DOWNLOADS

Visa Form (PDF file)

National Anthem

Web

uzbekembassy.in

USEFUL LINKS

President's Press-office

http://www.press-service.uz 

Portal of the State Authority Republic of Uzbekistan

http://www.gov.uz

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of Uzbekistan

http://www.mfa.uz

Uzbek National Information Agency

http:///eng/

Jahon Information Agency

http://www.jahon.mfa.uz

EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

                                              LATEST NEWS : March 2011                     ARCHIVES

The final stage of the republican contest Tashabbus 2011 for the prize of the President of Uzbekistan was held at the Turkiston palace in Tashkent.

The traditional contest among entrepreneurs, farmers and craftsmen was organized by the Commerce and Industry Chamber in collaboration with the Farms Association and the Hunarmand craftsmen association.

An exhibition of Tashabbus winners’ products was also organized within the event.

The process of selection of the contest winners has shown that entrepreneurs are effectively acquiring modern management methods, and the small business is actively developing in the country.

The current year has been proclaimed the Year of small business and private entrepreneurship, and a package of measures aimed at providing additional opportunities for entrepreneurs has been developed.

The share of the small and private business in the GDP and its role in economic development has been increasing from year to year.

If in 2000, the share of sector accounted for about 31% of GDP, in 2010 the figure made up 52.5%. Over 77% of the total employed population of the country currently works in the small business and private entrepreneurship sector.

According to chairman of the Commerce and Industry Chamber Alisher Shaykhov, over 6,400 entrepreneurs, farmers and craftsmen participated in this year’s contest. 41 winners of the regional stages competed at the final stage in the capital.

The best entrepreneur” title went to Bakhtiyor Umarov, head of Zamin Turkiston LLC, Namangan region. Nosir Turakulov of Surkhandarya region became “The best farmer”. Potter Sharif Azimov from Samarkand region was named “The best craftsman”.

The three first prize winners were awarded with gold medals and prizes of the President – Chevrolet Spark cars.

Second place winners received silver medals and UZS 6 million each, while third place winners got bronze medals and UZS 4 million.
 

www.uza.uz   

The governments of Uzbekistan and Jordan signed the Agreement on mutual assistance in the field of customs. The signing took place at the State Customs Committee in Tashkent on 30 March.

The document envisages exact calculation of customs duties, taxes and other payments between the two countries, as well as ensuring that customs tariffs during export and import of goods are defined correctly.

The sides also agreed to cooperate in preventing violations and developing cooperation in the customs sphere.

Jordan is one of the states actively developing cooperation with Uzbekistan. The two countries are constantly expanding mutual trade and economic cooperation.

“Jordan is interested in developing relations with Uzbekistan,” ambassador of Jordan in Uzbekistan Muvaffaq Mohamed Ahmad Ajlouni said.

He expressed confidence that the signed document would serve to further expansion of mutual cooperation between the two states.
 

www.uza.uz   

 

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Knut Vollebaek at the Oqsaroy March 29. The head of state highly appraised the attention paid by Knut Vollebaek to the pressing issues of interethnic relations in Central Asia, and stressed the important role played by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities in maintaining peace and stability, securing the protection of human rights and interests.

Historical evolution of our country has been distinct with interethnic and interreligious tolerance. Interethnic harmony and stability is considered one of the underlying goals of government policy and social development in Uzbekistan.

The Constitution of Uzbekistan guarantees equal rights and freedoms for all citizens irrespective of ethnic, religious and linguistic origin. Today, representatives of various ethnic groups residing in Uzbekistan take an active part in the socio-economic development of the country, in reinforcing the democratic processes in society. Practically all the ethnic composition of the country’s population is represented in legislative, executive and judicial branches of power in Uzbekistan.

Knut Vollebaek unveiled his high appreciation of Uzbekistan’s position with regard to the tragic events in southern Kyrgyzstan last June, and pointed out emphatically that the balanced and well thought-out approach proved instrumental in preventing the conflict from exacerbation and turning into an interstate confrontation.   The OSCE High Commissioner reiterated the critical necessity for an independent international inquiry into the events in Kyrgyzstan.

The current state and prospects of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Office of OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, along with other issues of mutual interest have been discussed at the meeting.
 

www.uza.uz

The delegation headed by the High Commissioner of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for Ethnic Minorities Ambassador Knut Vollebek is on a visit in Uzbekistan. On 28 March, the delegation met the Ombudsman of Uzbekistan Sayyora Rashidova.

During the meeting, it was noted that relations between Uzbekistan and the OSCE were consistently developing in all directions, particularly in the field of parliamentary relations, law and order, and human rights protection.

The sides stressed that in Uzbekistan special attention was paid to ensuring inter-ethnic harmony, and representatives of all nationalities and peoples live in peace irrespective of their language, religion, social origin.

Uzbekistan has been cooperating with the OSCE in spheres like strengthening regional security and stability, development of civil society, expansion of international economic and humanitarian partnership, and environment.

The talks touched upon issues of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the OSCE in the field of legislation and judicial system, and the current state and prospects of bilateral relations.

“OSCE jointly with Uzbekistan has for several years been implementing a number of projects,” said Knut Vollebek. “We had the opportunity to get acquainted with the work of the Ombudsman of Uzbekistan in the sphere of protection of human rights and interests. Our goal is to share experiences in ensuring the rights of national minorities, and educational and outreach activities in this area. I am sure that our cooperation will further expand and strengthen.”

The OSCE delegation will also hold talks in the ministries of foreign affairs, public education, higher and secondary specialized education of Uzbekistan, as well as the Republican International Cultural Center.
 

www.uza.uz   

 

2004 world chess champion Rustam Kasymjanov (Uzbekistan) and current world champion Viswanathan Anand (India) held a friendly match in Tashkent on 27 March. The event was organized by the Ministry for Culture and Sports of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Chess Federation, and the Fund “Forum of Culture and Arts of Uzbekistan” with the purpose of popularization of chess in the country. “Today’s friendly has brought together two outstanding world champions – Rustam Kasymjanov and Viswanathan Anand,” president of the World Chess Federation Kisran Ilyumzhinov said.

