistan 3000
"Chikuyusha" group Japan 3000
Catch-pop String-strong Austria 3000
Special award winners Sanam Marvi Pakistan
Galit Giat Israil
Taul Triini Estonia
Nadi Singapura Singapore
Salomat Ayapov Karakalpakstan
Sedar Hills US
"Sharq taronalari" List of awards at the X international music festival. 2015 < BR >
Gran pri "Jiangsu" women's orchestra China 10.000
1-place "Shamisenʼ group Japan 7000
2-place Chelm Poland 5000
Silver Sepp Estonia 5000
3-place "Quelite" Costa Rica 3000
UNESCO Special Prize "Ayqulash yulduzlari" Uzbekistan 1500
Samarkand City Hall Award Didgori Georgia
Samarkand regional government award "EVA" ensemble Bulgaria
Special Jury Award Afrikan voice JAR
Festival Direction award" Sharq taronalari Birjan Baziljanov Kazakhstan
Ministry of culture and Sports Award "Sedaa" Mongolia
Special awards Pung Ryu Republic Of Korea
Lingua Franca ansambli Greece, Cyprus
"Baxshi" trio Turkmenistan
"Laus Nova" group Italy
Yulduz Turdiyeva Uzbekistan
"Buta" team Azerbaijon
Ucell Communications special award Modern Maori Quartet New Zenland
List of awards at “Sharq taronalari” XI international music festival.
Gran pri Sohib Poshazoda Azerbaijan 10.000
1-place Mohichehra Shomurodova Uzbekistan 7000
"Keosong"people's artistic collective South Korea 7000
2-place Kyrgyz artistic team Kyrgyzstan 5000
Litwa artistic team Litwa 5000
3-place "Nagesh" artistic team Iran 3000
Indonesia artistic team Indonesi 3000
Turkish artistic team Turkey 3000
List of recipients at the “Sharq taronalari” XII International Music Festival.
Gran pri Mehrinigor Abdurashidova Uzbekistan 10.000
1-place "Qomuzchilar" duet Kyrgyzstan 5000
Parviz Gasimov Azerbaijon 5000
2-place "Archabil" group Turkmenistan 3500
"Xatan" group Mongolia 3500
3-place "Ayarxan" group Russia 2000
"Badaxshon" group Tajikistan 2000
Azizjon Abduazimov Uzbekistan 2000
Ulugʻbek Elmurodzoda Uzbekistan 2000

Note: The Ministry of Culture https://t.me/madaniyatvazirligi you can get more information on the official Telegram page based on the hashtag #Sharq_taronalari

On November 29, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev convened a meeting dedicated to identifying additional opportunities, increasing investments and jobs in Bukhara region.

Previously, the economy of this region was mainly linked to agriculture. However, over the past seven years, the region has attracted more than $4 billion investments, enabling development of such industries as energy, electrical engineering, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles and leather. In the past period of the current year, 1.5 million foreign tourists visited Bukhara.

The visit of the Head of State to the region on May 31-June 1 gave a new impetus to its development. All the tasks outlined during the visit will be fully accomplished by the end of the year.

At the same time, it is important to ensure further growth of economic indicators in 2025, increase employment and well-being of the population. To this end, the working group studied additional opportunities of the region and factors hindering entrepreneurship development.

The critical meeting emphasized that the region's economic performance does not correspond to its potential. Work on investment absorption, poverty and unemployment reduction was recognized as unsatisfactory.

In this regard, the hokims, their deputies and sector heads will be put on emergency duty for a period of six months. The entire focus will be on improving these three areas. Special attention will be paid to implementing 70 driver projects based on the experience of Saikhunobad, Uychi, Zarbdar and Gijduvan. They will provide income to 150 thousand people and lift 40 thousand people out of poverty.

As it was mentioned, each district of the region can be specialized for a certain industry. For example, Peshku and Shafirkan - for production of construction materials and textiles, Kagan city, Alat and Jondor districts - for food industry, Gijduvan and Romitan - for chemical industry. This will make it possible to implement projects of entrepreneurs worth $150 million, create 411 small enterprises and provide 12 thousand jobs.

Four textile factories are planned to be built in Vabkent, Karakul, Jondor and Alat at a total cost of $320 million. This will double the volume of finished knitwear and textile products and create 5,000 jobs.

Next year, the number of foreign tourists is expected to reach 2.2 million and tourism exports are expected to reach $600 million. This will be supported by opening 69 new hotels and 2 thousand handicraft stores.

It is planned to develop additional 20 thousand hectares of land, which will allow to grow additional 100 thousand tons of agricultural products and provide employment for 2 thousand people. Trees and food crops will be planted on vacant homestead land, along canals and field edges.

Another opportunity is pastures. In Bukhara region their area exceeds 2 million hectares. As part of the decisions made at a recent meeting on horticultural development, it is planned to grow pistachios on unused pastures.

Hokim of Bukhara region presented plans to utilize these opportunities. In general, next year 106 projects will be implemented, 105 thousand permanent jobs will be created, exports will be increased by $350 million due to foreign investments worth $2 billion.

The Head of State pointed out the insufficiency of these plans and instructed to intensify efforts and improve results. He tasked to revise the proposals again and draft a relevant resolution.
 

Today, as global climate changes are observed, the population is growing, and industrial sectors are rapidly developing, the value of water resources is increasing not only in the Central Asian region but also worldwide.

According to the data, over the past 30 years, the air temperature in our region has increased by one and a half degrees, as a result of which about a third of the centuries-old glaciers in the highlands have melted, and the volume of water in rivers and streams has decreased slightly.

If current climate trends continue, in the next twenty years, the flow of the two large rivers, Amu Darya and Syr Darya, may decrease by 15%. This would result in a 25 percent reduction in per capita water availability and agricultural crop yields.

