Issues of further development of multifaceted partnership, promotion of economic and investment cooperation projects, establishment of practical interaction in the defense sector were discussed at the meeting between President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and a delegation from the United Arab Emirates headed by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, Crown Prince of the Emirate of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Muhammad Al Maktoum.

The Emirati delegation included the Ministers of Government Affairs Muhammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Energy and Infrastructure Suhail bin Muhammad Al Mazroui, Economy Abdullah bin Tuq Al Marri, and Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy Omar bin Sultan Al Olama.

At the beginning of the conversation, Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum expressed his sincere gratitude to our Head of State for the warm welcome and conveyed warm greetings from UAE President Sheikh Mohammad Al Nahyan and Prime Minister of the UAE, Emir of Dubai Sheikh Mohammad Al Maktoum.

During the meeting, special attention was paid to the issues of forming a new long-term agenda of mutually beneficial cooperation in such key areas as investment, innovative development, green energy, infrastructure, education, healthcare, ecology, digital transformation, tourism and others.

The sides highly appreciated the fruitful results of the joint forum on unlocking the potential of mutually beneficial cooperation, bilateral intergovernmental and interdepartmental talks held this morning.

An agreement was reached to adopt a road map for the development of full-scale cooperation in strategic sectors.

It should be noted that the UAE is one of Uzbekistan's key partners in the Asian region.

The latest high-level contacts took place within the framework of the Global Climate Summit in Dubai last December.

The trade turnover in 2023 grew by 21 percent and amounted to 626 million dollars. More than 320 enterprises with the participation of Emirati capital operate in our country. The portfolio of ongoing and prospective investment projects amounts to about 20 billion dollars.

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

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

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

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

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

Здесь же была представлена продукция, производимая предприятиями отрасли.

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

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

The text of the article is in Uzbek!

The 22nd International Exhibition on Woodworking. Furniture components. Furniture and Interior Design – WoodTech & MebelExpo Uzbekistan 2026, the flagship annual event for professionals in the furniture and woodworking industries, will take place from 28 to 30 April 2026 at the Uzexpocentre National Exhibition Centre in the city of Tashkent.

With more than two decades of history, the exhibition continues to serve as a major industry platform, bringing together leading manufacturers, suppliers and experts in technological solutions for woodworking, furniture production and interior design.

More than 120 companies and brands from 12 countries are expected to exhibit. As in previous years, the Turkish national stand will be represented, while companies from China and the Ulyanovsk Region of the Russian Federation have announced their collective participation. A comprehensive showcase of products by Uzbek manufacturers of furniture components and finished furniture is also expected.

The exhibition will feature the latest woodworking machinery and tools to be demonstrated in operation, alongside materials, components and supplies for furniture manufacture, as well as furniture chemicals and a selection of finished pieces for both home and office interiors.

Visitors can expect product launches, live demonstrations, specialist presentations, masterclasses and business meetings, supported by a varied programme of industry-focused events.

Exhibitors will represent the full spectrum of furniture component manufacturing, including boards and panels, fittings and fixings, accessories, fillings, foam, profiles and facades, as well as upholstery fabrics and eco-leather. A dedicated section will focus on furniture chemicals, with a particular emphasis on adhesives, coatings and finishes.

Developments in woodworking technology will be presented by many leading equipment suppliers and distributors. The exhibition will also include furniture collections from both local and international manufacturers, offering practical and contemporary interior solutions for residential and commercial spaces.

The exhibition promotes intensive dialogue among industry experts, equips and upgrades domestic furniture production with the products from the world's best manufacturers, and provides domestic furniture makers with in-demand raw materials and supplies, thereby improving the quality, environmental friendliness, and range of furniture products, as well as their competitiveness in domestic and international markets.

According to the organizers—the international exhibition company Iteca Exhibitions and its partner ICA Eurasia Group—visiting the exhibition requires online registration via the link: https://clck.ru/3SHoAH .

IA “Dunyo”

At the invitation of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh will pay a state visit to our country on June 23-26.

In accordance with the program of the high-ranking guest's stay, it is envisaged to hold high-level talks in Tashkent, during which issues of further expansion and strengthening of Uzbek-Mongolian relations of friendship and multifaceted cooperation will be considered.

In particular, the agenda includes plans to develop constructive political dialogue and inter-parliamentary contacts, increase bilateral trade turnover, implement cooperation projects in mining, agriculture, livestock, light industry, healthcare, transport, logistics and other areas. Joint measures aimed at boosting cultural, humanitarian and tourist ties will also be discussed. There will be an exchange of views on international issues.