“Uzbekistan is known in the world with its chess traditions. It is great that Uzbekistan pays huge attention to development of children’s sport, including chess,” he added.

The rapid chess friendly match consisted of four parties and ended with the victory of Viswanathan Anand – 3.5-0.5.

On 28 March Viswanathan Anand and on 29 March Rustam Kasymjanov will hold a training seminar for young chess players of Uzbekistan.  

Naoto Kan, Prime Minister of Japan, sent a letter to Islam Karimov, President of Uzbekistan.

In the letter, Naoto Kan thanked Islam Karimov for the kind words of sympathy expressed in connection with the earthquake in the Pacific Ocean near Tohoku region.

“The Government of Japan, together with the population of the affected areas and people of the whole country, will make every effort to overcome this difficult time,” Naoto Kan wrote.
 

www.uza.uz   

Prime Minister of Pakistan Yousuf Raza Gilani, who arrived in Uzbekistan on an official visit, held negotiations with Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on 24 March.

During the talks, the sides considered the present state and perspectives of trade and economic relations, as well as long-term cooperation in the investment sphere.

At the negotiations of the official delegations of the two countries, it was noted that the cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan was developing consistently base don principles of mutual respect and interest.

Yousuf Raza Gilani said Uzbekistan was one of the important partners of Pakistan in the Central Asian region, and his country was interested in expansion and strengthening of mutually beneficial cooperation with Uzbekistan.

The economic relations between the two states are based on agreements on avoiding double taxation, on mutual stimulation and protection of investments and on cooperation in the trade, economic, investment and customs spheres.

Uzbekistan and Pakistan have similar approaches to issues of prevention of threats to the regional and international security. The sides emphasized the importance of cooperating in reviving peace in Afghanistan.

“Pakistan highly values relations with Uzbekistan,” Yousuf Raza Gilani said. “We are interested in expanding cooperation in areas like parliamentary relations, agriculture, transport communications, and others.

During the talks, the agreement was reached on stimulating cooperation in the regional transport and communication sector. The sides agreed to support cooperation of the business circles, expanding mutual trade and increasing the number of joint ventures.

At the completion of the talks, Uzbekistan and Pakistan signed the intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in the veterinary field, and the protocol on exchange of ratification notes of the intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in transport and goods transit.
 

www.uza.uz   

 

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov at the Oqsaroy March 24 met with Yousuf Raza Gilani, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who has been on official visit in Uzbekistan. Welcoming the guest, the head of our state said that Uzbek-Pakistani relations have been developing on principles of traditional friendship, mutual interest and respect.   Periodic meetings at the highest level are an important factor in the development of relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

The reached deals and signed agreements have facilitated to enhance the bilateral cooperation in political, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian realms.

It needs noting that Pakistan considers Uzbekistan an important partner that plays a considerable role in promoting peace and stability in the region. The parties support each other on pressing issues of regional and international significance.

As countries neighboring Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Pakistan display a particular interest in establishing peace and ensuring security in that country. That condition is to create an opportunity to set up direct transport routes and bolster economic ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
 

Trade, economic and investment cooperation has been principal in the overall interaction between our countries. Uzbekistan’s ever increasing capacities, improving transport communications and international logistics centers, steadily modernizing industry, expanding opportunities in the energy sector have been crucial in stepping up economic and investment cooperation. The two countries are interested in developing and materializing joint region-wide projects in these areas. These aspects were placed a special emphasis during the March 17 Islamabad session of Uzbek-Pakistani intergovernmental commission on trade and economic, scientific and technological cooperation.

Cultural and humanitarian interaction has been developing, too. Centers for the study of Uzbek and Urdu operate in Pakistan and Uzbekistan, respectively. Scholars, artists and other humanities specialists from the two nations regularly attend academic conferences, festivals and other events held in Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

During the meeting at the Oqsaroy, Yousuf Raza Gilani expressed earnest gratitude to the head of our state for the warm welcome, and noted that Pakistan is interested in developing long-term and mutually advantageous ties with Uzbekistan, primarily in the trade, economic and investment front.

The current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation along with regional and international issues of mutual interest have been extensively discussed at the talks.
 

www.uza.uz   

Uzbekistan Culture Days will be held in Saudi Arabia from 25 to 31 March. The days are being organized by the Culture and Sports Ministry of Uzbekistan and the Culture and Information Ministry of Saudi Arabia.

The event will be attended by famous representatives of art and culture, as well as craftsmen of Uzbekistan.

The Culture Days will be hosted by two cities – Riyadh and Jiddah, according to Culture and Sports Ministry.

The program of events includes exhibitions of applied folk art and photos titled “Uzbekistan is my Motherland”.

They will feature works of craftsmen and numerous musical performances devoted to the rich historical ad cultural heritage of Uzbekistan.

The relations between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia are developing in sociopolitical, economic, scientific and cultural directions.

A number of books by President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov have been published in Saudi Arabia.

The Kingdom respects Uzbekistan as a land that brought great thinkers, who had made a significant contribution to the development of the Islamic culture and civilization.

Saudi Arabia also highly values the actions of Uzbekistan to strengthen peace and stability in the region, as well as the country’s notable progress in achieving economic stability.
 

www.uza.uz   

The second Uzbekistan Industrial Forum opened at Uzexpocenter in Tashkent on 23 March. The event unites exhibitions UzMetalMashExpo, UzMiningExpo and UzSpecTechExpo.

The exhibitions have been organized by the IEG Uzbekistan exhibition company in conjunction with the Commerce and Industry Chamber, Emergency Ministry, Tashkent city administration, Uzavtoyul company and the Main Fire Safety Department of the Interior Ministry.

