DOWNLOADS

Visa Form (PDF file)

National Anthem

Web

uzbekembassy.in

LIVE WEATHER

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://www.uza.uz/eng/

Jahon Information Agency

http://www.jahon.mfa.uz

EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

LATEST NEWS : December 2008

UzA

The results of the activities carried out in the framework of the Year of Youth state program were presented up at the press conference in Tashkent.

During the year, a number of programs and projects in the fields of improving the education legislation, equipping the educational establishments, and protecting the interests of the young people were implemented.

More that 2.8 million young people currently go in for sport at more than 700 sports establishments and complexes created at educational institutions.

In July, the President issued a resolution on improving the activity of the musical and arts schools in 2009-2014. In accordance with the document, a total of 278 musical and arts schools for 69,000 students will be built.

97.4% of the young people who graduated the universities, and 95.6% of those who finished professional colleges were employed this year.

More than 940 job fairs were held during the year, where 98,000 young people were employed. Over 10,000 were enrolled to professional courses.

Credits worth over UZS 47 billion were issued in 2008 for construction of houseing for the youth. 18 apartment blocks were commissioned, and more than 600 families received apartments.

I.A. “Jahon”

As a part of the Republican stage of “Kelajak ovozi – 2008” contest held in Tashkent initiated by the Kamolot Public Movement of Youth and Forum of Culture and Arts of Uzbekistan Foundation a scientific and practical conference was held at the Abu Raikhon Beruniy Tashkent State Technical University, according to the Uzbekistan National News Agency.

The conference has been dedicated to the role of intellectual youth in the process of technical and innovative reforms, the report by the news agency has said.

The participants of the contest in the nomination “Rationalization proposals, technical projects and elaborations”, as well as professors, teachers, scholars and students took part at it.

On the initiative of the Uzbek Leadership a big attention is now being paid in the country to consistently developing science, spiritual and enlightenment sphere, ensuring integration of education, science and production, as well as to the issues of broad implementation of latest innovative technologies.

This work is now held in combination with stimulating talented scholars and researchers, creating conditions and opportunities for effective scientific searches led by them. The Republican Kelajak ovozi contest plays a huge role in revealing gifted young people, comprehensively supporting their scientific inventions, advanced ideas and initiatives.

According to Mrs. Karima Norkulova, the Deputy Rector of the Tashkent State Technical University and the chairperson of jury in the nomination of “Rationalization proposals, technical projects and elaborations”, in 2008 about 70 projects have been filed to the final stage of this contest.

For example, Oybek Fayziev is a fourth-year student of economy and management faculty at the Samarkand Institute of Agriculture. At the contest he proposed his initiative on technology on the growth of sunflower seeds as a second agricultural culture for bettering shift of crops in climatic conditions of Uzbekistan.

The work of the student of Tashkent Medical Academy Tamara Karimova is a set which allows to quickly and precisely determining several characteristics of biological liquid, in particular, the blood.

The set is very comfortable in use that allows to effectively using it in laboratories of schools, colleges and lyceums, as well as medical establishments.

UzReport

The Foreign Economic Relations Board of Turkey (DEIK) and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan (CCIU) have agreed to establish a bilateral Business Council to help promoting trade between the two countries, contribute to industrial and technological collaboration between their enterprises and economic institutions.

The agreement was signed in Tashkent on 24 December by the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan Alisher Shaykhov and the Chairman of Turkish-Uzbek Business Council Agah Rusen Cetin.

Within the agreement, the sides agreed to coordinate jointly efforts to collect, combine, analyze, evaluate and diffuse information in relation to trade, industrial and technological cooperation and investments; to the mutual benefit of the two nations.

The Business Council will operate in the form of two national divisions. Each division will have its own member companies and economic associations. DEIK will provide the secretariat for the Turkish division, whereas the CCIU will provide the secretariat for the Uzbek side.

Membership and constitution of the national divisions will be determined independently according to the needs, rules and regulations of each country. The Business Council will have a multi-sectoral character in both countries so that the possibilities for collaboration can be fully exploited to the mutual benefit of the two nations.

The national divisions will meet at least once a year on an alternating basis in Turkey and in Uzbekistan to examine the achievements and technological possibilities in the fields of trade, investments, industrial and technological cooperation and on various forms of trade, finance, bilateral and international collaboration.

The national executive committees will meet at least once every year: to discuss the program of the Business Council, to agree on sectoral and regional meetings, as well as to launch joint research to explore possibilities for trade, investments, industrial, and technological cooperation, with the purpose of conveying these possibilities to member companies and to the respective governments.

The Business Council will identify obstacles in trade and economic cooperation, and will submit its proposals to overcome them to the two respective governments.

The Business Council and its respective national Secretariats will collect statistical data and information on opportunities in the field of trade, investment and other forms of economic cooperation and will convey such information to the member companies.

The Business Council supports the organization of exhibitions and trade fairs and will encourage its members to participate at such activities.

Each national division will have its own budget. Expenses of annual meetings will be met by the host division. Participants to the meetings will pay their own travel and accommodation expenses.

Financing modality of joint research, symposia, exhibitions or other similar activities will be decided at the joint executive committee meetings.

