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                                              LATEST NEWS : February 2011                     ARCHIVES

The regional stage of the competition among entrepreneurs and artisans Tashabbus-2011 (Initiative-2011) for the prize of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan was held in Karakalpakstan.

The contest was held to help for development of small and private business, support of farmers’ movement. It also focused on the activities of entrepreneurs, who produce substituting products.

In Kanlikul district, more than 20 participants presented their products in the nomination of “Best Entrepreneur of the Year.” The head of a private firm S. Bisenov won the first place in that category.

The head of “Abdullaev Daryoboy” farm D. Abdullaev won in the nomination of “Best Farmer of the Year.”

“Founded in 2005, our farm is engaged in the cultivation of cotton and wheat,” D. Abdullaev said. “Last year, we received 100 tons of grain from the 32 of our 163 hectares, and 65 tons of cotton from 25 hectares.”

The works of 16 artisans, household items, carvings, Karakalpak national costumes, embroidery and carpets competed in the nomination of the “Best Craftsman of the Year.” Entrepreneur Jadira Kudaybergenova won the first place in that category.
 

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The meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Children’s Sport Fund was held in Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on 25 February under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov. The head of the state spoke about the extensive work carried out since the creation of the fund, which operates with support of the government agencies, industrial enterprises, NGOs and the general public.

Thanks to the work of the fund, the development of children’s sports has really become a powerful national movement, Islam Karimov said. He touched upon the most important tasks that the fund faces in its activity.

“The interest, enthusiasm and love for sports in our children should be formed from early childhood. Only in this case can we make sports a constant companion in the people’s lives,” the President stressed.

“We can reach the intended goal by attracting children to sports at preschool and early school age. At the same time, we must not forget that each child has a vast inner world, and a special attention should be attached to this,” he underlined.

“Only those children who regularly go in for sports at an early age will grow physically strong and healthy. This will allow each parent to achieve his or her dream – to raise healthy children and to establish a healthy lifestyle in the society.

“Sports from an early age strengthen the child’s character, through participation in competitions he or she form such qualities as strength and courage, the desire to victory, first of all victory over himself or herself, and foundations for strong will are laid.

By victory over oneself I mean that this is primarily self-education, strong discipline, elimination of shortcomings and overcoming difficulties,” Islam Karimov said.

“As we know, without the development of children’s sports, we cannot ensure the future of the Uzbek sports and increase its fame on the international arena.

“It is not a secret today that sport is becoming the most efficient and effective way of demonstrating the potential of the nation and raising the national pride and honor.

“If there are currently about 7 billion people living on Earth, the most famous and well-known personalities among them are sportsmen. For example, at the Asian Games in China last year, which were attended by representatives of many large states, when the team of Uzbekistan in rhythmic gymnastics rose to the podium, I personally experienced unforgettable moments. I think that such achievements of our athletes bring great excitement to all of our compatriots.

“The youth football team of Uzbekistan won the second place at the Asian Cup and won the right to participate in the forthcoming World Cup in Mexico. This is a historic event in our sports life. And there are many such examples.

“If we want the Uzbek sports to occupy a deserved place on the international arena, we must systematically develop the children’s and youth’s sports. I think we are all well aware of this truth.

“Putting it short, children’s sport should be the future of the Uzbek sports, the basis of increasing the glory of the Uzbek sports on the international arena,” the President emphasized.

“The children’s sports plays an immeasurably important role in achieving the great goal we set, which is upbringing the harmoniously developed generation, making our children the decisive force in the society, and Uzbekistan’s gaining its rightful place among the developed countries. I think there is no need to dwell on this issue.

“As we know, many companies are currently working in our country using high technologies, employing thousands and thousands of young people who graduated from universities, lyceums and colleges. In forming boys and girls as qualified specialists, apart from their mastering modern knowledge and skills, their going in for sports and strong physical development is also an important factor.

“In this regard, I would like to note once again that in the 21st century of uncompromising competition, only a generation and a nation that is physically strong, spiritually mature and intellectually rich may win.

“We often witness how the television in many foreign countries regularly shows programs glorifying the country and its people, praising them for the whole world. Especially touching are moments when the state flag is raised and the national anthem in honor of the winner athletes is heard.

“Our national television should broadcast more of such programs, which increase the glory of Uzbekistan in the world, it should pay continued attention to creating a bright image of the country on the international arena; this will be a great spiritual and educational work,” the head of the state said.

The President continued saying that in order to raise the young people as personalities that are not inferior to anyone and are able to reach the highest goals, sport and physical education should deeper penetrate the people’s lives, and the issue of children’s sports should always be the focus of the state and society.

Islam Karimov drew the attention of the meeting participants to another important aspect, which is achievements in improving the health of the people, especially the children. This has been reached through large-scale reforms in the social sphere, including in healthcare, education, sports, protection of motherhood and childhood.

The President brought up the following examples: if in 2005, absolutely healthy children accounted for 52.7 percent, in 2010 this figure reached 62.6 percent. Considering that in the developed world, the figure is 70 to 72 percent, it is obvious that Uzbekistan has achieved significant growth in this direction.

