18 new energy facilities commissioned, 6 facilities are launched for construction

📅 16.12.2024

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on December 13 took part in a solemn ceremony dedicated to the launch of new energy capacities and the beginning of construction of a number of facilities.

These projects are part of a large-scale work aimed at strengthening the potential of the country's energy system. Last December, five solar and one wind power plants were put into operation. Many new projects were launched during the Head of State's visits to the regions.

Today, 24 projects worth more than $7 billion have been launched. In particular, in Bukhara, Navoi, Namangan and Tashkent regions, 5 solar and wind power plants with a total capacity of about 2.3 thousand megawatts, as well as 5 high-voltage substations have been connected to the network.

For the first time in Uzbekistan, an energy storage system with a capacity of 300 megawatts was created in Andijan and Fergana. A 400 megawatt power plant was put into operation in Kashkadarya, and a modern cogeneration plant was put into operation in Tashkent, and in Andijan, Surkhandarya and Tashkent regions - four small hydroelectric power plants.

In addition, construction of 6 energy facilities with a total capacity of 2.5 gigawatts has started in Fergana, Samarkand, Navoi, Tashkent regions and Tashkent city.

These new projects will generate an additional 9.5 billion kilowatt hours of electricity, save 2.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas and prevent the emission of 4.6 million tons of harmful gases in the coming years.

Most importantly, over 4 million households will be provided with uninterrupted and clean energy. 

This will also set the stage for $4 billion worth of value creation in other sectors of the economy.

In total, in 2025, our country will produce 84 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, which is 25 billion kilowatt hours or 1.5 times more compared to 2016.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that all these projects are implemented through foreign direct investment. Gratitude was expressed to companies from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China and Germany, as well as international institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank for their fruitful cooperation.

Thanks to the open access of the private sector, Uzbekistan's energy sector has attracted about $20 billion of foreign direct investment over the past five years. 

Twenty-four independent energy producers have started to operate in the sector, where previously only the state was present.

In particular, large solar and wind power plants with a total capacity of 3,500 megawatts, equivalent to 10 billion kilowatt-hours, were launched in the green energy sector. This increased the share of “green energy” in the energy system to 16 percent.

As is known, last year the country's GDP reached the historic figure of $100 billion for the first time. By 2030, Uzbekistan's economy should grow to $200 billion.

This will increase the demand for electricity by 1.5 times over the next five years. In addition, under the Paris Agreement, it is planned to reduce harmful gas emissions by 35 percent by 2030.

The President outlined the priority areas of work in the energy sector.

First, 19 thousand megawatts of additional “green capacity” will be built by 2030, and the share of renewable energy will be increased to 54 percent. Already by 2025, 18 solar and wind power plants with a capacity of 3.4 thousand megawatts and energy storage systems with a capacity of 1.8 thousand megawatts are planned. This will increase green energy production to 12 billion kilowatt-hours next year. Also within two years, a large-scale project will be implemented in cooperation with private partners to create more than 2,000 small and micro-hydroelectric power plants.

Second, liberalization of the electricity market will continue. By the end of next year, it is planned to create a competitive wholesale electricity market. Public-private partnership will be introduced in the sphere of energy distribution, and $4 billion of investments will be attracted for the modernization of networks. The first project of transferring the management of regional power grids to the private sector has been developed in Samarkand region, and an international tender has been announced.

Third, the expansion of international cooperation in the field of “green energy”. Within COP-29, agreements were signed with Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia on joint export of “green energy” to Europe. Jointly with neighboring countries a single platform has been launched to ensure the stability of the regional energy system.

Fourth, development of “green energy” as a new driver for other sectors of the economy and improvement of living standards of the population. 

Solar panels with a total capacity of 1,000 megawatts have already been installed, which makes it possible to produce 1.5 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. Support for “green” initiatives will continue with the introduction of dual education for the training of specialists.

- Today's event opens a new page in the history of our country's energy sector. These projects will not only ensure economic growth, but also will create an environmentally friendly and sustainable future for our descendants - said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The ceremony was addressed by Minister of Energy and Infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Türkiye Alparslan Bayraktar and Minister of Energy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud.

By pressing a symbolic switch, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev launched the operation of 18 energy facilities and construction of 6 new projects.