I.A. “Jahon”

At the moment, Uzbekistan considerably develops the oil and gas branch with participation of foreign investors. One of the partners - Daewoo International Corporation – in 2009-2011 plans to invest into geological exploration works in Ustyurt Oil and Gas Region.

With this goal Uzbekneftegaz National Holding Company and Daewoo International Corporation signed protocol “On coming into effect of the Agreement on holding geological exploration works at Koskudyk and Ashibulak investment blocks in the Ustyurt Region of the Republic of Uzbekistan of February 25, 2008”.

In line with the abovementioned document the South Korean company shall have a right to hold geological exploration works at the contract area during five years. By the time of signing the document the sides accomplished all preliminary conditions envisaged by Agreement, established and registered an operator in Uzbekistan.

The Investment program for 2009 envisions that minimum volume of financial input of Daewoo International to geological exploration will make up 40 million US dollars during three years.

Alongside with Daewoo several largest South Korean companies intend to take part at various important projects in the fuel and energy spheres. In particular, Uzbekneftegaz and DongHo ENC Company signed Memorandum of Understanding as a part of the recent second Forum of cooperation of the Republic of Korea and Central Asian states.

The document envisages establishment of mutually beneficial partnership in terms of applying the latest technological achievements to the area of gas distribution, exploitation of gas distribution networks and exchange of information.

Earlier Uzbekneftegaz signed agreement with another company from the Republic of Korea – the Korean National Oil and Gas Corporation (KNOC) on geological exploration works at the Chust-Pap and Namangan-Tergachin investment blocks in the Ferghana Oil and Gas Region.

The land of Uzbekistan is rich with natural resources. At the moment, 210 deposits of hydrocarbon raw were discovered in the country. Over 50 percent of them are now being elaborated. 35 percent are ready for assimilation. The exploration works are being carried out at others. These resources attract many investor partners interested in mutually beneficial cooperation.

UzReport

A delegation of Uzvinpromholding holding company, uniting enterprises of wine production, paid a visit to France, Jahon news agency of the Uzbek Foreign Ministry reported.

The visit of the Uzbek delegation was organized by Agriculture and Fishery Ministry of France, French Association of International Exchange of Agriculture Products and Technologies (ADEPTA), Sofracop consulting firm and Embassy of Uzbekistan in France.

French side developed saturated agenda of the visit, which gave full information on functioning of wine-making industry of France, wine-making technologies, used in this country, the report said.

The Uzbek delegation visited Agriculture and Fishery Ministry of France, where it acquainted with the activity of the ministry, its subdivisions, which coordinate wine-making sphere.

During the visit, the delegation had an opportunity to study wine-making technologies at leading French enterprises, starting from vine plans to bottling of ready products. The Uzbek delegation learnt experience of production of wines, cognacs and cognac products at over 20 enterprises of famous wine regions of France: Bordeaux, Loire, etc. The Uzbek specialists also had an opportunity to study technologies and equipment, which are used in processing of grapes and production of ready products.

The delegation participated at the wine exhibition in Bordeaux - Vinitech 2008, which attracted over 1,000 companies and firms, which offered technologies for breeding grape, crop production, processing of grape, storage of wines and others.

During the visit, Uzvinpromholding's delegation held negotiations with French and foreign grape farms, producers of accessories and equipment, wine producers, designers, and ready products.

Uzbekistan Today

Uzbekistan is widely celebrating the 50th anniversary of Navoi Mining and Smelting Combine (NMSC) and Navoi city.

The President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov signed a decree to award a group of front-rank workers and active citizens in connection with the 50th anniversary of Navoi Metallurgical and Smelting Combine.

In accordance with Presidential Resolution “On preparation for and celebration of the 50th anniversary of Navoi Mining and Smelting Combine and Navoi city”, more than 36,675 mln soums were channeled into the construction, repairs, beautification and landscaping of subdivisions of NMSC and Navoi city.

“One of the Republic’s most beautiful cities bearing the name of a great ancestor of ours, poet and thinker Alisher Navoi, along with Navoi Mining and Smelting Combine, are a pride and leader of domestic industry and for a historically short period of time have travelled a truly respect-worthy path of formation and development, have come through years of ordeal and challenges, have achieved impressive success and earned worldwide fame”, noted the President of Uzbekistan in his congratulatory message on this occasion.

Established in the late 50s in the heart of Central Kyzylkums, today the Combine represents a modern multi-branch production complex and is among the world’s top ten producers of gold and uranium. An equally notable role in the development of our country is attributed to Navoi city, which is one of the most developed industrial and cultural centers of Uzbekistan.

The historical path that the Combine and the city have traveled is impressive indeed. Uzbek builders carried out a unique feat by developing one of the world’s biggest deserts and building great cities with modern infrastructure and industrial production. And of course, this path is inseparably linked with the birth of Uzbekistan’s independence.

“In spite of serious economic challenges and difficulties of the transition period, we have managed not only to preserve the Combine’s productive capacity, opportunities and personnel potential, but also to retain its stable development by introducing up-to-date technologies that meet high requirements and international standards”, emphasized President Islam Karimov.