Tens of large metallurgical, machinery building and other companies from various countries, including Uzbekistan, Germany, Japan, China, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, India and Kazakhstan are participating in the forum.

The visitors can get acquainted with the equipment and technologies for metallurgical, metal processing, hydro technical, mining and other industries.

The exposition features road construction equipment, trucks, excavators, graders and other machinery.
 

www.uza.uz   

 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received a delegation of the American corporation Honeywell, headed by its chairman and chief executive officer David Cote at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on 23 March. The head of the state said that Uzbekistan considered the visit of Honeywell delegation as a good opportunity to discuss the progress of implementing agreements reached during the meeting in New York in September 2010.

The conduction of the Uzbek-American business forum in Tashkent last month, which was also attended by representatives of Honeywell, was the evidence of the growing interest of the US capital to the rapidly growing market of Uzbekistan and the promising perspectives opening here.

Today, large US companies like General Motors, Texaco, Chartis and a number of others are successfully carrying out major investments in Uzbekistan, while recognized leaders in the field of high technologies like Sikorsky Aircraft, Exxon Mobil and General Electric are showing great interest in developing cooperation with the country.
 

During the meeting, David Cote said that the high award issued to Islam Karimov by the members of the American-Uzbek Commerce Chamber was a demonstration of the international recognition of the concept of gradual transition to the market economy, developed by the President of Uzbekistan and known worldwide as the “Uzbek model” of development.   The representatives of the US corporation highly evaluated by high economic growth rates and the pace of structural reforms, based on the powerful economic and investment potential of Uzbekistan, its

 developed infrastructure, transport communications, stable banking and financial system and

 highly skilled personnel.

This is why it is important for Honeywell Corporation to establish all-round cooperation with Uzbekistan.

The sides held a thorough exchange of views on the current state and prospects of development of relations between Uzbekistan and Honeywell on a wide range of areas of economic cooperation, including attracting investments in high-tech investment projects, namely oil, gas, energy, chemical and aviation industries, as well as development of social infrastructure.

It was noted with satisfaction that during the visit of Honeywell delegation to Uzbekistan a number of documents on implementation of projects in the oil and gas, chemical, aviation and other industries was signed. New projects in oil and gas, energy, electronics, chemical industry and development of social infrastructure are in the development stage.

Islam Karimov expressed confidence that the joint implementation in Uzbekistan of mutually beneficial and long-term high-tech projects with Honeywell would give a new boost to the development of Uzbek-American investment cooperation.
 

www.uza.uz   

 

Grand celebrations of the Navruz holiday were held at Alisher Navoi National Park of Uzbekistan in Tashkent on 21 March. Members of the government, deputies and senators, scientists, representatives of arts, sports, industrial and other spheres, representatives of foreign embassies and international organizations took part in the celebrations. At 10.30 am, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov enters the square. The participants of the celebrations greet the head of the state with applause. The President congratulates the people of Uzbekistan with the holiday of Navruz.

The majestic square reflects the charm of the nature. Light breeze, beautiful flowers, chirping of birds fills the heart with joy.

The people of the country are greeting this year’s Navruz with a special feeling. This is the 20th celebration of this holiday of the independent country, and it has truly become a people’s holiday.

Each year of the 20 years of independent development of Uzbekistan is inscribed in the country’s annals in golden letters. Great successes have been achieved, and radical changes implemented.

In the historically short period, the foundations of a modern democratic state have been laid and strengthened in accordance with national values, customs and traditions.

In 20 years, Uzbekistan has entered the list of countries with dynamic economies, developed production and social infrastructure, and a stable banking and financial system.

In these bright days, our compatriots greet another spring, admire the renewal of the nature, and enjoy a peaceful and prosperous life.

With the sounds of mesmerizing music, arise enchanting spring landscapes, pictures of native nature – red tulips, green hills, valleys full of flowers, and green gardens.
 

Folk and ethnographic groups perform various songs and dances on the stage. Lively songs, performances of wrestlers and riders demonstrate the unique sides of Navruz. The free country has high goals. Values of Navruz, which embody the kindness and noble features, have a strong place in the lives of the people, and their best traditions and customs are in tune with the holiday of Navruz. The event continues with the performance of children. Laughter and songs of boys and girls, dedicated to the native land and spring, and their dances make everyone happy. Upbringing harmoniously developed generation is the cherished dream of the people of Uzbekistan. In the years of independence, under the leadership of President Islam Karimov, upbringing healthy generation has been identified as one of the most important tasks of the state and society.

In 2010, which was proclaimed the Year of the harmoniously developed generation, work in this direction was raised to a qualitatively new level. To educate young people in accordance with international standards, and ensure protection of the health of mothers and children, dozens of educational institutions, diagnostic, screening and prenatal centers, schools of music and art were built across the country.

Navruz is the time of renewal and youth, not only in nature, but also in life, customs, and way of life.

Melodies and songs are heard throughout the square. The hearts are filled with pride, triumph of kindness and generosity.

Sport plays a huge role in shaping young people. At the celebrations of Navruz, which numbers thousand of years in history, sports performances are given a special place.

On the initiative of President Islam Karimov, huge attention in the country is attached to the development of sport, particularly among children. Victories of Uzbek athletes at world arenas demonstrate the potential of the country’s youth.

During the years of independence, more than 1,200 sports facilities have been built in Uzbekistan, including more than 1,000 in rural areas. This has allowed children to regularly go in for sports.

Particular importance is paid to attracting girls to the sports. In particular, with the adoption of the program of development of rhythmic gymnastics, the number of girls going in for this sport increased 6-7 times in 2010 alone.

If in 2005, absolutely healthy children constituted 52.7 percent of the total number in Uzbekistan, in 2010 this figure increased to 62.6 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 their weight increased by 2.6 and 2.9 kilograms respectively. These figures show how deeply physical culture and sports have penetrated into the lives of the people.

