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LATEST NEWS : April 2011
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Uzbekistan:
entrepreneurship developing |
| April 27, 2011 |
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As a result of attention paid by President of Uzbekistan
Islam Karimov to supporting entrepreneurship and creation of wide
opportunities for businessmen, the private sector has become the
leading force of development of the country.
The small business and private entrepreneurs play an important role in
filling the internal market with competitive, quality products, and
providing people, especially young people, with jobs.
Among entrepreneurs, producing import-substituting products based on
the Localization Program, there are more and more women and young
people.
The following photos demonstrate the success of the small business
representatives in the Year of small business and private
entrepreneurship.
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EU delegation visits
Uzbekistan |
| April 27, 2011 |
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The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic
of Uzbekistan hosted an international roundtable on “Political and
economic development in Uzbekistan and the EU, and prospects of
further deepening bilateral partnership and cooperation”. The event
was held in the framework of the visit of the European Parliament
delegation to the country.
The roundtable was attended by deputies of the Legislative Chamber and
members of the Senate, the Ombudsman, members of the EU delegation and
representatives of various ministries and departments of Uzbekistan.
Chairman of the Legislative Chamber Committee for International
Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations L.Gulyamov noted the
consistent development of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the
European Union in the economic, social and political spheres, as well
as in the parliamentary sphere.
Uzbekistan is working closely with the EU in economic, political and
legal areas, in the field of agriculture, energy, transport,
education, know-how, standardization and certification, audit, control
of drug substances, as well as in the reconstruction of Afghanistan
and strengthening regional security and stability.
The European Union pays a particular attention to relations with
Uzbekistan. The committee of parliamentary cooperation “Uzbekistan –
European Union” was created. Established under the Agreement on
Partnership and Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the EU, this
committee serves to development of parliamentary relations.
At the regular meetings of the committee held in Tashkent and Brussels
issues like relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union, in
particular, socioeconomic and financial cooperation, democratization
processes, protection of human rights and interests, cooperation in
science and technology, education and healthcare, environmental
protection and rational use of natural resources are discussed. Along
with this, mechanisms of cooperation in the fight against
transnational organized crime, illegal drug trafficking, terrorism and
religious extremism are considered.
During the round table, Ombudsman S.Rashidova, chairman of the
Legislative Chamber Committee for Democratic Institutions, NGOs and
Self-Government Bodies A.Saidov, chairman of the Committee for
Information and Communication Technologies A.Jurabayev, chairman of
the Senate Committee for Foreign Policy Issues S.Safayev and others
noted that reforms carried out in Uzbekistan in order to strengthen
healthy competition between political parties, improve the activity of
civil society and human rights protection have produced notable
results.
Members of the European Parliament got acquainted with the ideas and
initiatives put forward by President Islam Karimov in his Concept of
further deepening democratic reforms and formation of civil society.
The concept, in particular, includes priority directions for
democratization of state power, improving the legal system, reforming
the information sphere, developing electoral law, forming the
institutions of civil society and liberalizing market reforms.
“The relations between the European Union and Uzbekistan are
developing dynamically,” said the deputy of the European Parliament,
head of the delegation Anna Gomez. “At this meeting, we exchanged
views on interparliamentary relations, regional security,
environmental protection, rational use of water resources,
stabilization of situation in the Aral Sea basin, energy, combating
illicit trafficking of narcotic substances. The European Union
supports efforts and initiatives of Uzbekistan towards important
regional and international matters.”
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Uzbekistan enters new stage of democratic development |
| April 24, 2011 |
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| The International scientific-practical conference
devoted to discussion of the main provisions of the Concept of
further deepening democratic reforms and formation of civil
society, outlined in the report of the President of Uzbekistan
Islam Karimov at the joint session of the parliament’s chambers on
12 November 2010, took place in Tashkent on 22-23 April.
The conference discussed the important issues of
democratization of the state authority, reforming the judicial
system, ensuring freedom of expression and |
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information, improving the electoral system, formation and
development of civil society institutes,
market reforms and economic liberalization in Uzbekistan, as
well as the experience of democratic
countries in this field.
The forum was attended by over 200 foreign scientists, experts and
public figures from about 40 countries, representatives of a number of
international organizations and financial institutions such as the UN
and its institutions, OSCE, World Bank, Asian Development Bank,
Islamic Development Bank and others, as well as scholars and experts,
members of the parliament of Uzbekistan, representatives of civil
institutions and the authorities.
President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov addressed the participants of
the conference with a welcoming speech, which was read by First Deputy
Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Rustam Azimov.
The adoption by Uzbekistan of the Concept of further deepening
democratic reforms and formation of civil society is a logical
continuation of the reforms aimed at democratic renewal and
modernization of the country, initiated after proclamation of
independence, which is almost 20 years ago, the President said in his
address.
Uzbekistan has chosen this path of building a democratic state with a
socially oriented market economy and forming a civil society, carrying
out reforms on the basis of its own “Uzbek model” of development,
based on the known five principles. These are deideologization of the
economy and its priority over politics, making the state the main
reformer, ensuring the rule of law, implementation of strong social
policy, and consistency of the reforms.
This model by itself had stemmed from the course of development of the
country and had been motivated primarily by the complex situation that
emerged after the Soviet Union’s collapse, when it was necessary to
prevent the consequences of the complete destruction of the existing
economic ties, to prevent catastrophic economic recession and rising
unemployment, and to establish independent government institutions in
a short period of time.
In the process of transition from the administrative-command to
market-based economic management system Uzbekistan declined various
revolutionary models of reform, “shock therapy” methods and deceptive
impressions about the self-regulating market economy, sticking to the
principles “Do not destroy the old house before building a new one”,
and “Reform are not for the sake of reforms, but for the people”, the
head of the state stressed in his address.
All this has allowed to ensure a gradual and cardinal change and
renewal of the government and constitutional system, to create a solid
and reliable foundation for sustainable and dynamic development of the
national economy, political system, civil society, consistent
improvement of living standards, and political and legal culture of
the people.
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Over the years of independence, cardinal changes
took place in the ownership structure, and a real complex economy
was formed where private property has received priority
development.
Small business and private enterprise took a deciding place in
the economy, becoming the main source of filling the market with
necessary goods and services, increasing incomes and improving
welfare, and the most important factor in the growth of
employment. |
The gross domestic product of Uzbekistan over the past 20 years has
grown nearly 3.5 times (2.5 times growth per capita) and the average
salary has increased 14 times. The aggregate income of the population
in real terms has grown 8.6 times. 47% of income comes from property
and entrepreneurial activities.
The expenses of the state for social protection per capita have grown
more than 5 times. Each year, about 60% of the state budget goes to
health, education, communal sphere and other areas related to social
protection. The average life expectancy over this period has increased
from 67 to 73 years, maternal mortality rates have declined more than
2 times and children’s mortality 3 times.
At the same time, the President stressed, everything that has been
done over the years of independence is only the beginning of a long
and difficult path to a long-term goal the society and the state are
facing, which is bringing the country to the list of the modern
developed and democratic states, ensuring decent conditions for
people’s living and securing a worthy place in the world community.
The very logic and nature of the country’s development and the goal
that has been set require to continue democratic reforms. At that, one
should not give in to the euphoria and the sense of complacency, for
this can cause huge irreparable damage to the progressive development
of society and the image of the country.