IF YOU WANT PEACE, BE FRIENDS WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS

📅 17.10.2025

Experts often use the Latin phrase “si vis pacem, para bellum”, which translates as “if you want peace, prepare for war”. They emphasis that only force can guarantee peace.

The processes observed in Central Asia in recent years suggest the opposite. Against the backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, countries in the region regularly pursue policies based primarily on the principles of dialogue and good neighborliness.

In a short period of time, the face of the region has changed dramatically, common points of growth are forming, and mutual trust is becoming an important condition for stability. Common triggers for development are being identified: the formation of a common economic space, active attraction of investment, and the strengthening of cultural and humanitarian ties. A spirit of unity and solidarity has formed in the region.

As Uzbekistan's leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, “Today, Central Asia is different - it is united and strong, open to dialogue and full-scale partnership”.

The political transformation of the region is underpinned by steady economic growth, demonstrating the region's growing power. In particular, over the last 10  years, Central Asia's GDP has grown by more than 6% annually — twice as fast as the global average.

Due to political will and joint efforts of the leaders of the states, significant results have been achieved in resolving border issues. An important milestone on this path was the trilateral meeting of the presidents of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, held on 31 March 2025 in Khujand.

As a result, an agreement was signed on the junction point of the state borders of the three countries, which is clear evidence that the governments of our states place peace and harmony above all else.

All this confirms the idea that peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding, support and cooperation, which are the basis of friendly relations. We are guided by the principle: “If you want peace, be friends with your neighbors” This approach reflects the essence of the integration processes taking place in the region and certainly deserves the attention of the international community as a “exemplary model” for resolving even the most complex conflicts of our time.

How has humanity understood the world over the centuries?

Throughout human history, peace has been regarded as one of the highest spiritual and social values. Even in ancient times, thinkers in Ancient Greece sought to understand the phenomenon of Eirene – a state of harmony, the cessation of hostility and stable order in society.

In Eastern philosophical thought, the concept of peace also occupied a special place. It was understood, first and foremost, as the inner harmony of a person with themselves and the surrounding world, as a path to spiritual balance and moral perfection.

The great thinkers of Central Asia continued to develop the idea of peace, giving it philosophical and humanistic content. Thus, Abu Nasr Farabi regarded peace and harmony as an indispensable condition for the existence of a “Virtuous City”, where justice, reason, and mutual understanding between people become the basis of social well-being. Alisher Navoi, in his poetic works, presented peace as the highest form of spiritual and moral perfection of man, the basis of creation and mutual respect between peoples.

Thus, over the centuries, the idea of peace has evolved from an understanding of it as the absence of war to an awareness of spiritual and moral harmony between people and nations.

Why was Fergana chosen as the venue for the Forum?

The choice of Fergana as the venue for the forum is no coincidence.

The Fergana Valley is a unique geographical area where peoples speaking different languages and practicing different religions have coexisted peacefully for centuries. The Great Silk Road passed through the valley, and its inhabitants were engaged in crafts, trade and science, always striving for mutual understanding and dialogue. Conflict is a foreign concept to the region.

Today, the Fergana Valley unites the territories of three independent states, whose relations are based on the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Fergana Valley is the most populous region in Central Asia. According to data, the Andijan, Namangan and Fergana regions of Uzbekistan alone are home to about 11 million people, which is almost a third of the country's population. If we take into account the population of the territories of neighboring states that are geographically part of the region, the total figure is about 17 million.

With this in mind, the countries of Central Asia are striving to deepen regional integration, viewing it as an important condition for sustainable development. Strengthening mutual trust and partnership is becoming one of the key areas of their foreign policy. To discuss specific steps and exchange experiences, platforms are needed that promote open dialogue and coordination of positions.

One such platform will be the Fergana Peace Forum, which will be held on 15–16 October at Fergana State University. It will be attended by representatives of government agencies and business circles of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, experts from scientific, analytical and research centers, as well as delegates from the CIS, SCO, OSCE, UNDP, EU and other international organizations.

In addition, the Fergana Valley is a multinational region where representatives of all peoples and ethnic groups live in peace and harmony.

In this regard, the attention that the government pays to strengthening interethnic friendship and creating conditions for all citizens to receive education in their native language and study their national culture is of great importance.