<!--[if Данный XML-элемент]><![endif]-->

Currently, NMSC produces 80% of the Republic’s high-quality gold, the whole uranium concentrate and raw materials for phosphorous fertilizers. During the years of independence the Combine completed the construction of and put into use the exploitation gold-mining complex of Uchkuduk: hydrometallurgical plant #3 (HMP-3) and quarries for the mining of gold-containing ores in Kokpatas deposit, Kyzylkum phosphorite complex, plants for the production of polyvinylchloride and polyethylene pipes and others. In 2008 only, in Northern mining group a modern technology of bacterial lixiviation “BIOX” was put into use, HMP-2 reached project volume of production of 32 mln tons of ores per annum and since its establishment more than 700 mln tons of ores have been extracted. Also Mining group #5 started the extraction on deposit “Northern Kanimekh”, and the construction of “Zarmitan” mine is nearing its completion.

NMSC comprises five mining groups and more than ten modern production facilities, on the bases of which cities such as Uchkuduk, Zarafshan, Zafarabad and Nurabad have risen. During the years of independence gold output has increased 1.5 times which became possible thanks to the technical and technological revamp of the existing enterprises, construction of new productions, and introduction of new scientific and technical developments that considerably enhanced the efficiency of gold production.

A new impulse for the development of Navoi region has come from the Decree of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the creation of free industrial and economic zone in Navoi region”.

As the President noted in his message, “making a decision on organizing a free industrial and economic zone on the territory of Navoi, the first of its kind in the Republic, creation within it of a broad spectrum of hi-tech production that guarantees an output of globally competitive produce, is stipulated first of all by the vast resource, territory, production, labor and intellectual potential of the region”.

UzA

The Asian Development Bank is an effective partner of Uzbekistan in implementing large projects in leading economic sectors, education, agriculture and transport. In the comin three years, the bank plans issuing about USD 450 million to Uzbekistan.

The ADB and the country are actively cooperating in the field of development of the network of railways and automobile roads. To develop the main road, which is part of the Central Asian regional transport corridor, the ADB has already provided over USD 75 million to Uzbekistan.

These funds were used for development of the 1,204-km-long road Guzar-Bukhara-Nukus-Beyneu, which links the country with Kazakhstan, Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.

Understanding that the major part of cargo transportation in the country is made by railway, the ADB supported the efforts of the government and provided two loans worth a total of USD 140 million for the development of the railway sector.

In December 2008, the ADB provided a loan of USD 100 million for improvement of water resources management and state of lands in ANdijan, Navoi, Namangan, Samarkand and Ferghana regions. The project envisages recovery of 150 km of channels, over 500 lm of collector and drainage constructions, and reconstruction of 8 pump stations irrigating 150,000 ha of lands in Ferghana and Zerafshan valleys. The approximate period of the project implementation is six years. The loan agreement is expected to be signed in early 2009.

Many projects implemented jointly with the ADB in the economic sectors and social sphere have already started giving significant results. Thus, the ADB project on water supply and sanitary in Kashkadarya and Navoi regions will improve the conditions in almost 170 settlements. The project started in 2006 and should end in 2010.

During 12 years of cooperation, the ADB provided 26 loans to Uzbekistan worth a total of over USD 1 billion. Currently, 16 loans worth USD 600 million are being used for investment projects in agriculture, transport infrastructure, water supply, educational reforms, as well as small business and entrepreneurship.

I.A. “Jahon”

The National press center of Uzbekistan in Tashkent hosted a presentation of Annual World Report on Population for 2008. The Executive representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Fuad Aliev presented the Report to journalists, according to the Pravda Vostoka newspaper.

The Fund prepares such reports annually and each time they are dedicated to a particular topic. This time the Report covered the “Issues of culture, gender equality and human rights: achievement of common understanding”.

The link between those problems is obvious: the process of globalization is well underway and it is very important to each country to preserve its cultural values. The gender equality is regularly at the focus of state policy in Uzbekistan that joined the relevant UN declarations.

The UNFPA closely cooperates with the Ministry of Health and Women’s Committee of Uzbekistan in analyzing the demographic processes, strengthening reproductive health of women. At the same time, this international organization engages with bodies of public education in training cadres to a healthy way of life. In this regard, it is going to be useful this year’s appendix to the Report, namely “Generation of changes: the youth and culture”.

Uzbekistan Today

2nd International Tashkent biennale of children’s drawings Joys of Tashkent finished in the capital. Spectators were able to see the colors of the world by the children’s eyes from the whole planet in the Gallery of fine art of Uzbekistan.

<!--[if Данный XML-элемент]><![endif]-->

700 participants from Uzbekistan, Italy, France, Bulgaria, Poland, Turkey, England, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, the USA, New Zealand, South Africa, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and CIS countries represented 1 000 their works. Talented children from all over the world made their contribution into biennale of children’s drawings organized by the Academy of arts of Uzbekistan and Gallery of fine art of Uzbekistan. One could be astonished not only by brightness but also by variety of techniques, themes and imagination of their authors. There was everything here: both naive children’s drawings with evident hand of beginner, complicated abstractions and classical landscapes already now having the author’s style. Even the fact that biennale’s organizers beforehand determined the main themes of the contest such as The world I live in, My motherland, Childhood, Environment, Tashkent which I know well and Free topic didn’t stop little painters and the fly of their unlimited fantasy.