All this has become the reason for the adoption of the Concept of
further deepening democratic reforms and formation of civil society,
which, in essence, is the program for further continuation of the
modernization of the country at the fundamentally new stage of
development of the state and society.
In Uzbekistan, market reforms and economic liberalization are carried
out in close connection with consistent democratization of the
political system, ensuring independence of the judiciary, freedom of
expression and information, freedom of choice and development of the
electoral system, as well as formation of civil society institutions,
raising political awareness and legal culture of the citizens.
It is essential to ensure evolutionary development, continuity and
consistency of transformations, non-acceptance of half-done reforms,
turning them into some kind of imitation of democratic processes.
Democracy – is our path, no matter how difficult and complicated it
is, the President said in his greeting.
In particular, in the field of democratization of state administration
we have to continue reforms aimed at consistent and systematic
implementation of the constitutional principle of separation of
powers, creation of effective mechanisms of checks and balances among
them, coordinated functioning and cooperation in achieving tasks
before the state and society.
The address notes that in accordance with the Concept, changes and
additions have been made to certain articles of the Constitution,
giving the political party with the most seats in the Legislative
Chamber the right to propose the candidacy of the Prime Minister,
introducing the institution of the no confidence vote to Prime
Minister, the right of parliament to hear reports of the head of the
government on topical issues of socioeconomic development, and several
other principal innovations.
These changes will facilitate the creation of the legislative bases
for further deep reform of the executive, legislative and judicial
branches of government, strengthening the role of the parliament in
the state and political system, create conditions for further
increasing the role of political parties in the formation of executive
bodies and implementation of parliamentary control over their
activity, as well as significant increase of the political and
inter-party competition.
As it is pointed out in the address, the deepening of the democratic
reforms in the judicial area envisages continuation of works to ensure
independence and autonomy of the courts, strengthen judicial control
on the pre-trial stage, expand the area of implementation of habeas
corpus institute, create effective mechanisms of checks and balances
in the system law enforcement and controlling bodies, and
decriminalize the criminal law.
In the field of democratic reforming of the information sphere,
ensuring freedom of expression and information, it is planned to
implement wide-scale tasks to ensure the openness of state
authorities, strengthen independence and economic sustainability of
the media, introduce market mechanisms and modern information and
communication technologies. A number of other measures aimed at a more
complete realization of the citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom
of speech and transparency of the implemented reforms is planned.
In accordance with the Concept, it is planned to develop and implement
a set of measures for further democratization of the independent
electoral system in the country, ensure freedom of choice and develop
electoral law.
As emphasized in the President’s welcoming address, large-scale work
to implement the principle “From strong state to strong civil society”
and further strengthen the role of civil institutions is planned.
Among the activities is improving the legislation, strengthening
social partnership between civil society institutions, self-governing
bodies and the authorities in implementation of socioeconomic
programs, protection of rights, freedoms and interests of various
segments of the population, and establishing effective legal
mechanisms for the civic control of the activities of the state
bodies.
As part of the further deepening democratic market-oriented reforms
and economic liberalization, as noted in Islam Karimov’s address, four
interrelated strategic programs have been developed for 2011-2015,
covering areas like industrial development, infrastructure, transport
and communications construction, reforming and improving the stability
of the financial and banking system, as well as the formation of a
favorable business climate in the country. The implementation of these
programs is aimed at ensuring long-term continuation of structural
reforms and further improvement of the competitiveness in the economy.
At this stage, attention will be paid to increasing domestic demand,
which in the global financial crisis conditions acquires importance as
a stabilizing and stimulating factor for sustainable economic
development.
As is pointed out in the address of the head of the state, the most
important result of all activities to modernize the country is the
fact that the policy of reform and democratization has received full
support of the population, especially young people, which are a
decisive force in reforming and modernizing the country.
The President expressed confidence that the conclusions and
recommendations made during the international conference would find
practical application in the work to deepen democratic reforms and
develop civil society in the country.
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President visits
Surkhandarya region |
| April 23, 2011 |
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President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov visited Surkhandarya
region on 22 April to get acquainted with the socioeconomic reforms
carried out in the area.
The people of Uzbekistan are proud of their great ancestors, who have
made invaluable contribution to the world civilization. The study of
their cultural, spiritual and scientific heritage, its preservation
and further enrichment is our duty before future generations.
This noble purpose lies at the heart of the wide-scale work carried
out under the leadership of President Islam Karimov in all spheres,
including spiritual and educational ones. Among the priorities is
improvement of holy places of worship, in-depth study of the rich
heritage of our great ancestors, and upbringing the young people as
harmoniously developed personalities.
Islam Karimov started his trip to Surkhandarya region from the visit
to the Hakim Termizi memorial complex.
The resting place of the great thinker thanks to improvement works
held on the initiative and under the guidance of the President, has
acquired a completely new look. Gardens have been created here, and
all conditions organized for visitors.
“The respect for the memory of great ancestors like Hakim Termizi,
studying their rich heritage have played an important role in
enriching the spirituality of our people, especially youth,” said
Islam Karimov. “Visiting this holy place clears the people’s souls.
Therefore, we must visit places like this often and ask God for
peaceful life and all the best for our country, people and children.”
The head of the state noted that it was important to study the
heritage of our great ancestors and bringing it to future generations.
For it is the heritage of ancestors that teaches the younger
generation to treat the native land with care, and brings a sense of
pride. The youth can keep the names of our great ancestors for ever,
and is capable of worthily continuing all the good work that was
started in the years of independence.
“Frequent visits of the young people should be organized to such
places of worship,” the President said. “This is important in bringing
together the older and the younger generations, preserving and
enriching the heritage of our great ancestors.”
Islam Karimov gave his recommendations on further expansion of the
improvement works, including planting ornamental trees that correspond
to the hot climate of Surkhandarya.
The country’s President got acquainted with the activities of the
“At-Termizi Namuna” farm in Termez region, headed by Shukhrat
Chorshanbiyev, and talked to farmers.
Today, about 5,000 farms function in the region. “At-Termizi Namuna”
last year received a rich harvest: 32 centners of cotton and 70
centners of grain per hectare. The income made up UZS 106.6 million
and net profit UZS 26 million.
This year, the experienced farmer built a greenhouse on 50 acres of
land and provided more than 10 people with jobs. In the Year of Small
Business and Private Entrepreneurship, a sewing shop was opened in At-Termizi
mahalla.
The head of the state asked questions on reaching the rich harvest of
grain, development of cotton, important agro-technical activities that
must be completed during the field season.
The farmers of the region grow early-maturing varieties of wheat on
98,000 hectares. This spring, because of unfavorable weather
conditions, special attention is paid to feeding the soil with
fertilizers. As a result, conditions for large crop have been created.
Surkhandarya farmers have also managed to ensure good cotton growth on
119,600 hectares.
Farmers say that one day of spring feeds the whole year, the President
said. Therefore, at present, when the fate of the next harvest is
being decided, those will succeed who perform all agro-technical
activities timely and accurately. In agriculture, there is no easy
year or season. However, the expected shortage of water demands that
farmers demonstrate even greater skill and enterprise, and ensire
rational use of water.