The Uzbek nation greatly respects the honor and dignity of the human being. These values are reflected in providing generous assistance to the needy people, and tireless work to preserve and strengthen peace. The wise policy conducted by the head of the state has been recognized by the world community.

The initiatives and proposals of President Islam Karimov to ensure peace and stability in the region, and to address the environmental issues, put forward at the plenary session of the UN Millennium Development Goals summit in 2010, have been met with broad support. The summit participants gave a high evaluation of the work carried out in Uzbekistan in achieving the goals set in the Millennium Declaration. “In Uzbekistan, every holiday has its own peculiarities,” said ambassador of Malaysia to Uzbekistan Abdul Aziz, who took part in the celebrations in the National Park. “I was fascinated with Navruz holiday. The good mood at the celebration, joy and happiness on the faces of people testify about the welfare and peaceful life in Uzbekistan.” The proclamation of the year 2011 by the head of the state as the Year of small business and private entrepreneurship has greatly encouraged all farmers, craftsmen and entrepreneurs.

Small business and private enterprise are an important factor of the economic, social and political stability in society, and a driving force behind the development of the country. Representatives of this sector are making a worthy contribution to improving people’s welfare and economic development.

“Looking at the celebrations, I thought about 20 years of development of our independent country,” said teacher from Rishtan, Ferghana region, Mavlyuda Usmanova. “Great successes of our country achieved during the historically short time thanks to far-sighted policy of the President are reflected in the festive mood of the people. Looking at the talents and energy of our youth, I am convinced feel that our country has a great future.”

Songs and dances replace each other. Joyful atmosphere is increased by the shown traditions of Navruz, holiday rituals, and sports games.

Uzbekistan today occupies a worthy place in the world. The “Uzbek model” of development has been recognized by many countries and authoritative international organizations.

The favorable economic climate in the country is attracting great interest from foreign businesses. In 2010, investment worth USD 9.7 billion were utilized. As a result, over 200 projects were implemented, and dozens of industrial enterprises were launched.

From Navruz to Navruz, large-scale construction work is carried out every year in Uzbekistan. Modern houses are built in all regions, including remote villages. In 2010, 6,800 such houses were raised in rural areas.

This year, another noble initiative is being realized across the country. Every compatriot has been called to plant 20 trees as a gift to the country’s 20th independence anniversary.

Performances of pop stars on the stage praise the Motherland, youth, love and spring. Navruz, which embodies the beauty of our region, the creative spirit of the people, is a time of renewal, time to achieve noble goals and to set new, higher levels.

The celebrations of Navruz are continuing in all towns and villages of the country.
 

www.uza.uz   

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the member of the State Council and the Central Military Council, Defense Minister of China Liang Guanglie at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on 18 March.

Welcoming the guest, the head of the state said that the Uzbek-Chinese relations in the recent years had acquired a stably dynamic character in all areas of bilateral cooperation and received a new impulse after the state visit of the Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao to Uzbekistan in June 2010.

“We consider China a reliable partner. Today China is the second country in the world in terms of its economic potential,” said Islam Karimov.

“Your visit to Uzbekistan is a vivid demonstration of the strengthening cooperation between the defense ministries of our countries,” the President noted.

An important factor in development of multilateral relations of Uzbekistan and China is closeness and commonness of approaches to the most important issues of bilateral and multilateral relations, as well as regional and international policy.

Uzbekistan and China firmly support each other and have established close cooperation in fighting the “three evils”, which are terrorism, extremism and separatism.

The sides stressed the importance of further improvement of the activity of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which has become a serious factor in strengthening stability and security in the region, as well as development of long-term cooperation in the economic, investment, transport and other spheres.

They also highly evaluated the scale of the economic and investment partnership, as well as implementation of large joint infrastructure and industrial projects.

During the meeting, Liang Guanglie passed on the best wishes from Hu Juntao and expressed sincere gratitude to the head of the state for warm welcome.

At the talks, the state and perspectives of bilateral cooperation in the political, military and military-technical spheres was discussed in detail.
 

www.uza.uz   

The member of the State Council and the Central Military Council, Defense Minister of China Liang Guanglie met the Defense Minister of Uzbekistan Kabul Berdiyev in Tashkent on 18 March.

During the negotiations, the sides said the cooperation between Uzbekistan and China was developing in all areas, including the military sphere.

The ministers exchanged views on the further development of relations in the military sphere, as well as expanding experience and information exchange and strengthening regional security.

The members of the Chinese delegation visited the Tashkent Higher Military Command School, where they familiarized themselves with the educational process.

The delegation of China also paid a visit to the State Museum of Temurids History.
 

www.uza.uz   

The Legislative Chamber Committee for budget and economic reforms jointly with the State committee for demonopolization and competition development held a seminar on the priority directions and legislative bases of the competitive policies.

Deputies, officials from ministries and departments, as well as representatives of the monopoly enterprises discussed the issues of improvement of the legislation and development of competition on the commodity markets, as well as the draft law “On competition”.

The proposal to develop this new law was made by President Islam Karimov in his 12 November speech on the Concept of further deepening of democratic reforms and formation of the civil society in the country.

The adoption of the law on competition will lead to improvement of legal regulation of relations and prevention of monopolistic activities on the commodities markets.

The law will replace the old law on competition and limitation of monopolistic activities, which does not correspond to the present level of development of the economy of Uzbekistan.

According to seminar participants, the level of monopolization has significantly decreased over the past years on the commodities and services markets, thanks to effective competitive policy implemented by the state.

The number of monopoly enterprises has been reduced by 75% during the last 10 years.

Between 2004 and 2009, the share of monopolistic products in the total GDP of Uzbekistan decreased from 26% to 20.8%.
 

www.uza.uz   

Dear compatriots!
Distinguished guests!

In these days the long-awaited holiday of Navruz is arriving in our Homeland – the land of Uzbekistan along with a breath of beautiful spring.

