Founder of BMB HOLDING: Supporting entrepreneurs in the process of building New Uzbekistan has become one of the main goals of the reforms of our Head of state

📅 21.08.2024

In recent years, systematic work has been carried out to create a continuous chain of comprehensive support for the development of entrepreneurship in our country. As a result of the measures implemented and important decisions made over the last seven years, a new generation of entrepreneurs of New Uzbekistan has emerged.
In particular, BMB HOLDING is one of the major subjects of private entrepreneurship, playing an important role in the economic life of our country, and gaining strong positions not only in the domestic, but also in the international market.
On the eve of the 33rd anniversary of independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Dunyo information agency talked to Bekzod Mamatkulov, the founder of BMB HOLDING.
– Mr. Mamatkulov, in recent years BMB HOLDING has gained a great reputation not only in Uzbekistan, but also among the international business community. Today, the Holding effectively works in the areas of providing consulting services on investment projects, developing international business and trade relations, attracting foreign investments, export-import exchange, introducing innovative technologies, creating modern agro-industrial clusters. We would like to start our conversation with the organization of the Holding and the history of its development.
– After his election as President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev put on the agenda of our state’s policy such important issues as increasing economic potential, attracting investments and, most importantly, supporting entrepreneurs to bring the country to a new stage of development.
In this sense, the opportunities created for entrepreneurs have radically changed my life goals and made me want to test my potential in business.
We generated our first income through services. Developing business plans and providing consulting services was our first source of income. Later we bought land in Arnasay district of Jizzak region to implement our agricultural projects. We planted mung beans and peas as secondary crops here. The first attempts were successful. The agricultural products we grew gave better results than we expected. For the first time we were able to export our crops abroad. In particular, we started selling agricultural products to Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Later, we had a plan to supply cotton and grain to the state on a contract basis, and we gradually expanded our financial capacity, making a profit from it.
In 2017, during the visit of the Head of state to Jizzakh region, our project to create a food cluster in Arnasay district was presented. At the meeting, the President emphasized that he would support us, like all businessmen, and expressed great confidence in us. Such attention and support of the President of the country gave us additional strength. After that, there was a desire to further expand our business activities, to test ourselves in new industries, to develop and implement joint projects with foreign partners.
In particular, in 2018, we were among the first to create the largest cotton cluster in the country. Thanks to the attention of the management and creation of favorable conditions for doing business, we created a cluster for growing medicinal plants, namely saffron. Later we organized a fruit and vegetable cluster. This big project, in turn, enabled us to set up a system of sorting, packing and deep processing of fruits and vegetables. Thus, having passed through various stages of business, our small project has now formed into BMB HOLDING. At present the Holding unites 30 enterprises. They employ more than six thousand people across the country.
– It is no secret that today the Holding realizes investment projects of international and national level. As an entrepreneur and a person who knows the business environment in foreign countries, how do you assess the investment environment in Uzbekistan? Are there aspects that do not satisfy you, are there factors that are obstacles for business?
– In the process of building New Uzbekistan, the creation of a favorable investment environment for entrepreneurs has become one of the main goals of the reforms of the Head of our state. The adoption by the President of Uzbekistan of a number of decrees and resolutions aimed at supporting entrepreneurs is yielding results today.
Improvement of tax legislation, creation of the possibility of free currency conversion, reforms in the sphere of private property and a number of other positive changes related to these spheres have played their important role, and entrepreneurs are now considered as the driving force of the country’s economy. In 2020-2022, despite the fact that the coronavirus pandemic worldwide had a large negative impact on the economies and the global investment environment, Uzbekistan’s economic growth rates remained stable and its investment attractiveness continued to grow.
The fact that the inflow of foreign investments into the country has increased significantly testifies to the confidence of international business in the economic reforms in our country. Active diversification of the economy is an important achievement that has opened new opportunities for investors in all sectors, starting with industry.
Now, if we talk about the factors that are obstacles for business, aspects that do not satisfy entrepreneurs, I will tell the truth openly: at the level of the government, reforms are being implemented very intensively, positive changes are taking place. But when you go to the lower level of the system, there are still cases of inattention and carelessness somewhere. I believe that such shortcomings will be eliminated.
– We know that BMB HOLDING is engaged in the production and export of a wide variety of agricultural products. In particular, the organization headed by you has achieved great success in saffron cultivation. Today saffron grown in Uzbekistan is becoming popular in many regions of the world. Tell me, when did you come up with the idea of establishing such a complex sphere as saffron cultivation in Uzbekistan and why did you choose this particular project?
– During President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visits to Kashkadarya region in 2017, the issue of cultivation of medicinal plants in mountainous and foothill regions, development of this sphere in our country and export of valuable medicinal plants to the world market was prioritized. The leader of our country also inquired why it is impossible to grow saffron in Uzbekistan despite all conditions, and gave a special instruction to develop this industry. During the President’s visit to Jizzakh region, we made a detailed presentation of our saffron cultivation project. Having familiarized himself with the project, the Head of state expressed his full support to it and instructed the responsible persons to implement the program as soon as possible.
However, it was not easy to realize this project at first. When implementing this business idea, first of all, we deeply studied the demand and supply in the domestic and foreign markets, opportunities and prospects for its implementation in the conditions of Uzbekistan, our own potential in this area, as well as a number of other factors. In 2020, we started to implement the project in pandemic conditions. At first, it took a lot of patience and hard work to find specialists, to bring saffron bulbs suitable for our climate from Europe and to get the desired harvest. In the first year we planted saffron bulbs on 55 hectares of land. The high demand for the harvest and the experience gained stimulated further development and expansion of the project. Today saffron is grown on 400 hectares of land. In the next three years, it is planned to increase the area of saffron plantations to 1,000 hectares and produce 20 tons of pure saffron products per year.
At the beginning of 2024, the product BMB Za’faron for the first time in our region received the USDA Organic certificate, an environmental certificate developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which allowed Uzbek saffron to enter the American markets. After several years of in-depth analytical research, Uzbek saffron grown in the Bakhmal district received the appropriate permission to export to Chinese markets according to the conclusion of the Uzbek-Chinese interdepartmental commission.
– Indeed, a lot of experience in saffron cultivation has been accumulated in recent years. At the same time, what countries’ experience do you think should be studied and implemented in order to grow a competitive product that meets the requirements of international standards and markets?
– In agriculture, each product is grown using a specific method. Such countries as Italy, Austria, South Korea, USA, and Saudi Arabia have enough experience in saffron cultivation. Of course, we study the experience of countries with climatic conditions close to ours and exchange experience with industry experts. I can say that we have mobilized all possibilities to get more crops and export them abroad. The increase in exports, in turn, contributes to increasing the inflow of foreign currency into Uzbekistan and ensuring economic stability.
To bring our national products to the world market and increase their competitiveness, the most important factors are, first of all, quality, then price and, of course, matching production capacity to demand. We have taken these aspects into account in our work and projects, especially in saffron cultivation.
– In Uzbekistan, on the initiative of the Head of our state, an open dialog with entrepreneurs is held annually. Tell me, what impact do these efforts have on the activities of the Holding headed by you?
– It would not be an exaggeration to say that the adoption of a number of resolutions and decrees on creation of favorable business environment and healthy competition in our country, comprehensive support for entrepreneurs, further liberalization of tax policy have served to eliminate the problems that have arisen for many years and hindered the free activity of entrepreneurs.
Thanks to the political will of the President of Uzbekistan, the organizational and legal foundations for the development of the industry have been strengthened, and the attention to entrepreneurs has changed dramatically. Most importantly, all this has already started to yield positive results.
In addition, an open dialog between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and entrepreneurs has been established. In my opinion, there is no other country in the world that has such a format.
I can confidently say that the open communication of the Head of state with the business community, which has now become a tradition and is held annually, serves as an important factor in the formation of a new competitive class of entrepreneurs in New Uzbekistan.