These are not just numbers, but indicators related to the fate and well-being of the people living in the region.

According to scientists, by 2040 in some areas of Central Asia, the need for water resources will triple. Over time, economic damage could reach 11% of the region's gross domestic product. The United Nations (UN) warns that countries in the region are currently losing up to US$2 billion a year due to water scarcity and inefficient use. Therefore, if appropriate measures are not taken now, it is inevitable that the countries in our region will face dire consequences of water shortages.

Under the leadership of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, special attention is being paid to the comprehensive development of the water management sector in our republic, the rational use of existing water resources, including the widespread introduction of digital and water-saving irrigation technologies, and remarkable results are being achieved in this regard.

In his speech at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly on September 19, 2023, the leader of Uzbekistan emphasized the issue of water resource shortages in Central Asia, supported the establishment of the position of the UN Secretary General's Special Representative on Water Resources, and proposed creating a platform for water-saving technologies in Central Asia. In the process of using the "United Nations-Water Resources" mechanism, he emphasized his support for attracting and implementing the most advanced technologies.

This means that Uzbekistan will take the initiative in creating a platform for water-saving technologies in Central Asia, while also seeking to involve the international community in the process.

For more than 30 years since its establishment, the International Fund for Saving the Aral has become the most important platform for regional cooperation in the fields of water management and ecology. In the face of new risks and threats arising because of global climate change, the role and importance of the fund are increasing.

On September 15, 2023, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward the initiative to develop and implement new, agreed-upon decisions for the long-term perspective within the framework of this structure at the meeting of the Council of Heads of the Founding States of the International Fund for Saving the Aral held in Dushanbe. Reflecting the spirit of today, he emphasized the need to further improve the fund's legal framework and modernize its institutional mechanisms.

It should be noted that in the country’s domestic policy over the past seven years, at the initiative of the President, large-scale reforms in the water sector have been implemented. To manage state policy in the field of water management, a separate Ministry of Water Resources was created and the Concept for the development of the industry for the period until 2030 was approved.

As a logical continuation of these reforms and to solve systemic problems at the middle and upper levels of the water management system, on May 7, 2024, the President of Uzbekistan signed the decree "On Setting Priorities for the Introduction and Development of a Modern Management System in Water Resources." According to this document, the activity of the Ministry of Water Resources was divided into three parts, setting up a vertical management system. At the upper level is the management of the state water policy, the regulator; the middle level is engaged in the operation and construction of water management facilities and the introduction of business processes into the sector; and the lower-level handles supplying water directly to consumers.

In the middle stage, an agency for the exploitation of water resource facilities is being set up that operates as an independent legal entity. The agency includes the Ministry of Water Resources of the Republic of Karakalpakhstan and regional irrigation systems basin departments, main canals, water reservoirs, and pumping station utilization departments, as well as land-improvement expeditions.

The department for the implementation of water management projects participates as a customer in projects funded by the budget and foreign investments. The decree envisages a 22% increase in the salary of middle- and high-level employees working in the ministry system, starting on July 1, 2024, and a 60% increase starting in 2025. It should be mentioned that starting in January 2024, the salary of lower-level employees has been doubled, and several incentive mechanisms are being used.

As a result of the accurate calculation of available water resources, special attention is paid to the introduction of water-saving technologies, resulting in abundant and high-quality harvests from agricultural crops. Nevertheless, the prevention of water scarcity remains one of the most important directions for Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan is a country with a large water infrastructure in the Central Asian region; the total irrigated cropland exceeds 4.3 million hectares.

As one of the five priority directions of the "Uzbekistan-2030" strategy, which defines the goals of sustainable development of the country, the task of saving water resources and environmental protection is emphasized, placing great responsibility on water management employees.

To reduce water losses in irrigation networks, the year 2024 was announced as a "breakthrough year for concreting canals" in the water industry at the initiative of the President. For this purpose, 5,000 kilometers of irrigation networks, of which 1,500 kilometers are main and inter-farm and 3,500 kilometers are internal, have been concreted this year. To date, 525 kilometers of canals have been reconstructed, of which 355 kilometers have been concreted. The length of canals concreted by clusters and farms has exceeded 13,500 kilometers.

In recent years, the areas covered by water-saving technologies in the country have reached 1.3 million hectares. Of this, drip irrigation accounts for 478,000 hectares, sprinkler irrigation for 55,000 hectares, and discrete method irrigation for 29,000 hectares. Over 700,000 hectares have been leveled using laser leveling equipment.

Work on the introduction of water-saving technologies, which started in previous years, is being continued consistently. This year alone, it is planned to introduce cost-effective technologies on 500,000 hectares of land and to fully cover all irrigated farming areas in the country with such technologies by 2030.

All possibilities and resources are being used for this. Today, the number of local enterprises producing equipment and components for water-saving technologies in Uzbekistan has reached 55, with plans to increase this number in the future.

In recent years, 11,446 "Smart Water" devices, online water level monitoring meters in 1,704 pumping units, and online monitoring of seepage water levels have been installed in 6,746 reclamation monitoring wells. To manage water resources from one point without human intervention, the management processes of 65 large water management facilities were automated.

It is planned to save 8 billion cubic meters of water in 2024 through the concreting of channels, the introduction of water-saving technologies, the digitization of the industry, the implementation of "smart" devices, and effective water management.

It should be noted that 60 percent of the irrigated cropland in the country is supplied with water through pumps. There are more than 1,600 pumping stations in the Ministry's system, and due to their modernization, installation of modern energy-saving devices, and the introduction of public-private partnerships, electricity consumption has been reduced by 1.5 billion kWh in the last seven years.