If last year the region’s cotton cultivating farmers carried out
activities to reduce moisture in the soil, this year they are trying
to save it. With this purpose, during the cultivation the soil is
enriched with fertilizers.
In conversation with farmers, the head of the state stressed their
role in ensuring the welfare of the people. Islam Karimov emphasized
that the state would continue to fully support the farmers.
Very soon, Termez will host “Barkamol avlod 2011” (Harmonously
Developed Generation) sports competitions among students of
specialized secondary and professional educational establishments.
Currently, thorough preparation is underway to such major event that
will be held in the region for the first time. The buildings of Termez
State University, academic lyceums, art, pedagogy and Olympic reserve
colleges, Dolphin swimming pool, Alpomish tennis court, kurash
wrestling complex and other objects have been reconstructed.
President Islam Karimov visited the newly built sports complex Surkhon
in Termez.
It has a stadium for 10,000 seats, and gyms for gymnastics and
handball, fitted with modern equipment. The complex has all conditions
for going in for football, handball, athletics and rhythmic
gymnastics.
The head of the state spoke to gymnasts and handball players who train
here.
Islam Karimov noted that our young men and women are not inferior to
anyone in talent and skill. Constant attention should be paid to
revealing their talents and support their aspirations. The huge
transformation in the fields of education, spirituality, sports and
others are aimed exactly for that purpose.
The President noted that the young people should live with
understanding that they are heirs of the great ancestors, they should
mobilize all of their knowledge, talent and aspirations for further
increasing the authority of their Motherland.
Getting familiar with the complex, the President gave recommendations
for its improvement. The head of the state spoke about the need to use
the best foreign experience and national architectural traditions in
construction and decoration works.
The President also got acquainted with the House of Happiness raised
in the city of Termez. The modern two-story building has all
facilities for young people’s marriage.
The head of the state underlined that holding one of the most exciting
events in life – wedding – in such beautiful building will leave the
newlyweds with unforgettable impressions for their whole lives.
A person should live for bringing good, protecting peace, improving
people’s welfare, and for the happiness of the children. Only in this
case the intended goals can be reached. Our people live and work with
such noble intentions. This truth has once again seen confirmation
during the visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Surkhandarya
region.
www.uza.uz
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Uzbekistan's experience is in the center of world attention |
| April 22, 2011 |
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The two-day international scientific practical conference
on “The Concept of further deepening of democratic reforms and
formation of civil society in Uzbekistan” opened in Tashkent on 22
April. The forum is devoted to studying the experience of Uzbekistan
in carrying out consistent transformations to democratize all spheres
of the state and social life, and high results of the large-scale
implementation of the tasks of the new stage of development of the
country, determined by President Islam Karimov.
The conference brought together hundreds of government and public
figures, businessmen and experts from more than 30 countries,
representatives of major international organizations and financial
institutions, including the United Nations and its agencies, the Asian
Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, the Organization for
Security and Cooperation in Europe, and heads of diplomatic missions
accredited in the country.
UzA correspondents talked to some of the participants.
Ravi Kumar Savhnei, expert of the International Vivekananda Fund
(India):
“I read the Concept of President Islam Karimov on the further
deepening of democratic reforms and the formation of civil society in
Uzbekistan with great interest. The ideas put forward in this paper
have been widely studied not only in Uzbekistan, but also
internationally. The start of the consistent implementation of the
wide-scale tasks set by the head of your state will, undoubtedly,
serve reforming and modernizing the country and gaining its rightful
place among developed countries.
“As noted in the Concept, the accelerated development of the society
towards democracy and the success of reforms in this direction depend
on the level of legal culture of the people. In Uzbekistan, a lot of
work has been carried in this direction. Consistent continuation of
this wide-scale work will contribute to raising the actions in
promoting human rights and interests in Uzbekistan.”
Parviz Morwedge, professor of New York State University, Director of
Global Scholarly Publications (USA):
“Uzbekistan has carried out huge work in the steady introduction of
well-developed legal mechanism for strict observance of laws and
ensuring the rule of law in the activities of public authorities and
law enforcement agencies. The study of reforms in the judicial system
of Uzbekistan will be useful for other countries.
“The timely adopted Anti-crisis program of measures has contributed to
stable economic development of Uzbekistan. The constant attention paid
in your country to attracting foreign investments and increasing the
number of joint ventures has given excellent results. One of the main
directions of the Anti-crisis program in Uzbekistan is the support and
strengthening of the budget, banking, finance and credit systems, the
real sector of the economy, modernization, technical and technological
renovation of production with the purpose of improving the
competitiveness on both domestic and foreign markets.
“I admire the high culture of the people, especially youth of
Uzbekistan, its high intellectual potential. All the conditions have
been created for youth to acquire deep knowledge. This is a practical
result of the huge attention of the leader of your country to the
formation of the younger generation as fully developed personalities.”
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President of Uzbekistan completes state visit to China |
| April 21, 2011 |
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President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov paid a state visit
to China on 19-20 April on the invitation of the Chairman of the
People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao.
The program of the visit had a rich and dynamic character. One hour
after landing at the Beijing airport, the ceremony of the official
meeting of the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov was held at the
National People’s Congress building, followed by negotiations with
President of China Hu Jintao and signing of a solid package of
documents.
At the beginning of negotiations, President of Uzbekistan Islam
Karimov said: “We consider this visit of the delegation of Uzbekistan
as a logical continuation of the intensive development of bilateral
and multilateral relations between our countries, as an opportunity to
discuss and exchange views on major issues of mutual interest, and to
give a new impetus to our fruitful cooperation.”
The heads of two states held a thorough and trustful exchange of views
on topical issues of bilateral and multilateral character, including
cooperation in the political sphere, economy, trade, investment,
cultural and humanitarian fields, and problems of security.
The content of the talks and the scale of the discussed issues of the
state importance show how seriously the parties prepared the agenda
for bilateral relations and the solution of the strategic objectives
faced by the two countries.
President Hu Jintao said that relations between Uzbekistan and China
were entering a new phase, transiting to a qualitatively new stage,
characterized by the beginning of a large-scale cooperation in the
sphere of high technologies.
Important agreements were reached in the political and economic
spheres, and a number of documents were signed in the promising areas
of cooperation.
On the second day of the visit, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov
held a meeting with Prime Minister of China Wen Jiabao. They discussed
in detail the issues of practical implementation of agreements reached
the day before by the heads of two states to cardinally expand
economic, trade and investment cooperation in the coming years.
The Chinese side gave a high evaluation to the dynamics of economic
development and large-scale structural reforms in Uzbekistan and
expressed interest in developing cooperation in hi-tech sphere,
including through establishment of industrial and technological parks.
President of Uzbekistan also held a meeting with the Chairman of the
National People’s Congress Wu Bangguo, during which they exchanged
opinions on issues of interstate cooperation and development of
interparliamentary relations.
President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov in his residence received
Foreign Minister of China Yang Jiechi. Their conversation focused on
important issues of cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in
political and diplomatic spheres, as well as issues of regional and
international policy.
In accordance with the visit program, President of Uzbekistan Islam
Karimov met the Minister of Commerce Chen Deming and the management of
the leading Chinese companies and banks. The sides discussed prospects
of implementation of projects in the sphere of high technologies and
attracting Chinese investment in priority sectors of the economy of
Uzbekistan.
