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EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

EXPLORE UZBEKISTAN

LATEST NEWS : JANUARY 2008

The Uzbekistan-Germany Friendship Society is a non-governmental public association established with an aim to develop the friendship, cultural and enlightenment ties between the people of Uzbekistan and Germany.

Among the main goals of the Society is to assist in shaping comprehensive and objective view of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Germany as a sovereign, democratic and law-governed state, and an active partner in cultural, scientific and commercial ties. It cooperates with the state and other organizations.

The goal behind holding various events is to have constant information exchange, establish information database on Uzbekistan, hold conferences and symposiums on cultural and educational ties, familiarizing the German people with the achievements of Uzbekistan in the sphere of culture, arts, science and education.

Besides, the Society organizes performances of art groups and solo performers, TV and film shows, exhibitions of works of arts, photography expositions, and other events dedicated to the Republic of Uzbekistan and Federative Republic of Germany.

Uzbekistan’s permanent partner is the Germany-Uzbekistan Bonn Friendship Society. Within the framework of cooperation of the two Societies the regular exchange of delegations has been established. Thanks to these trips the people of the two countries learn more about each other. This gives a basis to further develop the bilateral relations.

The Uzbekistan-Germany Friendship Society operates in close contact with the Embassy of Germany in Uzbekistan, as well as such institutions of culture as Goethe Institute, which promotes the academic exchange, implements educational programs for students.

The Society also holds exchanges of delegations on professional interests. Thus, the programs of stay in Germany are elaborated on the wish of delegation members: they may meet the German colleagues in the sphere of their interest.

For example, late last – early this year the group of businesswomen of Uzbekistan traveled to Germany. They have had an opportunity to exchange experience and improve their knowledge. The members of delegation – the teachers and scholars - attended the two seminars at the Bonn University.

Women from Germany, who are busied in various areas, teachers, doctors, politicians, environmentalists and designers have also been to Uzbekistan on their reciprocal visit. They have had meetings in Oliy Majlis, Tashkent City Municipality, Kundala Medical Center and Business Center.

The Society regularly holds the quizzes “What do you know about Germany?” “What do you know about Uzbekistan”, the winners are awarded the prizes. For instance, the winner of the “What do you know about Uzbekistan” quiz-show, held alongside the support of Council of societies of friendship, cultural and educational ties of Uzbekistan with foreign countries, has been awarded the free trip to Uzbekistan.

In their turn, the music group from Bukhara – the Silk Road Trio and Barocco Ensemble, as well as the young performers of the Uspenskiy School in Tashkent traveled to Germany.

In its activity the Uzbekistan-Germany Friendship Society also pays profound attention to the educational projects. It regularly holds training seminar on the topic “Legislation which regulates the rights of women in Uzbekistan” - held in the framework of promoting the legal awareness of citizens.

This year the Society plans to continue the work on country studies to expand the knowledge on Germany. In the sphere of science and education in 2008 it is going to implement the project “Alternative sources of energy in Uzbekistan”. Various cultural and enlightenment events aimed at bettering the friendship ties between the two countries will be held, as well.
 

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on January 30 ahead of a visit by Uzbek President Islam Karimov that he valued strategic partnership and allied relations with Uzbekistan, UzReportcom reported quoting ITAR-TASS.

"I value our sincere trust-based dialogue, which helps to promote mutually-advantageous Russian-Uzbek cooperation, strengthen strategic partnership and allied relations of our countries," the Russian leader said in a telegram with congratulations on the 70th birthday of the Uzbek president.

"I am confident that your upcoming visit to Moscow will give a powerful impetus to a further development of bilateral relations, and a visible increase of practical effect from cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan," the telegram stressed.
 

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev talked on phone with the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov on January 30, Kazakhstan Today reported with reference to the information of the RK president's press service.

"Kazakhstani leader heartily congratulated his friend Islam Karimov with his 70th anniversary, wished him health and longevity, family happiness and success in his multidimensional activities as the first president of sovereign Uzbekistan", stated in the information furnished by the press service.

According to the press service, "Nursultan Nazarbayev expressed conviction that cooperation between our countries based on centuries-old traditions of friendship and understanding will be dynamically developed for a welfare of Uzbekistani and Kazakhstani people".
 

The World Bank Regional Vice President Shigeo Katsu has had a three day official visit to Uzbekistan to start consultations on a new Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for this country, UzReportcom reported.

Shigeo Katsu was accompanied by Annette Dixon, Country Director for Central Asia, Shahbaz Mavvadat, IFC Director for Southern Europe and Central Asia (SECA), and Gorton de Mond, IFC Regional Representative in Central Asia.

The agenda of Katsu's visit included meetings with Rustam Azimov, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Faizullo Mullajonov, Chairman of Central Bank, World Bank Governor for Uzbekistan, other high rank government officials representing key ministries.

The discussions covered the reform progress, the support to the Welfare Improvement Strategy (WIS) adopted by the government and the World Bank's planned future support as presented in the draft 2008 Country Assistance Strategy.

During his meetings with Uzbekistan officials Shigeo Katsu discussed how the Bank could most effectively help Uzbekistan achieve its objectives of successful economic reforms. He and his associates also met with the representatives of the donor community, civil society and mass media.

"I am pleased to note that since my last visit in April 2006, Uzbekistan has been intensively working on elaborating Welfare Improvement Strategy, which is now under implementation", said Shigeo Katsu, Vice President for Europe and Central Asia.

"The Bank's new assistance program being currently developed will be focused on supporting WIS in such areas as sustaining high rates of growth and poverty reduction; strengthening human development and improving quality of life; environmental and land management and global public goods provision," he added.

"The Bank will continue making investments that have direct impact on income and quality of life of Uzbek citizens, support deepening of sectoral reforms and address global public goods and climate change issues," Shigeo Katsu said.