I visit many countries for work. In particular, my friends-partners in Italy, Germany, the United States, Austria and other countries highly appreciate the annual dialog of the President of Uzbekistan with entrepreneurs. It is no secret that people look at us with envy when they see the personal attention of the Head of state to the development of business in our country. In fact, it is a great achievement for both sides — the President meets with businessmen, listens to their systemic problems, finds solutions and solves them. Therefore, today all businessmen are looking forward to meeting with the President. This meeting has also become an important forum for businessmen to assess their activities for the year and determine plans for the future. The speeches of our country’s leader at the meeting and important initiatives aimed at further development of the industry, removal of existing obstacles, provision of benefits to entrepreneurs serve as a program for further expansion of businessmen’s activities.
I would like to give an example based on my experience. Before dialoguing with the President, I note in my notebook the issues we face in our work. Listening to the President, I always get comprehensive answers to all my questions based on deep analysis.
– In August 2022, by the decree of the President of Uzbekistan, you were awarded the “Faol Tadbirkor” sign, and in 2023 — the “Dustlik” order. Recall those moments when your entrepreneurial activity was highly appreciated by the leadership of our country.
– Before answering, I have to say one thing. Before coming to business, I worked in state and public organizations for more than 15 years. I never received even a certificate of honor, let alone a state award. Today, the leader’s focus is on people who have sincerely worked for the development of our dear country — Uzbekistan. In recognition of our work, in 2022, I was awarded the “Faol Tadbirkor” sign. In 2023, I had the honor to receive the “Dustlik” Order from the esteemed President. These are not just awards given to me, they are recognition of the work of thousands of dedicated people working in the Holding’s system. Such a high appreciation gives our team more confidence and motivation, and gives us great strength to realize the goals we have set for ourselves.
– The direction of economic diplomacy is becoming increasingly important in attracting foreign investment to Uzbekistan, finding new partners and exporting national products abroad. In this regard, does the Holding, which you head, use the opportunities of diplomatic missions of our country in foreign countries? How satisfied are you with the work of our country's embassies in this direction?
– Frankly speaking, it used to be impossible to meet with diplomats. If you went abroad and wanted to meet with the Ambassador of our country, he would not accept businessmen. This is an open statement. The Ambassador only dealt with politics. Thanks very much to our President, he brought the diplomats’ attention to the economy as well. This, of course, has opened wonderful conditions and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Openness in this sphere, in turn, has become an important step for entrepreneurs in finding foreign partners and attracting investment.
Today, the diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan in foreign countries play a very important role in the activities of the Holding Company, and we feel their support at every stage of realization of our numerous projects. The introduction of the position of Advisor to the Ambassadors of Uzbekistan on economic issues has been very useful for us entrepreneurs. It should be noted that BMB HOLDING has established close relations of economic cooperation with embassies of foreign countries in Uzbekistan, in particular with diplomatic missions of Russia, China, USA and a number of European countries such as Poland, Austria and Latvia.
In a word, the role of diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan and foreign countries in our country is very important in effective realization of the company’s projects.
– Today BMB HOLDING operates in the field of cultivation and production of agricultural products. Our readers are also interested in the future plans of the Holding.
– Our plans for the near future are huge. In particular, the work on establishment of deep processing of agricultural and fruit and vegetable products, and the launching of textile factories in Syrdarya region is in full swing. We also want to implement projects in the field of medicine. Our first project in this direction will be the creation of a health center in Navoi region in 2025. Also, a chain of restaurants and hotels “Zafaron” will be launched in Tashkent city and Tashkent region.
Along with this, we plan to implement the project “Energy-efficient technologies and equipment for production, mining and processing of natural decorative stone” worth 50 million US dollars together with the organization Toksel Makina from Turkey.
– Our last question may be off-topic, but many people are also very interested in this area. We would like to ask about your projects in sports, especially in soccer. What are your goals in soccer and futsal? Also, please, provide information about BMB HOLDING brand ambassadors in the sphere of chess.
– This is an interesting question. BMB HOLDING considers the development of sports in our country, especially soccer and futsal, as one of the main directions of its activity. The Holding was one of the sponsors of Sogdiana soccer club in 2021 and Lokomotiv soccer club in 2022. Since 2023, our Holding has been one of the sponsors of the professional soccer league of Uzbekistan.
At the same time, the BMB PROFESSIONAL FUTSAL CLUB team started its activity in the system of the Holding. A number of famous local and Brazilian futsal players were invited to the team. For the last two years the team won the Cup of Uzbekistan and the Super Cup of Uzbekistan. Today the basis of our team is made up of futsal players playing in the national team of Uzbekistan on mini-football.
On June 30, on the occasion of Youth Day in Uzbekistan together with the Agency for Youth Affairs within the framework of the project of the brand ORRO ROSSO in Milan (this brand is currently the official partner of the Italian soccer club Milan and Monza) we organized a trip to our country of four famous former players of the soccer club Milan, world and European champions Dida, Sergino, Panucci and Zaccardo. I believe that the visit of famous soccer players to Uzbekistan has served to increase the interest and activity of our youth in sports.
As you know, the Futsal World Cup will be held in our country from September 14 to October 6 this year. BMB HOLDING as the main partner organization is preparing for this futsal holiday.
Besides, BMB HOLDING actively supports talented young chess players. Recognizing them as the face and ambassadors of the Holding, we call them brand ambassadors. In particular, FIDE Master of Sports Humoyun Bekmurodov won a silver medal at the X Chessable Sunway Sitges International Chess Festival 2023 held in Barcelona (Spain), and also won the Dubai Police Global Chess Challenge tournament held in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) on May 3-13 this year.
Another of our young chess players is Umida Omonova, a student of the International Chess School, world champion in blitz and rapid, FIDE Master of Sport, member of the Uzbekistan national team, holder of the state award named after Zulfiya, brand ambassador of BMB HOLDING. She also won the 18th round of the Uzbekistan Championship held in April this year.
Another thing is that BMB HOLDING mobilizes all its capabilities and potential in the direction of further prosperity of New Uzbekistan, which is being built under the leadership of the Head of state, improvement of welfare of our people and development of the Motherland.
- Thank you for taking the time to talk to us.
- Thank you.