Minister of Commerce and the leading representatives of Chinese
business noted the relevance and importance of the Intergovernmental
Agreement on the Protection and Promotion of Investments signed during
the visit.
The management of the Ex-Im Bank and the State Bank of China
highlighted the high level of stability and reliability of the banking
system of Uzbekistan, which was again proved during the global
financial crisis.
The leading Chinese banks confirmed their readiness to finance joint
projects and informed that during the visit they opened new credit
lines to four Uzbek banks in the amount of USD 1.5 billion for
implementation of joint investment projects.
The People’s Bank of China and the Central Bank of Uzbekistan also
signed an Agreement on currency swap in soums and yuans, which
significantly expands the possibilities of investment and trade
cooperation.
The talks with the leadership of China demonstrated an intensive and
rapid development and enormous potential in all key areas of bilateral
relations.
President of China Hu Jintao expressed gratitude to President of
Uzbekistan Islam Karimov for the significant increase of supply of
strategic raw materials from Uzbekistan for the growing needs of the
Chinese economy. As a result, the total volume of bilateral trade over
the past five years has increased more than four times.
The importance was emphasized of further expansion of exports to China
of such strategic commodities as cotton, natural gas, uranium
concentrate, non-ferrous metals, rare elements and mineral fertilizers
on a long-term and stable basis. In this regard, the parties agreed on
the extension of the Intergovernmental Agreement on Trade in Strategic
Goods until 2020.
The Chinese leadership noted the importance of the Agreement on
Construction of the Third Line of Uzbekistan-China Gap Pipeline,
signed during the visit, in accordance with which the capacity of the
pipeline will be increased by 25 billion cubic meters per year.
The heads of states stressed that although cooperation in supplies of
strategic materials was of fundamental importance, the main direction
of further deepening of cooperation between Uzbekistan and China was
realization of promising projects associated with the attraction of
high technologies in Uzbekistan with the aim of creating new and
modernizing the existing production facilities.
During the visit, agreements were signed on implementation of
large-scale investment projects in the chemical, oil and gas, energy
and transport sectors, including such objects as construction of the
second turn of Dekhkanabad potash fertilizer plant, organization of
production of automotive and agricultural tires and conveyor belts in
Angren, butadion rubbers, liquefied natural gas, methanol,
monochloroacetic acid, new power units at thermal power plants,
modernization and development of coal industry, supply of modern
locomotives and others.
Agreements were reached on implementing joint investment projects with
leading telecom companies of China Huawei and ZTE.
Particular attention was paid to development of transport and
communication networks, creating reliable corridors linking Uzbekistan
and China. The issue of opening an air bridge from East China to Navoi
airport to Europe, as well as construction of a railway line linking
Uzbekistan and China by the shortest route was discussed.
President of China Hu Jintao, discussing the prospects of
trade-economic and investment cooperation, especially emphasized that
China in the face of Uzbekistan saw a reliable partner with which it
was building relationships on a long-term basis.
One of the major outcomes of the visit is an agreement on the
establishment of the High Level Cooperation Committee between
Uzbekistan and China, which should create a reliable institutional
framework for systemic development of relations between the two
countries on all aspects of bilateral relations.
The main document on the results of the visit was the Joint
Declaration between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s
Republic of China signed by the heads of states, which gives an
assessment of the state and development prospects of further
cooperation on a long-term basis.
The sides expressed satisfaction with the constructive interaction
within the UN and other major international political and financial
institutions. They confirmed the great importance attached to the
development of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and expressed
willingness to continue the mutually beneficial regional partnership
in economy, trade, investment, energy, transport and communication
sectors.
Uzbekistan firmly and consistently supports the deeply developed and
balanced policy of the Chinese leadership, its principal policy of
one-China, and an uncompromising struggle against the “three evils” –
terrorism, extremism and separatism.
The Chinese side expressed full understanding of the concerns of the
Republic of Uzbekistan on the rational use of water energy resources
in Central Asia.
Overall, more than 25 interstate, intergovernmental and
interdepartmental documents were signed during the visit. Under the
reached agreements, implementation of large number of investment
projects worth over USD 5 billion is planned.
President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov thanked President of China Hu
Jintao for the warm reception and hospitality and invited him to visit
Uzbekistan with a state visit, which was gratefully accepted.
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Islam Karimov holds
talks with Hu Jintao |
| April 19, 2011 |
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President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov arrived on a
state visit to Beijing on 19 April on the invitation of the
Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao.
After the official welcoming ceremony of the President of
Uzbekistan at the People’s Representatives Meeting House in the
center of Beijing, Islam Karimov and Hu Jintao held negotiations.
During the talk, a detailed exchange of opinions on the current
state and perspectives of the Uzbek-Chinese relations and other
issues of regional and international character, which are of
mutual interest, took place. |
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It was underlined that Uzbekistan considered China as a state with
rich history and culture, and a huge potential, as well as a reliable
partner and neighbor. The belief was expressed that the present talks
had a great importance for raising the bilateral relations to a higher
level.
It was especially emphasized that the head of Uzbekistan was a close
friend of China, having made a huge contribution to the development of
bilateral cooperation, which is highly valued. The meeting was a good
opportunity to exchange views on the important topics of mutual
interest.
The leaders of Uzbekistan and China discussed issues of political,
trade, economic, investment, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as
well we regional security and stability.
After the talks, Islam Karimov and Hu Jintao signed a Joint
Declaration between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s
Republic of China.
The two states also signed documents on mutual stimulation and
protection of investments, on technical and economic cooperation, on
developing deposits and others.
The state visit of the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov to China
is continuing.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Uzbekistan and China expanding cooperation |
| April 18, 2011 |
|
Uzbekistan has been developing relations with China from
the first years of independence. Over the last period, a large number
of summits and visits of various delegations have been held.
170 documents covering various spheres of bilateral relations have
been signed between Uzbekistan and China. The Interstate agreement on
partnership relations, friendship and cooperation, signed during the
state visit of President Islam Karimov to China in 2005, is an
important factor in enhancing mutual cooperation.
Speaking about Uzbek-Chinese relations, one has to note the consistent
development of trade-economic and investment cooperation. A proof of
this is that China ranks first among countries investing in Uzbekistan
and second among Uzbekistan’s trade partners. The volume of bilateral
trade in 2010 made up USD 2.85 billion.
There are 347 companies with investments from China in Uzbekistan. The
Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of
Uzbekistan lists 64 representative offices of Chinese companies. They
work in the fields of export and import operations, textile,
agricultural products processing, information technologies and others.
In the conditions of the global financial crisis, the issue of
overcoming its consequences has become one of the important aspects of
the interstate cooperation. In order to solve this task, Uzbekistan
and China are paying particular attention to expanding trade-economic,
investment and financial cooperation.
In the framework of financial cooperation, a number of projects are
being implemented through interest-free and long-term concessional
loans of the government of China and export credits of Chinese
Eximbank. From the credit line of the government of China for SCO
member states, the total amount of loans for infrastructure
development in Uzbekistan is over USD 600 million.
Investment cooperation is actively developing in the fields of oil and
gas, and mining. For example, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)
is conducting geological prospecting in the Aral Sea area, and Ustyurt,
Bukhara-Khiva and Fergana investment blocks. The commissioning of the
Central Asia-China pipeline has opened new opportunities for
cooperation in the energy sector.