At these moments, when the nature awakens, our cities and villages clothe in green, I am happy to congratulate you from the bottom my heart, my dear compatriots and our entire nation, on the festival of Navruz, and express all of you my sincerest wishes.

Dear friends!

There are many revered holidays and occasions that our nation always marks with happiness and joy. However, the holiday of Navruz, which our people are celebrating these days, is very ancient and truly national, free of any politics and a sacred festival, as well as a season of rejuvenation and renewal for us, which has been serving from the very old times as a symbol of our traditions.

This date is an Oriental new year, which awakens the noble aspirations in the heart of a human being, inspires him with hope and belief, the feelings of thankfulness, and is the most cherished and beloved holiday of all our compatriots, who celebrate it with profound joy irrespective of their nationality, language and religion, whether they are a man or woman and the young or the elderly.

I would speak the very truth if I say that it became a usual tradition to welcome this unique festival in each household and each family by wholeheartedly saying: “Welcome to our land, the world of Navruz, let your arrival be blessed! Let it bring peace and tranquility to our land!”

Along with such sincere and pure intentions with a goal of collecting a plentiful harvest from our vast fields our hard-working dekhkans (peasants) are starting a new working season by sowing a seed to the land that enjoys the warmth of the sunlight.

Today at these radiant moments it is our wish: let our selfless dekhkans and farmers, as well as all our workers be happy, and let them be successful in their endeavors.
In this captivating season, when the spirit of Navruz and breeze of greenery blows, a human being feels the need to live ever closer to and in harmony with nature, show an ever more respect and esteem, the kindness and care to the people around him, his family, friends and fellows, as well as strives to share with them our rare and truly national dishes as sumalak, khalim and kuksomsa.

It is particularly in these days one can see a vivid confirmation of such noble qualities that pertain to our nation from the very ancient times as, standing side-by-side with their neighborhood and rest of the nation, to render a gratuitous help to those in need of assistance, the disabled and the sick, as well as obtain blessings of the revered elderly.

One should say the following: whoever sees the manifestation of such rare traditions, which are a vivid confirmation of our people’s kindness and magnanimity, and comprehends their deep humane essence, there is no doubt, he shall always and surely be astonished.

Certainly, it is worth not to spare our applause and extended praise for our people, who have been for over a span of centuries carefully preserving and safeguarding the immortal Oriental traditions that flow in harmony with the spirit and philosophy of Navruz.

Dear compatriots!

Indeed, it makes all of us pleased and gives a new strength and power when the international community acknowledges how Uzbekistan stably proceeds onwards along the path of progress and how we are making solid steps in pursuing our main goal of constructing a new society and new life, increasing the people’s well being and securing a worthy place among the ranks of developed democratic states.

Above all, I deem it necessary to specially draw your attention to the following two issues when we speak about our highest results and achievements being secured thanks to hard and laborious work of our people, as well as reasonably exploiting our own strength and potential.

First, I think it shall be no mistake at all to say that whatever results our nation achieves these days at such a dangerous, perilous and unsafe time, when the global financial crisis is still unfolding, – all of these are being achieved thanks to an ever consolidating peace and tranquility, accord and solidarity between the nationalities, religions and citizens in our country, as well as respect and esteem towards one another.

Second, we consider the gains and achievements we have been securing in our life to be the result of progressing in harmony with the international community, working in cooperation with near and far, and above all, the neighboring states, and we stand for ever consolidation of such a collaboration.

Availing myself of this opportunity, standing from this high rostrum in this blissful day, allow me to thank and cordially congratulate on the festival of Navruz the esteemed ambassadors of foreign countries and representatives of international organizations, our friends and brothers, who treat us kindly and support us and participate at today’s celebration.

Distinguished compatriots!

Time and again, at this unforgettable and grand celebration from the bottom of my heart I congratulate our revered and esteemed elderly, graceful sisters, strong and fresh youth – my children, who are turning into an ever decisive force in our life.

Let you always be safe and sound! Let you long live! Let abundance accompany you!

Let peace and security, kindness and generosity, happiness and bliss reign in each and every household, and our entire nation!

Let Navruz be blessed for all of us!

Two international exhibitions UzBuild-2011 and MebelExpo Uzbekistan opened at national exhibition complex Uzexpocenter in Tashkent on 15 March.

The events have been organized by the international exhibition company ITE Uzbekistan and its foreign partners with support of the Ministry for foreign economic relations, investments and trade, State committee for architecture and construction, Uzkommunkhizmat agency, Tashkent city administration, Commerce and industry chamber and other structures.

The traditional UzBuild fair gathered representatives of the national and foreign market of construction materials, technologies and solutions.

130 companies from 16 countries are participating in this year’s exhibition. 23% of the participants represent local business.

The sections of the exhibition include heating and ventilation, construction materials and equipment, electrical instruments, interior and design, landscape and others.

MebelExpo Uzbekistan, which features furniture and accessories, this year has about 40 participants from 13 states.

The sections of the exhibition include equipment and parts, materials for furniture production and ready furniture sets. The larger share of the furniture exposition is occupied by the local producers.
 

www.uza.uz  

The Legislative Chamber Committee for budget and economic reforms jointly with the State committee for demonopolization and competition development held a seminar on the priority directions and legislative bases of the competitive policies.

Deputies, officials from ministries and departments, as well as representatives of the monopoly enterprises discussed the issues of improvement of the legislation and development of competition on the commodity markets, as well as the draft law “On competition”.

The proposal to develop this new law was made by President Islam Karimov in his 12 November speech on the Concept of further deepening of democratic reforms and formation of the civil society in the country.

The adoption of the law on competition will lead to improvement of legal regulation of relations and prevention of monopolistic activities on the commodities markets.

The law will replace the old law on competition and limitation of monopolistic activities, which does not correspond to the present level of development of the economy of Uzbekistan.

According to seminar participants, the level of monopolization has significantly decreased over the past years on the commodities and services markets, thanks to effective competitive policy implemented by the state.