In 2010, compared to 2005, the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections among students fell by 12.8 per cent, pneumonia by 15.5, bronchitis by 16.2 and scoliosis by 11.6 percent. Over the past five years, the height of boys aged 10-14 increased by an average of 2.3 centimeters and girls by 2 centimeters, while weight increased by 2.6 and 2.9 kilograms respectively, Islam Karimov said.

We should not stop here, the President said, calling for setting more ambitious goals, namely, working constantly to achieve the level of the developed countries.

The meeting participants considered the activity of the Children’s Sports Development Fund over the past year.

In 2010, in accordance with the State Program “Year of Harmoniously Developed Generation”, special attention was paid to physical education and sport, in particular, further development of children’s sports, construction of modern sports complexes and stadiums in cities and villages, providing them with sports equipment and qualified trainers. This program has intensified measures to promote healthy lifestyle, increase the medical culture of the population, and develop mass sports, particularly among children.

The meeting reviewed the results of the program of construction, reconstruction and capital repairs of children’s sports facilities and swimming pools in 2010. Last year, 95 objects were commissioned, including 61 in rural areas.

This year’s final stage of the Barkamol Avlod-2011 sports competitions will be held in Surkhandarya region. In connection with this, a number of new children’s sports facilities are being constructed in the city of Termez, the regional center. A universal gym with a football and track and field arena, which will seat 10,000 spectators, is being erected here.

The head of the state made recommendations on the preparation and conduction of the large-scale sporting event, organized in Surkhandarya for the first time. Barkamol Avlod is a major youth forum, which has a great sociopolitical and spiritual significance.

Under the Football Development Program, opening of children’s and youth football clubs by professional football clubs in Andijan, Namangan and Samarkand regions is planned in 2011.

Also this year, construction, reconstruction and overhaul of 149 objects, including 130 objects of children’s sports and 19 swimming pools, will be carried out using the funds of the Children’s Sports Development Fund. 118 objects of the total number will be built in rural areas.

The meeting participants discussed issues of ensuring compliance of newly constructed and renovated children’s sports facilities, particularly swimming pools, to modern requirements and their efficient operation.

The also considered the process of the formation and targeted use of the funds of the Children’s Sports Development Fund. Last year, the fund intended to accumulate UZS 111.1 billion and the factual figure reached UZS 116.8 billion. Foreign currency funds amounted to USD 1.72 million.

During 2008-2011, the accumulated funds increased by 55.9 percent, which indicates the increasing attention of sponsors to the development of children’s sports in the country.

All these funds were used for their intended purpose – construction and major renovation of children’s sports venues and facilities, swimming pools, as well as equipment of sports facilities opened in 2010. The funds were also used to ensure that children, especially girls, from families in need of social support, were provided with sports equipment and clothing, to hold sports events and support participation of Uzbek students in international competitions.

The Children’s Sports Development Fund and regional administrations actively cooperate in attracting girls and boys to sports. As a result of this work, 1.6 million students aged 6-15 regularly went in for sports in 2010. This figure currently stands at 34.5 percent versus 29.2 percent in 2008, while among girls it has increased from 24.1 to 30.9 percent.

The opening of the regional gymnastics federations and centers expanded opportunities of girls to go in for sports. Because of this, the number of girls involved in rhythmic gymnastics tripled in the last two years. In addition, the number of girls going in for table tennis and swimming is also increasing.

President Islam Karimov drew the attention to the need of a special approach to attract girls to sports and create appropriate conditions for this, especially in rural areas.

It is important that the girls who go in for sports today, will bring the love to sports to their children when they become mothers. This is the essence and value of the “Healthy mother – healthy child” program implemented in the country, Islam Karimov said.

The Board of Trustees considered the issue of equipping the children’s sports facilities with necessary equipment of domestic production.

Between 2003 and 2010, the Children’s Sport Development Fund sponsored the equipment of 1,199 newly built children’s sports facilities for UZS 18.91 billion.

Domestic enterprises like Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Combine, Fayz holding company, Sovplastital joint venture, Uzeltekhsanoat association, Uzavtosanoat joint stock company and others, as well as small businesses and private entrepreneurs launched production of a wide range of sports equipment. In particular, Uz-Tong Hong Co. joint venture started the production of basketballs, footballs and volleyballs in 2010.

As a result of the taken measures, children’s sports objects are equipped primarily by domestically produced items. All sports facilities launched in 2010 were fully equipped according to established norms with domestic products. In 2011, launch of production of stopwatches and chess clocks is planned.
 

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The round table devoted to the “Interethnic harmony as a factor of peace and stability” was held in Tashkent. Organized by the Republican International Cultural Center in conjunction with the Kyrgyz Culture Center, the event was attended by the representatives of various public organizations, artists, writers, scientists, activists of national cultural centers and media professionals.

During the event the participants noted that the information attacks, organized by some foreign centers and news agencies, were focused on casting shadow on interethnic harmony in Uzbekistan and undermining the centuries-old friendship and brotherhood of the people in the region as well as the stability in society. Several news agencies disseminated the information to destroy the bonds of friendship, cooperation and brotherhood among Uzbek and Kyrgyz communities.