Dunyo IA

Latvia and Lithuania held festive events in honor of the 33rd anniversary of our country's independence

📅 15.09.2024

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

On May 28-29, the Prime Minister of Italy will pay an official visit to Uzbekistan

📅 27.05.2025

President of Uzbekistan points to the need of enriching partnership with the UAE

📅 16.12.2024

The issues of further expansion of practical interaction and promotion of investment cooperation projects were discussed at the meeting between President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the delegation of the United Arab Emirates comprising Minister of Industry and Advanced Technologies Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber and Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Mohammed Al Mazroui.

At the beginning of the conversation, Sultan Al Jaber conveyed to the Head of our State sincere greetings and best wishes from the President of the Emirates Sheikh Mohamed Al Nahyan, Prime Minister of the country, Emir of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum and Vice President Sheikh Mansour Al Nahyan.

In the course of the meeting, the current highest level of Uzbek-Emirati multifaceted relations was noted with special satisfaction. The volumes of mutual trade turnover, the number of joint ventures and the frequency of flights are growing. The portfolio of ongoing and promising projects with the participation of leading Emirati companies in Uzbekistan reaches $20 billion.

Green energy is the driving force behind bilateral cooperation. Today, a 500 megawatt wind farm was commissioned in Navoi region, a project implemented by Masdar.

In general, in recent years with the participation of this company power generation facilities with total capacity of 1.5 gigawatts have been commissioned in our country.

Particular attention was paid to the early preparation and implementation of major investment projects in the energy, oil and gas and chemical industries, mining, water supply, household waste processing and other fields.

The importance of continuing productive contacts at all levels and careful preparation for the upcoming high-level events was noted.

Preliminary results of parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan announced

📅 28.10.2024

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

Members of the Uzbekistan national chess team

📅 24.09.2024

I cordially congratulate you on your worthy participation in the 45th World Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. You have opened another bright page in the history of Uzbek chess, taking the honorable third place among representatives of about 200 countries.

In very sharp and uncompromising chess duels, you, having demonstrated high intellectual potential, unwavering will and steadfastness, outperformed the teams of such countries as China, Serbia, Armenia, Germany, Azerbaijan, Slovenia, Spain, which is truly admirable.

By your example, we have seen that the youth of New Uzbekistan is capable of achieving truly high standards in competitions of mind and thinking, and this has filled our hearts with a sense of joy and pride.

The results achieved by Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Zhavohir Sindorov, Shamsiddin Vokhidov, Nodirbek Yokubboyev and Zhakhongir Vokhidov, who displayed outstanding intellectual abilities, are very valuable and dear to us.

It should be especially noted that Shamsiddin Vokhidov, having won a gold medal and Nodirbek Abdusattorov a silver medal in the board section, proved again what true masters of chess game they are.

Along with courageous and brave young men, our purposeful chess players such as Afruza Hamdamova, Nilufar Yokubboeva, Umida Omonova, Marjona Malikova, Nodira Nodirjonova, who directed all their strength and energy, skill and professionalism to worthily defend the honor of the Motherland, also took part in the competition.

It is undoubtedly noteworthy that they improved their results from the last Olympiad, taking the 12th place among the
170 countries. It is gratifying that our chess player Nodira Nodirjonova won the 2nd place in the board section and was awarded a silver medal. I sincerely congratulate them all, wish them to reach even higher milestones and take prizes at future competitions.

Undoubtedly, the tremendous success of our chess players is a practical result of the enormous attention paid to the youth in New Uzbekistan, the ongoing large-scale reforms to develop sports, including the most intellectual one - chess.

Undoubtedly, such bright achievements further unite our people on the way to noble goals, serve as a source of inspiration for thousands of young men and women.

Taking this opportunity, on behalf of all our people and on my own behalf I express my sincere gratitude to you, my dear ones, to your experienced mentors and coaches who made a great contribution to your success, to all members of the national team, to your parents who supported you and to all chess fans.

May you have good luck in conquering the highest peaks at the next World Chess Olympiad, which will be hosted by our native Uzbekistan for the first time in 2026!

I wish you all health, happiness and well-being, great success in your studies and subsequent activities. May your path to victory be steadfast, my dear ones!

The President signed into law a law affecting the lives of more than 10 million people

📅 07.08.2024

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.

Reforms in Uzbekistan are based on the principle “The stronger public control, the more humane, free and fair the state is”

📅 25.07.2024

The most important sign of civil society is manifested in the fact that citizens exercise complete control over the activities of state structures. According to article 36 of the new version of the Constitution of Uzbekistan, our citizens have the right to participate directly and through their representatives in the management of the affairs of society and the state. Such participation is carried out through self-government, referendums and the democratic formation of state bodies, as well as public control over the activities of state bodies. The procedure for exercising public control over the activities of state bodies is established by law.

In order to organize and regulate relations in the field of public control over the activities of state bodies and institutions, the law “On Public Control” was adopted on April 12, 2018. According to this law, public control is carried out in such forms as appeals and requests to state bodies, public discussions, public hearings, public monitoring, and the study is carried out by citizens' self-government bodies in such forms as hearing reports and information from officials of state bodies.

Consistent work is underway in our country to implement public control and improve the regulatory framework governing this area. By presidential decree dated May 4, 2018, the badge "For contribution to the development of civil society" was established; the decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated July 4, 2018 "On measures to organize the activities of public councils under state bodies" was of great importance for accelerating work in this area. This resolution establishes the procedure for organizing the main tasks, functions, powers and activities of the public council under state bodies, which basically provides that the public council is created by the decision of the head of the state body, carries out its work on a voluntary basis and it is assumed that it will conduct its work on a public basis, as well as be considered as a permanent advisory body whose decisions will be advisory in nature.

As Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, “There is no more effective tool for achieving the supremacy of the Constitution and the law than public control.” Public control is an important institution of democracy and people's power; it serves to ensure the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens by monitoring the activities of state bodies.

In recent years, special attention has been paid in our republic to ensuring the participation of citizens in the management of society and public affairs, the creation of effective mechanisms for public control over the activities of the executive branch, and further strengthening the functions of public control. In particular, at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, a public chamber was established in 2020 in order to further strengthen public control and establish close cooperation between the state and society. It was noted that the public chamber should regularly study the opinion of the population, set specific tasks for government agencies to find solutions. The importance of implementing such influential forms of control as "public hearings", "public monitoring", "public expertise", and "public initiative" was demonstrated.

According to the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On measures to expand financing of projects formed on the basis of public opinion", adopted on October 25, 2022, an additional 335 billion soums were allocated for the implementation of 364 projects, each of which received more than 2 thousand votes in July-September 2022.

In recent years of modern development in our republic, the system of public administration has been improved, effective mechanisms of dialogue with the people have been introduced, and the effectiveness of the role and activities of the Mahalla Institute in the management of society has increased. Virtual and public reception rooms of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan were created in order to ensure human interests, knowledge and solution of problems and needs of people. These structures have become a mechanism for in-depth analysis of problems on the ground and a criterion for increasing the responsibility of state bodies and officials to society and evaluating their activities.

To date, such systems as "online reception" and "virtual visit" have been introduced, allowing for quick and economical identification of problems on the ground in order to optimize their expenses related to the maintenance of the public administration apparatus, eliminate corruption factors and establish effective public control over budget spending.

As an example, it is worth mentioning that in recent years a new system of dialogue with the people has been created – the activities of the presidential virtual and people's reception rooms. Of the 9,465,000 applications received by the virtual reception of the President, about 9,379,000 have been considered, the rest are also being resolved in accordance with the procedure established by law. The results of the public discussion can also be found on the "portal for discussions of draft regulatory legal acts" (regulation.gov.uz), which is clearly seen in the example. To date, 25384 draft regulatory legal acts have been posted on this portal for public discussion, of which 25183 have already been completed.

In recent years, the study of public opinion has become publicly available. The Open Budget portal was launched to exercise public control over targeted budget expenditures. Citizens can send messages about violations of budget legislation through the Portal, suggestions for improving the budget process, while receiving information such as the state budget, budget execution through this portal. In particular, an initiative budget has been launched through the Open Budget information portal, which is held 2 times a year. Thanks to this portal, citizens are focused on solving problems through joint voting. In the first season (February) 2024, 35,575 initiatives were supported, for which 3,390.5 billion soums were allocated.

Establishing the accountability of public authorities to parliament and local councils, as well as the introduction of the Electronic Government system, led to a further strengthening of public control. As a result, today in our country there is a single interactive portal of public services (my.gov.uz), an open data portal (data.egov.uz), a portal for discussing draft regulatory documents (regulation.gov.uz), and a complex of information systems “License" (license.gov.uz), information system for automating the activities of Single Window centers (birdarcha.uz).

Since 2023, in order to improve the system for identifying and solving social problems among the population in our republic, the practice of monthly hearing information from the heads of relevant government bodies and organizations in the mahalla council has been established, and new forms of public control have been introduced - “mahalla control” groups and “survey” institutions mahalla chairmen." Also, on behalf of the President, the “digital mahalla” system and the “people’s control” platform were improved.

The “My Opinion” web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal. The My Opinion web portal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Public Chamber, was created in order to expand the opportunities of citizens in our country to participate in the management of the affairs of society and the state, to ensure the openness of the activities of representative bodies of state power, to ensure the viability and effectiveness of the public administration system. Through this portal, a citizen can send proposals on legislation on important issues of state and public importance in the form of an electronic collective appeal "Meningfikrim.uz "(My opinion). To date, more than 6670 collective appeals and about 30,000 comments have been received through the portal.

In recent years, political parties, which are considered to be one of the main actors of civil society in our country, have been given not only ample opportunities for free participation in elections, but also control over the executive branch. Political parties also have the right to exercise public control based on the interests of the public and their electorate. During election processes, local observers at polling stations consist of representatives of political parties and citizens' self-government bodies.

The role of the media in developing openness and transparency in our society, establishing public control over the activities of government bodies and their officials, studying and resolving legal appeals from citizens is also incomparable. In particular, the number of media registered in 2016–2023 increased by 41%, that is, in 2016 their number was 1614, and by 2023 it reached 2140. The number of mobile Internet users also exceeded 33 million.

As can be seen from the above, the main purpose of public control is to ensure respect for the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of citizens, to ensure legality in the activities of state bodies and officials, and to protect the interests of society.

The Uzbekistan 2030 strategy, developed based on the results of public discussions in order to create a fair and modern state serving the people, identified such priority tasks as: creating the necessary conditions for public participation in the activities of local councils, broad involvement of civil society institutions and the gradual digitalization of their activities, establishing the practice of assessing the activities of heads of state bodies and their deputies based on public opinion, and intensified continuation of work to form an unparalleled attitude towards corruption in society.