The number of monopoly enterprises has been reduced by 75% during the last 10 years.

Between 2004 and 2009, the share of monopolistic products in the total GDP of Uzbekistan decreased from 26% to 20.8%.
 

www.uza.uz  

The press conference devoted to the priorities of the education system and issues of religious and moral upbringing as well as forming immunity against information threats and “mass culture” was held at the National Press Center of Uzbekistan.

The event was organized by the Ministry of National Education, Higher and Secondary Special Education in collaboration with the Center of Secondary Special and Professional Education of Uzbekistan. It was attended by leaders of all levels in the education, teachers and media professionals.

Deputy Minister of Higher and Secondary Special Education M. Karimov, Deputy Minister of Education O. Sobirov, deputy director of the Center of secondary special and vocational education in Uzbekistan Z. Khudoyberdiev and others noted that large-scale reforms implemented under the leadership of President Islam Karimov to further enhance the quality and effectiveness of education, contributed to the upbringing of the harmonically developed young generation.

At present, there are about ten thousand schools of secondary, more than a thousand – specialized secondary and vocational education, more than sixty institutions of higher education in Uzbekistan. Organization in their spiritual and educational work in accordance with the requirements of the time, the formation of a conscious attitude of youth to life, gain ownership of boys and girls about what is happening has a special responsibility on teachers, psychologists and advocates of spirituality.

With this purpose, the educational institutions provide subjects that promote spirituality of young people, such as the idea of national independence and the foundation of spirituality, as well as modern methods of teaching, introducing electronic textbooks. Training sessions are held in an interactive form using unconventional teaching methods, museums, centers of spirituality, information and resource centers, theaters, with the participation of writers, poets, advocates of spirituality, academics, psychologists and lawyers. This improves the quality and effectiveness of education and level of learning objects.

The detailed information of the work aimed at the cooperation of all parts of the education system, increase of knowledge and skills of teachers, employment of graduates of secondary specialized vocational education was provided at the seminar.
 

www.uza.uz  

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan has been developing in political, economic, trade, investment, scientific, technical, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

Japan is one of the large investment partners of Uzbekistan. The relationship between the two countries is consistently developing in the spirit of the Joint statement on friendship, strategic partnership and cooperation signed in 2002.

Japan widely supports reforms implemented in Uzbekistan. Realization of joint projects in various areas contributes to further development of cooperation.

This week, the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan hosted a presentation of a project to install X-ray scanning equipment at customs checkpoints on the border of Uzbekistan with neighboring countries. The project is implemented in the framework of the grant assistance of the government of Japan.

The event was attended by the chairman of the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan Zohid Dusanov and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan Yosihisa Kuroda.

In accordance with the resolution of the President of Uzbekistan on ensuring effective use of the grant provided by the government of Japan for installing scanners at border customs points in Uzbekistan (29 January 2010), customs posts Ayritom in Surkhandarya region and Oybek in Tashkent region were equipped with X-ray scanning equipment using the grant funds.

“We are satisfied with the consistent development of cooperation between our countries,” Yosihisa Kuroda said. “We highly appreciate the efforts of Uzbekistan in ensuring peace and stability in Central Asia. The work conducted within this project will contribute to effective fighting against illicit trafficking in weapons and drugs in the border areas of Uzbekistan, and strengthen peace and stability in the region.”
 

www.uza.uz

 

The solemn meeting devoted to the International Women’s Day was held at Turkiston palace in Tashkent on 5 March. Prior to that, representatives of women organizations from across the country, and spheres like economy, law, science, education, culture and others visited the Independence Square. They laid flowers to the Monument of Independence and Humanism, which is a symbol of freedom, bright future and noble aspirations of the people.

The event in Turkiston palace was opened by the acting mayor of Tashkent city R.Usmanov. State Advisor to the President H.Sultanov read the congratulatory message of the head of the state to the country’s women.

Vice Prime Minister and chairman of the Women’s Committee F.Akbarova said that every success achieved by Uzbekistan over 19 years of independence had a share of women’s contribution. Uzbekistan today occupies one of the leading places among 125 countries in terms of creation of favorable conditions for women and protection of motherhood. Thanks to the nationwide program called “Healthy mother – healthy child”, diagnostic and screening centers have been set up across the republic to protect the women’s and children’s health. Women’s sport has seen great development over the past years. The number of girls who go in for rhythmic gymnastics has increased three times over the past two years. In 42 international competitions that Uzbek sportsmen participated last year, a third of 500 athletes were girls.

In 2010, almost 460 new workplaces created in the country were occupied by women. To compare, in 2005 that number was 198,400.

A group of young women received Zulfiya state awards at the event in Turkiston palace for achievements in literature, art, science, education and culture.

The Women’s Committee, the Arts Academy and the Hunarmand crafts association organized an exhibition devoted to the activities of women in fine art and national craftsmanship.

Chairman of the Senate I.Sobirov, Speaker of the Legislative Chamber D.Tashmuhamedova and Prime Minister Sh.Mirziyoyev participated in the event.
 

www.uza.uz

The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan held a session to consider the draft law on amendments and additions to certain articles of the Constitution.

The changes were prepared in accordance with the legislative initiatives outlined in the speech of President Islam Karimov “The concept of deepening democratic reforms and formation of civil society in the country” at the joint session of both chambers of the parliament on 12 November 2010.

The document is aimed at further democratization of the state power and management, ensuring a more balanced distribution of powers among the three subjects of state authority: President as head of the state, legislative and executive branches, as well as strengthening the role and influence of political parties in the implementation of socio-economic and socio-political reforms, renewal and modernization of the country.

Prior to the consideration at the plenary session, the draft law was extensively discussed at meetings of political party fractions and deputy groups from the Ecological Movement of Uzbekistan, as well as in the committees of the Legislative Chamber.

During these discussions, the deputies fully supported the legislative initiatives of the head of the state, underlining the timeliness and importance of amendments to the Constitution.