A package of intergovernmental and interdepartmental documents will be signed following the results of the summit.

As part of the program of the state visit, the leaders of the two countries will meet with representatives of leading companies and business circles, and a number of other bilateral events will be held.

Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh will also visit Khiva, where he will familiarize himself with the rich cultural and historical heritage of our people.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with Secretary-General of UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization) Zurab Pololikashvili, who is in our country on a working visit, in Samarkand on June 15.

The sides discussed issues related to further expansion of Uzbekistan's multifaceted cooperation with this specialized UN institution.

The course of implementation of agreements reached and initiatives put forward at the 25th session of the organization's General Assembly, which was held in Samarkand in October 2023, has been reviewed. The UN General Assembly's adoption of the resolution initiated by Uzbekistan on declaring 2027 the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism was highly appreciated.

It was noted with deep satisfaction that the organization is a strategic partner of Uzbekistan in the development of modern tourist infrastructure and popularization of tourist destination to our country.

It was noted the importance of continuing joint efforts to implement programs and projects aimed at creating comfortable conditions and facilities for tourists, development of pilgrimage and cultural and cognitive tourism, including domestic tourism.

Special attention was paid to the issues of training qualified personnel in the field of hospitality and service with the effective use of opportunities of the International Academy of Tourism operating in Samarkand.

In order to popularize the tourist destination in Uzbekistan, practical interaction will be expanded in the issues of supporting the participation of domestic tour operators in major international tourism fairs and exhibitions.

Dear compatriots!

I cordially congratulate you, the multinational people of Uzbekistan on the coming New Year 2025.

Despite the difficult situation in the world, the outgoing year has been prosperous for our country.

Thanks to the selfless labor, socio-political activity of our people, the idea of New Uzbekistan is becoming a reality.

The past elections to the Oliy Majlis and local councils have reaffirmed that we have entered a new stage of democratic reforms.

New high-tech industrial complexes, infrastructure and logistics networks, roads and railroads have been built in the country, business, IT and tourism spheres are developing. The incomes and quality of life of the population are increasing.

Our skillful dehkans and farmers, clusters have harvested rich crops. The whole country is being improved.

Kindergartens and schools, universities, cultural and sports facilities are being built. Thousands of our compatriots are welcoming the New Year in new homes.

Our energetic, enterprising young people are achieving success in all spheres. Their record achievements at the Olympic and Paralympic Games have opened a new page in the history of national sport.

The role and influence of civil society institutions, including the mahalla, are being strengthened. The sphere of spirituality and enlightenment is developing. Our country's initiatives of global significance are receiving broad support.

Uzbekistan's authority in the international arena as a competitive country and a reliable partner is growing.

All this has become possible thanks to sustainable development, the atmosphere of friendship and harmony in our society.

On this festive evening, I express my sincere gratitude to you, my dear ones, to all our people-creators for your conscientious labor and service to the Motherland.

Dear friends!

We have declared 2025 the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy.

Our main goal is to create a sustainable balance between the economic system and our environment. We will create even greater business opportunities.

We will resolutely continue to work to ensure the inviolability of private property and actively attract foreign investment.

The focus will be on the social sphere, increasing wages, pensions, scholarships and benefits.

We will mobilize all forces and opportunities to bring up our children harmoniously developed, with modern knowledge and professions.

We will increase attention to the development of science, education, health care, culture, art and sports.

We will continue to prioritize the care of veterans, women and youth, as well as improving the effectiveness of social protection.

We will raise to a new level the work on strengthening the potential of our Armed Forces, support for servicemen and their families.

In a word, all together, united, we will act to realize the main principle - “In the name of man, in the name of his happiness!”.

Dear friends!

Once again, I sincerely congratulate you - our compatriots abroad, as well as partners and friends of Uzbekistan around the world - on this wonderful holiday.

I wish you health, happiness, prosperity and well-being to every family, to our beloved Motherland!

May all our good dreams and hopes come true!

May our native Uzbekistan prosper!

Happy New Year to you, my dear ones!



Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

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

The main goal of state policy in the penal sphere in Uzbekistan is aimed at liberalizing punishment and the system of its execution. Based on this, a number of strategic objectives have been identified. In particular:

Firstly, crime, improvement and liberalization of criminal and criminal-procedural legislation, decriminalization of specific criminal acts, humanization of criminal punishments and the procedure for their execution were determined as one of the priority directions for improving the state and society building system in the Action Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021.