Katsu met a group of young people gathered in the World Bank country office on 30 January. The discussion focused on how the Bank could further support youth initiatives proceeding from positive experience gained during a number of events implemented by the country office and youth organizations of Uzbekistan.

The Vice President also launched a small photo exhibition "Agriculture for Development" opened in Public Information Center (PIC) displaying in a flash the impact of the WB projects in rural areas.

Uzbekistan joined the World Bank in 1992. The 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$654 million.
 

After having been involved in Uzbekistan in the production of fruit juices and concentrates (mainly apple juice concentrate) for the past 5-6 years Joost Heij together with some local partners set up Ferghana Fruit Distributors in 2007, UzReportcom reported.

Due to the lack of post-harvest handling and storage facilities in Uzbekistan the enterprise concentrates on long-term storage of apples and pomegranates (and possibly table grapes this coming season). It sells and distributes fruits when other cold stores have run out of stock.

Uzbekistan produces many fruits (apples, cherries, apricots, pomegranates, grapes etc), which are very tasty and have a good reputation in all CIS countries, notably Russia.

The fruit growing industry in Uzbekistan has great potential and exports to (mainly) Russia and other former Soviet Republics like Kazakhstan are growing rapidly. Univeg and Metro have already opened a joint office here to source fruits and vegetables. There are however still a lot of problems to overcome.

The company built one of the first CA/ULO storage facilities in Uzbekistan in close cooperation with Jarwo BV (as a turn-key supplier) and with Besseling and GTI-Suez as main equipment suppliers. It is a 750 mt CA/ULO storage facility in the middle of the Ferghana Valley which is one of the main fruit producing regions in Uzbekistan.

In the first season Ferghana Fruit Distributors concentrates on the long-term storage of apples and pomegranates. The next few years it hopes to expand storage capacity, add other fruits (like table grapes) and possibly start importing the more exotic fruit varieties. In principle it focuses on the local market though Russia as an interesting market e.g. for the export of pomegranates.
 

The Uzbek State Committee for Demonopolization and Support of Competition and Entrepreneurship has approved the acquisition of 100% of shares of Golden Telecom Company by Russia's Vimpelcom open joint-stock company.

Golden Telecom has assets in the Republic of Uzbekistan, a source in the committee's administration told Interfax news agency.

"Vimpelcom's request to buy Golden Telecom was received on 18 January, and we have granted permission to carry out the deal," the source told the agency.

Golden Telecom has more than 54% shareholding in the Buzton joint venture (Tashkent), which is one of the leading alternative communications operators in Uzbekistan. Other shareholders of Buzton are Uzbek national operator UzbekTelecom and American NCI Projects International Inc.

A new insurance company – Alliance Insurance LLC – has got license to carry out insurance activity on all 17 classes in the field of general insurance (compulsory and voluntary forms) in the Uzbek market, UzReportcom reported.

The company with authorized capital worth US$1 million has been created as a subsidiary of Alp Jamol Bank, private open joint-stock commercial bank.

Together with the new insurer the insurance market of Uzbekistan has 27 players, of which 26 companies are operating in the sphere of non-life insurance, 1 company – in life insurance, and 1 reinsurance company.
 

Heineken NV has set up a joint venture with Efes Breweries International (EBI) in order to invest in the rapidly growing Uzbek beer market, Reuters reported quoting the Dutch brewer.

Heineken will hold 40% and EBI 60% of the shares in the joint venture, with EBI responsible for operational management, Heineken said in a statement.

Heineken and EBI added they would also combine their operations in the Kazakh and Serbian beer markets.

"With the combined resources, skills and brands of our two businesses, we believe that we will be able to drive stronger, faster growth than would be possible separately," said Nico Nusmeier, Heineken regional president for Central and Eastern Europe.

"From a strategic Heineken perspective, this deal also leaves us well positioned to achieve leadership positions in three fast-growing Central and Eastern European beer markets," he added.

Heineken, the world's fourth-largest brewer in terms of sales, is looking to expand into fast-growing Eastern European markets.

EBI, operates in Russia, Kazakhstan, Moldova and Serbia, where the company has ten breweries with a total annual capacity of 24.6 million hectolitres.

Last week Heineken together with Carlsberg finally agreed to buy rival Scottish & Newcastle (S&N) for 7.8 billion pounds (US$15.3 billion) to carve up Britain's biggest brewer after a three-month takeover saga.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the Admiral William J. Fallon, the Commander of the U.S. Central Command on 24 January at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent, UzA reported.

During a meeting, issues representing mutual interest, on strengthening of regional security, stabilization of situation in Afghanistan, fight against the international terrorism, drug trafficking, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other modern threats were discussed.

The sides also talked about the condition of reforms made by Uzbekistan on democratization and liberalizations of a society, to maintain the rights and freedoms of people.

Admiral Fallon has expressed gratitude to the President of our country for sincere reception. He has noted that both sides are equally interested in the development of mutually beneficial cooperation.

The same day William Fallon has met with the Secretary of National Security Council at the President of Republic Uzbekistan, Ministers of defense and foreign affairs, Commander of border guard forces. At negotiations the sides exchanged the opinions on present condition in military sphere and on others fields of mutual interest.
 

Trade between Russia and Uzbekistan grew by 40% to reach US$4.2 billion in 2007, RIA Novosti reported quoting Russia's Ambassador to Uzbekistan.

Farit Mukhametshin said the main fields of cooperation included trade, energy, the food industry, finance, ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, the pharmaceutical industry, and other spheres.

"The number of joint ventures set up in Uzbekistan with Russian investments is over 500," F.Mukhametshin said.

The ambassador also said Russia and Uzbekistan had effectively collaborated in social, cultural, educational, humanitarian and other fields.

In 2006, mutual trade between the two former Soviet republics was around $3 billion.
 

The Plenary session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament) of Uzbekistan was held on January 23, 2008, UzA reported.