Participants in the roundtable emphasized that such attacks were absolutely untrue, and expressed their strong protest. It was noted that the basis for such actions was such vile intentions, as undermining the peace, stability and interethnic harmony in Uzbekistan. Preventing such attempts require a strong position in life of all citizens, regardless of nation, language and religion. It encourages to further strengthen the independence of motherland, safeguard peace and stability in society, be vigilant for various information attacks.

“Over 150 national cultural centers operate in Uzbekistan,” said the head of the Kyrgyz Culture Center Rahmatulla Jabbarov. “The constitutional principles of freedom, rights and lawful interests of all citizens living in Uzbekistan, regardless of their nationality, are put in practice. The fact that our children are taught in Kyrgyz language and master the profession they choose serves as an example of it.”

“National policy, pursued by President Islam Karimov, is widely recognized throughout the world,” said the editor of a leading publishing and printing house “Uzbekistan” Abiba Yunusalieva. “In Uzbekistan, along with the Uzbek language, instruction is available in other languages, including Kyrgyz. Textbooks, manuals and other books, published in other languages indicate that many opportunities are created in this country for people of all nationalities.”

All the people in the country, regardless of their ethnicity, are equal citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The Constitution enshrines the principles of ensuring their rights and interests, creating the necessary conditions for preserving and developing national traditions, customs and values. The most precious wealth in the years of independence is a peaceful and tranquil life of the people. Such noble qualities as mutual respect, friendship, tolerance, desire to live in harmony with national and universal values, had been widely recognized by the representatives of all nations and nationalities living in our country as well as the international community.

The representatives of over 130 nationalities reside and work in Uzbekistan. All conditions are created for the protection of their constitutional rights and freedoms and legal interests, education and skills development. Uzbekistan pays constant attention to conservation issues and further development and enrichment of national traditions and values of different nations and nationalities. The education in secondary schools is conducted in seven languages – Uzbek, Karakalpak, Russian, Kyrgyz, Turkmen, Kazakh and Tajik, while the mass media operates in 10 languages of the nationalities residing in Uzbekistan.

The activities of the Republican International Cultural Center and other national cultural centers focus on the strengthening of peace, tranquility, stability, friendship and mutual understanding in society, the further development of national values and traditions, the wide propaganda of their essence and value.
 

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Private open joint-stock commercial Universalbank announced the results of 2010. The bank’s aggregate capital made up UZS 13.5 billion, increasing by 44.7 percent against 2009.

The authorized capital made up UZS 11.3 billion, which is a 97.3 percent increase year on year. The bank’s assets reached UZS 33.8 billion, having grown by 28 percent.

The bank issued loans worth UZS 10.3 billion last year, which is an increase of 19.8 percent.

Universalbank carried out a huge work in 2010 to attract the funds to the bank deposits. Theie volume increased by 14.1 percent during the year and reached UZS 3.15 billion.

Having taken the course to support and develop small and private business, as well as rural housing, Universalbank ensured growth in such areas as microcredits and mortgage lending to UZS 375.7 million and UZS 363.6 million respectively. Credits extended to small businesses accounted for UZS 12.8 billion.

Universalbank was founded in May 2002. Its main clients are small businesses and private entrepreneurs. Universalbank is a member of the Deposit Guarantee Fund, which means the state guarantees 100-percent return of the funds.

Since mid-2010, Universalbank began a large-scale restructuring aimed at strengthening corporate governance and control of operational risk, as well as increasing the market share. The team of skilled professionals provides additional impetus for further improvement of the banking institution.

Total restructuring of the bank is carried out in order to implement the resolution of the President of Uzbekistan “On priority directions of further reforming and improving the stability of the financial and banking system of the republic in 2011-2015 and achieving high international rating indicators” signed on 26 November 2010.

This work meets the goals and objectives stated in the report of the President Islam Karimov at the solemn meeting dedicated to the 18th anniversary of the Constitution, where 2011 was declared the Year of Small Business and Private Entrepreneurship.

Universalbank is among the banks that are directly involved in servicing this segment of the economy. The development strategy of the bank is focused on further improving the quality of variety of banking services to representatives of domestic business.

In the past year, the bank introduced several types of deposit products, bringing their number to 22 (19 in national currency and 3 in foreign currency). As part of the program of development of cashless payments among the population, the bank issued more than 7,500 soum plastic cards as of the end of 2010.

Over the last year, the number of customers exceeded 17,000, having increased by 13.9 percent. It is worth noting that the share of enterprises with foreign investment in the structure of the bank’s customer base increased by 47 percent.

The corporate governance at Universalbank has significantly improved. The bank has been introducing the advanced risk management system. In 2011, introduction of the call-center and launch of the new website are planned.

The bank intends to expand its branch network in order to diversify its geographical operations. In 2011, Universalbank is preparing a broad range of products for retail and corporate customers, and is planning a restyling of its brand.

In general, the increase of the capital, more rigorous monitoring, improved quality of loans and introduction of new innovative banking products will allow the bank to strengthen its market position and increase its credit potential, contributing to the growth of the country’s economy.
 

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The Uzbek-Turkmen joint commission for trade-economic, scientific-technical and cultural cooperation held a session in Tashkent on 22 February.