Secondly, the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Concept of improvement of criminal and criminal-procedural legislation” was adopted on May 14, 2018. It was aimed at improving the criminal responsibility and punishment system, in particular, eliminating forms and types of punishments that do not meet to modern requirements, and preventing crimes. The task of introducing types of punishment and other legal measures, simplifying punishment or expanding the norms regulating the conditions of criminal responsibility or exemption of person from liability was established.

Thirdly, the implementation of qualitatively new mechanisms for ensuring the unconditional observance of the rights of prisoners, respect for their honor and dignity, priority tasks such as further expansion of the scope of rights of convicts in accordance with generally recognized international standards were determined in the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated on November 7, 2018 “On measures to radically improve the criminal and executive legislation”.

Fourthly, the necessity to ensure labor, social security and other internationally recognized rights of convicts, people who have served their sentences, to introduce effective mechanisms to help their social adaptation and reintegration into society, and widely introducing the principle of humanitarianism into the penal system was noted as the essential and necessary condition for the development of the law priority principles in the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan in 2022-2026;

Fifthly, the task of reducing the practice of imprisonment from 30% to 20% was strengthened as the main criterion for reforms in the judicial system in the strategy “Uzbekistan – 2030”.

Sixthly, new version of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan was adopted pursuant to the Referendum on April 30, 2023, in which human rights and freedoms are guaranteed based on the universally recognized norms of international law, as well as the prohibition of the death penalty.

Meanwhile, 3 laws, 2 decrees and 7 resolutions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, more than 20 resolution and decrees of the government, more than 15 departmental and interdepartmental regulatory legal documents aimed at further improving the system of execution of punishment for the implementation of these strategic goals were accepted.

As a result, the range of rights and legal interests of the prisoners were expanded and brought into line with international standards.

It is worth noting that at the initiative of the President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the work on ensuring the rights and freedoms of prisoners serving sentences in penitentiary institutions has reached a completely new level.

In particular, based on the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated on April 2, 2021, “On additional organizational measures to further improve the activities of internal affairs bodies in the field of ensuring public safety and fighting crime”, the followings were determined:

to increase the effectiveness of educational work on the moral correction in order to prevent re-offending, to improve the system of execution of punishment, to ensure the protection of the rights, freedoms and legal interests of prisoners;

to ensure the priority importance of honor and dignity of prisoners, to introduce transparent and more effective legal mechanisms of moral education and labor training for social adaptation of convicts to society in the future;

to radically improve the criminal-executive legislation, taking into account modern international standards and advanced foreign experience;

to ensure strict discipline and legality in penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers, to prevent corruption, and fully automate the processes of monitoring the condition of prisoners;

to create opportunity to purchase items in the prescribed manner by prisoners in penitentiary institutions, and their relatives as well, through electronic stores based on free market mechanisms;

to maintain the electronic database of information about the behavior and personality of each prisoner and fully digitize the process of distribution of prisoners in order to correctly determine the tactics of re-educating prisoners and prevent them from committing crime.

A number of practical results have been achieved as a result of the comprehensive reforms implemented in the field of criminal punishment.

Particularly:

Firstly, the restrictions on the visits of juvenile prisoners with their parents were removed, and female prisoners were given the right to visit their children in orphanages on unlimited basis.

Secondly, special attention was paid to the education and vocational training of prisoners, and the activity of "Master-Apprentice" schools was launched in penitentiary institutions.

In fact, there are 6 general educational schools and 4 vocational centers operating in the penitentiary institutions at present. More than 2,000 convicts are trained in such schools, and more than 5,000 in the vocational centers are trained in tailoring, carpentry, furniture making, auto electrician, electrician, locksmith and other professions, and they are given certificates in 16 specialties in total.

Thirdly, according to the law “On Education"” the right to distance education was given to prisoners in penitentiary institutions.

Henceforth, the dream of the prisoners who want to get higher education was fulfilled. 25 prisoners were admitted to the prestigious national higher educational institutions, as well as branches of international higher education institutions in our country in 2021-2023.

Fourthly, special attention was paid to the social welfare of prisoners, and the right to pension was guaranteed (as of January 1, 2024, pensions were granted to 676 prisoners) and it was determined that social insurance would not be deducted from wages. The number of phone calls, visits and meetings of the prisoners has almost doubled.