In the coming years, the total cost of the water industry will be $6.0 trillion. Agreements for 463 public-private partnership projects worth significant amounts in soums were signed. In 2023, all water management facilities in five districts and 300 pumping stations across the republic will be transferred to the private sector.

This transfer increases work efficiency, saves up to 30% on electricity at pumping stations, and reduces salary deductions by 13%.

The "Irrigators' School" was launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Water Resources, the "Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers," the National Research University, and "Agrobank." Highly qualified specialists from abroad are organizing one-week-long free training courses for designers, contractors, managers of farms, and cluster enterprises from all districts of the republic.

In short, life itself proves that the only solution to mitigate the water shortage in our region is to save water and use it wisely.

Press service of the Ministry of Water Resources
of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Президент Шавкат Мирзиёев начал свою поездку в Республику Каракалпакстан с ознакомления с промышленным потенциалом региона.

Совместное предприятие “Nukus Eleсtroapparat” было введено в строй в 2017 году, оно производит силовое оборудование для электросетей. В июне текущего года здесь был запущен проект по изготовлению солнечных панелей стоимостью более 10 миллионов долларов. Оборудование было доставлено и установлено из Республики Корея. Производственный процесс полностью автоматизирован. Годовая мощность проекта составляет 273 тысячи единиц.

Это будет способствовать дальнейшему внедрению альтернативной энергетики в нашей стране. На сегодняшний день в различных сооружениях и домах установлены солнечные панели общей мощностью 600 мегаватт. Этот процесс продолжается.

Наряду с локализацией востребованной на внутреннем рынке продукции совместное предприятие получило возможность экспортировать продукцию на 4 миллиона долларов. Обеспечено работой 70 человек.

Глава нашего государства ознакомился с технологическим процессом, побеседовал с работниками. Ответственным лицам даны указания по увеличению количества таких предприятий и производству ими продукции с высоким спросом на рынке.

Здесь же была представлена продукция, производимая предприятиями отрасли.

На самом заводе установлены солнечные панели мощностью 125 киловатт. Полученная электроэнергия используется для внутренних нужд, а излишки реализуются в региональную электросеть.

За последние годы в нашей стране за счет инвестиций в размере 2 миллиардов долларов введены в эксплуатацию 10 солнечных и ветряных станций общей мощностью 2,6 гигаватта. Также ведется работа по 32 "зеленым" проектам мощностью 18,6 гигаватта общей стоимостью 19 миллиардов долларов. В целом к 2030 году намечено довести долю возобновляемых источников энергии в энергетическом балансе до 40 процентов.

On 23 September this year, a regular meeting of the Central Election Commission was held to discuss the accreditation of observers from abroad and from international organizations, as well as the organization of the activities of the Instant Information Center.

The interest of foreign countries and international organizations in the elections to the representative bodies of state power, which will be held this year in accordance with the updated electoral legislation, is extremely high.

In particular, it is expected that more than 1,000 international and foreign observers will participate in observing the elections, particularly about 400 from 50 countries, about 500 from 21 international organizations such as the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Organization of Turkic States and another 60 from the election commissions of 26 foreign countries.

It should be noted that the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe intends to participate in the observation of the elections in Uzbekistan with a comprehensive mission consisting of a core group, long-term and short-term observers, about 350 observers in total.

The great interest of foreign states and international organizations in the elections in Uzbekistan testifies to the international community's recognition of the democratic reforms being carried out in our country.

Accordingly, it was decided at the Central Election Commission meeting to accredit observers from international organizations who will participate in the elections to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and the local Councils (Kengashes), and some observers from international organizations such as the Commonwealth of Independent States, the CIS Inter-parliamentary Assembly and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe were accredited.

As of today, foreign and international organizations wishing to accredit observers can log into the “E-Saylov” information system in their country and enter data electronically in a specific format and submit it for review.

Another notable aspect of this process is that new samples of mandates of accredited foreign observers are automatically generated electronically through this system.

Also at the meeting of the Central Election Commission, the relevant decision was taken on the establishment of the Instant Information Center – “Call Center” - and the approval of its statutes. The “Call Center” will receive citizens' complaints centrally and provide them with legal explanations and consultations in real time.

The main objectives of the “Call Center” are to establish a dialog with citizens in real time during the election campaign, to provide the population with complete and reliable information on the activities of the commissions, the stages of the electoral process, to create the necessary conditions for the unconditional realization of citizens' rights to vote and appeal, and to strengthen their awareness of electoral legislation and processes.

Central Election Commission Press Service

The declaration of independence and the commitment of the Government of Uzbekistan to the ideals of democracy, the choice of a secular path of development of society have gradually made it possible to create equal legal conditions for the existence of religions in general and religious groups in particular.

In the religious sphere, this large-scale work is carried out by the relevant state bodies and civil society institutions and is aimed at ensuring citizens' constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of conscience; strengthening religious pluralism, tolerance and interfaith dialogue.

One of the significant results of joint work is the adoption in December 2018 by the UN General Assembly of a special resolution "Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance".

The adoption of the resolution was a practical implementation of the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, put forward at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly. The main goal of the proposed resolution is "to ensure universal access to education, the elimination of illiteracy and ignorance."

It is noteworthy that the resolution was not only unanimously supported by all UN member states, but also adopted with the co-authorship of over 50 countries. This testifies to the high recognition by the international community of the relevance and timeliness of the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan.

In recent years, significant changes have taken place in Uzbekistan and large-scale reforms have been implemented in many areas, including in the religious and educational sphere.

A number of legislative acts have been adopted aimed at further improving activities in the religious sphere.

In order to deepen the study of Islam and teach its scientific foundations, the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan was created. The Academy specializes in teaching secular and religious knowledge, training qualified personnel in the interpretation of the Koran, Islamic law, religious dogmas and hadiths.