Today, there are more than 250 schools in the Fergana, Namangan and Andijan regions where instruction is conducted in Kyrgyz, Russian and Tajik.

It is important to emphasize the important role of regional branches of national cultural centers, which are involved in ensuring inter-ethnic harmony, developing intercultural dialogue and tolerance, and strengthening good-neighborly relations with neighboring states.

Various activities are carried out in this area by 17 national cultural centers (8 in Fergana, 5 in Andijan and 4 in Namangan regions), including Russian, Slavic, Korean, Jewish, German, Tatar, Kyrgyz, Uyghur, Tajik and Turkish.

Special mention should be made of the activities of public associations, foundations and NGOs implementing socially significant projects, both with funding from domestic donors and with the support of international organizations and foreign partners such as the World Bank, UNDP, the United Nations Population Fund, the UN Women, the European Union, the International Organization for Migration, Saferworld, DVV International, Fair and Sustainable Development Solutions, DIA International and others.

The implementation of such projects contributes to ensuring access to social protection, developing entrepreneurial skills, increasing the participation of women and young people in public affairs, and strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between residents of border areas.

Overall, the first Fergana Peace Forum opens a new page in the development of good neighborly relations and partnership between the countries of the region.

In this case, the choice of the Fergana Valley as the venue reflects its historical role as a space for mutual understanding and harmony. Undoubtedly, this forum will provide an additional stimulus for further strengthening stability and expanding cooperation in Central Asia.

Abror Yusupov,

PhD in Political Science,

Associate Professor,

Deputy Director of the

Center for Analysis of Democratic Processes

Uzbekistan and Finland: An Economic Partnership Built on Technology and Trust

📅 06.11.2025

Historical Background

The history of Uzbek - Finnish relations dates back to the early 1990s, when Finland became one of the first countries to recognize the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan - on 30 December 1991. Just two months later, on 26 February 1992, diplomatic relations were officially established, marking the beginning of a new chapter based on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to technological progress.

The first high-level visits in 1992 laid the foundation for political dialogue. During that year, Uzbekistan took part in the signing ceremonies of the OSCE Helsinki Final Act and the Paris Charter. In October of the same year, Finnish President Mauno Koivisto paid an official visit to Tashkent, further consolidating the partnership. Since then, cooperation between the two countries has developed steadily across political and economic spheres.

Legal and Institutional Framework

Today, the legal framework governing Uzbek-Finnish relations comprises eight active documents, including two interstate and six intergovernmental agreements. These include the 1992 Agreements on Mutual Protection of Investments and on Trade, Economic, and Technological Cooperation, as well as treaties on air and road transport (1996 and 1997) and agreements on avoiding double taxation and on customs cooperation.

New initiatives reflecting the modern stage of partnership are under consideration - such as a draft agreement on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic passports, a memorandum on cooperation in environmental protection, and a protocol on consultations between the foreign ministries.

Cooperation Priorities: Technology, Ecology, and Innovation

Finland, recognized globally as a leader in innovation, sustainable development, and green technologies, serves as a valuable model for Uzbekistan in its transition toward a digital and energy-efficient economy.

In 2017, a business delegation of nine Finnish companies specializing in engineering, agribusiness, telecommunications, and logistics visited Uzbekistan to participate in the AgroWorld Uzbekistan international exhibition. This visit gave new impetus to direct business-to-business engagement.

In April 2019, Tashkent hosted a delegation led by Mikko Koiranen, Deputy State Secretary of Finland for Foreign Economic Relations. The delegation included 29 representatives from leading companies and organizations - such as Nokia Siemens Networks, ABB, Wärtsilä, Uponor Infra, Tikkurila, ISKU, and Airbus Defense and Space. Discussions focused on implementing Finnish technologies in Uzbekistan, joint energy and raw material processing projects, and opportunities in smart cities and water management.

Later, in November 2019, Antti Koskelainen from the Finnish export credit agency Finnvera visited Tashkent, marking an important step toward deeper financial and investment cooperation. Meetings with the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Finance, and the Agency for State Asset Management addressed mechanisms for crediting and insuring Finnish export operations in Uzbekistan.