Fifthly, in the direction of expanding the political rights of prisoners, the requirements of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the positive experiences of France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Turkey, are implemented into national legislation, and the right to vote was given for the first time for prisoners who are serving sentences for crimes of low social risk and less serious crimes.

On this basis, 3,619 prisoners in the 2019 Parliamentary elections, 8,203 prisoners in the 2021 Presidential elections, and 9,738 prisoners in the 2023 referendum exercised their political right to vote.

Sixthly, the procedure for the visit of the Representative of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Human Rights (Ombudsman), diplomatic corps, representatives of international, republican and local non-governmental non-profit organizations, foreign and local mass media to prisons was established.

Seventhly, With the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan in 2022-2026”, a system of providing “initial socio-material support package” was introduced to help citizens who have served their sentences to find their place in society in the future.

Eighthly, in order to allow and support the convicts who realized the mistake of their actions, sincerely repented and resolutely chose to the path of recovery, the mechanism of “pardon” was established by the head of our state which is considered clear example of forgiveness and nobility of our nation.

In particular, in 2017-2024, a total of 7128 convicts were pardoned by the relevant decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 219 of them were foreign citizens and 377 were women.

Ninthly, according to the relevant decree of the government, certain information in prisons that cannot be disclosed until now, including:

the number of persons detained in penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers;

the number of penitentiary institutions and investigative detention centers and their locations;

the production activities of penitentiary institutions, the goods produced by them according to the nomenclature and expressed in money;

the number of deaths among persons detained in penitentiary institutions and pretrial detention centers;

information on the number of prisoners kept in penitentiary institutions and subjected to coercive medical measures was disclosed.

Admittedly, in addition to the norms of international law, the United States, the countries of the European Union, Russian Federation, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Kyrgyz Republic and a number of positive experiences of other countries were taken into account in the improvement of criminal law and the mechanisms of its practical implementation, as well as in the expansion of the basic rights and freedoms of prisoners.

In addition, the provisions of the international legal norms related to the system of execution of punishment were introduced into the criminal law. In particular, the “Minimum standard rules for dealing with prisoners” (Nelson Mandela Rules), adopted by the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 2015, was applied to the criminal law of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Hence, respect for the dignity of prisoners was guaranteed, mechanisms aimed at preventing the use of torture and cruel treatment were improved. Furthermore:

the right of prisoners to receive psychological assistance was enabled;

prisoners in need of medical care were allowed to be placed in regional institutions of the Ministry of Health;

prisoners suffering from a serious illness were given the opportunity to talk over the phone and meet their close relatives based on the doctor’s permission.

At the same time, the application of disciplinary punishment was completely canceled for the disorder in case of his mental state was disturbed.

Based on the abovementioned facts, as well as on the basis of the norms of international law and the positive experiences of foreign countries, it is expedient to implement the following proposals and recommendations in the practice of law enforcement in order to improve the criminal law of the Republic of Uzbekistan:

Further expansion of the basic rights of prisoners, in particular, the use of computer tools connected to the Internet (educational, artistic, electronic books, publications, educational materials, graphic designs) connected to the global information network in specially equipped rooms, the introduction of a simplified procedure for the use of electronic state services, including notary services;

education of convicts, acquisition of profession and wide involvement of them in useful work;

raising the legal consciousness and culture, ideological views of prisoners, defining systematic measures aimed at forming immunity of intolerance to violations to them;

determining the acceptable directions of exemption from punishment in legislation;

implementation of modern forms of social adaptation and resocialization of prisoners based on the analysis of international law norms and best practices of foreign countries.

At the same time, further liberalizing crimes and criminal law, especially by expanding non-custodial sentences for juveniles, women, the elderly, and prisoners with disabilities, is the best way to improve the most effective national crime-fighting system today.

In short, improving the law enforcement practice and legislation in the judicial executive system, and consistently continuing the ongoing reforms are aimed at building democratic legal state and fair civil society in our country, strengthening the guarantees of human rights protection, and ensuring the rule of law in society.