In Uzbekistan, unique mechanisms are used to revive national and religious values, study and promote the rich scientific and spiritual heritage of great ancestors, and strengthen religious tolerance in society. The activities of the Center for Islamic Civilization, international research centers of Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, Imam Maturidi, Bahauddin Naqshbandi have been established.

As a result of large-scale reforms and transformations carried out in the religious sphere, the Higher Madrasah Mir Arab in Bukhara, the School of Hadith Studies in Samarkand, the Madrasah of Imam Termizi and the Islamic Institute named after Imam Termizi in Termez began their activities.

In addition, the Charitable Public Fund "Vakf" was established under the Office of Muslims of Uzbekistan, whose tasks include financing work on the reconstruction of mosques, holy places of pilgrimage and visits, other objects, providing material and technical support and providing material support to employees in this field. The Fund received the opportunity to dispose of funds coming to 3 accounts: charitable, vakf and zakat (ushr, fidya, fitr).

In accordance with the adopted legislative acts, in order to further improve the activities of the Committee on Religious Affairs, a new composition of the Council for Religious Affairs has been approved, which is a public advisory body under the Committee.

The activities of the Council are inextricably linked with ensuring freedom of religion in the country, respecting the rights of religious organizations and believers. The initiatives of the members of the Council are fully implemented within the framework of measures taken by the country's leadership in the field of protecting and further strengthening the rights and freedoms of religious movements.

The significance and timeliness of the measures taken by the country's leadership served as the basis for holding the international forum "Dialogue of Declarations" in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara on May 16-20, 2022. This event was part of the systematic and consistent efforts of Uzbekistan to practically implement the principles and provisions enshrined in the Special Resolution of the UN General Assembly "Enlightenment and Religious Tolerance", adopted in 2018 on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

It is especially worth noting that at the past 76th session of the UN General Assembly, the "Bukhara Declaration" adopted following the results of this forum was recognized as an official UN document. As an official UN document, the document has been translated into 6 languages and distributed among the UN member states, as well as specialized agencies of the organization.

The second round of the international forum will be held on September 10-13, 2025 with the assistance of several NGOs from the USA. The participants of the event also visited Samarkand, where they got acquainted with the activities of the reconstructed complex of Imam Bukhari.

Uzbekistan has special dates that are closely related to the religious life of believers: these are "Day of Friendship of Peoples", celebrated on July 30, and "International Day of Tolerance", celebrated on November 16. Both of these dates are marked not only by holding events, but also by awarding the corresponding badges - the badge "Khalklar dustligi" ("Friendship of Peoples") has been awarded since 2021, and the badge "Diniy bagrikenklik" ("Religious Tolerance") began to be awarded to distinguished citizens since 2023. Among the awardees are representatives of various religious denominations of Uzbekistan.

At the same time, Uzbekistan attaches great importance to the preservation of religious and spiritual heritage, the enrichment of existing funds, the creation of necessary conditions for local and foreign researchers to work with historical sources, and the comprehensive study of historical and cultural heritage.

Today, in the country, in order to ensure interethnic and interfaith harmony in society, a legislative framework has been created that provides for the observance of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens.

The Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan enshrines the norm on freedom of religion for every person. Attention is also paid to improving and liberalizing national legislation in the field of religion. The procedures for obtaining permission for the production, import and distribution of religious literature have been simplified. The procedure for state registration of religious organizations has been further optimized.

Currently, the new Law "On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations" is in force, which contributes to ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens of the country to freedom of conscience and religion.

Noting the fundamental innovations in the Law as a consistent continuation of large-scale reforms in the religious and educational sphere, special attention should be paid, first of all, to the creation of favorable conditions for ensuring freedom of conscience for every person, and clarifying law enforcement practice.

Currently, 2373 religious organizations of 16 religious denominations operate in Uzbekistan. Of these, Muslim organizations - 2174, which is 92 percent of the total number.

There are also 181 Christian organizations, 8 Jewish communities, 7 Baha'i communities, one Krishna society and one Buddhist temple, as well as the interfaith Biblical Society of Uzbekistan operating in Uzbekistan.

Recently, 134 religious organizations have been registered in Uzbekistan, including 3 higher and one secondary specialized Islamic educational institutions in Bukhara, Samarkand and Termez, 105 mosques and 25 non-Islamic organizations of 7 different religious denominations.

At the same time, the national legislation of Uzbekistan does not provide for any restrictions on the number of religious organizations or the terms of their registration.

Religious organizations operating in the republic, along with other public organizations, actively participate in spiritual and educational work, make a significant contribution to improving the spirituality of society, and forming strong beliefs in young people based on patriotism, as well as interfaith and interethnic tolerance.

It should be noted that religious policy in Uzbekistan is based on the principles of the secular nature of the state, religious tolerance and equal treatment of all religions. In the republic, representatives of various nations and ethnic groups professing Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism and other religions carry out their activities on equal terms.

All conditions have been created for adherents of each denomination, allowing them to freely and unhindered practice their religion.

Believers freely pray in mosques, churches, synagogues, observe fasting, and also make pilgrimages. Religious organizations have the right to own territory, publish literature, train their religious ministers, and organize pilgrimages to holy places.

The freedom of religion guaranteed by the national legislation of Uzbekistan has created all the necessary conditions for meeting the religious needs of all citizens - representatives of 136 national and ethnic groups.

Representatives of different faiths freely celebrate all religious holidays. Thus, from year to year, Kurban-Hayit and Ramadan-Hayit are celebrated on an increasingly large scale among Muslims, Easter and Christmas - among Christians, Pesach, Purim and Hanukkah - among Jews, Navruz - among Baha'is, as well as celebrations dedicated to Buddha and Krishna and other major events.

Believers make pilgrimages to holy places: Muslims to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj and Umrah rituals, Christians - to Russia, Greece and Israel, Jews - to Israel.