The decision was made at the session to relieve Speaker Erkin Khalilov from his position due to health reasons based on his request.

The Kengash (Council) of the Legislative Chamber proposed the candidature of Dilorom Tashmuhamedova, Deputy Speaker of the chamber and head of the Adolat social-democratic party’s fraction, to the post of the Speaker.

Based on the results of the secret voting, Dilorom Tashmuhamedova was elected Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan.

On the occasion of 59th Republic Day of India, which is marked on 26 January 2008, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Uzbekistan Mr. Skand R. Tayal spoke in an interview with UzReport.com on the state of bilateral relations between the two countries.

- Your Excellency, let us congratulate You and the people of friendly India with national holiday – Republic Day of India and wish peace and prosperity! How do the people of India celebrate this great holiday?

- Thank you very much for your kind wishes. Republic Day is an important national festival of India which is celebrated to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India. On 26 January 1950 the Constitution of India came into force and India became a fully sovereign State. The day is celebrated with much enthusiasm all over the country. In New Delhi, a Grand Parade is held in the morning near "INDIA GATE". The Parade showcasing our Armed Forces, is followed by spectacular display of diversity and richness of the culture of India with folk dances and music from all the States of India. The Parade ends with an impressive display of Air Show by the Indian Air Force. On this day the patriotic fervor of the people brings the whole nation together. Similar celebrations are also held in different parts of the country and in all the State Capitals.

- The years of sovereign development of your state is characterized with significant progressive reforms and achievements. There is certain progress in development of Indo-Uzbek relations. How is the rate of their development and prospects in the near future?

- It is a fact that India has changed to a great extent in terms of its socio-economic development since independence. Today's India is a place of opportunity, growth and prosperity. Indian companies are making their mark at the global level and are competing with the Multinational companies all over the world in almost every field. One and half decades after the liberalization of the Indian economy, India's global integration and economic growth is now unprecedented. Today, India is one of the world's fastest growing free market economies that is pacing itself for even faster growth. Today India is a world leader in Information Technology, pharmaceuticals, higher educational institutions, automobile spare parts and trained manpower. India has emerged as one of the favourite investment destinations among various multinational companies. Higher disposable incomes, emerging middle class, low cost competitive work force, a booming economy, large domestic market and investment friendly policies all contribute towards India being a favourite choice for investors. India is one of the close economic partners of Uzbekistan in our quest for peace and prosperity of our citizens.

At the same time, the bilateral relations between India and Uzbekistan have also grown from traditional historical-cultural relations to economic-commercial relations. There are opportunities for both countries to mutually benefit from the economic strength of each other. India has the manpower, technology and money to invest in Uzbek economy, whereas, Uzbekistan has rich natural resources and economic potential. There is already progress in various areas of economic cooperation between India and Uzbekistan based on the agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh in April 2006. The rate of development has been satisfactory and we hope that the future of our economic bilateral relations will be even brighter in the near future. Indian textile company Spentex has set an example by investing US$ 81 million here. Many other Indian companies have shown an interest in investing in the textiles, leather and tanning industry, pharmaceuticals and mining sectors.

- Can you tell about political results of this year on Indo-Uzbek relations? What perspective directions of bilateral cooperation are priorities at present?

- Our relations with Uzbekistan are very friendly, co-operative and strong. The friendly relations between India and Uzbekistan are grounded in the commitment towards global peace and regional stability. Both countries are marching on the road towards rapid social and economic development in an environment of increasing globalization and we wish to further strengthen our cultural and historical ties to help forge strong economic and commercial linkages.

The visit of H.E. President Islam Karimov to India in 2005 and visit of H.E. Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh to Uzbekistan in April, 2006 are the testimony to our warm and close political relations. Various agreements were signed during both the visits in the areas of cooperation in defence, education, small and private entrepreneurship, oil and gas, minerals, etc. All the above agreements are being implemented with utmost keenness from both sides.

Uzbekistan is in India's neighbourhood and has an important place in the foreign policy of India. Uzbekistan has the second largest population among the CIS countries. Both India and Uzbekistan cherish the common values of secularism and democracy. Geographically, Uzbekistan is in the heart of Central Asia, and therefore is a crucial country to maintain peace, security and stability in this region.

Our priorities at present are to transform our warm and cordial relations into mutually beneficial multifaceted partnership in the areas of economic and commercial, scientific, IT, education and culture.

- What is the condition of economic cooperation between the two countries and what are their perspectives?

- Trade and economic links between our countries are also as old as our cultural and historical ties. The Great Silk Route used to be the ancient road to connect India to the Central Asian and East Asian region.

The Indo-Uzbek economic relations have been strengthened by the Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation. The seventh session of the IGC was held in Tashkent on 13-14 April 2007.

The Bilateral trade in 2007 was US$60 million. The volume of trade does not reflect the actual potential. There are areas which remain untapped and the bilateral trade can be increased in sectors such as leather and animal hides, pharmaceuticals, information technology, medical services, tourism to and from India, automobile components, etc.

- What sectors of economy in respect of Uzbekistan are priority for Your country?

- Our endeavour is to bring the trade, investment and commercial ties between both the countries to the level of sizable business partnership. Our companies can make investment in the areas in which Uzbekistan has raw materials available and export the finished and semi-finished products to India and to third countries. Our priority sectors in Uzbekistan are IT, automobile, tourism, mining, hydro-carbon, textiles, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, leather and hides.

The Information Technology sector of Uzbekistan has a lot of potential and this area can be of cooperation for investment. Indian software and business processing outsourcing firms are the best in the world. From Uzbekistan, Indian companies can cover the entire CIS region by providing IT enabled services, which will generate employment for the local population.

Automobile sector of India is booming and the component suppliers in India are world class and their clientele includes many internationally renowned auto producers. Our effort now is to encourage our companies to establish joint ventures here and supply components to the growing Uzbek automobile sector.