Trade: A Threefold Growth in One Year

Economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Finland continues to expand. The two countries enjoy Most-Favored-Nation trade status, and regular meetings of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation (five sessions to date, the latest held in Tashkent in February 2023) ensure a dynamic dialogue.

Trade turnover has shown remarkable growth in recent years: from USD 48.45 million in 2020 to USD 151.7 million in 2024 - an increase of over threefold. This upward trend reflects intensified business ties and growing interest among Finnish companies in the Uzbek market.

Investment and Business Cooperation

Finland is viewed in Uzbekistan not only as a trading partner but also as a source of innovation and investment. Currently, 14 enterprises with Finnish capital operate in Uzbekistan - four joint ventures and ten with 100% foreign ownership - active in sectors such as electronics, software, energy, agriculture, food processing, chemicals, and telecommunications equipment.

Finnish businesses are showing strong interest in renewable energy, waste recycling, eco-construction, water management, and sustainable agriculture. Uzbekistan, in turn, offers attractive conditions for investors - tax incentives, developed industrial infrastructure, and access to a 75-million-strong Central Asian market.

Finland’s Economic Potential: Opportunities for Partnership

Finland is one of Europe’s most advanced and innovative economies, known for its high living standards, sound macroeconomics, and strong industrial base. In 2024, its GDP exceeded USD 320 billion, with GDP per capita around USD 58,000. The economy is well-balanced, with services accounting for over 70%, industry 27%, and agriculture 2.5%. Inflation remains one of the lowest in Europe - around 3% - ensuring a stable and predictable business environment.

For Uzbekistan, cooperation with Finland opens wide-ranging opportunities for industrial, investment, and technological partnership, including:

• Energy: joint projects in renewable energy, smart grids, and energy storage; development of solar panel and wind equipment manufacturing.
• Water and Environment: Finnish expertise in water purification, waste processing, and efficient water management, particularly relevant for agriculture and urban infrastructure.
• Engineering and Electronics: creation of joint ventures in industrial equipment, automation systems, and telecommunications.
• Construction and Green Materials: Finnish participation in energy-efficient building projects, production of eco-friendly insulation and finishing materials, and smart home systems.
• Education and Science: joint engineering and IT education programs, establishment of research laboratories, and introduction of dual education models based on Finnish experience.
• Agro-Industry: cooperation in precision farming, agricultural digitalization, and production of eco-friendly export-oriented goods.

Finland’s experience in sustainable development and digital transformation makes it a strategic partner for Uzbekistan’s “green economy” agenda and industrial modernization. At the same time, Uzbekistan - with its abundant natural resources, young workforce, and expanding domestic market - offers Finnish companies favorable conditions for localization and regional expansion.

A Look Ahead

The partnership between Uzbekistan and Finland goes beyond traditional economic cooperation. It stands as an example of how innovation and sustainability can form the foundation of long-term, mutually beneficial relations. Joint projects in digitalization, green energy, and education are paving new avenues for the exchange of expertise, technologies, and investments.

Finland regards Uzbekistan as a reliable partner in Central Asia, while Uzbekistan views Finland as a strategic ally in advancing its “smart growth” model and building a knowledge-based economy.

The synergy between Finland’s pragmatic northern experience and Uzbekistan’s dynamic eastern development creates a powerful foundation for further strengthening bilateral relations - grounded in trust, innovation, and mutual respect.

 

Uzbekistan nominated for Chairmanship of the UN Tourism Comission for Europe for 2025–2027 term

📅 14.05.2025

May 13. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan has nominated its candidacy for the Chair of the UN Tourism Comission for Europe (CEU) for the 2025–2027 term.

This marks the first time in its history that Uzbekistan has put forward a candidate for this prestigious position, underscoring the country’s growing engagement in global tourism affairs and the high level of trust it has earned within international tourism bodies.

The UN Tourism Comission for Europe consists of 41 member countries from Europe as well as Central and Western Asia. It plays a pivotal role in shaping tourism policy across the region, promoting regional cooperation, and advancing sustainable and inclusive tourism development.

The 71st meeting of the Commission will be held on June 4–6, 2025, in Baku, Azerbaijan. During this session, elections are scheduled to take place for the Chair of the CEU for the 2025–2027 term.