The last biennale was not only exhibition unique in its significance but also the contest during which the most interesting works were awarded.

Authors of the best biennale’s drawings were awarded with 9 gold, 9 silver and 9 bronze prizes. Nardin Ibragim from Egypt was awarded the grand prize. The first place and gold medals of biennale were awarded to the drawings of our nationals Aynura Sapekeva, Malika Khidiralieva and Abbas Narzullaev as well as works of Alfiya Gildanova from Turkmenistan, Viktoriya Kurzina from Byelorussia, Shannis Norintanami from Indonesia, Ali Geydarov from Azerbaijan, Yiran Li from China and An Li from the USA.

“That was a very difficult selection, because every child who had sent his works for the biennale was extraordinary talented. Me as well as all jury members felt a special responsibility because it was very difficult to choose the best from the best children,” Damir Urazaev, chairman of the youth unification of the Academy of arts, the jury member admitted. Besides, children from foreign countries not just sent their drawings – they tried to learn and understand the history and culture of Uzbekistan and transmit their knowledge through their works. In the drawings represented in this exhibition we see not just reflection of the surrounding world but the very innermost thoughts of theses children, condition of their souls, what makes them happy or sad.”

Anyway, even after distribution of prizes all spectators had an impression that there were winners and no losers because every child owing to such events got an opportunity to express and show himself.

“The fact itself of conduction of such a scaled event as biennale of children’s drawings in our country for the second time already proves that great attention is paid in Uzbekistan to the children’s creativity, to young painters. This exhibition can be considered the unique also because a huge number of quite different works not resembling each other at all were represented here,” Kamola Akilova, Doctor of art history, deputy director of the Gallery of the fine art of Uzbekistan noted.

Joys of Tashkent is not just a contest for young talents but the opportunity to look at the world once more by ingenious and pure view of a child and be surprised at how kind and colorful it is drawn by children from the whole planet.

I.A. “Jahon”

A scientific and practical seminar on the topic “The role of parliamentary relations in the development of international cooperation” was held at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy in Tashkent, according to the Narodnoye slovo newspaper.

The foreign affairs committees of both chambers of national parliament –Senate and Legislative Chamber – organized the event, the newspaper wrote.

The participants of the seminar noted that since the bicameral parliament has been established in Uzbekistan in 2005 the development of parliamentary ties became one of the priority directions of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

For over this period the geography of such ties has noticeably extended. About 200 delegations, including parliamentary and governmental delegations, as well as the representatives of international organizations were received at the Senate and Legislative Chamber since then.

With an aim to establish and extend the parliamentary dialog numerous visits of senators and lawmakers of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan have been held to many foreign countries. In this context, holding in November this year in the city of Brussels of the Seventh sitting of the Parliamentary cooperation committee “Uzbekistan – EU” has had a special significance.

The participants of the seminar underscored that nowadays the parliamentary relations became important and integral component part of ties between states and people. They have a substantial influence on the essence, level, dynamics and prospects of development of modern international relations.

As one of the efficient factors of shaping the mutual trust, understanding and development of cooperation a systemic cooperation of parliaments serves as an indicator of development of intergovernmental relations, and their regularity is an evidence of mutual interest in developing bilateral relations.

Thanks to such dialog of parliaments on the broad agenda has obtained a regular nature a comparatively new concept – “a parliamentary diplomacy” has come on the scene. It is gradually becoming not only one of the important channels of conducting international relations but also a factor of implementation of international norms and positions in legal acts of states. In its turn, this creates a firm legal basis necessary for international cooperation in all spheres.

According to participants of the seminar, the theoretical forms and methods of parliamentary ties represent vast area for scientific researches in the sphere of international relations which could become a subject of studies at educational institutions.

The senators and lawmakers at the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis, scholars, teachers and students of higher educational establishments, as well as journalists participated at the seminar, according to the newspaper.

I.A. “Jahon”

A conference “New opportunities for business in Uzbekistan: sector of environment, including the Clean Development Mechanism” took place at the conference hall of head office of Denton WildeSapte Law Company in London.

The Embassy of Uzbekistan to the United Kingdom jointly with companies of IBC Conferences, British American Tobacco, WorleyParsons, Oxus Gold and Shell organized the conference with the participation of official delegation from Uzbekistan led by the Deputy Minister of Economy Sh.Fayzullaev.

The delegation members included the representatives of National Holding Company Uzbekneftegaz, State Joint-Stock Companies Uzkimyosanoat and Uzbekenergo, Uzkommunhizmat agencies and Uzinfoinvest, as well as Fund for protection of gene pool of area adjacent to Aral.

Lord F.Ponsonbi, co-chairman of Uzbek-British Trade and Industry Council (UBTIC) H.Booth, director of Department for Russia, South Caucasus and Central Asia of Foreign Office M.Davenport represented the British side at the conference. Besides, various leading British and international companies and banks, as well as experts and diplomats also took part at the event.

At the beginning of the conference the welcoming message of the Prince Michael of Kent to the participants of the forum was read out. In his message Prince supported this event that was meant to render assistance to the advancement of British business and attract new investments to Uzbekistan, as well as apply the new methods for bettering environment in Central Asia.