Opening the meeting, Vice Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Elyor Ganiyev said the relations between the two countries were successfully developing in all areas.

Both Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are interested in expansion of mutual cooperation, which is proved by the regular meetings at the highest level.

The two states have huge potential for development of relations in the economic sector, including oil and gas, international cargo transit, and other fields.

The volume of mutual trade between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan made up USD 195.5 million last year. The sides agreed to use all opportunities to increase this figure in the future.

Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan Bayar Abayev expressed satisfaction with the results of cooperation in various areas.

“The relations between our countries are developing dynamically in the spirit of mutual trust, respect and interest,” he said at the session.
 

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Advantageous geographical location of Uzbekistan, high intellectual potential, rich natural resources, stable economy, reliable mechanisms for attracting foreign investment facilitate active cooperation of the most developed states with the country, including the USA.

The legal framework of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the USA consists of more than 50 documents, including the Declaration on the bases of strategic partnership and cooperation signed in 2002.

The bilateral relations are developing actively in the framework of this declaration in accordance with the principles of equality, constructive cooperation and mutual respect of interests. The priority in relations is cooperation in political, economic, trade, investment and security areas.

Uzbekistan and the USA take an active part in bringing peace and stability in Afghanistan and socioeconomic development of this country. Non-military and humanitarian supplies are transited through Uzbekistan to Afghanistan.

Trade-economic and investment spheres are considered among the most important areas of strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States. Currently, large-scale investment projects are realized in Uzbekistan by the world’s largest companies like General Motors, Texaco, Chartis and others.

Favorable investment environment created in the country for cooperation with foreign investors, opportunities and benefits guaranteed by law were noted at the Uzbek-American business forum held last week in Tashkent.

Heads of various ministries and departments, leading companies and corporations of the USA took part in the forum to discuss the current state and prospects of relations between the two states.

In particular, the sides discussed attracting US investments in projects in hi-tech industries like oil and chemical sector, automotive, aerospace, energy and energy savings, as well as in education.

“General Electric is one of the largest industrial companies in the USA,” said its managing director Joseph Carelli. “Uzbekistan is rich in oil and gas reserves. THe present event gave us an opportunity to hold talks with Uzbek colleagues. This year, we plan to open a representative office in your country to establish long-term cooperation with Uzbekistan.”

The American businessmen highly evaluated the results of economic reforms conducted in Uzbekistan. The specifically highlighted the macroeconomic stability of Uzbekistan and the high GDP growth rates.

“Uzbekistan has all conditions for successful business,” said general manager of Case New Holland Mario Gasparri. “We would like to use these opportunities and expand our business in Uzbekistan.”

The forum participants agreed that Uzbekistan and the USA would continue developing bilateral cooperation based on principles of mutual interest.
 

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President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the delegation of the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce headed by its chairwoman Carolyn Lamm at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on 18 February. Carolyn Lamm said during the meeting that the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce assigned an honorable award to President Islam Karimov for ensuring a stable transformation of Uzbekistan’s economy into an effectively run market economy.

She stressed that the decision – taken by the chamber whose membership includes such leaders of global industry as Boeing, Honeywell, General Electric, Exxon Mobil, General Motors, Sikorsky Aircraft, Zeppelin International, Nobel and others – was indicative of the international recognition of the concept of gradual transition to market economy, elaborated by President Islam Karimov and acknowledged across the world as the Uzbek model of development.

The management of Boeing and Honeywell who participated in the meeting noted that the Uzbek model of economic reforms, built on the five principles of transition worked out by President Karimov, had ensured a shock-free macroeconomic stability and profound structural transformations, and create an environment facilitating a smooth shift to market relations in the country.

The works by President Karimov on the concepts of transition from the administrative command economy to the market system and the Anticrisis Program have confirmed their high effectiveness in practice. These concepts have an important practical significance in the elaboration and implementation of macroeconomic policy in transitional economies and can serve as a good starting point for both the developing and developed nations.

In a relatively short period of time, Uzbekistan ensured a transition from an economy based on raw materials to a diversified industrial one, building on modernization, technical and technological renewal of industry and agriculture based on an active investment policy, manufacture of competitive export-oriented goods, as well as an accelerated development of small business and private entrepreneurship.

It is worth noting that the International Monetary Fund considers Uzbekistan the most dynamically developing economy among the CIS countries and one of the five most rapidly growing economies in the world.

The well thought-out, targeted and long-term concept of the Anticrisis Program became a logical continuation of the economic reforms in Uzbekistan.   Its effective implementation has helped maintain macroeconomic and financial sustainability, stable development of the real sector, and lay a solid ground for the subsequent steadily high rates of economic growth for years to come.

Thanks to this, US companies like the General Motors, Texaco, Chartis and a number of others have already been successfully realizing major investments in Uzbekistan, while such renowned high-tech leaders as Honeywell, Sikorsky Aircraft, Exxon Mobil and General Electric are in the process of commencing their investment activities in the Uzbek economy.

The representatives of the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce highlighted the macroeconomic indicators of Uzbekistan, in particular high GDP growth rates, stable budget surplus, balance of payments and trade, steady growth of the gold and currency reserves and the low level of the state debt.