Over the years of independence, more than 484 thousand Muslims have made pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia, including 188 thousand - Hajj and 296 thousand - Umrah, more than 3.2 thousand Christians and Jews have visited religious shrines in Israel, Russia, Turkey, Italy, Georgia, Greece.

To meet the spiritual needs of society, a large number of religious literature of various orientations is published annually. To fully cover the religious life of Uzbekistan, a number of newspapers and magazines are published, including the newspapers "Islom nuri", "Slovo zhizni", the magazines "Khidoyat", "Vostok svyshe".

Today, in Uzbekistan, on a systematic basis, a set of measures is being carried out to protect the population from the negative influence of destructive ideas that reflect radical extremist ideology and religious fanaticism.

An important step in this direction was the application of acts of pardon. In particular, since 2017, 29 decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan have been adopted on pardoning persons who have committed crimes.

It should be noted that in recent years, within the framework of the consistent policy pursued in Uzbekistan in the field of protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens, special attention is paid to measures aimed at protecting the rights, freedoms, honor and dignity not only of citizens residing in the republic, but also of our compatriots who find themselves in difficult life situations in foreign countries.

Unfortunately, some of our citizens, who have fallen under the influence of alien ideas, believing false promises, in different years joined the ranks of international terrorist organizations in armed conflict zones abroad. Spouses, fathers of some women returned as part of humanitarian operations, died in the course of armed clashes.

Given this circumstance, on the instructions of the President of Uzbekistan, five humanitarian actions "Mehr" were successfully carried out in 2019-2021, within the framework of which more than 500 citizens of the republic, mainly women and children, were returned to their homeland from the zones of armed conflicts in the Middle East and in Afghanistan.

In order to further assist in their speedy reintegration and rehabilitation, a set of measures has been implemented at the state level to provide timely medical, psychological, material and moral assistance. To date, all returnees have been provided with the necessary conditions for their adaptation to peaceful life and integration into society, access to educational and other social programs has been provided, including through the provision of housing and employment.

In general, it is worth noting that an important distinguishing feature of the religious life of modern Uzbekistan is the inadmissibility of establishing advantages or restrictions for one religion in relation to other denominations.

One of the main priorities of reforming society in order to ensure interethnic harmony and religious tolerance is to ensure and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens, their equality before the law regardless of race, gender, nationality, language, social origin, beliefs, religion, personal and social status, which are enshrined in the Constitution of Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan consistently and steadily fulfills its international obligations in the field of ensuring religious freedoms within the framework of international human rights treaties.

As is known, Uzbekistan has acceded to more than 70 major international human rights instruments. Accession to these documents contributed to the creation of an effective human rights protection system in Uzbekistan.

It is important that Uzbekistan's policy in the field of religion, aimed at strengthening interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance in society, is an important factor of stability and security.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the large-scale reforms being carried out in the country are a clear confirmation of the consistent continuation by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of the implementation of the principle "Everything in the name of man, in the name of his future."

Committee on Religious Affairs

Introduction: The Significance of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s participation in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly

The participation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this September held profound political and historic significance not only for our country but for the entire region. Speaking from this prestigious platform, which gathers heads of state from across the globe, Uzbekistan raised critical issues including sustainable development, combating climate change, ensuring food security, and the efficient management of water resources.

Through his address at the United Nations, a premier global institution, our President further solidified Uzbekistan’s international standing and reputation as a proactive and responsible state. Notably, by showcasing the ecological and innovative initiatives being implemented in the Aral Sea region, Uzbekistan demonstrated its openness to global cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Another significant aspect of this participation is the integration of Uzbekistan’s international environmental initiatives into the global political agenda, highlighting the Aral Sea region as an open platform for advancing climate technologies.

During the visit, the initiatives concerning the Aral Sea region received significant attention from the international community.

During his address at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, our President paid special attention to the environmental disaster in the Aral Sea region and the ongoing initiatives aimed at mitigating its consequences. This issue has garnered significant focus from the international community, reaffirming that the Aral Sea crisis is recognized not only as a regional challenge but also as a global environmental concern.

Uzbekistan’s initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a hub of sustainable development and innovation has received strong support from international partners. In particular, significant opportunities were highlighted for implementing joint projects in areas such as green energy, water-saving technologies, ecotourism, and the restoration of biodiversity.

Thus, the raising of the Aral Sea issue on the prestigious platform of the United Nations during the visit served as a significant political and practical foundation for strengthening global cooperation and attracting increased attention from international donors and organizations.

Transforming the Aral Sea region into a hub for global climate technologies.

The challenges arising from the desiccation of the Aral Sea serve as a profound lesson for the entire world. In response, Uzbekistan aims to transform the Aral Sea region into a “global laboratory” by implementing advanced practices in green energy, water-saving technologies, biodiversity restoration, and climate change adaptation.

Such an approach not only addresses regional challenges but also offers an effective model for the international community. The projects being implemented in the Aral Sea region can subsequently serve as a replicable framework for other areas facing the impacts of climate change.

On May 18, 2021, during the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, our President put forward the initiative to designate the Aral Sea region as a hub for ecological innovations and technologies. This proposal received enthusiastic support from the United Nations and the international community, and was unanimously adopted by all member states during the General Assembly plenary session. This resolution underscores Uzbekistan’s consistent and steadfast commitment to addressing the Aral Sea crisis and mitigating associated risks through a principled and effective approach.

The Aral disaster and its lessons for humanity.

The Aral Sea disaster is recognized worldwide as one of the greatest environmental catastrophes in human history. Once the fourth-largest lake in the world by surface area, the Aral Sea has almost completely dried up over the past half-century. This tragic development has dealt a severe blow to the regional climate, biodiversity, public health, and economy.