The participants of the conference learnt about current development of economy of Uzbekistan, situation in the sphere of ecology, problems of Aral and managing of water resources, favorable conditions created for foreign investors, as well as new opportunities for cooperation in implementing the projects of CDM, chemical, electro energy and oil and gas sectors.

Ambassador of Uzbekistan to London O.Akbarov, who took a floor at the conference, underscored that Uzbekistan as a young independent state with centuries-long history has finished transition period from administrative Soviet system to market economy, ensured domestic political stability and now carries out consistent foreign policy.

British businessmen and specialists emphasized the presence of developed legal basis, necessary conditions for successful cooperation in this sphere in Uzbekistan. They also noted the urgency of the topic of conference with taking into account its international importance and heightened interest by financial and investment circles.

The Uzbek delegation held various bilateral meetings with representatives of companies of Shell, Worley Parsons, Climate Change Capital, Natsource and British Agency for Trade and Investments.

The British side outlined the success achieved by Uzbekistan in the sphere of environment and implementation of projects as a part of CDM, as well as underscored the leadership of Uzbekistan in this sphere not only in the scale of the region but also all CIS area.

UzReport

Uzbekistan's national carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, signed a firm contract for the purchase of four A320 aircraft as part of the modernisation of its medium range fleet. In addition to six A320s already acquired by the airline in June 2007, this order will further enlarge the airline's A320 orders up to ten aircraft.
Uzbekistan Airways' A320s will feature the all-new cabin, which provides more passenger comfort in a modern and brighter environment. The aircraft will be operated on the airline's extended network of international and domestic destinations.

Uzbekistan Airways currently operates three A310s on the routes to Europe and East Asia.

"We are pleased that Uzbekistan Airways, one of the leading carriers in CIS, has one more time confirmed its confidence in the A320 Family, by increasing its orders portfolio with Airbus. This best selling single-aisle aircraft, which benefits from the most advanced technology and highest cost effectiveness, will undoubtedly contribute to the airline's further growth," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Uzbekistan Airways was founded 1992, starting out on international routes to London, Frankfort, Delhi, Karachi, Kuala-Lumpur, Tel-Aviv and Beijing. In recognition of its performance, the airline has already received the International Fund for Aviation Safety Diploma and a Certificate from Airports International Association and "Euromarket-2000". Uzbekistan Airways operates regular flights to more than forty cities around the world such as America, Europe, Middle East, Southeast, Central Asia and the CIS and plans to increase the number of destinations in the coming years.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly-by-wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the worldwide standard wide-body system.

Around 6,300 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 3,600 delivered to more than 280 customers and operators worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever. Twelve carriers in the entire region currently operate some 120 Airbus aircraft with over 160 aircraft still to be delivered in the near future.
 

UzReport

Uzbekneftegaz national holding company of Uzbekistan held negotiations with the China Petroleum Technology& Development Corporation (CPTDC), the Uzbek company said in its press release on 16 December 2008.

During the negotiations, the sides discussed the opportunities realization of joint projects on production of pipes for construction of gas pipelines, well casing for well drilling, steel ropes, assembly and production of equipment for capital repair of wells, as well as pumps, used for oil mining.

The sides considered opportunity their production with the launch of several joint ventures on the bases of Uzneftegazmash, where the Chinese delegation held negotiations. The Chinese delegation visited Uzbekhimmash and other companies in the regions of Uzbekistan.

Chinese specialists are planning to study technologic opportunities of these enterprises to determine further joint steps on their modernization. It was noted Uzbekneftegaz have all necessary conditions for new projects' implementation.

UzReport

Uzbekistan is famous for its ancient carpet culture. But cities like Bukhara and Samarkand are not only the stuff of legend: the production of carpets is still a vibrant part of today's economy. The EBRD is supporting this trade with a US$1.5 million loan to Shahboz Shahrom, a privately owned carpet producer established in 1998 by the Uzbek businesswoman Muhabbat Teshaeva.

The company, based in the Bukhara region, produces synthetic carpets and floor coverings ("moquette"). The loan will be part of a financial package which will be used to launch a new polypropylene yarn production. This is the key raw material for synthetic carpet production and the new production facility will allow the company to reduce costs significantly.

The implementation of the investment programme will establish a complete production cycle at Shahboz Shahrom which will give it a competitive advantage. This will allow the company to set out on its ambitious expansion strategy on the domestic and also on neighbouring markets.

Muhabbat Teshaeva is the founder and sole owner of Shahboz Shahrom, which she started with an initial investment of US$1,000 to finance imports from Iran. Mrs Teshaeva has won several business awards and in 2006 was recognised as "Best Entrepreneur of the Year" in Uzbekistan.

Because of the country's dry and dusty climate synthetic carpets have a number of advantages compared to wool-made carpets. They are bacteria free, less vulnerable to pollution, water resistant and easy to care for. More than 90% of the total Uzbek market is accounted for by locally produced carpets.

Fernand Pillonel, head of the EBRD office in Tashkent, said "The Bank is very proud of the opportunity to support the growth and development of a private Uzbek company with promising perspectives. Providing scarce hard currency to a business which stands for a trade of such long-standing tradition demonstrates what the EBRD stands for and what we can do."