During the discussion of the document, the members of the Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan stressed that the draft law introduces amendments in the article 98 of the Constitution, according to which a new constitutional order is introduced when the nomination of the Prime Minister is proposed by a political party, which received the highest number of parliamentary seats at the elections to the Legislative Chamber, or by several parties that have the highest equal number of seats in the parliament.

This legislative initiative is the head of state defines the start of a new stage of democratic development of the country, and development of civil society, and has a historical significance for Uzbekistan. The MPs noted that inclusion in the Basic Law of the new order of forming the government significantly increases the responsibility of political parties, their role and importance in the society.

The members of the fraction of the People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan highlighted the importance of amendments to the Constitution, according to which the Oliy Majlis receives the right to express a no confidence vote to the Prime Minister. The draft law clearly regulates the mechanism for the implementation of this right.

Thus, article 98 stipulates that in case of sustained controversies between the Prime Minister and the Legislative Chamber on the proposal formally submitted to the President by at least a third of the Legislative Chamber deputies, the issue of expression of no confidence to the Prime Minister is submitted for consideration at the joint meeting of the two chambers of the parliement.

The vote of no confidence to the Prime Minister is considered approved if it receives the votes of at least two-thirds of the total deputies of the Legislative Chamber and members of the Senate. In this case, the President makes the decision to relieve the Prime Minister of the duties. The entire Cabinet of Ministers resigns together with the Prime Minister.

This new rule significantly increases the role of fractions of political parties and the parliament in addressing critical national issues, and expands the powers of the Oliy Majlis in the system of state authority, the deputies said.

Speakers from the Milly Tiklanish Democratic Party drew the attention to the changes and additions made in the paragraph 15 of the first part of article 78 of the Constitution, under which the chambers of Parliament are entitled to hear the report of the Prime Minister on urgent issues of socio-economic development of the country. This significantly expands the possibilities of the parliamentary control over the activities of the executive branch, and will become an important factor in increasing the effectiveness of the activity of the deputies and fractions in promoting the interests of their constituents in addressing the pressing social and economic issues.

The members of the fraction of the Adolat Social Democratic Party stressed that the introduced amendments to the Constitution significantly expand the rights and the effectiveness of the executive branch in organizing its activities. In the paragraph 8 of article 93 of the Constitution, the authority of the President to “form and direct the executive authority staff” is excluded.

Representatives of the Parliamentary Group of the Environmental Movement of Uzbekistan stressed the importance of the changes to the Constitution, which outline the mechanisms of parliamentary control in the formation and implementation of the national budget. For example, the new paragraph 6 of article 80 of the Constitution has a norm according to which the Senate is granted the right to approve the President’s decrees on appointment of the Chairman of the Accounts Chamber.

Taking into account the views expressed at the meeting, the Legislative Chamber adopted the Law “On amendments to certain articles of the Constitution (articles 78, 80, 93, 96 and 98)”.
 

www.uza.uz  

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov congratulated the staff and the veterans of the Emergency Ministry with the body’s 15th anniversary, which is marked on 4 March.

“Creation of a reliable and efficient national system of protection of the population and the territories of the country from natural disasters, anthropogenic accidents and catastrophes has been one of the key tasks since Uzbekistan obtained independence and sovereignty,” Islam Karimov said.

To achieve this goal, a huge work has been carried out. Laws on civil defense, on protection of the population and the territories from emergency accidents of natural and anthropogenic character, on rescue service and rescuers’ status were adopted.

These documents form a required legal basis regulating the works to prevent and liquidate the consequences of emergency situations, as well as the activity of the rescue services and their staff.

A fundamentally new State system of emergency prevention and response was created in the country, with the Emergency Ministry as a coordinating body, the head of the state noted.

Today this system covers over 40 different ministries and departments, all territorial levels of the country and ensures an efficient and close interaction between the government and self-government bodies, national forces and means to prevent and combat the effects of natural disasters and catastrophes.

Mobile rescue units, radiation-chemical and biological protection groups, and civil defense objects created at national and regional levels provide swift and timely response to the whole range of natural hazards and industrial accidents, including those of transboundary nature.

Wide use of modern information and communication technologies, including in the field of seismic monitoring and fire prevention, as well as the latest rescue equipment, special vehicles and equipment, ensures high reliability of systems of monitoring and forecasting of emergency situations, and timeliness in planning and carrying out rescue operations.

Much has been done over these years to improve the system of training highly qualified specialists, which are able to think and make non-standard decisions quickly, as well as educate the public how to act in emergency situations.

In this regard, it is worth mentioning the establishment of the scientific-pedagogical and educational-training centers in the republic – the Civil Protection Institute and the Rescuers Training Center, which have already trained more than 20,000 specialists and rescuers.

“International cooperation with foreign centers for protection and prevention of disasters and catastrophes has been successfully developing. In particular, constructive cooperation has been established with the Russian Federation, the United States, South Korea, Japan, Ukraine, Latvia and other countries. Fruitful exchanges of the best practices in preventing the threats of emergencies is being carried out in the framework of international bodies like the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction and the Asian Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction,” the President said.

Over the past 15 years, the Emergency Ministry has held more than 4,000 major rescue operations to liquidate the consequences of natural hazards and anthropogenic accidents.

“Thanks to hard work and high professionalism of the rescuers. the threats to life and health of more than 16,000 of our citizens has been averted,” Islam Karimov emphasized.

“Evaluating the uneasy path through these years of formation of services and departments for emergency situations, we have all grounds to say that protecting stable functioning of the economic objects, the lives of our country’s citizens, their peaceful work and tranquility are in safe hands,” the head of the state noted.

Major natural disasters and technological accidents that have occurred recently in various countries, risks of possible occurrence of earthquakes and floods, mudslides and landslides in mountainous and foothill areas of the country, as well as the continuing threats of transboundary character, with sources on the territories of the neighboring states, require effective and adequate counteraction to these hazards, with clear and unified action by all rescue services and units of civil protection, he stressed.