As a result of public control, the activities of state bodies in the country are objectively studied, their shortcomings are identified, various violations of legislation are prevented, public participation in the implementation of laws and their preparation is ensured, broader conditions are created for the prompt solution of various problems in society and the will of the population, and special attention should be paid to the fact that public control implies not only control over the quality of the work performed, but also the use of opportunities, as well as participation in their development.

In conclusion, I would like to note that in our republic, constitutional status has been given a state public control. In the new Uzbekistan, the participation of citizens in the management of the affairs of society and the state, including the development and improvement of public control over the activities of state bodies, provides ample opportunities for the full-fledged formation and strengthening of civil society in our country.  If the public control in the country is strong, the state is more humane, free and fair.

 

N.S.Rasulova, candidate of historical sciences Associate professor of the University  of Public safety of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Building Peace through Knowledge: Uzbekistan’s Expanding Cooperation with UNESCO

📅 29.10.2025

Today, Uzbekistan continues to steadily strengthen its cooperation with the international community in education, science, culture, and innovation. In this process, the country’s partnership with UNESCO holds a special place. Uzbekistan became a member of UNESCO in 1993 – a historic step that paved the way for integrating the national education system, scientific potential, and rich cultural heritage into the global intellectual space.
The opening of the UNESCO Office in Tashkent in 1996 marked a new milestone in bilateral relations. Moreover, the National Commission of the Republic of Uzbekistan for UNESCO was established to ensure sustainable cooperation, which has since become an active platform for dialogue and partnership.
Throughout this collaboration, Uzbekistan has consistently implemented international norms and principles in education, science, and sports. One of the important steps in this direction was the ratification, in 1997, of the 1960 Convention against Discrimination in Education, aimed at promoting equality and fairness in the education system. In the same year, Uzbekistan also acceded to the 1989 Convention on Technical and Vocational Education, which contributed to expanding opportunities for young people to acquire modern professions and practical skills, linking education closely with real life.
These measures have played a key role in strengthening Uzbekistan’s position in the global educational space and demonstrate the country’s firm commitment to promoting human capital development. By joining these conventions, Uzbekistan reaffirmed its dedication to equality and quality in education, youth health and well-being, and to aligning vocational education with international standards.
The Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education
At present, Uzbekistan is taking practical steps toward joining UNESCO’s Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education. This document aims to harmonize international education systems, ensure mutual recognition of diplomas and qualifications, and expand academic and scientific mobility. The initiative will help make Uzbekistan’s higher education system more open and competitive globally, enhance cooperation with foreign universities, and improve the international employability of Uzbek graduates.
On December 10, 2021, Tashkent hosted a High-Level Meeting of Experts on Strengthening Stakeholder Cooperation for the Adoption and Implementation of the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications. National and international experts, government representatives, and higher education institutions discussed the significance of Uzbekistan’s accession to the convention as a key step in integrating the national higher education system into the global academic space.
UNESCO Chairs in Uzbekistan
One of the most effective areas of cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO is the establishment and activity of UNESCO Chairs. Currently, there are nine UNESCO Chairs operating at higher education institutions across the country. Each of them contributes to strengthening international cooperation in education, science, culture, communication, and information, as well as to advancing research potential and promoting the principles of sustainable development.
UNESCO Chairs are established under the UNITWIN (University Twinning and Networking) Programme, launched in 1992 to encourage the exchange of experience and knowledge among universities and to expand global academic cooperation. Today, the network brings together over 700 chairs and research centers in 114 countries around the world.
In most cases, the activities of UNESCO Chairs are financed directly by the universities themselves — reflecting their aspiration to enhance academic prestige and to operate in close cooperation with the international scientific community.
A vivid example of such cooperation is the UNESCO Chair in Education for Sustainable Development at Urgench State University. The Chair has organized more than 20 events involving teachers, researchers, students, NGOs, and international experts. It has also held conferences, launched student exchange programmes, and published joint research papers. Such initiatives not only strengthen the capacity of the national education system but also promote Uzbekistan’s integration into the global scientific and intellectual community.