Shahboz Shahrom chairwoman Muhabbat Teshaeva added: "Thanks to the EBRD we can now embark on our long-planned modernisation and expansion course. The fact that the EBRD is providing us with finance at this difficult period on international markets makes me very confident that we have found a committed, long term partner.

The EBRD in Uzbekistan is focused on the development of the private sector, especially small and medium-sized companies, and the support of market reforms. The Bank has invested about €550 million into more than 50 projects in the country and will adopt a new strategy for Uzbekistan next year.

IA “Jahon”

The German Research Foundation granted the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) the books, brochures and albums in the German and English languages, the Pravda Vostoka newspaper wrote.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Germany to Uzbekistan Matias Mayer handed over the gifts to the teaching faculty and students of the University. In his address Ambassador Mayer said he has hoped that these books would always be in high demand.

“We have received with pleasure the collections that include 94 publications,” said acting Rector of UWED B.Khojaev. “The bulk of the publications are related to policy, law and diplomacy. Among them are the handbooks, popular scientific books on theoretical basics as well as those concerning the acute issues of modernity.”

The UWED library is regularly being filled thanks to such campaigns held by embassies and international organizations accredited in Uzbekistan.

IA “Jahon”

The Turkish Trade Mission led by Mrs. Ülker Güzel, Deputy Undersecretary of Foreign Trade of Turkey, will visit Tashkent on December 21-24 this year.

The visit aims to further promote commercial and economic cooperation between Turkey and Uzbekistan, the press-release by Turkish Trade Mission to Uzbekistan said December 17.

Mrs. Güzel will be accompanied by Turkish Businessmen working in different sectors such as construction and building materials, textile and ready made garments, electric and electronics, agricultural machinery and equipments, other machineries, chemicals, furniture, transportation, leather and shoes who wish to establish new business contacts.

In the framework of the program of stay in Uzbekistan the sides are scheduled to host a seminar on commercial and economic relations between Turkey and Uzbekistan, bilateral meetings between businessmen from Turkey and Uzbekistan, in line with the press-release.

The Uzbek companies interested in meeting with the Turkish businessmen are invited to contact Turkish Embassy Office of the Commercial Counselor to obtain the complete program and register for the meetings.

UzA

Capital reconstruction of the 216-274-km part of the Tashkent-Osh road is underway in Ferghana region.

Previously, this road of international importance, which links Ferghana and Andijan region with Tashkent, passed through Kokand.

As the city developed and the population increased, the traffic on the Kokand ring road has significantly intensified.

In order to ease the traffic, the new road is being built between Uch Uy and Chagali villages of Ferghana region. Currently, the second stage of the construction is nearing completion.

After the road is launched, the way to Tashkent from the two above-named regions will shorten by 18 km.

UzA

Ecosan, the ecology and health organization, sent its health train to the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

The train will deliver humanitarian cargo worth a total of over UZS 90 million to the Aral Sea area.

The cargo includes clothes and footwear, medicaments, bedding and children’s toys. Besides, the educational establishments will receive computers and textbooks.

In order to improve the water supply in the region, this year Ecosan also delivered water pumps to Karakalpakstan.

In all, starting from 1 January 2008, Ecosan sent 25 railway and road trains to various regions of Uzbekistan to support the population of remote districts. The total cost of the humanitarian aid made up UZS 1.6 billion.

UzA

On December 12 this year President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov signed the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On joining of the Republic of Uzbekistan the Optional Protocol to the Convention of the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict (New York, May 25, 2000)”, the newspapers reported.

The Law was adopted by Legislative Chamber (Lower House) of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan on November 11, 2008 and approved by Senate (Upper House) on December 5, 2008.

Uzbekistan is also reported to have joined the said Document along with the following notice:

“On the clause 2 of Article 3 of the Protocol: “the Republic of Uzbekistan declares that in line with the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan of December 12, 2002 “On general military duty and military service”, the enrollment of citizens to the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan shall be allowed only with attainment of eighteen years of age.”

UzA

At the world arm-wrestling championship held in Canada Sherzokhid Sharopov of Uzbekistan has twice gone onto the top of pedestal, the report by Pravda Vostoka newspaper said December 16.

On the number of contenders the Mundial in Canada became a record-breaking one with attendance of over five hundred athletes from forty countries around the world, according to the newspaper.

Sherzokhid Sharopov of Navoi Province in Uzbekistan was among them. He has once again proved that it was not for nothing that he had become a silver medalist of Mundial held in Bulgaria.

But this time in Canada he has earned another gold to fill up his box of medals. He was best to wrestle his contenders with his left arm. Also, Katherine and Igor Shishelovs of Uzbekistan were short of victories by securing the fifth and sixth places, respectively.

UzA

The 14th session of the Regional Association II (Asia) of the World Meteorological Organization was held in Tashkent on 5-11 December.

More than 150 specialists from 35 countries working in the fields of ecology, climate change and water management participated in the forum.

They considered the results of the national and global efforts aimed at eliminating problems related to climate change.

In the recent years, various ecological problems have been emerging as a result of global climate change. This process is also negatively affecting the people’s health.

Uzbekistan adopted and is implementing the National strategy of reduction of dangerous emissions to atmosphere until 2010.

At the forum, general direction of the Uzbek hydro meteorological center Victor Chub was elected president of the Regional Association II (Asia) of the WMO.