At the same time, there is a huge potential for cooperation between
the two countries in many sectors, including transport, logistics,
construction, telecommunications, high technologies etc. In
particular, Uzbekistan and China can use the vast resources in the
free economic zone Navoi.
During the state visit of the Chinese President Hu Jintao to
Uzbekistan in June 2010, a joint declaration was signed on
comprehensive development and expansion of friendship, cooperation and
partnership. Also, several documents were signed on cooperation in
technical, economic, oil and gas, and high technologies fields.
In accordance with the loan agreement signed between the National Bank
for Foreign Economic Activity of Uzbekistan and China’s State
Development Bank in June 2010, the Chinese bank will allocate USD 75
million for financing projects of small and private businesses, as
well as investment projects in Uzbekistan.
These banks of Uzbekistan and China have cooperated effectively since
2005. During this period, the National Bank of Uzbekistan was provided
with two credit lines worth USD 80 million to finance small business
and private enterprise projects. The entrepreneurs of Uzbekistan have
received financial assistance for 120 projects.
Uzbekistan Railways is implementing a USD 75.53 million investment
project aimed at renewing the passenger locomotives. It is being
realized using a long-term soft loan in the framework of the financial
and technical cooperation between Uzbekistan and China.
In accordance with the contract signed between Uzbekistan Railways and
Zhuzhou electric locomotive building company, modern locomotives were
delivered from China in 2010. New high-speed locomotives, which can
reach the speed of 160 kmh, have allowed to save time for passengers
and reduce operation costs.
Representatives of Chinese business China regularly participate in
exhibitions, fairs, business forums and conferences held in
Uzbekistan, while entrepreneurs and farmers of Uzbekistan visit
similar events in China. Because of the great demand for Uzbek cotton,
representatives of China regularly participate in traditional
International Uzbek Cotton Fair in Tashkent.
The Uzbek-Chinese relations, which are based on friendship and mutual
trust, will continue to evolve in the same spirit for the well-being
of the two nations.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Fair of
innovative technologies and projects completes |
| April 18, 2011 |
|
The fourth Republican fair of innovative ideas,
technologies and projects completed in Tashkent on 15 April.
It resulted in about 400 signed agreements and protocols of intentions
to implement promising local projects worth a total of almost UZS 10
billion.
The innovations fair was organized in the framework of the tasks to
build innovative economy and modernize production, especially in the
real sector, set by President Islam Karimov.
The fair participants included ministries, departments, associations,
banks, large enterprises, representatives of small and private
businesses, farmers, research institutions of Uzbekistan Academy of
Sciences, research centers, as well as individual inventors.
About 600 innovative technologies and projects presented at the fair
were about intensification and optimization of production, resource
saving, use of local raw materials, increasing the quality and
competitiveness of domestic products, substituting import and
expansion of exports.
These projects are designed for sectors like industry and agriculture,
health and pharmaceutics, information technologies, science and
education.
Today, 18 large enterprises of Uzbekistan have their own innovation
centers, modernization and innovation funds, which have so far funded
242 projects worth UZS 8.55 billion.
Each year, state scientific and technical programs are implemented in
many areas of the national economy and the social sector. One of the
most effective mechanisms to attract additional investment in science
is the innovations fair, where not only the most promising innovations
are demonstrated and conditions are created for their acquisition and
subsequent use, but also agreements on financing of future scientific
developments are concluded.
Of particular interest was the exposition, organized at the fair for
the first time in connection with the announcement of the year 2011 as
the Year of small business and private entrepreneurship.
It presented development in various areas – from high-tech, based on
use of nanomaterials, to easy-to-use facilities for processing raw
materials into finished products with high added value.
During the fair, its participants were able to discuss the most
topical issues of the formation of the innovative economy in the
country at the conferences and round tables.
The fair completed with awarding the winners of seven best project in
all presented key areas and industries.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Construction of new truck plant launched |
| April 18, 2011 |
|
Uzavtosanoat joint stock company and MAN Truck & Bus AG
(Germany) started construction of a new plant in Uzbekistan for
production of heavy commercial vehicles.
According to Uzavtosanoat press service, the ceremony of laying the
capsule in the foundation of the new production complex of JV MAN
Auto-Uzbekistan was held in the suburb of Samarkand.
At the first phase of the project, in 2011-2013 assembly and painting
workshops and a diagnostic site designed to produce up to 6,000 trucks
and chassis for MAN will be built. The capacity can later be increased
to 10,000 per year. Additionally, a dealers and a service centers for
sales and servicing the vehicles will be built here.
Later, the new industrial complex will produce cabins and bearing
frames for MAN trucks (full technological cycle). Besides, capacities
will be created for production of a full range of trailed and mounted
equipment.
The representative of MAN Truck & Bus AG Lars Himer said: “I am very
glad that today we have taken another important step to deepen our
cooperation with Uzbekistan. Just over a year ago, production of MAN
trucks began in Samarkand, and we are already about to create a new
powerful industrial base with the most modern technology that will
help strengthen the position of our joint venture.”
With the launch of a new production complex in the suburb of Samarkand,
the production of heavy machinery in Uzbekistan will rise to a new
level, with deepening of the localization of the product in the
country and expansion of cooperation with one of the world’s leading
manufacturers of commercial vehicles, MAN Truck & Bus AG.
JV MAN Auto-Uzbekistan was created on 29 August 2009. Its founders are
Uzavtosanoat and MAN Truck & Bus AG (Germany). MAN Truck & Bus AG is
the largest company of MAN group and one of the world’s leading
manufacturers of trucks and passenger and tourist buses.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
SCO, CIS Anti-Terrorism Center hold conference in Tashkent |
| April 15, 2011 |
|
Cooperation Organization (SCO RATS) in conjunction with
the Anti-Terrorism Center of the Commonwealth of Independent States
(CIS ATC) held an international conference on “The activities of
terrorist organizations in the countries of the SCO and CIS. Measures
to ensure anti-diversion protection of objects of particular
importance, special objects and military infrastructure” on 13-14
April in Tashkent.
The representatives of anti-terrorist units of intelligence and
security bodies of the SCO and the CIS, Commonwealth sectoral
cooperation bodies (Coordination Service of the Border Troops
Commanders Council, the Bureau for Coordination of Fight against
Organized Crime and Other Dangerous Types of Crimes on the CIS
member-states territory) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the
Secretariat of the Collective Security Treaty Organization took part
in the meeting.
The mutual interest of the SCO and the CIS anti-terrorism bodies in
holding the first conference of its kind stemmed from the fact that
challenges faced by the member states in countering terrorism and
extremism are equally relevant for all and can be effectively
addressed only through collective efforts.
The processes occurring on the global arena, as well as internal
political and socioeconomic problems in some of the SCO and the CIS
states can be used by international terrorist organizations for
terrorist and extremist acts aimed at destabilizing the situation in
some regions.
The conference was held in three sections, which considered new
challenges and threats to the SCO and CIS countries. Particular
attention was paid to countering the activities of international
terrorist organizations. The new trends in their activities were
analyzed and the modern concepts of counteraction were discussed. The
participants also made an assessment of the levels of the existing
subversive and terrorist threats, and considered a system of measures
to ensure anti-terrorist security in the SCO and the CIS.