Uzbekistan’s nomination for this position is viewed as recognition of the country’s consistent reforms in the tourism sector, its practical efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, and its contribution to the development of sustainable and inclusive tourism.

If elected, Uzbekistan intends to promote new initiatives aimed at positioning Central Asia as a unified tourism destination, developing cross-border routes, widely implementing digital solutions, and enhancing regional dialogue within the framework of the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

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.

Partnership for Future Generations

📅 22.12.2025

Despite the 6,000-kilometer distance between Tashkent and Tokyo, the official visit of President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Japan on December 18-20 elevated Uzbek-Japanese relations to a qualitatively new level of expanded strategic partnership for future generations.

Uzbekistan’s relations with Japan have deep historical roots. For centuries, Samarkand served as one of the key centers of the Great Silk Road, while Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, was its eastern gateway. Trade and the exchange of knowledge along the Great Silk Road, including between Uzbekistan and Japan, played a significant role in the development of international commerce and cultural interaction, forming lasting cultural bridges between civilizations. Today, Samarkand and Nara are twin cities.

Since Uzbekistan gained independence, reliable and stable relations of mutually beneficial cooperation have developed between Uzbekistan and Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Japan has been one of Uzbekistan’s key technological and investment partners.

Economic cooperation dynamics

The most dynamic growth in economic cooperation has taken place in recent years, following the launch of comprehensive economic reforms in Uzbekistan. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) play an important role in advancing Uzbek-Japanese economic cooperation.

Cooperation with JICA has, in recent years, reached the level of strategic partnership. The value of the project portfolio has exceeded $8 billion, and additional initiatives worth more than $3 billion are under consideration in areas such as healthcare, energy, transport, education, industry, and other sectors. During the visit, new agreements were signed with JICA concerning the development of economic zones, agriculture, supply of medical equipment, and support for entrepreneurship, as well as the launch of a special economic zone for Japanese investors, to be developed in line with Japanese models and standards.

Cooperation with JBIC is also developing dynamically. Today, the total project portfolio with the bank exceeds $5 billion in sectors such as petrochemicals, energy, telecommunications, infrastructure, and light industry. During the visit, discussions focused on preparing new projects and improving the effectiveness of existing initiatives worth over $10 billion.

Trade relations are also growing dynamically. Between 2017 and 2024, Uzbekistan’s trade turnover with Japan more than doubled, increasing from $166.2 million to $388.5 million. In 2024, growth accelerated, rising by 64.1% compared with 2023, from $236.8 million to $388.6 million. More than 90% of imports from Japan consist of machinery and equipment, while Uzbekistan’s exports to Japan are dominated by services and chemical fertilizers, as well as fruit and vegetable products, textiles, radioactive elements, and jet fuel.

Investment cooperation is expanding as well. Over the past eight years, the number of Japanese enterprises operating in Uzbekistan has increased tenfold, while the combined project portfolio has exceeded $20 billion. Leading Japanese companies such as Sojitz, Toyota Tsusho, Sumitomo, Itochu, Kyoto Plaza, Balcom, and Shikoku Electric are actively operating in Uzbekistan, implementing major projects in energy, geology, tourism, infrastructure development, IT, and other sectors.

For example, Sojitz Corporation is implementing projects including the construction of a combined-cycle power plant in Syrdarya region, a multidisciplinary hospital, a new international airport in Tashkent, and a wind power plant. During the visit, support was expressed for the company’s plans to modernize medical clinics and educational facilities, create a transboundary “green” energy corridor, upgrade gas compressor stations, and participate in establishing a special economic zone for Japanese investors.

Sumitomo Corporation is constructing two solar power plants and energy storage systems in Samarkand region, with a similar wind-power-based project also planned in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. During the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed adopting a Cooperation Program with the corporation through 2030.

Uzbekistan has longstanding cooperation with ITOCHU Corporation in mechanical engineering, geology, and infrastructure. Long-term agreements have been reached on the export of critical minerals to Japan. During the visit, new areas of cooperation were discussed, including water purification, automotive manufacturing, modernization of air traffic control systems, as well as implementation of public-private partnership projects in the social sphere.

JOGMEC, together with ITOCHU Corporation, is developing uranium deposits in Navoi and Kashkadarya regions. During the visit, plans by these companies to develop precious-metal deposits at promising sites in Uzbekistan were also reviewed and approved.