During the meeting, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov expressed confidence that the American-Uzbek Chamber would continue to be an instrument of expansion of trade-economic and investment cooperation between the two nations.

The members of the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce thanked the head of Uzbekistan for the warm welcome.

Prospects of further development of Uzbek-American relations in the economic and investment spheres were discussed at the conversation. It was stressed that both sides were interested in attracting advanced US technologies and investments in the dynamically developing economy of Uzbekistan, and that the efforts would be continued to create a favorable environment for such interaction on the basis of strategic partnership.

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The Uzbek-US business forum was held in Tashkent on 18 February in the framework of the visit to Uzbekistan of Robert Blake, US Assistant State Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.

Opening the forum, Galina Saidova, Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade, said cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States was developing in all areas, including trade and economy.

Last year, the trade turnover between the two countries made up USD 181 million. More than 240 joint ventures set up with American capital operate in Uzbekistan, along with representative offices of 63 US companies.

The work in the areas like car building, oil and gas, textile, food industry, construction materials, tourism, trade, services and others.

The US highly value their relations with Uzbekistan, Robert Blake said. Uzbekistan is a country with rich resources. Even in the conditions of the global economic crisis, Uzbekistan has maintained macroeconomic stability and high growth rates, he noted.

The US Assistant State Secretary stressed that Uzbekistan was taking an active part in the socioeconomic recovery of Afghanistan, providing this country with humanitarian aid, electricity, construction materials, and assisting in building transport communications.

Among the US companies present at the business forum were General Electric Energy, Sikorsky Aircraft, Boeing, ExxonMobil, Honeywell, Zeppelin International, Case New Holland and others.
The delegations of the two countries discussed expansion of mutual trade, increasing the number of joint ventures and implementing projects in Navoi free industrial zone.

The representatives of the US business also held talks at various ministries and departments of Uzbekistan.

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More than 300 new entrepreneurship entities were registered in Yuqorichirchiq district of Tashkent region in 2010. Their total number now is over 1,000.

The commercial banks issued credits worth more than UZS 3.3 billion to these entrepreneurs. USD 6.2 million worth of investments was attracted last year.

The proclamation of the year 2011 as the Year of Small Business and Private Entrepreneurship is expected to open new opportunities for the businessmen.

A number of enterprises were launched this year already, Mamurjon Urmonov, head of the district’s entrepreneurship entities registration inspection, said.

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The organizing committee of the Tashabbus-2011 (Initiative-2011) nationwide contest held its first meeting in Tashkent. The annual event is being organized in accordance with the President’s decree of 5 January 1995 on stimulating private entrepreneurship.

The Tashabbus contest is considered one of the instruments of implementing the program of supporting and developing small business and entrepreneurship. The main organizer of the contest if the Commerce and Industry Chamber, supported by the Farms Association and the Hunarmand craftsmen association.

The contest will be held on the district, city and regional levels, and finish at the final stage in Tashkent.

The chairman of the Commerce and Industry Chamber Alisher Shaykhov said the number of contest participants had been increasing from year to year.

This year, the main focus of the contest will be development of production and expansion of exports.

The contest nominations include the best entrepreneurs, the best farmer, and the best craftsman. Special nominations are the youngest entrepreneur, the best woman entrepreneur, the best innovative project, the best employer, the best family business owner and the best business idea.
The particular importance of this year’s Tashabbus is that it is being held in the Year of Small Business and Private Entrepreneurship.

The first prize winners will receive Chevrolet Spark cars.

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The 528th birthday anniversary of the great poet and statesman Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur was marked in the country on 14 February.

The Ministry of Public Education held literary forums, reading and poetry evenings, meetings and seminars devoted to the poet at all schools and libraries.

One such event was held at school No.234 in Almazar district of Tashkent. Its participants said Babur’s heritage played an important role in upbringing the young people in the spirit of kindness, humanism and love to Motherland.

The participants of the event competed in a contest of essays devoted to Babur and performed plays on the stage about his life and work.

On the same day, a conference on the teaching Babur’s works was held in the Central institute for training public education staff named after Abdulla Avloniy.

“The rich heritage of our great ancestor Babur has a great importance in the teaching process,” Kuvandik Jumaniyazov, teacher of Uzbek language and literature from Ellikkala, Karakalpakstan, said.

“Poetry events and meetings with writers and poets held in our school help students expand their knowledge and develop their creativity,” he added.

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Enterprises and organizations of the Uzavtoyul state joint stock company carried out works related to road construction and repairs worth UZS 468.8 billion in 2010.

More than 250 km of new roads were commissioned last year, which is 1.9 times more than in 2009, Uzavtoyul told UzA.

This year the company plans construct and reconstruct a total of 302 km of automobile roads.
Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank signed an agreement on attracting credit resources worth USD 600 million for construction and reconstruction of 222 km of roads on the Uzbek national highway.

In accordance with the President’s December resolution on development of infrastructure and transport and communication construction, 2,306 km of roads on the national highway will be built and repaired in 2001-2015.

The project includes construction of bridges and junctions, as well as petrol and gas filling stations, repair and medical service stations, parking spaces, motels and hotels.