The Medical Tourism is the new area which is rapidly growing in India. Today we have world class modern medical facilities at one tenth of the cost of US or Europe. The most complicated medical services by the best doctors are available in India today which is comparable to the best available services in the world. Being geographically so close India can serve as a good destination for medical treatment of Uzbek nationals at a very reasonable cost.

Uzbekistan is a country of ancient civilization and custodian of many historic and cultural heritage sites which can be promoted as tourist destinations among the Indian tourists. There is a need to generate demand by way of publicity about these unique places. Similarly, India is one of the favorite tourist destinations in the world. Recently, Taj Mahal has been voted as one of the Seven Wonders of the World in an internationally held poll. We expect that the inflow of Uzbek tourists to India to see Taj Mahal will increase in the near future.

- How many Indian enterprises entered to Uzbek market and in which sectors?

- Spentex is the major Indian investor which owns two textile units in Uzbekistan and is planning to expand its business further. Apart from Spentex there are several other Indian companies operating in the field of pharmaceuticals, leather and tanning, hotel industry, food processing, etc.

- Are there any developments in scientific and cultural cooperation of our countries?

- Science, technology, and culture are important areas of cooperation between Uzbekistan and India. A Programme of Cooperation in Science and Technology for the year 2007-2010 is under finalization. It envisages joint workshops and conferences in areas of bilateral interest, exchange visits of scientific and technological personnel, training of young Uzbek scientists in Indian institutions and implementation of joint research projects in areas considered significant for the development of economy of both the countries.

The Lal Bahadur Shastri Centre for Indian Culture in Tashkent presents a rich and multi-cultural India to the people of Uzbekistan. The Centre is disseminating Indian culture and languages among the people of Tashkent. The Centre holds regular classes of Indian Kathak dance, Tabla (drum), Yoga and Hindi language in Tashkent, and holds such programmes in different regions of Uzbekistan from time to time.

Delhi University is interested in starting teaching of Uzbek language and needs to be supported. There is high level of interest in Indian audiences to savour Uzbek dances and music. Just last month the famous "SABO" Cultural Group from Uzbekistan visited India and their performances were highly appreciated by the large audiences. We are working with the Uzbek Ministry of Culture and Sports to enhance the level of cultural exchanges.

- What are your impressions of staying in our country?

- I am very impressed by your beautiful country. I find that your cities are clean, well planned and with lots of green spaces to provide a healthy and unpolluted environment. I have traveled a lot with in Uzbekistan and have seen many ancient and medieval heritage sites including in Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Karshi, Namangan, etc. What attracts me the most is the warm and kind hearted people of Uzbekistan and the fondness and love they show for India.

Uzbekistan is a country with an ancient civilization. The collections of scientific centres and museums in different parts of the country contain numerous manuscripts and objects that testify to the distinctive and centuries old history of the area. It is a very interesting historical fact to observe that Buddhism spread throughout East Asia and countries of the Far-East from the ancient city of Termez, major centre of Buddhism in Central Asia during the Kushan Period.

It is really heart warming for me to observe the love for Indian art, music and films among the people of your country. From big cities to rural areas, I have personally witnessed the interest with which Uzbeks watch Indian films, sing Indian songs and dance to Indian music. This is mainly because we share similar family values and have similar cultural interests.
 

The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) in the German city of Wiesbaden published the list of the best bombardiers that are performing at the top leagues of World’s Championship and scored tons of goals.

The Uzbek bombardier Jafar Irismetov secured the 16th place at the list. He played 352 matches and scored 217 goals, according to the UzA.

21 world footballers were enlisted in the ranking. The Guatemalan player Juan Carlos Plata is in the lead of list with 281 scores of goals. Mark Lloyd Williams of Wales with 269 goals and Glen Ferguson of Ireland with 268 goals joined the strongest of three.
 

At its 12th Plenary Session the Senate of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan approved the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On joining of the Republic of Uzbekistan the agreement on postal service fees (adopted in Bucharest, October 5, 2004)”.

The draft of the law was adopted on October 4 by the Legislative Chamber and approved by Senate on December 1, 2007. It has been elaborated in line with the Resolution of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of August 4, 2006 “On joining the international treaties”, according to the report by UzA.

In line with the decree, the Republic of Uzbekistan joined the Protocol on easing the procedures of money transfers by physical entities of participating states to the Agreement on deepening the integration in the economic and humanitarian spheres of March 29, 1996 signed on November 24, 1998 in Moscow.

This Protocol envisages that participating states in rendering the services of postal money transfers will follow the norms and rights of the World Postal Union (WPU) within the framework of the Agreement on services of postal fees.

At the moment, the international mail speaks 6800 languages of its customers, renders services to the 191 countries of the world (as of October 2007) that are the parties to the WPU which create the unique mailing space and is the biggest delivery network in the world. Over 6 million employees work at more than 700,000 mailing companies. They provide for the annual processing and delivery of about 430 billion items of mail worldwide.

Uniting 191 countries of the world, including Uzbekistan (since 1994), the WPU is one of the oldest and high-profile international interstate organizations, which enjoys the status of a specialized establishment of the United Nations.

As a non-political organization the WPU does not interfere with internal operations of national mailing services. Thus, the mailing agencies at the local levels independently establish their own tariffs, decide what kind of mailing stamps they will produce and in what quantities they will do so, as well as manage their own postal activities and personnel.
 

The reforms underway in Uzbekistan for over the years of independence in military sphere have created profound opportunities for full military and technical equipping the Armed Forces and taking by them a worthy place in the rank of armies of the developed countries.

The exhibition organized by the Uzbek Defence Ministry, which portrays the modern conditions of military service and housing for the servicemen of the Armed Forces of the country, offers a broad idea on the results of ongoing works in this sphere. The event was organized in accordance with the Order of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated 30 November 2007 on preparation and holding the celebration of the Day of Defenders of Homeland.