Rural Development and Human Potential: Supported by UNESCO and the European Union
Uzbekistan is steadily advancing international cooperation in promoting rural development, youth employment, and the enhancement of modern professional skills. A vivid example of this is the project “Development of Employment Skills in Rural Areas of Uzbekistan,” funded by the European Union and implemented by the UNESCO Office in Tashkent.
The six-year project (2020–2026), with a total budget of €9.6 million, is a clear reflection of the strong partnership between the European Union and UNESCO in supporting education reforms in Uzbekistan. The main goal of the initiative is to ensure sustainable economic growth by training specialists equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills that meet the needs of the rural labor market.
Within the project, Uzbekistan’s agricultural education system is undergoing major modernization. Specialists are being trained in such forward-looking fields as intensive horticulture, greenhouse management, agricultural product processing and storage, water management and land reclamation, and the operation of water-saving irrigation systems — all oriented toward practical skills demanded by the modern labor market.
A significant component of the project is the development of a National Vocational Education Strategy, new occupational standards, and educational programmes in agriculture and water management. In addition, pilot educational institutions are being equipped with modern laboratories, learning facilities, and teaching technologies.
Four pilot colleges — in Qorovulbozor, Qo‘shko‘pir, G‘ijduvon, and Qizirik — have been selected to implement the project. They have received modern tractors, technical equipment, computers, and refrigeration units for agricultural product storage. Moreover, four Advanced Vocational Training Centers are being renovated and equipped with up-to-date facilities.
During implementation, the rural labor market was analyzed to assess demand for mid-level specialists. Based on the results, six pilot specializations — including Automated Water Management Systems Technician, Animal Husbandry, Greenhouse Management, Irrigated Land Reclamation, Crop Science, and Farm Management — were introduced, and student admissions began in the 2023/2024 academic year.
In May 2024, an international conference titled “National Frameworks for Quality Assurance” was held within the project, focusing on aligning Uzbekistan’s vocational education system with international quality standards and strengthening human capital.
Additionally, under UNESCO’s “Delta Framework” programme, national ICT competencies are being developed, and special training courses for teachers of pilot institutions are planned.
This initiative serves not only to modernize the vocational education system but also to foster sustainable rural development, enhance youth employability, and improve the quality of life in local communities.
Science and Innovation for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future
In recent years, Uzbekistan has witnessed growing enthusiasm for new scientific ideas, research, and innovation. A shining example of this is the “InnoWeek.Uz” International Week of Innovative Ideas, held annually since 2018. Each year, the event provides a unique platform for bridging science and practice, engaging young researchers in innovation, and expanding global scientific cooperation.
“InnoWeek.Uz” has become a true celebration of creativity, discovery, and technological advancement — a space where scientific potential, imagination, and passion for progress converge. Creating the future through research and innovation, and opening new paths to development through knowledge, lies at the heart of this initiative.
The “InnoWeek.Uz–2024” edition marked a new milestone, featuring the “Science & Innovation for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future” Forum organized under the auspices of UNESCO. The forum brought together young scientists, researchers, and experts from around the world to exchange views on the role of science and innovation in promoting peace and sustainable development. The participants shared their research achievements and discussed new opportunities for global collaboration in science and technology.
Through their work, young scientists inspired others by seeking solutions to modern challenges, developing technologies that serve human welfare, and advancing harmony between nature and society. Discussions at the forum highlighted the role of innovation in economic and social progress, the contribution of science to peacebuilding, and the prospects for future scientific cooperation.
All these initiatives implemented in cooperation with UNESCO deepen Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms in education, science, and culture, while strengthening the country’s ties with the global community.
Today, knowledge and creativity, tradition and innovation, national values and modern approaches unite in Uzbekistan with one shared goal — progress and a sustainable future.
As UNESCO’s noble motto proclaims, “Building peace through education, science and culture” — this principle embodies both the moral and practical essence of Uzbekistan’s policy today. The nation continues to move forward with determination, fostering peace, development, and prosperity through enlightenment and science.