The experts also considered the issue of organizing an exchange of
relevant information among the competent authorities of the SCO and
the CIS. The representatives of the intelligence agencies also shared
their experience in investigating crimes of subversive and terrorist
nature.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
President of Uzbekistan
to visit China |
| April 16, 2011 |
|
President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov will pay a state
visit to China on 19-20 April on the invitation of the Chairman of the
People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao.
During the visit, issues of expansion and deepening of the
Uzbek-Chinese 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 of the two states in various spheres is planned.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Uzbekistan and
China expanding cooperation |
| April 18, 2011 |
|
Uzbekistan has been developing relations with China from
the first years of independence. Over the last period, a large number
of summits and visits of various delegations have been held.
170 documents covering various spheres of bilateral relations have
been signed between Uzbekistan and China. The Interstate agreement on
partnership relations, friendship and cooperation, signed during the
state visit of President Islam Karimov to China in 2005, is an
important factor in enhancing mutual cooperation.
Speaking about Uzbek-Chinese relations, one has to note the consistent
development of trade-economic and investment cooperation. A proof of
this is that China ranks first among countries investing in Uzbekistan
and second among Uzbekistan’s trade partners. The volume of bilateral
trade in 2010 made up USD 2.85 billion.
There are 347 companies with investments from China in Uzbekistan. The
Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of
Uzbekistan lists 64 representative offices of Chinese companies. They
work in the fields of export and import operations, textile,
agricultural products processing, information technologies and others.
In the conditions of the global financial crisis, the issue of
overcoming its consequences has become one of the important aspects of
the interstate cooperation. In order to solve this task, Uzbekistan
and China are paying particular attention to expanding trade-economic,
investment and financial cooperation.
In the framework of financial cooperation, a number of projects are
being implemented through interest-free and long-term concessional
loans of the government of China and export credits of Chinese
Eximbank. From the credit line of the government of China for SCO
member states, the total amount of loans for infrastructure
development in Uzbekistan is over USD 600 million.
Investment cooperation is actively developing in the fields of oil and
gas, and mining. For example, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)
is conducting geological prospecting in the Aral Sea area, and Ustyurt,
Bukhara-Khiva and Fergana investment blocks. The commissioning of the
Central Asia-China pipeline has opened new opportunities for
cooperation in the energy sector.
At the same time, there is a huge potential for cooperation between
the two countries in many sectors, including transport, logistics,
construction, telecommunications, high technologies etc. In
particular, Uzbekistan and China can use the vast resources in the
free economic zone Navoi.
During the state visit of the Chinese President Hu Jintao to
Uzbekistan in June 2010, a joint declaration was signed on
comprehensive development and expansion of friendship, cooperation and
partnership. Also, several documents were signed on cooperation in
technical, economic, oil and gas, and high technologies fields.
In accordance with the loan agreement signed between the National Bank
for Foreign Economic Activity of Uzbekistan and China’s State
Development Bank in June 2010, the Chinese bank will allocate USD 75
million for financing projects of small and private businesses, as
well as investment projects in Uzbekistan.
These banks of Uzbekistan and China have cooperated effectively since
2005. During this period, the National Bank of Uzbekistan was provided
with two credit lines worth USD 80 million to finance small business
and private enterprise projects. The entrepreneurs of Uzbekistan have
received financial assistance for 120 projects.
Uzbekistan Railways is implementing a USD 75.53 million investment
project aimed at renewing the passenger locomotives. It is being
realized using a long-term soft loan in the framework of the financial
and technical cooperation between Uzbekistan and China.
In accordance with the contract signed between Uzbekistan Railways and
Zhuzhou electric locomotive building company, modern locomotives were
delivered from China in 2010. New high-speed locomotives, which can
reach the speed of 160 kmh, have allowed to save time for passengers
and reduce operation costs.
Representatives of Chinese business China regularly participate in
exhibitions, fairs, business forums and conferences held in
Uzbekistan, while entrepreneurs and farmers of Uzbekistan visit
similar events in China. Because of the great demand for Uzbek cotton,
representatives of China regularly participate in traditional
International Uzbek Cotton Fair in Tashkent.
The Uzbek-Chinese relations, which are based on friendship and mutual
trust, will continue to evolve in the same spirit for the well-being
of the two nations.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Construction of new
truck plant launched |
| April 18, 2011 |
|
Uzavtosanoat joint stock company and MAN Truck & Bus AG
(Germany) started construction of a new plant in Uzbekistan for
production of heavy commercial vehicles.
According to Uzavtosanoat press service, the ceremony of laying the
capsule in the foundation of the new production complex of JV MAN
Auto-Uzbekistan was held in the suburb of Samarkand.
At the first phase of the project, in 2011-2013 assembly and painting
workshops and a diagnostic site designed to produce up to 6,000 trucks
and chassis for MAN will be built. The capacity can later be increased
to 10,000 per year. Additionally, a dealers and a service centers for
sales and servicing the vehicles will be built here.
Later, the new industrial complex will produce cabins and bearing
frames for MAN trucks (full technological cycle). Besides, capacities
will be created for production of a full range of trailed and mounted
equipment.
The representative of MAN Truck & Bus AG Lars Himer said: “I am very
glad that today we have taken another important step to deepen our
cooperation with Uzbekistan. Just over a year ago, production of MAN
trucks began in Samarkand, and we are already about to create a new
powerful industrial base with the most modern technology that will
help strengthen the position of our joint venture.”
With the launch of a new production complex in the suburb of Samarkand,
the production of heavy machinery in Uzbekistan will rise to a new
level, with deepening of the localization of the product in the
country and expansion of cooperation with one of the world’s leading
manufacturers of commercial vehicles, MAN Truck & Bus AG.
JV MAN Auto-Uzbekistan was created on 29 August 2009. Its founders are
Uzavtosanoat and MAN Truck & Bus AG (Germany). MAN Truck & Bus AG is
the largest company of MAN group and one of the world’s leading
manufacturers of trucks and passenger and tourist buses.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
SCO, CIS Anti-Terrorism Center hold conference in Tashkent |
| April 15, 2011 |
|
The Executive Committee of the Regional Anti-Terrorist
Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO RATS) in
conjunction with the Anti-Terrorism Center of the Commonwealth of
Independent States (CIS ATC) held an international conference on “The
activities of terrorist organizations in the countries of the SCO and
CIS. Measures to ensure anti-diversion protection of objects of
particular importance, special objects and military infrastructure” on
13-14 April in Tashkent.
The representatives of anti-terrorist units of intelligence and
security bodies of the SCO and the CIS, Commonwealth sectoral
cooperation bodies (Coordination Service of the Border Troops
Commanders Council, the Bureau for Coordination of Fight against
Organized Crime and Other Dangerous Types of Crimes on the CIS
member-states territory) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the
Secretariat of the Collective Security Treaty Organization took part
in the meeting.
The mutual interest of the SCO and the CIS anti-terrorism bodies in
holding the first conference of its kind stemmed from the fact that
challenges faced by the member states in countering terrorism and
extremism are equally relevant for all and can be effectively
addressed only through collective efforts.