On January 18 this year President Islam Karimov saw the said exhibition, UzA reported. The head of the state saw the main tools of the mobile set of material and technical maintenance of operations of servicemen in the field conditions – the samples of mobile food stations, showers, and container fridges. President gave the on-site recommendations to military officials to improve those mobile tools.

"The main goal to organize this exhibition is to create conditions that meet the highest modern requirements for our servicemen", the President Islam Karimov said. "At the same time it is necessary to render the opportunities for our servicemen to use all conveniences of modern life, consider the peculiarities of military service and climatic conditions of the region where they serve".

As President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Islam Karimov has underscored in his festive message of congratulation to defenders of Homeland, the announcement of 2008 in Uzbekistan as the Year of Youth sets, firstly, before the command staff of the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan the new, still more responsible tasks to uphold the interests and aspirations of the young officers, sergeants and soldiers, which now make up the core of the army.

In particular, such issues as the social protection of servicemen, who have dedicated their lives to a noble cause of defending the Homeland, and their families, improvement of their living, social and housing conditions, in a word, their comprehensive support will yet further remain at the focus of state's attention.

The stand "Programma "Yosh harbiy oila" (The Program 'Young military family') unveils this particular aspect. Its materials demonstrate the ongoing work implemented by the Ministry of Defense jointly with the Public movement of youth "Kamolot" on providing a set of social and housing services to the families of servicemen.

"Defending Homeland is a sacred duty of each citizen", the Uzbek leader said. "At the same time, the defender of Homeland is a concrete profession, and it is not by chance that the prestige of this profession is ever on the rise now. At the moment, the interest of our youth in the profession of military grows. Our young people love their Homeland. Their hearts are overfilled with a sense of love and loyalty to their nation. Certainly, the comprehensive support of servicemen will always be at the focus of our attention".

The stands on housing for the servicemen, protection of their health, providing them with modern uniforms, equipments and means of protection vividly demonstrate that the state pays a profound attention to the social protection of servicemen and their families, improving their living and housing conditions, and the opportunity to use the medical services.

The exhibition gives a vivid idea on measures now underway on further supplying the Armed Forces, all types and branches of troops with the latest equipment and combat machines and technology, information technologies, modern systems of management and communications.

"The poll must be held among the servicemen with a goal to study their views on design, safety and convenience of equipment and means of individual defense", the President said. "Along with that the experience of foreign countries in this area must also be learnt".

The said exhibition shows that the further strengthening of social protection of servicemen and promotion the authority of military service is a priority direction of the ongoing reforms in this sphere.

President gave necessary orders to further enhance this exposition and showcase it in other provinces of Uzbekistan and military districts.
 

Trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Russia increased 48% in 2007 to USD 4.2 billion, Ambassador of Russia Farit Muhametshin told journalists in Tashkent, UzA reported.

Speaking at a round table “Uzbekistan-Russia. Horizons of cooperation” in the Uzbek capital, the diplomat said the year 2007 was very successful in terms of expansion and strengthening of the bilateral cooperation.

First Russian National Exhibition was held in Tashkent last year, attracting more than 200 companies from various regions of Russia. At the Uzbek-Russian business forum, Russian entrepreneurs familiarized themselves with the economic potential and the investment climate in Uzbekistan.

The number of joint ventures created in Uzbekistan with Russian investments is more than 500. Companies with Uzbek investments in Russia account for almost 300.

The main areas of cooperation are trade, energy, oil and gas, foods, financial sector, metallurgy, pharmaceutics, wood processing and other industries.

Cooperation in the cultural, educational and humanitarian spheres between the two states has also been fruitful, it was said.
 

Air temperature in Uzbekistan fell to anomalously low level on the night of Sunday, while in the Uzbek capital city of Tashkent there was recorded the lowest cold temperature for the past 80 years, according a source at the National hydremeteorological service of Uzbekistan.

The north of Navoi region and Karakalpakstan was the coldest area of Uzbekistan, where the stem of thermometer fell to minus 29 degree Celsius.

Air temperature was registered at minus 23.1 degree Celsius in Tashkent in the early morning of Monday, the source said adding that such low temperature was observed here last time in 1927.

According to weather forecasts, cold weather will keep in Uzbekistan until the end of January.

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin has congratulated Islam Karimov on his official assuming the post of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, UzA reported.

"I count on that Your authority, energy and firmness of purpose will continue to be a reliable guarantor of further social and economic development of Uzbekistan, strengthening of its international positions," the text of the congratulatory message by the Russian President read in particular.

"It is pleasant that the relations of strategic partnership and alliance between Russia and Uzbekistan continue to expand based on the traditional friendship, equality, and respect for each other's interests," the message further read.
 

Preparatory measures for the introduction of the electronic tickets were started about a year and a half ago. National Airline Company of Uzbekistan "Uzbekistan Airways" signed an agreement with SITA for the procurement of software and its installation.

Several officers of the company have gone throught the corresponding training, a study course titled "the operation of carrier service within the DCS system" was developed, the company's press service has been quoted as revealing in a report by Uzreport.com.

In December 2006, the "electronic ticket" system of the national airline company was launched in the online booking regime, according to the report.

A call-center was created for distance booking and sale of flights, and help-desk was opened to solve the urgent issues and prevent interruptive situations in servicing the passengers, the report added.

Today the interactive level of access to the sale of flights in the priority GDS is maintained. Apart from this a special service has been created for the passengers traveling along the routes not including the destinations serviced by the DCS system. This is made possible through the use of the "electronic ticket+paper based carrier document" scheme, the report concluded.
 

On January 17, 2008 at the Oksaroy Residence in Tashkent the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the EU Special Representative for Central Asia Pierre Morel, according to the Uzbek news agencies.