Kongratbay Sharipov,
Minister of higher education, science and innovationof the Republic of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan in the “C5+1” Platform: Strengthening the Strategic Dialogue with the United States and Central Asian Countries

📅 10.11.2025

Modern Central Asia is becoming a space of sustainable growth and mutual trust. The countries of the region demonstrate a strong commitment to building balanced relations with global partners, prioritizing practical initiatives in trade, energy, transport, and innovation. One of the key formats shaping this new architecture is the “C5+1” platform, which unites the Central Asian states and the United States.

Regional Consolidation: Dialogue Based on Equality and Pragmatism

In recent years, the “C5+1” format has evolved from a diplomatic mechanism into an effective platform for coordination and implementation of joint projects. The latest ministerial meeting in Samarkand, attended by the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, demonstrated a high level of trust and a shared focus on tangible results.

Key topics on the Samarkand agenda included food security, climate resilience, development of green and digital economies, diversification of transport corridors, and deepening industrial cooperation.

Following the meeting, memorandums were signed on decarbonization and digitalization of customs procedures - a step that paves the way for harmonized trade rules, easier exports, and increased investment inflows into the region.

Central Asia: From Fragmentation to an Integrated Economic Space

The figures speak for themselves: the total foreign trade turnover of Central Asian countries has reached $220 billion, almost doubling since 2017, while mutual investments have grown 5.6 times. The region’s combined GDP increased by 40% over the past five years to exceed $406 billion.

These indicators reflect not only growth but also a qualitative shift - from isolated initiatives to a coordinated regional development strategy.

Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan: Industrial and Logistics Core

The Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan partnership exemplifies a new model of integration. Between January and August 2025, mutual trade reached $3.03 billion, up by 15%. Projects exceeding $7 billion are under implementation across engineering, agriculture, construction, and energy sectors. Over 1,100 enterprises with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan, creating jobs and new export niches.