The processes occurring on the global arena, as well as internal
political and socioeconomic problems in some of the SCO and the CIS
states can be used by international terrorist organizations for
terrorist and extremist acts aimed at destabilizing the situation in
some regions.
The conference was held in three sections, which considered new
challenges and threats to the SCO and CIS countries. Particular
attention was paid to countering the activities of international
terrorist organizations. The new trends in their activities were
analyzed and the modern concepts of counteraction were discussed. The
participants also made an assessment of the levels of the existing
subversive and terrorist threats, and considered a system of measures
to ensure anti-terrorist security in the SCO and the CIS.
The experts also considered the issue of organizing an exchange of
relevant information among the competent authorities of the SCO and
the CIS. The representatives of the intelligence agencies also shared
their experience in investigating crimes of subversive and terrorist
nature
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Paralympians of
Uzbekistan win in Turkey |
| April 14, 2011 |
|
| The athletes of Uzbekistan successfully
participated in the fourth World Games among the visually impaired
in Turkey and qualified for judo and athletics Paralympic Games in
2012 in London. |
 |
The winners of the competitions were met at the Tashkent
International Airport by representatives of Uzbekistan Paralympic
Association, sports community, fans and the media.
The 2010 sports season was marked by successes of the Uzbek
Paralympians. At the World Cup in Argentina, the amputees football
team of Uzbekistan defended their 2007 champions title and won gold
medals for the second time in a row.
At the Paralympic Games in Guangzhou, China Paralympians of Uzbekistan
won one gold, two silver and three bronze medals.
Currently, the Paralympians of the country are preparing for the
upcoming Paralympic Games in 2012 in London. In accordance with the
President’s resolution, all conditions have been created for the
athletes so that they could train on the basis of modern standards,
enhance their experience and skills.
In judo competitions in Turkey, Sharif Khalilov won a bronze medal and
the right to participate in the Paralympic Games in London.
Alisher Usmanov won two tickets to the Paralympic Games, winning in
400 and 800 meters running competitions.
Abror Ibrahimov and Daniyar Salikhov, who ranked fourth in triple
jump, will also go to London.
In individual chess championship, bronze medal was won by Kurolboy
Zhakshayev. Amirullo Abdullayev won the third place in group
competitions.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Amir Temur's 675th
anniversary celebrated |
| April 12, 2011 |
|
 |
In Uzbekistan, special attention is paid to
honoring the memory of the great statesman Amir Temur, to study
and promote his work.
A traditional ceremonial event to mark the 675th anniversary of
Amir Temur took place on 9 April in the capital square named after
him.
Writers and poets, scholars, students, representatives of the
public and diplomatic corps participated in the event.
|
People’s writer of Uzbekistan, chairman of the International Fund of
Amir Temur Muhammad Ali, director of the Institute of Archaeology of
the Academy of Sciences, doctor of historical sciences Amriddin
Berdimurodov, winner of Zulfiya state award, champion of Uzbekistan in
karate Zulhumor Boboyeva, young poet Ghairat Majid and others pointed
out that in Uzbekistan huge attention was paid to raising people’s
spirituality and protecting the rich spiritual heritage of the great
ancestors.
| These aspects are reflected in the study of life
and heritage of Amir Temur, and education of harmoniously
developed young generation.
On the eve of the 675th anniversary of Amir Temur, on the
initiative of President Islam Karimov, the book “Code of Temur”
was reprinted. The book opens with a foreword by President Islam
Karimov. People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Afzal Rafikov read the text
of the foreword at the event. |
 |
The dynamically developing relations between our countries in various
spheres are a logical continuation of the ties of cooperation, the
foundation of which was laid in the times of Amir Temur, Ambassador of
France to Uzbekistan François Gauthier said.
The participants of the event laid flowers to the pedestal of the
monument of Amir Temur.
The State Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
H.Sultonov and Deputy Prime Minister A.Aripov attended the ceremony.
On the same day, a round table dedicated to the life and activity of
Amir Temur was held at the State Museum of History of Temurids.
An exhibition devoted to the diplomatic relations of the Temurids
state was organized at the museum during the event.
Events dedicated to the birthday anniversary of Amir Temur are held in
the Republic of Karakalpakstan and in all regions.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
EU-Central Asia
ministers’ meeting held |
| April 07, 2011 |
|
The meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union
and the Central Asian states (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,
Tajikistan and Turkmenistan) was held in Tashkent on 7 April.
The European Union was represented by János Martonyi, Foreign Minister
of Hungary, which is holding the EU chairmanship, Andris Piebalgs, EU
Commissioner for Development, and Pierre Morel, EU Special
Representative for Central Asia.
The participants of the meeting considered the current state and
perspectives of development of relations between the EU and Central
Asia in the framework of the EU’s New Partnership Strategy with the
region.
The sides discussed issues of trade-economic cooperation and regional
interaction in the fields of energy, environment, rational use of
water resources, border protection and fighting drug smuggling.
The ministers also exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and
other important topics of regional security.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and the EU delegation
signed the Protocol on introducing changes in the Partnership and
Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the
European Communities.
On the same day, foreign ministers of Uzbekistan and Hungary held
political consultations.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
President signs resolution on celebration of Uzbekistan’s 20th
independence anniversary |
| April 07, 2011 |
|
President Islam Karimov signed a resolution on 6 April on
the preparation and conduction of the celebrations of the 20th
anniversary of the state independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The resolution approved the program of organizational, practical,
cultural, educational and awareness raising activities related to the
celebrations, as well as the structure of the creative group to
prepare the holiday program in Tashkent.
In accordance with the document, all holiday-related preparatory
activities and events will be held under the slogan “You are great and
sacred, independent Motherland!”.
The Republican commission for preparation and conduction of
celebrations of the 20th independence anniversary is headed by Prime
Minister Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
The commission has been entrusted with adopting measures to ensure
timely commissioning of the industrial, social and cultural objects,
which will open on the eve of the Independence Day (1 September).
A separate plan of events will be developed for the country’s youth,
including students of schools, academic lyceums, professional colleges
and higher educational institutions.
Special attention will be paid to holding the Barkamol Avlod
(Harmoniously Developed Generation) sports competitions among the
students of secondary educational institutions in Termez and the youth
forum titled “We are 20 years old”, as well as various sports
competitions and an Independence Cup marathon among companies,
organizations and educational establishments.
Other events included in the program are traditional Sharq Taronalari
international musical festival, contests Nihol, Kelajak Ovozi, Eng
Ulug, Eng Aziz, Oltin Qalam, Ozod Yurt Tolkinlari, Navqiron Ozbekiston,
Asrlar Sadosi, and a number of new events.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Cabinet’s
complex considers first quarter results |
| April 06, 2011 |
|
The Complex for education, healthcare, social protection,
information systems and telecommunications of the Cabinet of Ministers
of Uzbekistan held a session to consider the socioeconomic development
of the sector in the first quarter of 2011.
In the first quarter, the complex organizations and enterprises
produced goods and provided services for a total of UZS 712.9 billion.
The increase made up 19.6% compared to same period of last year.
The volume of services provided to the population made up UZS 309.8
billion (+9.5%).
USD 36.9 million were used for implementation the projects included in
the investment program, which is 55.8% more than forecasted.
The session participants considered issues of employment of graduates
of professional colleges, and improving online government services in
the framework of the State program “Year of small business and private
entrepreneurship”.