President has said that he respects Mr. Morel as a person to have worthily contributed to the development of cooperation between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia, and particularly, Uzbekistan.

The European Union regards the relations with the countries of Central Asia with a special attention. On its initiative in 2004 the regional dialogue “European Union – Central Asia” was established and from then the sides held three international forums.
Last year during the German EU chairmanship the long-term strategy of the European Union on Central Asia has been elaborated. Early this year Slovenia took over the chairmanship and the EU has officially recognized the abolishment of death penalty in Uzbekistan starting January 1, 2008 and delegation to courts of the right to sanction the arrest warrants.

The “United Europe” is interested in extending the relations with Central Asia, including Uzbekistan – one of the leading states in the region. The rich natural resources and ever growing economic potential serve as the basis for that, and the consolidation of global security is a political precondition to it.

The volume of annual trade turnover of Uzbekistan with the EU countries exceeds 1,5 billion US dollars. There are nearly 700 companies established along with the investors from the European Union in Uzbekistan. Hundreds of EU firms and companies have opened their representations in the country.

Uzbekistan and the EU actively cooperate in the spheres of education, know-how, audit, transports, energy, drug substances control and other.

At the Oksaroy talks Mr. Morel has thanked the Uzbek Leader for the sincere welcome. He is also reported to have congratulated Islam Karimov on his reelection to the post of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

“The EU considers Uzbekistan as a reliable partner and supports strengthening and expansion of further cooperation with it,” – Mr. Morel has said.
 

Swearing-in ceremony of the President of Uzbekistan was held on 16 January at the joint session of the Legislative Chamber and the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament) in Tashkent, UzA reported.

Members of the Cabinet, heads of national organizations, members of the Central Election Commission and judges of the Constitutional Court, representatives of diplomatic missions and mass media participated in the session.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov made a speech at the joint session.

“Today, during these solemn minutes, from this high tribune, I would like to once again assure you and the people of Uzbekistan that I will mobilize all my efforts, knowledge and experience for full implementation of all priority tasks, outlined in my election campaign,” the head of the state said.

“The goal of my life is to further increase the potential and power of our state, to pursue the internal and foreign policy for development of the country, to ensure peaceful and calm, free and prosperous life of the people,” he added.

Islam Karimov expressed deep respect and gratitude to all voters who expressed their will at the elections and showed high trust to him.
 

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) granted a loan to Uzbekistan worth US$ 75.3 million for the development of the main highway, which is the part of Central Asian regional transport corridor, according to UzA.

The Decree of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On measures to develop the general-use automobile roads for 2007-2010” of December 20, 2006 envisages the stage-by-stage building and reconstruction of roads, most demanded for effective integration to the world transport system: the northern and northwestern highway, which provide for the access to the CIS countries and Europe, and southwestern and southern highways, which up the access to the seaports in the Persian Gulf and Black Sea.

The ADB representative is reported to have said to the Uzbekistan National News Agency that this project is being implemented on the basis of aforementioned document. The loan will be directed to the development of the two sites of the 1200 km-long A-380 highway and links the border of Uzbekistan with Kazakhstan in the north and Afghanistan and Turkmenistan - the south.

The total cost of the project is US$ 173.5 million. The first site of the road bound for reconstruction makes up of 40 kilometers in its length in the Kungrad District of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The second one, 91 kilometers, is located in Khazarasp District of Khorezm Province and Turtkul District of Karakalpakstan. It is intended to have an international bid to select the contractors.
 

The European Union has welcomed the abolition of death penalty in Uzbekistan starting from January 1, 2008, Jahon agency reported.

“The EU welcomes the abolition of the death penalty in Uzbekistan on 1 January 2008. We congratulate the Uzbek government and the Uzbek people on this important decision and the EU encourages the Uzbek government to fully implement it and carry out further reforms of the judicial system,” – the text of the statement of the Presidency of Slovenia on behalf of the EU read in particular.

The European Union has also expressed hope that “this decision will encourage other countries in the region to follow suit”.

Below is the text of the statement.

Declaration by the Presidency of Slovenia on behalf of the EU on the abolition of the death penalty in Uzbekistan

1. The EU welcomes the abolition of the death penalty in Uzbekistan on 1 January 2008. We congratulate the Uzbek government and the Uzbek people on this important decision and the EU encourages the Uzbek government to fully implement it and carry out further reforms of the judicial system.

2. Members of the European Union consider that the abolition of capital punishment contributes to the enhancement of human dignity. The European Union reaffirms its objective of working towards universal abolition of the death penalty it believes that abolition by Uzbekistan is an important step towards that aim and hopes that this decision will encourage other countries in the region to follow suit.
 

Pursuant to the Decree of the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov of 1st of August 2005 "On abolition of the death penalty in the Republic of Uzbekistan", the death penalty was abolished in the country starting 1 January 2008.

The beginning of the New Year was marked by important landmark events in the life of the Uzbek nation and the country. Conducted on 23 December 2007 based on the principles of openness, transparency and objectivity the Presidential elections have served as "a school of democracy and became a new step in building a free democratic state and a civil society in Uzbekistan, a country where the highest value is attributed to the interests and rights of its people" (from the New Year's congratulatory speech of President Karimov).

Thus according to the Presidential Decree the death penalty has been abolished in Uzbekistan starting 1 January 2008. This form of punishment was replaced with life sentence, which can now be applied to two types of crimes only - premeditated murder with aggravating circumstances and terrorism. At the same time, life sentence is not applicable to women, people under the age of 18, and men above the age of 60.

Foreign experts and local specialists admit to the fact that the Uzbek government's criminal punishment policy ideally corresponds to the contemporary trends observed internationally and is based on the principle of humanism as stated in the Constitution of the country. President Karimov said this measure also corresponding to the spiritual values of the Uzbek nation that has always viewed human life as the highest value.