UzA

The solemn meeting devoted to the 16th anniversary of the Constitution of Uzbekistan was held on 5 December at the Turkiston Palace in Tashkent.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov made a speech at the meeting. The head of the state noted that Constitution was the main basis of the huge creative work and large-scale reforms held in the country in the years of independence.

Islam Karimov touched upon the results of the implementation of the state program Year of Youth in 2008.

In particular, he said, the legal basis of protection of interests of the young people was strengthened, and the quality and efficiency of education was improved.

In 2008, 184 modern lyceums and colleges were built in Uzbekistan, and 1,875 schools were constructed, reconstructed and repaired.

More than 660,000 new workplaces were created since the beginning of the year, and particular attention was paid to the employment of the rural youth.

In accordance with the state program, thousands of young families received consumer and mortgage credits, and 530 families received housing.

President Islam Karimov proposed proclaiming the coming year 2009 the Year of rural development and improvement, and the gathered welcomed the proposal with applause.

UzA

Ijtimoiy Fikr, public opinion center, published the results of the poll on the relation of the citizens of Uzbekistan to the principles of democratic development. Representatives of all regions of the country participated in the survey.

The poll participants noted that the Constitution of Uzbekistan was the main legal guarantee of the democratic direction of the reforms, and the founding legal document, which defines not only the principles of state structure, but also the norms of the social life.

The clauses of the Constitution are being consistently introduced into life. Thanks to this, the consent is ensured in the society, the people’s living levels are increasing, and high achievements are made in the economic, social, cultural, educations, scientific and other spheres.

The Constitution guarantees all rights and freedoms of the people, required for formation of the democratic state and civil society.

The respondents said the main law was effectively working in the interests of the people. Asked if all constitutional rights were realized fully in real life, most respondents said yes.

The survey participants also agreed that the state guaranteed freedom in economic and entrepreneurship activity.

About two-thirds of the interviewed said they were confident that respect to law and human rights has strengthened since the Constitution was adopted, both by the ordinary people and the state bodies.

The poll showed that most citizens of Uzbekistan (85.5%) consider themselves protected from the possible violation of their rights and freedoms.

The annual surveys are showing that the level of legal knowledge of the people has been growing in the country. This year, 75.2% of the respondents said they were well aware of their civil rights.

Most of the surveyed also said they considered President Islam Karimov as the guarantor of the constitutional order in Uzbekistan.

“Uzbekistan Today”

Free industrial economic zone Navoi (FIEZ Navoi) with special customs, currency and tax policy will be created in the area of Navoi city international airport.

According to the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, there will be created favorable conditions in FIEZ Navoi for attraction of foreign investment into organization of high-technology productions providing the output of highly demanded in the world's markets, as well as development of industrial potential, production, transportation-transit and social infrastructure in the region.

The operation term of FIEZ Navoi is 30 years with possible prolongation. During this period special customs, currency and tax policy, simplified entry, stay and exit procedure as well as work permit for labor activity receipt by non-resident citizens of Uzbekistan will be functioning here.

Companies registered here will be able to make payments in foreign currency within the FIEZ, pay for goods and services of other economic players-residents of Uzbekistan by means of foreign currency and use convenient terms and forms of payment and accounts for exporting and importing goods.

Coordination and efficient management of FIEZ activity will be carried out by administrative council, created out of representatives of state bodies and zone administration.

Administrative council is planned to be created before January 1, 2009; the general plan of FIEZ and necessary construction documents should be approved until this date. The FIEZ Navoi administrative council with the advice and consent of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan can select international management company as directorate for transferring rights to it for control over the zone on a contract basis.

The FIEZ Navoi will have its own budget formed by means of revenues received from services and other inflows not restricted by legislation as well as from part of money proceeds from land, buildings and constructions leasing.

There is an opportunity to create a FIEZ development fund used for the infrastructure development and increase of effectiveness of the zone functioning.

At present, an international logistics centre is being created on the basis of Navoi airport together with the Korean air company. Starting from August 27 the South Korean air carrier performs regular cargo air flights via Navoi.

UzA

The presentation of the trade and investment house Sagdia, opened in the Lithuanian city of Kaunas, was held in Tashkent.

The chairman of the Commerce and industry chamber of Uzbekistan Alisher Shaikhov said opening of Sagdia was a good opportunity for the Uzbek businessmen to expand their contacts with European colleagues.

The main aims of the new structure is to expand the business infrastructure helping promote Uzbek goods at external markets, as well as development of cooperation between Uzbek and European businessmen.

Being a commercial enterprise, Sagdia house will have intermediary and consulting functions, and will assist Uzbek producers in selling their goods in the Baltic states and the European Union.

Besides, Sagdia will also provide services of search and supply of goods, business partners and investors.

UzA

On 28 November, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov signed a decree approving the Program of measures to support the enterprises of the real sector of the economy, ensuring their stable work and increasing their export potential.

Many countries of the world are currently experiencing financial and economic crisis and are searching for ways to stabilize the situation at financial and trade markets, and support the banks and the real sector.

Over the past years, the government of Uzbekistan took a number of measures to make the country’s economy less vulnerable to the risk of the global financial crisis. The structure of the economy is being consistently improved, new enterprises producing competitive goods are created and the export volumes are increasing. The financial and banking system is mainly based on the internal resources.