Other discussed issues included expanding prospects for private
entrepreneurs in the pharmaceutical industry, implementation of
projects in the field of children’s sports, creation and
reconstruction of children’s playgrounds in residential areas, and
attracting more young people to the sports.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Tashkent to host EU-Central Asia foreign ministers’ meeting |
| April 05, 2011 |
|
The EU-Central Asia foreign minister-level meeting will be
held in Tashkent on 7 April.
The delegations of the Central Asian countries will be headed by Vice
Prime Minister, Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan Elyor Ganiyev, Vice
Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Foreign Minister
Rashid Meredov, Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan Ruslan Kazakbayev,
Foreign Minister of Tajikistan Khamrokhon Zarifi and Vice Foreign
Minister of Kazakhstan Konstantin Zhigalov.
The European Union will be represented by János Martonyi, Foreign
Minister of Hungary, which is holding the EU chairmanship, Andris
Piebalgs, EU Commissioner for Development, and Pierre Morel, EU
Special Representative for Central Asia.
The meeting will focus on the state and perspectives of development of
relations between the EU and the Central Asian states in the framework
of the EU’s New Partnership Strategy with the region.
The participants will also consider issues of trade-economic and
regional interaction in the fields of energy, environment, use of
water resources, border protection and fighting drug trafficking.
Besides, the ministers will discuss the situation in Afghanistan and
other important topics of regional security.
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Gallery: Youth and education |
| April 05, 2011 |
|
Issues of improving the education system, increasing the
intellectual potential of the younger generation, creation of
necessary conditions for mastering modern science and profession are
among the priority directions of the state policy implemented by the
President Islam Karimov.
The great attention given to this sphere is reflected in numerous
schools, academic lyceums, professional colleges and universities
built in the country since it proclaimed independence.
The great achievements of the Uzbek youth in sports, arts and science
are the results of the wide-scale reforms in the educational system.
]
www.uza.uz
|
|
|
Uzbekistan
Culture Days held in Saudi Arabia |
| April 05, 2011 |
|
Uzbekistan Culture Days were held in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia from 25 to 31 March.
The event was organized by the Culture and Sports Ministry of
Uzbekistan and the Culture and Information Ministry of Saudi Arabia.
Representatives of art and culture of Uzbekistan attended the event.
Opening the Culture Days, Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports of
Uzbekistan Bahodir Ahmedov and Minister of Culture and Information of
Saudi Arabia Abdulaziz Muhiddin Khoja noted that relations between
Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia were developing in all spheres, including
culture.
“Centuries-old friendship and closeness of cultural values, traditions
and customs bring the peoples of our countries together,” said
Abdulaziz Muhiddin Khoja. “Saudi Arabia attaches great importance to
development and strengthening cooperation with Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan’s contribution to the development of world civilization
and Islamic culture should also be noted. The Days of Culture of
Uzbekistan are another demonstration of the rich art and culture of
your people.”
At the exhibition of applied folk art and photos titled “Uzbekistan is
my Motherland”, held during the Culture Days in the cities of Riyadh
and Jeddah, works of artists of Uzbekistan – ganch and wood engraving,
gold embroidery products, national dresses, fabrics and photos
reflecting the historical cities and monuments of the country – were
demonstrated.
A concert program which included national tunes and songs performed by
the Uzbek artists was also presented.
The event showed how high the interest to the Uzbek culture and arts
in Saudi Arabia was: thousands of visitors attended the Culture Days.
Uzbekistan Culture Days were widely covered by TV channels of Saudi
Arabia, Riyadh and Jeddah radio stations and other media outlets.
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Ambassadors
present credentials to President |
| April 01, 2011 |
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President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov
received credentials from Ambassadors Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait, the Republic of Tajikistan,
Ukraine, and the Republic of Poland in Uzbekistan – Halaf Mijbal
Buzahir, Muzaffar Huseynov, Yuri Savchenko, and Marian Pzchesdzetski,
respectively, at the Oqsaroy on March 31.
Receiving credentials, President Islam Karimov congratulated the
diplomats on the appointment to the honorable and responsible post and
wished them the best of luck in their missions starting in Uzbekistan.
Kuwait is an important economic and investment partner of Uzbekistan
in the Arab world. Following President Karimov’s official visit to the
State of Kuwait in January 2004, relations between the two nations
rose to a higher level; the normative basis of bilateral ties was
consolidated; untapped opportunities started to be used in enhancing
the cooperation.
The official visit of Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber
al-Sabah to Uzbekistan in July 2008 constituted a new stride in the
development of bilateral relations. During the visit, the two sides
signed a range of documents aimed at bolstering the Uzbek-Kuwaiti
interaction, boosting the trade-economic and investment cooperation.
Halaf Mijbal Buzahir stressed that in the course of his diplomatic
mission, his best efforts will be directed at fostering the mutual
bonds.
Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have an established cooperation framework in
political, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. The
two peoples are bound with millennia-old ties of friendship and good
neighborliness built on the community of history, traditions and
culture, along with spiritual proximity.
The normative and agreement base of the bilateral relations comprises
a whole range of interstate documents. Pressing issues of expanding
economic and cultural ties are deliberated during sessions of the
Uzbek-Tajik intergovernmental commission.
The two nations interact also within a variety of international
organizations and multilateral associations in addressing issues of
common interest.
Muzaffar Huseynov noted that during his diplomatic mission in this
country, he will undertake the necessary efforts towards deepening and
strengthening comprehensive relations between Tajikistan and
Uzbekistan.
The interaction between Uzbekistan and Ukraine wields a reliable
normative foundation and is regulated by around 150 documents covering
diverse spheres. The bilateral Agreement on Friendship and Further
Deepening of Comprehensive Cooperation signed February 1998 during
President Islam Karimov’s official visit to Ukraine, has been
overriding in the consistent development of mutual relations.
Thanks to the free trade regime between the two countries, more than
50 enterprises are set up in Uzbekistan with the participation of
Ukrainian investors in chemical, wood processing, food, construction,
retail, and service industries. Representative offices of 15 Ukrainian
companies are registered at the Ministry of Foreign Economic
Relations, Investments and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Yuri Savchenko pointed to Ukraine’s interest in augmenting political,
trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian bonds with Uzbekistan,
and that during his mission he intends to focus particularly on the
more extensive use of the capacities and opportunities at hand in both
countries with an objective of even more intensification of bilateral
cooperation.
Poland is one of European Union countries actively developing
relations with Uzbekistan. Foreign affairs ministries of the two
nations regularly hold political consultations. The fifth round of
such negotiations was held in Tashkent last October.
As far as trade and economic cooperation is concerned, the most
favorable nation regime has been in force between the two countries.
The Uzbek-Polish intergovernmental commission on trade and economic
cooperation has served as an essential mechanism of advancing trade,
economic and investment ties. A regular session of this commission and
a joint business forum are planned for May in Tashkent, along with a
National Exposition of the Republic of Poland.
Marian Pzchesdzetski underscored that Poland and Uzbekistan have all
the capacities for effective development of mutual cooperation. The
Ambassador said he considers the work designed at intensifying the
trade and economic relations and enlarging the trade turnover as the
paramount direction of his oncoming activity in Uzbekistan.
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