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President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, at the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan was in Tokyo on official visit February 8-10. During his stay in Japan, President Karimov met with Emperor Akihito, Prime Minister Naoto Kan, Speakers of higher and lower houses of Japanese parliament Takeo Nishioka and Takahiro Yokomichi, respectively, minister of foreign affairs Seiji Maehara, the leaders and members of parliamentary groups of friendship – DPJ-Uzbekistan and LDPJ-Uzbekistan.

During the talks, the sides carried out an extensive and productive dialogue on the current state and prospects of relations between Uzbekistan and Japan, on a wide array of cooperation areas.

The two sides agreed that bilateral ties have come to be put on a dynamic development track following Uzbekistan’s declaration of independence and the subsequent establishment of diplomatic relations in December 1991, built on principles of equality, constructive partnership, mutual interest and respect. The first official visit by President Islam Karimov to Japan in May 1994 instituted a solid foundation for a long-term multidimensional interaction.

The Republic of Uzbekistan and Japan in 2002 signed a Joint Statement on Friendship, Strategic Partnership and Cooperation in Tokyo, a logical outcome of the expanding bilateral interaction.
The political dialogue received an additional boost during the then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi’s official visit to Uzbekistan in August 2006.

In May 2010, within the 43rd Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank in Tashkent, President Islam Karimov met with the Japanese delegation headed by Naoto Kan, the present-day Prime Minister.

The two nations have worked out a constructive cooperation within the framework of international organizations and institutions. Uzbekistan is consistently supportive of Japan’s aspiration for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council. In its turn, Japan backed Uzbekistan’s initiative to declare Central Asia a zone free of nuclear weapons.

The two sides have been vigorous in bolstering multilateral contacts within Central Asia + Japan dialogue format.

Inter-parliamentary cooperation has been enhancing between Uzbekistan and Japan.
The most pressing in the development of strategic partnership between the two countries is trade and economic and investment domain.

Today, Japan is one of the major investors into Uzbek economy. The volume of Japanese financial enclosures assigned for the execution of priority projects in hydrocarbon industry, transport, telecommunications, healthcare, agriculture and other sectors has totaled 2.3 billion U.S. dollars, including the government-privileged yen credits worth more than 1.2 billion U.S. dollars, over 280 million dollars in honorary aid, more than 110 million dollars in technical assistance, over 720 million dollars in commercial credits.

Major infrastructure projects have been implemented with the participation of leading Japanese companies that included the construction of Bukhoro and the reconstruction of Farg’ona oil refinery mills, Tashkent train car repair plant, modernization of airports in Uzbekistan’s historical towns of Samarqand, Bukhoro, Urganch, digitalization of telecommunications networks of the Republic.

Toshguzar-Boysun-Qumqo’rg’on, a modern railway line in southern Uzbekistan, has been commissioned for use. A joint venture manufacturing buses and trucks in Samarqand in cooperation with the Japanese Isuzu and Itochu corporations, as well as a Sumitomo-owned telecommunications services company have been successfully operating in Uzbekistan. Within the framework of UN Clean Development Mechanism, seven projects are under implementation jointly with Japanese partners.

The intergovernmental agreement on liberalization, mutual protection and encouragement of investments, in force since 24 September 2009, facilitates the growing interest of Japanese companies to Uzbekistan and setting up persistent bonds with Uzbek partners in realization of joint longer-range investment projects.

The Japan Agency for International Cooperation (JICA) and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) operate in Uzbekistan through their representative offices in Tashkent.

In its due contribution to training highly qualified specialists, the Uzbek-Japanese Center in Tashkent bases its syllabi on Japan’s experience of economic progress.

Founded in 1994, Uzbek-Japanese and Japanese-Uzbek committees on economic cooperation have been rather instrumental in enlarging trade and economic ties.

The meeting and talks of President Islam Karimov with Prime Minister Naoto Kan proceeded in friendly, candid and constructive atmosphere, traditional for Uzbek-Japanese relations. Along with discussion of extensive agenda over bilateral cooperation in political, economic, social and educational spheres, the parties also exchanged views on international issues.

The Japanese partners stressed Uzbekistan’s key role in ensuring security, stability and sustainable development in the region.

Tokyo supports the efforts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in addressing regional issues, including the use of water resources in Central Asia region based on universally recognized principles of international law with regard to the interests of the region’s states.

It was stated that Uzbekistan and Japan were making an important contribution to the socio-economic development of Afghanistan and stabilizing the country. The sides highlighted the necessity for further improving the international assistance to reconstruction and peaceful development of that nation.

The talks touched on the issues of further development of trade and economic, investment and financial cooperation.

During the visit of President Islam Karimov to Japan, the Uzbek delegation signed a few agreements with major companies specializing in high technologies, aimed at attracting Japanese technologies and investment in such rapidly developing sectors of the economy as oil and gas, chemical, petrochemical, power engineering and textile industry.

The sides inked agreements on long-term supply of uranium concentrate, exploration in promising areas in the territory of Uzbekistan, as well as cooperation in production of rare metals and rare earth elements.

National Bank of Uzbekistan for Foreign Economic Activity signed an agreement with leading Japanese banks, Tokyo-Mitsubishi and Sumitomo-Mitsui, on funding joint projects.