Negotiations and outcomes of the visit

During the negotiations, the sides discussed further deepening of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan, covering all areas of interstate cooperation. The importance of strengthening existing cooperation formats, including parliamentary friendship groups, economic cooperation committees, and sectoral mechanisms in priority areas, was emphasized.

During the talks between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a number of priority areas for advancing strategic partnership were identified, including green energy and industrial decarbonization, information technology, critical minerals, cooperation in mechanical engineering, modernization of healthcare, and tourism infrastructure.

To implement more than $12 billion worth of new cooperation projects prepared for the visit, the President of Uzbekistan proposed establishing a joint investment platform. Plans were also announced to create a special economic zone in Samarkand region based on Japanese standards and practices, as well as to scale up the “One Village – One Product” program implemented jointly with Japanese partners. It was proposed to hold the first Uzbekistan-Japan Regional Forum in Samarkand next year.

At the meeting between the President of Uzbekistan and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ryosei Akazawa, an agreement was reached to develop an action plan to further strengthen business cooperation with the active involvement of JETRO and the Japan Association for Trade with Russia and NIS (ROTOBO).

A key element of the visit was the President’s meeting with leading representatives of Japanese business. The President emphasized that in recent years cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan has acquired a qualitatively new character. Whereas Japanese companies previously mainly participated as contractors, today they are actively investing in Uzbekistan’s economy, establishing joint ventures, participating in management, transferring technologies, and contributing to human capital development. “As a result of these qualitative shifts, Japan has become one of Uzbekistan’s key economic and technological partners,” the President stressed.

Based on these assessments, priority areas for further cooperation with Japanese business were outlined. These include ensuring energy resilience and advancing the green transition, development of renewable energy sources and storage systems, and reducing the carbon intensity of Uzbekistan’s economy. Particular emphasis was placed on deep processing of critical minerals and establishing full value chains.

Promising areas also include the development of mechanical engineering and industrial equipment to build a modern high-tech industrial economy. Special focus was placed on advancing information technologies, including the implementation of artificial intelligence and digitalization programs.

Another important direction is the creation of modern special economic zones designed to become centers for high-tech, export-oriented industries and platforms for industrial cooperation through automation and digital control systems.

Concluding his speech to the business community, President Mirziyoyev emphasized that Uzbekistan regards Japan not only as an investor, but as a strategic partner in building the industry of the future.

The main outcome of the visit was the signing by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of the Joint Statement on Expanded Strategic Partnership for Future Generations, which elevates Uzbek-Japanese relations to a fundamentally new level. A wide package of agreements was also adopted in education, healthcare, environmental protection, water management, transport, urban development, tourism, agriculture, and disaster-risk reduction.

Expanding cooperation potential

Against the backdrop of Uzbekistan’s ongoing technological transformation and innovative development, there is substantial potential to further expand economic cooperation with Japan in trade, investment, and scientific-technical exchange. The agreements reached during the visit form a solid foundation for advancing cooperation to a qualitatively new level.

According to the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, Uzbekistan has significant untapped export potential with respect to Japan. Promising export categories include copper and copper products, textile and apparel goods including home textiles, aluminum and aluminum products, fruits and nuts, as well as electrical equipment and devices.

Japan’s experience in developing innovation clusters may serve as a valuable model for Uzbekistan. In this context, promising areas include the creation of joint venture funds and startup accelerators, support for technology transfer, and commercialization of scientific developments.

Japan’s experience in smart agriculture and agricultural education is also highly relevant for Uzbekistan. Cooperation in this area offers opportunities to modernize agriculture, increase water efficiency, boost productivity, and implement sustainable farming practices.

Thus, the President’s visit to Japan has already become an important driver in deepening and expanding economic cooperation between our two countries, contributing to fuller realization of partnership potential, modernization of Uzbekistan’s economy, and strengthening the presence of Japanese business in Uzbekistan. The strengthened strategic partnership will improve quality of life and broaden opportunities for future generations.

 

Nozimjon Ortikov,

Center for Economic Research and Reforms

Proposals to improve the quality of education considered

📅 19.06.2024

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev familiarized himself with the proposals on improving the quality of pre-school and school education and the system of professional development of teachers.