Uzbekistan - Tajikistan: Transport and Energy Bridge

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are rapidly strengthening railway and energy cooperation. In 2024, cargo traffic between the two countries reached 10 million tons, while regular passenger flights and a joint investment company with a $100 million capital were launched. These are not just numbers - they represent an architecture of trust that enables joint industrial and agricultural clusters.

Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan: Corridors of Growth

Cooperation with Turkmenistan is expanding in energy, logistics, and industry. In 2024, bilateral trade exceeded $1.14 billion, and the Shavat - Dashoguz border zone is evolving into a hub of trade and joint manufacturing. A localization project for repairing Turkmen wagons in Andijan is a vivid example of practical industrial integration.

Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan: A “Roadmap” for the Future

The interstate program until 2030 and the Border Regions Council ensure steady progress. From January to August 2025, trade turnover approached $600 million, while Uzbekistan’s exports grew by nearly 80%. New logistics routes are being developed to reduce transport costs and enhance business competitiveness.

“C5+1” as a Catalyst for Development

Participation in the “C5+1” framework gives regional integration new depth - aligning national interests with global sustainability trends.

The United States and regional partners are building long-term cooperation in green energy, resilient supply chains, infrastructure modernization, and human-capital development.

Special attention is given to unified standards for digital trade, environmental management, and logistics technologies, making Central Asia a vital link in Eurasian value chains.

Benefits for the Region and Uzbekistan

For Central Asia, the “C5+1” format provides:

• Investment and technology: opportunities to attract foreign partners for renewable energy, raw-material processing, and digital transformation;
• New markets: expanded export opportunities through unified customs and trade standards;
• Energy security: development of interconnected grids and energy-storage infrastructure;
• Human capital: education, internships, and exchanges with leading global companies.

For Uzbekistan, the advantages are clear:

• Expanded export potential through access to new transport routes;
• Technology localization and industrial partnerships with neighbors;
• Institutional stability and strengthened position as a regional integrator;
• Inflow of direct investment supported by uniform rules and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Conclusion: From Geography to the Economy of the Future

Central Asia is steadily transforming from a “crossroads of geography” into a region of synergy. The “C5+1” format has become a framework connecting the efforts of regional and global partners into a unified development strategy - based on trust, mutual benefit, and sustainable growth.

For Uzbekistan, participation in this platform is not merely a foreign-policy choice, but a practical instrument for achieving its long-term national goals - industrialization, export growth, and improved living standards.

The President visited the mausoleum of Imam Bukhari

📅 15.06.2024

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the mausoleum of Imam Bukhari on June 15, on the eve of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday.

Surahs from the Koran and dua were recited.

In conversation with religious figures, they talked about the conditions created for the development of science and enlightenment, education of youth in the spirit of patriotism and respect for national values.

Renovation of the complex is underway. The head of state familiarized himself with the progress of construction and finishing works.

The President concluded his visit to Samarkand and left for Tashkent.

Accomplished work in the field of energy supply and plans for the future reviewed

📅 19.11.2024

On November 15, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a meeting on issues of uninterrupted energy supply to the population and sectors of the economy, improving efficiency at enterprises in the sphere.

The relevant tasks were identified at a video conference held on June 10. Today, the responsible persons reported on the work accomplished in fulfillment of these tasks and preparations for the autumn-winter season.

It was noted that gas is supplied in volumes commensurate with the growing demand of the population and sectors of the economy. As a result of the modernization of industries and increasing the energy efficiency of the economy, there is a decrease in losses. For example, in recent years, gas consumption for the production of industrial products has decreased by 1.6 times.

There is still a lot of work ahead. It is necessary to ensure a stable supply of energy to the population in the current season and subsequent years, and prepare a sufficient reserve for this.

These issues were discussed in the context of industries at the meeting.

According to calculations, 21 billion cubic meters of gas will be supplied to consumers this year during the winter season. If the air temperature drops sharply, the population's demand will increase even more. The responsible persons outlined a plan of action in such a situation by month and by district.

A separate reserve is provided for uninterrupted power supply to social institutions and enterprises. A system has been created for the targeted supply of natural gas to thermal power plants, chemical and metallurgical enterprises, as well as gas filling stations.

It was pointed out that it is necessary to resolutely continue the work started on accounting and control of gas in industries and further reduce losses. The task has been set to implement the identified gas saving opportunities in Andijan, Navoi and Tashkent regions, as well as other regions.

The Head of State gave instructions to responsible persons on organizing work at the level of districts and mahallas, solving issues related to energy supply directly on the ground, coordinating demand and consumption, and preventing interruptions.

The meeting also touched upon the processes of transformation in the gas sector. It was decided that industry enterprises will enter the international financial market and independently raise funds for modernization.

Digitalization and public-private partnerships offer the greatest opportunities in updating and regulating gas supply networks. In this regard, proposals were considered to attract private operators to the industry.

The President instructed to reduce the costs in the context of each industry and enterprises, optimize costs and accelerate the transformation process. The importance of expanding exploration activities with the involvement of leading foreign companies was emphasized.