At the same time, there are external factors, mainly worsening of the conjuncture of the world trade markets and growing competition, which negatively influence the Uzbek economy through the falling prices and volumes of certain types of products exported from the country.

In order to overcome the negative consequences of the world financial crisis and ensure the macroeconomic balance and stable economic growth, the President signed the decree on the Program of measures to support the enterprises of the real sector. The program was developed by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The decree outlines the main factors helping to overcome the crisis consequences in the real sector and lays foundations for the further growth and expansion of production and exports.

Among these factors are modernization of enterprises, attracting modern technologies and introducing international standards of quality.

The program envisages additional measures to speed up the implementation of the 11 important programs of modernization in basic sectors, replacement of the old equipment and starting the realization of the most important project in industry and transport infrastructure.

The program includes measures to support exporters in ensuring the competitiveness of their products in foreign markets and creating additional stimuli for export. The exporting enterprises will be able to receive soft credits and will get temporary tax preferences.

The document also contains measures to prevent the ungrounded growth of prices for energy and main communal services, as well as reduction of the production’s cost price at least by 20%.

Additionally, the program lists measures for development and stimulation of the small business and private entrepreneurship.

UzReport

On 3 December 2008, the Government of Uzbekistan and the World Bank have signed a US$935,000 worth grant provided by the Government of Japan. The Grant aims at supporting the preparation of the proposed Syrdarya Water Supply and Sanitation Project, which has as its objectives to improve the quality of life and quality of basic municipal services through the provision of water supply and sanitation in Syrdarya region and its six districts.

The Project will finance i) strategic rehabilitation and efficiency improvement of existing facilities in critical condition, ii) institutional strengthening of the six districts water utilities; and iii) strengthening of the six districts water utilities' financial capacity through improved financial management and commercial practices.

The activities for which the Grant is given include preparation of feasibility studies, detailed designs, environmental, social, economic and other assessments, development of Project implementation plans, carrying out of stakeholder consultations, in-country training, studies and workshops, surveys, and provision of technical advisory services (including audits) and goods required for the carrying out of such activities.

Annette Dixon, the World Bank's Country Director for Central Asia, says: "The World Bank has been active in Uzbekistan water supply sector for several years. Under the recently approved Country Assistance Strategy (CAS), the Government requested further financial support for water supply and sanitation for 5 new projects in rural and urban areas of Uzbekistan. The investment program includes the above mentioned Syrdarya project, for which the Bank allocated USD 88 million of International Development Agency (IDA) funds. With the support of the grant signed today, provided by the Government of Japan, we look forward to the successful preparation of this Project"

On behalf of the Government of Uzbekistan the Grant agreement was signed by Mr. Rustam Azimov, The First Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance. Annette Dixon, Country Director for Central Asia signed the Agreement on behalf of the World Bank.

Uzbekistan joined the World Bank in 1992. The World Bank's mission in the country is to improve people's livelihoods through being a partner in economic reforms, supporting the modernization of the country's social sectors and infrastructure, and sharing its knowledge and experience with the government and the people of Uzbekistan.

Total World Bank commitments to Uzbekistan amount to US$722 million.

UzReport

State Property Committee of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) signed the Agreement on launch of the initiation plan aimed at institutional development of valuation activity in Uzbekistan.

Independent valuation of property forms the information basis for important decision-making processes both in private and state sectors of the economy. It facilitates the protection of property rights of civil entities. Therefore, the development of valuation activity is an important aspect for the formation of civil society and market relations in the economy.

Along with the development of market infrastructure, during the past ten years the valuation activity has gone through the formation process starting from zero and has nowadays shaped into an independent area of activity in the economy.

A single market for valuation services has arisen. Today more than 138 licenses have been issued for rendering valuation services within the framework of unified requirements.

At the moment the State Property Committee of Uzbekistan has certified over 340 physical persons for acquiring the qualification of appraiser.

The system of state regulation of valuation activity, based on the Law "On valuation activity" and entailing the control over the infringement of license terms and conditions, valuation standards and methodological recommendations, as well as over requirements regarding the educational background of specialists has been put in place.

Despite the achieved results there is a series of issues, such as, for example, the lack of valuation system based on fair market value, which is a hindering factor for the development of securities and real estate markets, use of property as a collateral, mobilization of households, and for the investments process in general.

"The launch of the project in cooperation with UNDP is not just accidental, because professional appraisers need methodological developments based in valuation practice based on best international experience" says the head of department at State Property Committee Mr. Aziz Nagaev.

In line with the reached agreements the framework of the project envisages the delivery of the following activities:

further improvement of legal base in the area of valuation activity, design and approval of unified national system of property and business valuation standards, their harmonization with international standards for valuation of property, international standards for financial reporting, working out methodological recommendations for the implementation of national standards for valuation of property and businesses;

drafting the Concept of development of valuation activity for the medium-term perspective.

The implementation of suggested measures for the development of property and businesses, aimed at increasing its quality, will make a salient contribution to the wider use of property as collateral; will stimulate the mobilization of household assets and the effective realization of the privatization program, including the strategic sectors of the economy.