The drying up of the Aral Sea stands as a vivid example of human intervention that was not in harmony with nature. Excessive and inefficient use of water in irrigation, coupled with ineffective irrigation systems and planning errors, led to this major environmental disaster.

This tragedy underscored the necessity for humanity to use natural resources efficiently and wisely, highlighting the importance of developing water supply and agriculture solely based on sustainable technologies. At the same time, it clearly demonstrated that ensuring environmental security requires global solidarity and close international cooperation.

The imperative of sustainable development in the region.

The Aral Sea region today represents one of the most critical challenges for environmental, social, and economic sustainability in Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian region. The limitations of natural resources, issues related to water supply, ongoing desertification processes, and declining living standards underscore the urgent need to implement a comprehensive sustainable development strategy in this area.

The necessity for sustainable development in the Aral Sea region is grounded in several key factors. Primarily, environmental security remains a pressing concern: frequent dust storms, soil degradation, and the loss of biodiversity pose direct threats to public health and the quality of life. Additionally, economic considerations are paramount, as the modernization of agriculture — the main source of income for the local population — requires the adoption of water-saving and innovative technologies.

Ensuring social sustainability requires a comprehensive set of measures aimed at creating new employment opportunities, increasing household incomes, and mitigating the risks of environmental migration. Furthermore, given that the challenges in the Aral Sea region transcend regional boundaries and hold global significance, addressing them necessitates reliance on international cooperation and partnership.

Opportunities of the Aral Sea region as an international innovation hub and platform for cooperation.

It is widely recognized that Uzbekistan has undertaken extensive and positive national efforts to combat the adverse environmental and public health impacts caused by the drying up of the Aral Sea. Since the early years of independence, the population of the White Aral Sea region has consistently felt the substantial support of the Uzbek government. The Government of Uzbekistan remains committed to paying continuous attention to the social welfare of the communities residing in the Aral Sea area.

Today, the Aral Sea region serves as an international innovation hub, playing a crucial role in promoting sustainable development in an area severely affected by ecological crisis. Through scientific, innovative, and practical projects, the center actively advances comprehensive work in key sectors including environmental protection, water resource management, agricultural technologies, energy, climate adaptation, and international cooperation.

In order to enhance the activities of the Center and further develop ecological and innovative technologies in the Aral Sea region, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center was transferred under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in accordance with Presidential Decree No. PQ-171 dated May 31, 2023.

In accordance with Presidential Decree No. PQ-5202 dated July 29, 2021, a modern laboratory, business accelerator training center, and technopark building, valued at 12.4 billion Uzbek soms, were completed and commissioned in 2024 within the Center’s premises. The laboratory is equipped with a plant seed gene bank and serves as a crucial scientific and innovative platform for preserving biodiversity in the region, protecting both native and introduced species, and achieving high efficiency in agricultural practices.

Currently, efforts are underway to commence full-scale operations at the facility, enrich the gene bank with an extensive seed collection, organize scientific research, and enhance the expertise of local specialists. This initiative not only supports sustainable agricultural development in Uzbekistan but also plays a crucial role in ensuring food security amid climate change and advancing international scientific cooperation across the entire Central Asian region.

Over the past period, the Center has established effective cooperation with a range of international and local organizations, as well as research institutes, in conducting scientific research and implementing projects. In particular, agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed with over 70 foreign and domestic entities. Currently, 20 scientific-practical and innovative projects with a total value of 23.9 billion Uzbek soms are being carried out. These projects encompass alternative green energy, aquaculture, intensive horticulture, medicinal plant cultivation, resource-saving technologies, and social programs.

The Center’s activities are primarily focused on improving the living standards of the population, introducing and developing salt- and drought-tolerant crops, and implementing resource-efficient technologies. At the same time, it carries out scientific-practical and innovative initiatives aimed at restoring ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and enhancing the quality of life in collaboration with leading international organizations. Among these partners are the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA, UAE), the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (China), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and other prestigious institutions.

The “Samanbay” (24.3 hectares) scientific-production site in Nukus district and the “Moynoq” (106 hectares) site in Moynoq district serve as the primary experimental and testing bases of the Center. At these sites, experimental research and monitoring activities are being conducted in cooperation with foreign and local organizations. Additionally, the Center hosts joint laboratories established in partnership with international collaborators, as well as its own in vitro, soil, water, and plant biotechnology laboratories. These infrastructures support the deepening of scientific research carried out in the experimental fields and enhance the effectiveness of ongoing studies.

Each of the ongoing projects is aimed at creating long-term solutions for the Aral Sea region. Thanks to its innovative approach and international cooperation, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center is gradually becoming the primary platform in Central Asia for scientific research, technological development, and sustainable development.

In its future plans, the Aral Sea International Innovation Center aims to ensure environmental sustainability by implementing innovative eco-technologies, including desertification control measures and smart agriculture solutions.

Simultaneously, to strengthen scientific research activities, plans have been made to establish modern laboratories, a business accelerator, a training center, a technopark, experimental sites, and data analysis centers.

The Center aims to implement large-scale joint projects by further expanding cooperation with international organizations. Additionally, one of the Center’s priority directions is developing programs focused on fostering innovative ideas, creating startups, and enhancing professional skills for farmers, entrepreneurs, local communities, youth, and women.

Conclusion

The Strategic significance of the initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a global hub for climate technologies.

The initiative to transform the Aral Sea region into a global hub for climate technologies holds strategic significance not only on a regional scale but also worldwide. Its core essence lies in ensuring environmental sustainability, conserving water resources, mitigating desertification processes, and restoring biodiversity.

At the same time, the introduction of solar and wind energy, modern irrigation systems, and innovative technologies will open broad avenues for the development of a green economy in the region. This initiative will strengthen cooperation with international organizations such as the United Nations and the Green Climate Fund, creating new employment opportunities for the local population and enhancing overall prosperity.