Students' interest in subjects and their academic performance largely depend on the knowledge and skill of teachers. Therefore, necessary conditions are being created for teachers' professional development and the system of knowledge assessment is being improved.

The responsible persons reported on the developed proposals in this sphere.

It was noted that a new certification system based on advanced technologies has been introduced. More than 190 thousand teachers took part in it, 51 thousand teachers were promoted to the new category based on the results.

It was emphasized that it is necessary to constantly stimulate the increase in the number of professional and self-educated teachers in schools.

It was proposed to increase the salaries of teachers with the highest and first qualification category from September 2025.

It was instructed to develop and implement a separate professional development program for teachers who have not been certified and do not have sufficient experience.

In this process, it is necessary to make full use of the possibilities of professional development centers and teacher training colleges. To this end, based on the experience of the Presidential Schools, a system of professional development for the heads and teachers of kindergartens and schools will be organized at the Abdullah Avloni National Research Institute with a frequency of every 5 years.

A task has been set to transfer 11 pedagogical colleges in the regions under the authority of the Centers of Professional Development and attract trainers from abroad.

It was informed that kindergartens and schools, technical schools and "Barkamol Avlod" school will be established on the basis of teacher training colleges with low workload.

In order to disseminate best practices, the evaluation system of Presidential Schools was introduced in 500 schools last year. As a result, student achievement in these schools increased from 53 percent to 59 percent. A bonus of up to 40 percent has been set for school leaders and teachers of high-performing schools.

In this regard, starting from the new school year, this evaluation system will be applied in another 1,000 schools. They will be assigned to 182 specialized schools and 500 schools that have tested the system.

Also 270 schools will be equipped with interactive whiteboards, 365 schools will be provided with computer classes.

The presentation also considered a proposal to establish the National Institute of Pedagogy of Education on the basis of the Research Institute of Pedagogical Sciences of Uzbekistan named after Kary-Niyazi. The new institute will be entrusted with the tasks of strengthening makhalla-parents-school cooperation, creating educational literature for parents and children, and scientific research of didactic views of the Jadids. Activity of the Academic Council on 5 specialties will be organized, as well as training of personnel in master's and doctoral studies.

In addition, the issues of introducing international methods in the schools of sportsmanship of Bakhodir Jalolov and Oksana Chusovitina, improving the quality of education and training were touched upon.

The head of state gave instructions on improving the quality of teachers' training, organizing a fair system of evaluation and incentives.

Festive greetings to the youth of Uzbekistan

📅 30.06.2024

Sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you on this wonderful holiday celebrated in our country - Youth Day.

We rely on all our people, including you - courageous and purposeful young men and women - to achieve the lofty goals of building a new Uzbekistan. Therefore, ensuring the rights and interests of young people, raising the younger generation as harmoniously developed individuals is in the center of our attention as one of the priority directions of the state policy.

In recent years, our country has created a unique vertical management system in work with young people. It makes it possible to solve many issues of youth related to training, employment, meaningful leisure and social support through youth leaders - representatives of the President in the mahallas - at the lower level.

Our young men and women are experiencing in their lives the real results of the large-scale work carried out on the basis of the "Youth Notebook" and the "Youth Balance" platform.

Thanks to the introduction of a new system that promotes the increase of youth income through allocation of land plots, this year alone, based on the recommendations of the "Makhalla Seven" 156 thousand young men and girls were given 60 thousand hectares of land on lease for a period of 30 years, which was an important step in this direction.

All of us, undoubtedly, are happy that young people effectively use the created opportunities and achieve great success in different spheres. At the prestigious international Olympiads in mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics and informatics in the past academic year alone, 55 of our schoolchildren won 8 gold, 15 silver, 32 bronze medals, 383 were awarded the Grand Prix and 1,359 were awarded 1st place in prestigious international competitions in the field of culture and art.

We experienced great joy and pride when at the recent Asian Football Cup in Qatar, Uzbekistan's Olympic team won a ticket to the Olympics for the first time in the country's history.

Such are our talented, educated and courageous young people! These young men and women are worthy representatives of the New Uzbekistan, our priceless wealth and golden fund.

My dear young friends!