It should also be noted that the abolition of the death penalty is one of the results of the gradual legal reforms being implemented in the country. At the same time, it is worth noting that the Presidential Decree of 1 August 2005 "On abolition of the death penalty in the Republic of Uzbekistan" has become an important step on the way to protecting the constitutional rights and freedoms of a human being – on the way to effectively protecting the human right for life.

Pursuant to the decree, concerned ministries and agencies have been working on development and consistent implementation of the appropriate measures intended at meeting the objectives set by the country's leader. Passed on 29 June 2006 the Presidential Order "On additional measures to prepare the legislative and regulatory-legal acts to be passed in view of the abolition of the death penalty in the Republic of Uzbekistan" has become an important factor in ensuring the efficiency of work carried out in this direction.

Attention should also be given to the fact that the government has arranged large-scale explanatory, awareness-raising work to let the population know about the liberalization of the criminal legislation, particularly abolition of the death penalty. Also taking into account the fact that from the very early ages in the history people used death as a common punishment for crimes, it becomes clear how important it is to take into account the attitude of the whole population to this form of punitive measure.
Several laws were amended to provide the legal framework for the removal of the death penalty from the system of criminal punishments and its replacement with life sentence or long-term imprisonment. The Law "On introduction of amendments and addenda to certain legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in view of the abolition of the death penalty" ratified on 29 June 2007 by the Senate of Oliy Majlis, being the main regulatory document stipulating the execution of the Presidential decree determined the procedure for the decision on and execution of this forms of punishment.

The exclusion of the death penalty from the system of punishments has become a practical expression of the government's position in this field. It was received with great support by the Uzbek nation as the government's expression of humanism. Uzbekistan's confident steps in this direction are also positively received and appraised by the world community.

Pursuant to the Presidential Decree of 8 August 2005 "On the transfer of the right to issue arrest sanctions to courts", this function has been delegated to courts starting 1 January 2008. This has also become one of the practical results of the consistent reforms being implemented in the legal system of the country.

It is commonly known that one of the most important objectives in liberalization of the judicial-legal system is the expansion of the courts' authority and intensification of the judicial supervision over the protection of citizens' constitutional rights and freedoms at the pre-trial and investigation stages. In this sense, special attention is given to the transfer of the right to issue arrest sanctions from the prosecutor's offices to courts.

Of course equally careful approach was taken in the process of gradual and consistent transfer of the right to apply procedural-coercive actions related to the limitation of the constitutional rights and freedoms of a human being to courts. Particular attention was given to detailed development of all organizational-legal aspects, and the required preparation of the judicial system and other concerned law agencies and the prosecutor's offices to these changes.

In other words, this innovation once again confirms the fact that all target measures being implemented in Uzbekistan on the initiative of the head of state to strengthen independence and freedom of the judicial branch of government are carried out based on the principle of consistency. An absolutely new legal system has been formed in the country; the legal framework for the independence of the judicial branch of government has been created.

And most importantly, these sort of historical events always brightly and evidently confirm the highest value of independence. Because only owing to independence a man's life and his rights are raised to the level of the highest values.

The main idea, the main aim behind modernization of the country and the large-scale democratic reforms aimed at renewal of the society is the principle of "reforms for the people, for the protection of their interests!"
 

In 2008-2009 Uzbekistan plans to invest some US$255 million in the development of automobile industry. This is envisaged by the programme on modernization, technological and technical re-equipment of enterprises of the automobile industry, approved through the Presidential Resolution in December 2007, UzReportcom reported.

According to the document, US$113.94 million will be invested within the next two years in the modernization, technological and technical re-equipment of UzDaewooAuto Joint-Stock Company (Asaka city, Andijan region). Of them US$65.4 million will be used for the renewal of the model range, including the launch of the new model of Nexia sedan (US$17.7 million) and setting up of the series production of Lacettis (US$47.7 million).
 

Great Silk Road advertising agency and Uzbektourism national company are organizing an Uzbek International Travel Workshop to be held on 21 April this year in Tashkent, UzReportcom reported.

The workshop is a business meeting of participants of tourism industry (local and foreign) with the purpose of establishment direct contacts, conclusion of long-term contracts and realization of direct sales.

Participants of the meeting will have opportunities to have personal meetings, establishment of business contacts with professional visitors, considerably increase database of potential buyers of services, experience exchange, specify the price policy, present special actions and new packages of services just for one working day.

The workshop is a perfect marketing event, providing direct business dialogue with tourism professionals, giving an opportunity to conclude new contracts and support business contacts with regular partners, and promote positive image of the company. It allows to receive the information about industry and to be informed with the offers of the competitors.
 

The royal club Gaulois in Belgium has hosted a soiree dedicated to the tourism potential of Uzbekistan. The representatives of scientific, media and business circles of Belgium that visited Uzbekistan in late October and early November this year have participated in it.

Taking the floor in the soiree the Professor of Louwen Catholic University George Michel has said that during their visit to Uzbekistan the Belgians were able to eyewitness the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Uzbek people, Jahon reported.

According to G. Michel, who has organized the tour to Uzbekistan, "during the trip the Belgians were amazed of political, economic and social stability in Uzbekistan and the beauty of ancient cities, which is can hardly be found in other countries of the world".

Ambassador of Belgium to Uzbekistan with a residence in Brussels Charles Gilena, who has also participated in this tour, has said that this trip allowed the people of Belgium to closely learn about the ongoing social and economic transformations, centuries-old traditions and culture of the Uzbek people. The Belgian ambassador has particularly noted that Uzbekistan pays a big attention to upbringing the forthcoming generation and mastering by them the modern technologies.

He has also said that he was nicely surprised that young men and women in many cities of Uzbekistan speak the foreign languages. In this regard, he has underscored that the Uzbek youth which is being brought up in the environment of independence would soon become a firm buttress for further development of Uzbekistan.