To achieve this goal, we must continue working to further improve the activity and comprehensively strengthen the material and technical base of all parts of the State system of emergency prevention and response, to train highly qualified rescue personnel, and improve the efficiency of preventive measures in the field of civil protection, Islam Karimov said.

Each employee of the Emergency Ministry should remember that timely measures taken to prevent emergencies, educating the public, and especially training and educating the young generation mean saved lives of the people.

“The Emergency Ministry staff consists of very dedicated professionals. People, who are indifferent to others’ grief, cannot be rescuers. This is not just a profession, but a constant readiness to sacrifice in order to save human life. I am confident that the courage, professional and thorough knowledge of the craft, speed and mobility will continue to be the distinctive features of the representatives of your noble profession,” Islam Karimov said in his congratulation.

On 28 February, the President of Uzbekistan signed a decree on awarding a group of Emergency Ministry staff with orders and medals.
 

www.uza.uz  

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States is developing in the scientific and technical sphere. The Intergovernmental agreement on scientific and technical cooperation signed between еру two states in December 2010 contributes to further development of bilateral relations in this area.

This document envisages cooperation in science and technology between the government agencies, research centers, universities and private companies of the two countries. The main purpose of the project is to better utilize the scientific and technical potential of the two nations, and expand and strengthen the ties between scientific and technological communities of Uzbekistan and the US.

The agreement stipulates exchanging information, expertise and technology, conducting joint seminars, conferences and meetings, training and retraining specialists, as well as implementing joint research projects.

The cooperation covers areas like energy, information and communication technologies, biotechnology, healthcare, nanotechnology, agriculture, water management, environmental protection and others.

The research institutions of Uzbekistan have established mutually beneficial cooperation with many leading scientific and technical organizations, universities, foundations and companies of the United States. The joint research and practical work, activities in innovation, technology transfer and intellectual property protection are examples of this partnership. One of such partners is the US Civilian Research and Development Fund (CDRF).

CDRF was established by the State Department and National Science Foundation of the US. The fund is a nonprofit organization that supports cooperation with the CIS in fundamental and applied sciences, including through scientific and technical programs.

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the CDRF has been developing on the basis of the Cooperation agreement, signed on 15 November 2006 between the Committee for the Coordination of Science and Technology Development under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan and the US Civilian Research and Development Fund. This document envisages development and implementation of joint research projects, conduction of seminars and exchange of experts.

During the period of participation of research institutions and scientists of Uzbekistan in the programs of the US fund, 154 grants totaling USD 8.1 million have been allocated.

In 2010, the Coordinating Committee for Science and Technology Development under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan in cooperation with the CRDF carried out activities to implement the bilateral program of scientific research projects in the field of water and land resources. The announced contest drew 12 projects, 2 of which were selected for implementation in 2011-2012. Allocation of USD 182,500 is planned for these projects.

In cooperation with the US Agency for International Development (USAID), projects “Surface ionization methods of impact and devices for control of environmental pollution” and “Biological control of fusariosis of vegetables and melons, fruit and berry crops” are realized in Uzbekistan.

As part of USAID international project of education for global development, in March 2000 the agency office in the country and the State Committee for Science and Technology jointly organized an international seminar on “Intellectual property: rights, protection, implementation and enforcement in economic transition”. The workshop brought together leading international experts in the field of intellectual property.

In collaboration with the Fulbright Association of the USA, a bilateral academic exchange has been established in order to familiarize the sides with the advanced scientific and pedagogical techniques, share experience and conduct joint research.

Scientists and specialists of Uzbekistan have since 1999 participated in the program of the Scientific Exchange Council. Representatives of Uzbekistan received grants of Fulbright Association to lecture at US universities in such fields as economics, law, history, business and education.

Exchange of experts is carried out in the framework of multilateral and bilateral cooperation, joint research and training at US institutions. In 2007-2010, 74 representatives of scientific institutions of Uzbekistan took part in various events and joint research activities in the US.

The US scientists and specialists also actively participate in international conferences, seminars and other academic events held in Uzbekistan.

All this contributes to the development of effective cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States in science and technology.
 

www.uza.uz  

The committees for international affairs and inter-parliamentary relations, and for defense and security issues of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis held a seminar on the cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United Nations.

Uzbekistan became the member of the UN on 2 March 1992. Over the past period, the country has been carrying out efficient cooperation with the international organization in combating threats to peaceful life of the citizens, solving environmental problems and socioeconomic development.

The initiatives of the President of Uzbekistan put forward at the UN General Assembly sessions and related to fighting international terrorism, religious extremism, illegal drug and arms trade have been met with great interest around the world.

The proposals of the head of the state on proclaiming Central Asia the nuclear weapons free zone, stabilization of the situation in Afghanistan, softening the consequences of the Aral Sea crisis and the environmental situation in the whole region acquire particular importance.

In his speech at the UN MDG Summit in September 2010, President Islam Karimov highlighted a number of other global issues. Among them were practical proposals on the peaceful solution of the Afghan problem and other matters.

The seminar at the Legislative Chamber emphasized the importance of Uzbekistan’s cooperation with the United Nations and the role of this body in ensuring peace and security in the world. The participants also outlined tasks for future cooperation between the country and the UN.
 

www.uza.uz  

Rustam Kasymdjanov, the world chess champion of 2004, and Vishwanathan Anand of India, current world champion, will hold friendly meeting on 27 March in Tashkent.

This event, organized in cooperation of the Chess Federation of Uzbekistan and the Culture and Art Forum of Uzbekistan Fund, is aimed at further promotion of chess in Uzbekistan and enhancing skills and experiences of young chess players.

The upcoming friendly meeting between Kasymdjanov and Anand will consist of four parties in the order of “match-rapid.” The following days of the match, Anand and Kasymdjanov will conduct master classes for talented young players on 28-29 March.
 

www.uza.uz