The colossal work carried out in Uzbekistan in the field of youth policy is now being recognized in the global arena. Thus, last year, according to the Youth Development Index, Uzbekistan was recognized as one of the fastest developing countries in the field of youth policy. Also, Uzbekistan was included by the UN among 10 countries of the world on the exemplary realization of the "Youth Strategy - 2030". In 2022 the city of Bukhara was declared the Youth Capital of the Turkic World, and in 2024 our city of Tashkent became the first youth capital of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

It will be right to say that the World Youth Festival, which is taking place in our country for the first time these days, is another vivid confirmation of Uzbekistan's high recognition. More than 700 young men and women from 92 countries, heads and officials of more than 20 authoritative international organizations, ministries and departments of foreign countries are taking part in this forum. Most importantly, our youth are gaining more and more friends and partners around the world, their opportunities in gaining knowledge and professions, participating in global dialog and cooperation are expanding.

Dear young men and women!

A nation and state in which children are talented, educated, confident in their abilities and potential, eager to learn new things, will undoubtedly have a wonderful future. We will mobilize all our capabilities to nurture such youth of Uzbekistan.

Always remember, if you cherish your every moment, live with creativity and creation, love your Motherland without limits, you will surely reach high milestones.

I once again congratulate you all on today's holiday, wish you health, happiness and success on the way to your goals.

President of Uzbekistan to participate in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York

📅 22.09.2025

On September 20-24, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a working visit to the city of New York to attend the events of the 80th jubilee session of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to the press service of the Head of our state, President of Uzbekistan will deliver a keynote address on the first day of organizing the general debate of the UN General Assembly plenary session.

It’s noteworthy that during the current jubilee session of the UNGA topical issues of ensuring global security and stability, achieving Sustainable Development Goals, reforming the system of the UN and international financial architecture, combatting the consequences of climate change and other modern challenges, will be reviewed.

On the sidelines of the summit, the Leader of Uzbekistan will hold talks with the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, heads of foreign states and governments, leaders of authoritative international financial institutions. 

In the framework of the business program in the United States, it’s planned to hold meetings and events with participation of the leading American companies and financial-investment structures. It’s planned to sign a package of new agreements and contracts.

 

Dunyo IA

The development of Uzbek-Azerbaijani cooperation

📅 02.07.2025

MINEX Central Asia 2025 Forum to be held in Tashkent on 24-26 June

📅 28.05.2025

Improving Efficiency and the Rational Use of Energy Resources

📅 22.01.2026

A study conducted by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms has revealed a large-scale transition of Uzbekistani households to energy-saving technologies. The widespread adoption of energy-efficient solutions has enabled nearly 90% of households to implement at least one measure to reduce energy costs.

One of the key changes has been the widespread adoption of energy-efficient solutions at the household level.

The most common practice has been the installation of LED lighting. Overall, 87% of households have switched to LED lighting. In some regions, such as the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Khorezm, Navoi, and Tashkent regions, this figure exceeded 90%.

A total of 44% of households improved the thermal insulation of windows and doors through the installation of plastic structures, with particularly high activity in Kashkadarya (84%), Bukhara (69%), and Khorezm (54%) regions.

Additionally, 31% of households purchased energy-efficient household appliances, with the highest shares observed in Jizzakh (60%), Navoi (59%), and the Republic of Karakalpakstan (54%).

There is also growing interest in the use of renewable energy sources. More than half of owner households expressed satisfaction with the results and interest in expanding generation capacity.

The analysis indicates that potential demand for solar panels among the population amounts to approximately 1.9 million households, opening prospects for the formation of a domestic market valued at over $2.3 bn.

At the same time, a share of consumption through less efficient heating sources remains, including outdated gas boilers and solid-fuel stoves.

Potential for Improving Building Energy Efficiency

According to estimates, insulating the exterior walls of apartment buildings, modernizing heating systems, and replacing doors and windows could yield savings of more than $60 mln per year.

According to the World Bank, similar potential exists in social facilities, healthcare institutions, preschools, and public schools. Targeted investments to improve the energy efficiency of these facilities could reduce energy consumption by 20–50%, equivalent to a reduction of up to 7.1 bn kWh per year.

Thus, the measures being implemented in Uzbekistan to enhance energy efficiency serve as an important driver of economic growth.

CERR Public Relations Sector
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