Most importantly, the Aral Sea region’s experience will serve as an effective model in addressing climate change and water resource challenges on a global scale in the future.

Director of the Aral Sea International Innovation Centre under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

B.S.Khabibullaev

Today, civil society institutions, particularly non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs), play an active role in Uzbekistan's development and the implementation of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy. It is impossible to build a new Uzbekistan without organizing the activities of NGOs, the most important institution of civil society, according to democratic principles. On this basis, effective work is being done to support NGOs and civil society institutions, strengthen social partnerships with state bodies, implement effective public oversight, and improve the legal framework governing this area.

As a result of the measures implemented, the legal and regulatory framework has been improved to provide legal guarantees for NGOs while also meeting modern democratic requirements and international standards. The laws "On non-governmental non-profit organizations," "On guarantees for the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations," and "On public oversight," as well as the Presidential Decree "On approval of the civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025" and a number of Governmental decrees, have all been adopted.

The civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025 aims to increase state support for civil society institutions in the form of subsidies, grants, and social orders by 1.8 times, as well as increase the volume of allocated funds to 70 billion soums by 2025.

A number of goals, objectives, and indicators related to the further development of civil society are set out in conceptually significant documents such as the Strategy for Action, the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, and the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy. Upon that basis, it is worth noting that the State programmes adopted annually include provisions for further strengthening the activities of civil society institutions and NGOs.

The chapter titled "Civil society institutions" and the term itself were included for the first time in the new version of the Constitution adopted through a referendum in 2023.

It should be mentioned that the President of Uzbekistan prioritizes civil society institutions and NGOs in his publications, speeches, and reports. Shavkat Mirziyoyev's book titled "Strategy of New Uzbekistan" includes a separate paragraph titled "Free and Open Civil Society" and it includes comments on priority areas for civil society development as well as proposals for implementing a number of tasks based on a thorough examination of relevant national legislation, law enforcement practice, and best foreign experience.

According to the figures, there were only 95 NGOs operating in the country on January 1, 1991; by January 1, 2000, there were 2,585, by January 1, 2016, there were 8,417, and by January 1, 2024, there were over 9,000. These NGOs are critical in protecting individuals' and legal entities' rights and legitimate interests, as well as democratic values and the achievement of social, cultural, and educational objectives. 

It is also important to note the dynamic growth of support and financial sustainability provided by NGOs. In particular, 513.8 billion soums were allocated from the state budget to support 2,074 NGOs and other civil society institutions between 2017 and 2023. If 12.3 billion soums were allocated in 2017, the figure was 226.4 billion in 2023. It is planned to allocate 1.8 trillion soums in 2024.

Furthermore, the scope of state support for civil society institutions has been broadened, and public funds to support civil society institutions have been established through the local Councils (Kengash) of People's Deputies. The legal basis for allocating funds from the local budget to support civil society institutions in the regions has been strengthened, and social projects are funded through these channels.

It should be acknowledged that favourable conditions are one of the most important factors in the effective operation of non-governmental organizations. In 14 regions of our republic, "Houses of non-governmental non-profit organizations" have been established, housing approximately 500 NGOs and providing them with the necessary office equipment, furniture, items, equipment, and other tools. As a result, the NGOs' problems with the building were resolved, and their socially beneficial activities were resumed. In particular, newly established NGOs carrying out their activities in socially significant spheres were accommodated in these buildings under the right of free use.

To regularly improve the knowledge and skills of NGOs' managers based on the best foreign experience, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan organizes training courses on a special 72-hour training programme. To date, 367 NGO leaders and managers have attended advanced training courses. These advanced training courses are expected to train 134 NGO managers by 2024.

It should be noted that NGOs express proposals and initiatives to improve State programs and legislation in their field, as well as carry out public control measures over the implementation of Regional socioeconomic development programmes and State programmes.

As mentioned above, the 83rd goal of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy prioritizes the expansion of free civil society and media activities, transforming Uzbekistan into a hub for civil society development. It specifically highlights the tasks of increasing the number of projects implemented within the framework of social partnership by at least threefold and increasing the number of NGOs participating in government programs to at least 80.

To summarize, civil society institutions and NGOs are genuine supporters of state bodies and organizations in the process of reforms, sociopolitical and socioeconomic changes, achievement of strategic goals, and serving as a social bridge between society and government.

Anvarjon Mirkomilov,

Head of Department,

Development Strategy Center

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed the law "On Recognition of Rights to Unauthorized Land Plots and Buildings and Structures Constructed on Them".

Many citizens of our country have been waiting for the resolution of this issue, which concerns the lives of millions of families. According to preliminary data, there are currently more than 3 million 600 thousand land plots, the legal documents for which are not formalized or incomplete.

In this regard, the head of state at a video conference call on land registration and cadastre held on November 21, 2023, noted the need for a legal solution to this issue. Accordingly, a draft law was developed with the participation of specialists in the sphere and deputies. The positive experience of Italy, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic and other countries was taken into account. The draft was finalized and considered in the chambers of the Oliy Majlis.

The law consists of 6 chapters and 35 articles, which recognize rights to the following land plots and property:

1) land plots unauthorizedly seized by citizens before May 1, 2018 through the construction of individual housing, and buildings and structures built on them;

2) land plots occupied by citizens and organizations before May 1, 2018 in excess of the area specified in the document, as well as buildings and structures built on them;

3) land plots, the recognition of rights to which within the framework of the "one-time action" has not been completed, as well as buildings and structures constructed on them;

4) land plots allocated by decision of the regional (city) khokim until June 8, 2021, but not approved by the regional khokim or the Kengash of People's Deputies;

5) residential premises on the territory of horticultural and vine-growing associations and the land plot occupied by them;

6) land plots of entrepreneurs located in small industrial zones before March 9, 2020;

7) land plots occupied by buildings and houses privatized by state warrant;

8) land plots occupied by buildings and houses for which the ownership right has been recognized by the decision of the hokim.