Khatamov Rustam

Head of the Academy of the Ministry of internal affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Doctor of philosophy in law sciences (PhD), Associate professor, Colonel

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,

How candidates are selected in Uzbekistan through a single portal of vacancies of state bodies and organizations
In Uzbekistan, electronic document management systems are being implemented, the range of public services is expanding, human resource management processes are being optimized, and a unified public sector ecosystem is being developed through integration and other measures.
In recent years we have seen the adoption of several key strategies, including the National Strategy of Action on Five Priority Directions of Development of Uzbekistan for 2017-2021, the "Digital Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy, the "New Uzbekistan Development Strategy for 2022-2026," and the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy. These strategies aim to drive digital transformation across the national economy, industry, and society as a whole.
Digitalization has also impacted the public civil service. Notably, the decree of the President of Uzbekistan "On measures for the radical improvement of personnel policy and the system of public civil service in the Republic of Uzbekistan" dated October 3, 2019, established the Agency for the Development of Public Service under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ARGOS). ARGOS is responsible for implementing a unified state policy in personnel management and human resource development within state bodies and organizations.
ARGOS was tasked with implementing innovative personnel management and human resource development methods based on principles of openness, professionalism, and accountability. This includes introducing a system of measurable indicators (key performance indicators) for evaluating public civil servants and analyzing their performance, systematically identifying and attracting qualified specialists (including those abroad), and widely involving talented youth and women in public service. Additionally, ARGOS organizes an open, competitive selection process for the most promising personnel in public service.
Including the implementation of an open, independent competitive selection system announced through a single portal for public vacancies (vacancy.argos.uz). Previously, entering public service required visiting various agencies, submitting resumes, and waiting for responses.
Today, candidates can log into their personal account on the vacancies portal, select a suitable position, and submit an application. The platform provides information on the candidate's status and upcoming selection stages. The open competitive selection involves stages such as application acceptance, verification of qualification requirements, testing, and interviews. Not all candidates pass all stages on their first attempt.
The competitive selection process is based on meritocracy, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates are chosen, thus promoting transparency and fairness.
As of now, more than 188,000 competitive selections have been announced on the vacancy.argos.uz platform, with over 2.9 million applications submitted and 69,163 candidates successfully hired.
Another significant change in state personnel administration is the formation and management of the National Personnel Reserve using modern information systems. ARGOS is responsible for this task, and continuous work is underway to develop and enrich the National Personnel Reserve.
Managing the National Personnel Reserve involves more than just record-keeping; it includes comprehensive measures to prepare personnel for managerial roles. Each person in the Reserve receives an individual development plan for the certain period of time, which includes professional development courses and internships in public bodies. Candidates should regularly report on their progress, providing additional insights into their suitability for managerial positions.
All these activities are managed through the unified information portals: my.argos.uz for personal users, hrm.argos.uz for personnel departments of ministries and agencies, kadrlar.argos.uz for ARGOS performance monitoring, and zaxira.argos.uz for individual performance data and activities.
A third key change is reflected in the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On measures to improve the human resource management system in Republican and local executive bodies" dated September 22, 2023. It stipulates that from November 1, 2023, all information and documents related to human resource management in these bodies will be maintained on the electronic platform hrm.argos.uz.
Starting from this date, all ministries and agencies are required to conduct personnel administration documentation exclusively on hrm.argos.uz. This new system enables comprehensive monitoring and analysis of personnel management, providing accurate information on vacancies, employee numbers, career movements, and compliance with public service legislation.
Ultimately, this platform acts as a mirror, reflecting both the successes and shortcomings of personnel management departments, allowing ARGOS to respond promptly, prevent, and address issues in public civil service.
In conclusion, digital technologies play a crucial role in development and should be a primary focus for building a sustainable economic and public sector. Expanded digitalization and digital transformation, along with investments in the digital ecosystem, IT infrastructure, and electronic services, will drive further modernization of the national public service system and accelerate growth in various sectors.

Comment from the First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies (ISRS) under the President of Uzbekistan to Dunyo Information Agency

The focal points of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan as well as the signals conveyed to both domestic and international audiences, were highlighted in a commentary by Akramjon Ne’matov, the First Deputy Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies (ISRS) under the President of Uzbekistan, in an interview with Dunyo IA correspondent.

The expert highlighted that the primary focus of the Address was on the country’s socio-economic development, the improvement of citizens’ well-being and the enhancement of the national economy’s competitiveness. According to him, the President of Uzbekistan clearly emphasized that it is the economy, the sustainability of development, and the quality of growth that today define Uzbekistan’s opportunities both domestically and in its external engagements.

Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized that despite a challenging and fragmented global environment, Uzbekistan’s economy continues to demonstrate steady growth. For the first time in the country’s history, its GDP surpassed $145 billion this year, whereas just nine years ago, reaching the $100 billion mark was considered an ambitious milestone. Even amid disruptions in global supply chains, exports grew by 23% to $33.4 billion, electricity production in 2025 reached 85 billion kilowatt-hours, and foreign exchange reserves exceeded $60 billion. Over $43.1 billion in investments were attracted to the national economy this year, raising the investment-to-GDP ratio to 31.9%, a clear indicator of the country’s rising investment appeal.

In this context, the expert noted, maintaining high economic growth rates remains an absolute priority. However, what is particularly significant is the shift in focus from quantitative expansion toward a technological and innovative development model. This entails building a knowledge- and technology-based economy, modernizing industry, advancing the digital economy, promoting scientific research and fostering technology transfer. As Akramjon Ne’matov stressed, “An innovative economy ensures long-term competitiveness and reduces dependency on raw materials, which is critically important amid global instability”.

Another strategic priority highlighted by the President of Uzbekistan is the stimulation of domestic demand. According to the expert, the development of the domestic market is seen as a key driver of sustainable growth, encompassing higher household incomes, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and broader access to financial instruments. Domestic demand, he emphasized, provides stable sources of development and helps shield the economy from external shocks.

Special attention, Akramjon Ne’matov noted, was also given to workforce development and the creation of a new labor market architecture. The President outlined objectives for modernizing vocational education, fostering new competencies, and shaping a flexible and adaptive labor market capable of meeting the needs of a modern economy. He stressed that the labor market and professional development determine the quality of human capital – the key resource of the 21st century.

At the same time, an important focus is placed on ensuring ecological balance, developing “green energy” and the rational use of water resources. The transition to sustainable development, the adoption of renewable energy sources, improving energy and water efficiency, and adapting to climate change are regarded as strategic objectives. Ecology and “green” energy are now considered key factors for national security and sustainable development, Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized.

Among the President of Uzbekistan’s key priorities is also the formation of modern state governance and a fair judicial system. Central to this agenda are enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of public administration, strengthening the rule of law, digitizing public services and reforming the judiciary. The expert stressed that effective governance and a fair judicial system build trust, enhance investment appeal, and ensure long-term stability.

Overall, he noted, these priorities reflect Uzbekistan’s shift from quantitative growth toward a qualitative model of modernization focused on long-term outcomes.

Based on these strategic directions, Uzbekistan is shaping a framework of key cooperation priorities with international partners, aimed at deepening engagement through high-quality collaboration.

The first priority is technological and industrial partnership. This includes establishing joint high value-added production, localizing advanced technologies, and implementing collaborative research and development projects. The strategic goal is to move beyond simple technology adoption toward co-creation and practical implementation of innovations.

The second priority is the development of human capital. This encompasses joint programs for training and retraining personnel, sustained collaboration between universities, research centers, and industry, and the cultivation of new competencies demanded by the modern economy. The objective is to ensure the sustainability of reforms and enhance the quality of the workforce.

The third priority is “green” energy and resource efficiency. The focus is on joint initiatives in renewable energy, water-saving technologies, and environmentally sustainable solutions. These efforts are viewed as key instruments for reducing ecological risks and enhancing the long-term resilience of the economy.

The fourth priority is infrastructure and multi-level connectivity. The development of transport, logistics, and digital infrastructure aims not only to deepen Uzbekistan’s integration into regional and global supply chains but also to strengthen internal connectivity across the country’s regions, reduce territorial disparities, and improve access to markets, services, and economic opportunities. Taken together, these initiatives reinforce Uzbekistan’s role as a stable regional hub for cooperation and transit.

The fifth priority is institutional development and the quality of public governance. This includes promoting principles of transparent and efficient governance, establishing a fair and independent judicial system, enhancing the effectiveness and professionalism of the civil service, and fostering experience-sharing in the digitalization of public services. These measures create a predictable institutional environment, strengthen trust among investors and partners, and serve as a solid foundation for sustainable, long-term international cooperation.

In conclusion, Akramjon Ne’matov emphasized that Uzbekistan views collaboration with foreign partners as a strategic priority. The country aims to transition from broad but largely quantitative engagement toward high-quality partnerships, centered on technology, human capital, and sustainable growth that align with the long-term interests of all parties.

Dunyo IA