The sides reached agreement on enhancing the cooperation in the framework of the Official Development Assistance. The memorandum on economic cooperation signed between the foreign ministries of both countries in the framework of the Official Development Assistance provides for a long-term soft loan for Uzbekistan in yen for the electrification project of Qarshi-Termiz railway.

The memorandum on the development of foreign trade and investment, signed during the visit between the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, provides for greater cooperation and involvement of Japanese high-tech and know-how in the economy of Uzbekistan, energy- and resource-efficient projects.

During the official visit, President Islam Karimov and Prime Minister Naoto Kan signed a joint statement between Uzbekistan and Japan, which reflected an assessment of the current state and prospects of Uzbek-Japanese relations, as well as common approaches to cooperation in the international arena.

The sides noted that the reached agreements and penned documents could reinforce a robust foundation for multifaceted cooperation and create an enabling environment for reliable extensive development of strategic partnership at a higher level.

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President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov arrived in Tokyo on 8 February on an official visit at the invitation of Japan’s Prime Minister Naoto Kan. On 9 February, the leader of Uzbekistan met the Emperor of Japan Akihito, Prime Minister Naoto Kan, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Seiji Maehara. During the talks, the sides stated that the Uzbek-Japanese relations had been developing consistently, and that the approaches and views on many dimensions of mutual cooperation on both bilateral and multilateral basis had been similar.

The sides expressed their high appraisal of the traditionally friendly and steady partnership ties in the political, trade and economic, investment, scientific and technological, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

The meetings and talks proved significant prospects of cooperation in the domain of high technologies, and modernization and diversification of economy, where a robust investment potential had been taking practical implementation in a number of projects.

Uzbek-Japanese and Japanese-Uzbek committees for economic cooperation have proved crucial in the development of bilateral ties. The two committees convened for a joint meeting on the eve of President Islam Karimov’s visit to Tokyo. The outcomes of the business forum have once again testified the growing interest of the Japanese business circles to the investment potential of Uzbekistan.

At the end of the negotiations, Islam Karimov and Naoto Kan signed a Joint Statement between the Republic of Uzbekistan and Japan. Other signed documents included the Memorandum between the foreign ministries on economic cooperation in implementing projects in the framework of Official Development Assistance program and others.

President Islam Karimov’s official visit to Japan continues.

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A conference dedicated to studying the literary and scientific heritage of Alisher Navoi was held at the Institute of Language and Literature of the Academy of Sciences.

Scientists, researchers, writers and poets, literary lovers and journalists took part in the event.

Vice President of the Academy of Sciences S.Gulomov, director of the Institute of Language and Literature N.Mahmudov, national poet A.Oripov, literature experts S.Ganiyeva and I.Hakkulov and others noted that in Uzbekistan great attention was given to the revival of national traditions and values, support of fundamental research of the heritage of the great ancestors.

One of the most important areas of spiritual and educational work carried out in Uzbekistan is consistent study of universal ideas in the works of the great thinker Alisher Navoi and education of the youth on the basis of them.

As a result of research, scientists published complete works of Navoi. Monuments to Alisher Navoi were installed in many regions of Uzbekistan, as well as abroad – in Moscow, Tokyo, Baku and other cities.

The interest to works of Navoi is growing not only in Uzbekistan, but also abroad. His works have been translated into many languages.

A significant part of work in the Academy of Sciences is aimed at a profound study of the priceless heritage of Navoi.

Reports on the role of Navoi in the development of human civilization, publication of his works, and the image of Navoi in historical works and other issues were heard in the conference.

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The Uzbek-Japanese Center operating in Tashkent is a vivid example of the active cooperation of Uzbekistan and Japan in the cultural and humanitarian spheres.

The center, which opened in 2001, provides training for entrepreneurs, language and IT courses and information for those wishing to learn more about Japan. The center hosts cultural events, seminars and exhibitions.

Students, teachers and professionals are among the frequent visitors to the Uzbek-Japanese Center. It has a library, video and audio collections and an internet access section.

At present, about 300 people are learning Japanese language at the center. Those intending to pursue a career in business may attend professional management program, as well as short-term special courses and seminars, or take distance learning courses.

Calligraphy lessons, tea ceremonies, national cuisine and musical instruments playing courses and many other events help to deepen the cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Japan.

In 2007, the center opened a branch at Bukhara State University.

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President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov will pay an official visit to Japan on 8-10 February on the invitation of this country’s Prime Minister Naoto Kan.

During the visit, issues of expansion and deepening of the Uzbek-Japanese cooperation, as well as important problems of regional and international character will be considered.

Signing of a number of bilateral documents aimed at deepening interaction between the two states in various areas is expected.

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More than 1.3 million tourists visited Uzbekistan last year, which is 6.9% more than during the previous year, Uzbektourism national company said at a meeting in Tashkent.

According to the company chairman R.Mirzayev, tourists from various countries are attracted by the ancient architectural monuments and beautiful nature of Uzbekistan.

Over the past years, many modern hotels have been built, and the tourism infrastructure has been developing in the country.