The law also clearly defines the main conditions for recognizing rights. For example, the land plot should not be allocated to other persons or put up for auction; there should be no dispute over the land plot; there should be no contradiction with the general plan.

Recognition of rights is carried out step by step by region. Approval of information and documents concerning unauthorized land plots and buildings and structures built on them is carried out through the automated information system of the Cadastre Agency. The relevant information is also entered into this system by 15 authorized organizations.

Completeness and legality of the collected documents are checked by the regional justice department. The results will be announced on the website of the Cadastre Agency and in makhalla corners. Citizens who have received a positive conclusion will be sent an SMS-message, on the basis of which a one-time payment will be made. After that, the rights will be recognized quarterly by the decision of the regional Kengash of People's Deputies.

The bodies of prosecutor's office, internal affairs, agro-inspection, ecology, cadastre establish state control over the implementation of the law. The law also pays special attention to public control. Thus, public groups will be created in each mahalla by decision of district councils of people's deputies. These groups will include a deputy of the district council elected from the district where the mahalla is located, the chairman of the mahalla and active citizens.

A one-time payment is charged for the recognition of rights to land plots under residential houses, privatized or buildings and structures recognized on the right of ownership. The amount of the payment is 5 basic calculation units in the city of Tashkent, 3 BRV in the city of Nukus and regional centers, 2 BRV in cities and 1 BRV in other settlements. Persons included in the Unified Register of Social Protection and persons with disabilities are given a discount.

The one-time payment is directed to cover the costs of the cadastre and justice bodies and the Uzbekcosmos Agency. The remaining funds will be directed to the activities of the initiative budget, i.e. to the mahallas.

The law will come into force in 3 months, before that explanatory and preparatory work will be carried out on the ground. The law will be in force until January 1, 2028.

It should be noted that in the Republic of Karakalpakstan work in this direction has already begun. The Decree of the President of Uzbekistan of July 28, 2023 allowed to recognize the rights to undocumented residential houses and land plots located in the region by the decision of Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

After that, working groups were established in all districts and cities to examine 43,432 houses built in the Republic of Karakalpakstan without title documents. The location, condition and time of construction of the houses were verified on the basis of an analysis of land records and space images.

Following a comprehensive discussion, ownership of 27,590 residential houses and the right to lease the land on which they are located were recognized.

The results of this noble policy have had a positive impact on the lives of more than 100,000 citizens living in 27,590 houses. They now have the right to legally register their housing, sell it to another person, and put family members on permanent registration. Also, owners will now be able to receive preferential loans for repairs or additional construction, and in case of seizure of housing for public needs to demand compensation in accordance with the law.

The law "On Recognition of Rights to Unauthorized Land Plots and Buildings and Structures Constructed on Them" will expand the scope of this noble work throughout the country. If we assume that each of more than 3 million 600 thousand land plots concerns on average 3-4 citizens or entrepreneurs, this law will solve the problems of more than 10 million people and create a legal basis for their future life.

In the modern system of international relations, stable and long-term cooperation between states is based, above all, on political will and trust at the highest level. Relations between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Turkey have consistently developed based on an open, sincere, and trusting dialogue established between the heads of state. This political trust creates a solid foundation for public diplomacy, including deepening fraternal ties between the cities.

In recent years, high-level meetings, regular political dialogue, and strategic agreements between the presidents of Uzbekistan and Turkey have elevated relations between the two countries to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Mutual trust and political support from the heads of state have resulted in concrete and practical results in trade, economic, investment, cultural, humanitarian, and educational spheres.

From this perspective, public diplomacy is becoming an important component of Uzbek-Turkish relations. It strengthens official interstate agreements at the public level and deepens trust and mutual understanding between peoples. Particularly between two fraternal nations with shared historical roots, a common language, and spiritual values, public diplomacy is a natural and indispensable process.

In this context, the Uzbekistan-Turkey Friendship Society functions as an important institutional platform for the development of public diplomacy. Cultural events, scientific and educational conferences, youth and women’s initiatives organized by the society contribute to strengthening mutual trust and friendship between the two peoples. This activity promotes public support for priority areas established at the level of heads of state.

At the same time, fraternal relations between cities are one of the most effective and practical forms of public diplomacy. Fraternal relations established between the cities of Uzbekistan and Turkey strengthen political trust at the local level and create a favorable environment for economic and cultural cooperation. The Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World participate in this process as important international structures coordinating and systematically developing relations between cities. 

Brother cities cooperation, which has historical significance in Uzbek-Turkish relations, includes ties between the cities as Bukhara – Izmir, Bukhara – Malatya, Samarkand – Sakarya, Tashkent – Ankara, and Khiva – Bolu. Cultural and humanitarian projects, educational and tourism programs, as well as investment initiatives implemented within the framework of this cooperation serve to achieve the strategic goals set by the leaders of the two countries at the local level.

It should be noted that cooperation between cities has not only cultural or economic significance but also an important political content. Trust and cooperation established at the local level ensure the stability and continuity of interstate relations. This demonstrates the significant role of public diplomacy in strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Turkey.

In conclusion, public diplomacy in Uzbek-Turkish relations is an important factor that builds on, complements, and strengthens the trusting political dialogue between the heads of state. Within the framework of the priority areas identified by the heads of state, work carried out at the city level in cooperation with the Brother Cities Alliance and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World will contribute to the further strengthening of friendship, trust, and cooperation between the two fraternal peoples.

Zokir Abidov,

Chairman of the Brother Cities Alliance