To increase the flow of tourists, Uzbektourism is implementing measures to improve the infrastructure and quality of service, including training new specialists, and to expand promotion of Uzbekistan’s tourism potential abroad.

Specialists believe proclamation of the year 2011 as the Year of small business in Uzbekistan will serve to increasing the share of the private sector in tourism and attract new investments into the sector.

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The Ecological Movement of Uzbekistan held an event devoted to the 40th anniversary of the Convention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran on 2 February 1971 and known as the Ramsar Convention.

The aim of the convention is to preserve the nature in its initial form, protect the flora and fauna and ensure rational use of natural resources.

At present, a large number of projects is being implemented to pursue the tasks set out in the intergovernmental treaty, ratified by 160 countries, including Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan ratified the Ramsar Convention in 2001, and has carried out a widescale work to implement the document.

In particular, Dengizkul lake in Bukhara region was included in the list of wetlands of international importance. The basins of Aidarkul-Arnasay lakes were included in the system of internationally protected lakes.

The event participants listened to reports on implementing international norms in using natural resources and protecting the environment, ensuring ecological safety in the country and other issues.

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The regional office of the Uzbek-Chinese Trade House opened in the city of Namangan.
As it was noted at the presentation of the office, Namangan region has close ties with business circles of China.

Last year, the regional companies exported USD 1.5 million worth of goods to China. Those included agricultural products, rubber footwear, construction materials and other items.
Imports from China include equipment, machinery and other products.

The majority of the local companies participated in the international trade fairs held in Urumqi and Guangzhou.

At the last year’s Canton Fair, Namangan businessmen signed six contracts and three cooperation agreements.

The opening of the Uzbek-Chinese Trade House in Namangan will help boost bilateral cooperation.

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The winners of the project “Raising economic and social status of women through support in implementing innovative business ideas” were awarded in Tashkent.

The project is run by the republican public organization Women’s Council in cooperation with the National Association of Microfinancing Organizations, Mehr Nuri charity fund and other entities.

The goal of the scheme is to promote entrepreneurship among women and provide them with consultative and legal aid.

The contest identified the best ideas, initiatives and business plans in directions like agriculture, industrial and textile production, national craftsmanship, social and trade service, public catering and others.

A total of 28 winners of the project received certificates for microcredits worth UZS 183 million in general.

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The session of the Joqargy Kenes (Supreme Council) of Karakalpakstan held in Nukus considered the results of the region’s development in 2010 and tasks for the year 2011.

It was noted at the session that the gross regional product of Karakalpakstan increased by 10% last year, industrial production by 9.4%, consumer goods production by 9.2%, agricultural production by 7%, retail trade by 21.3% and service sector by 10.5%.

The share of small businesses and private entrepreneurs in the region’s economy reached 63.6%, more than doubling over the past 10 years from 26.9% in 2000.

Over 48,300 new workplaces were created in 2010 in Karakalpakstan, of which 75% were in the small business and farming sectors.

In Karauzak district, construction of the cement plant is continuing. The plant is expected to produce 1 million tons of cement per year.

At Surgil deposit on the Ustyurt plateau, construction of the gas-chemical complex will start soon. The complex will have a capacity to process 4 billion cubic meters of gas annually.

Nukus Textile, Turtkul Asaka Textile, Astra Textile, Khojayli Textile and Amudaryo Textile companies are undergoing modernization.

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The Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan held a session to sum up the results of activity in 2010 and discuss the tasks before the healthcare system in 2011.

It was noted at the session that thanks to reforms in healthcare held under the leadership of the President a network of qualitatively new medical establishments had been set up in the country.

In all regional centers, multifield treatment centers for adults and children are operating, and more than 3,200 rural medical stations are functioning in the country’s districts. Modern perinatal and screening centers, previously non-existent in Uzbekistan, have been built.

Over UZS 2 trillion were invested in the development of the healthcare last year, including UZS 1.7 trillion from the state budget.

The increase of the state expenditures on the social protection of the population has led to improvement of the people’s health and reduction of the maternal mortality rate more than twice and children’s mortality three times.

The prevalence of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis and others has significantly decreased.

Notable results have also been achieved in the pharmaceutical sphere. Production of 32 new medicaments was launched last year.

More than 100 local pharmaceutical enterprises today produce more than 900 titles of medicines.
In 2010, 1,630 new patient places were opened at the country’s hospitals.

This year, tens of large healthcare establishments will be built across the republic.

The session participants considered further reforms in healthcare, as well as improvement of learning at medical educational institutions, promoting reproductive health and healthy lifestyle among the population and other issues.

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Various events devoted to the 570th anniversary of the great poet and thinker Alisher Navoi are being held across Uzbekistan.

The conference on the role of Alisher Navoi’s heritage in upbringing young people was held in Navoi.

The event, organized by the Republican spirituality center, Navoi smelting combine and Navoi mountain college, gathered professors and students of the region’s universities and secondary education institutions.

The participants at the forum spoke about the life and work of Navoi and stressed that his literaru heritage has a great importance in upbringing the youth.

“The works of Navoi occupy a special place in the Oriental literature and namely Uzbek classic literature,” dean of Uzbek philology faculty of Navoi state pedagogical institute Botir Zaripov said.

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