The film shot by Belgian tourists during the visit to Uzbekistan was also demonstrated. In this regard, the participants of the tour with special warmth remembered their attendance of a wedding party in Bukhara, where they danced to the Uzbek melodies.

On the initiative of participants of the tour to Uzbekistan the photo exhibition has also been organized. The attendees of the exhibition were much impressed with the displays.

The Royal club Golois said that the members of club are planning to have another tour to Uzbekistan in October and November 2008. Besides, it is more likely in the future to have both tourist and business trips of people of various spheres to Uzbekistan, including the medical workers and businessmen.

The tourist company Megatour from Tashkent has also spoken in the soiree. It has participated at the tourism fair for the professional tour agents in Belgium. The Uzbek tour operators said that the Belgian partners have become much interested in the opportunities of Uzbekistan in foreign tourism.
 

Rustam Azimov has been appointed First Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan – Finance Minister, Head of the Complex for Economy and Foreign Economic Relations, UzA reported.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov signed a corresponding decree on 29 December 2007.

Prior to new appointment, Rustam Azimov was held the post of Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan – Finance Minister.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov congratulated people of Uzbekistan with the New Year 2008, UzA reported.

Summing up the results of the past year, which was proclaimed the Year of Social Protection, the head of the state said it was "successful in many aspects and left an indelible trace in the life of the country and the society".

The country has made a big step towards dynamic development and democratic renewal, Islam Karimov said. He supported his words with the following figures: GDP increased by 9.5%, industrial growth made up 12.1%, growth in agriculture 6.1%, exports increased more than 1.4 times, gold reserves grew by more than 50% and real salaries, pensions, stipends and allowances by 40%. At the same time, inflation did not exceed 6.8% last year.

Speaking about the recent presidential elections, Islam Karimov said they were held in compliance with the principles of democracy and openness, and had demonstrated the people's increased political and legal culture.

The President thanked the people of Uzbekistan for showing him high trust at the elections. "I have no other purpose and no other life than serving you, my people, with faithfulness and devotion," he stressed.

Outlining the policy priorities for the New Year, the head of the state said they were increasing the efficiency of the reforms, attraction of foreign investments and modern technologies in the country, creation of preferences for small business, ensuring high economic growth, improving people's well being and strengthening stability.

The President reminded the target to increase the salaries minimum twice during 2007-2009 and said one of the important tasks in 2008 would be the gradual increase of the salaries, pensions, stipends and allowances.

2008 was proclaimed the Year of Youth, and it is important to give the young people wide opportunities to participate in the implementation of the tasks set before the country. "Our youth should become a real decisive force of today and tomorrow, and occupy a worthy place in the life of our society," Islam Karimov said.
 

Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov was re-elected with overwhelming support, Uzbek media reported.

Chairman of the Central Election Committee of Uzbekistan Mirzo-Ulugbek Abdusalomov said Islam Karimov garnered over 13 million or 88.1% of the votes to win the presidential election.

Some 14.76 million voters cast their ballots, a high turnout of 90.6%, the head of the electoral body said.

Sunday's election, which pitted the incumbent president against three other candidates, was supervised by nearly 300 international observers from over 30 countries and five international organizations as well as 23,000 domestic observers.

Karimov won the previous election in 2000, also with a landslide victory.
 

Foreign leaders congratulated Islam Karimov with election as the President of Uzbekistan, UzA reported.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin congratulated Islam Karimov in a telephone conversation on 24 December and wished success and prosperity to the people of Uzbekistan.

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakieyv, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and President of Ukraine Victor Yushchenko also held telephone conversations with the President of Uzbekistan.

A number of leaders, including Chinese President Hu Jintao, President of Egypt Hosni Mubarak, President of Turkey Abdullah Gul, President of Iran Mahmud Ahmadinejad, President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Vietnam Nguen Min Chiet sent congratulatory telegrams to the President of Uzbekistan.

In his telegram, Hu Jintao noted that China and Uzbekistan were good neighbors and had had friendly relations for many years.

“Our countries continuously cooperate in politics, economics, trade, energy, security, humanitarian and other spheres. The sides support good interaction and cooperation within the UNO, SCO and other international organizations,” the Chinese leader wrote.

“We are glad to see that in the recent years political stability has been kept, economy has been developing and the people’s living level has been increasing in your country. I am convinced that under your leadership Uzbekistan will surely achieve even more success,” Hu Jintao stated.
 

4th Central Asian International Textile Machinery Exhibition (CAITME 2008) will take place on 16-18 April 2008 at UzExpoCentre in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, UzReportcom reported.

The largest international textile machinery exhibition in Central Asia - CAITME - is a showcase of the latest technology and a meeting place for buyers and sellers from all over the world.

Only in 2006, 22 new textile enterprises with total cost over US$108 million and 7,980 job opportunities were started up. 14 of them are directed toward textile garments manufacturing.

Export potential of the enterprises at full capacity is US$125 million a year. Foreign founders of created plants are German, British and Turkish companies having great experience in textile manufacturing and product export to EU countries and USA.

With the object of further textile industry development it is necessary to continue technical re-equipment and reconstruction of old mills and create mobile manufactures as well as creation of new enterprises with full line of production up to ready-made articles with high surplus value.

In accordance with the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministries of Uzbekistan "On measures to attract investments in textile industry" dated 27 January 2005, the Textile Industry Investment Programme for 2005-2008 was affirmed.

94 projects with investments worth US$1.2 billion were included in this programme. The investments are set aside for technical re-equipment, modernization and full reconstruction of textile mills with full line of production. It is supposed that realization of those projects lead to phased increasing volume of high technological local proceeding up to 50% of total cotton fiber made in Uzbekistan.

Usually the exhibition is visited by heads and managers of textile and sewing enterprises and manufactures; heads and employees of the governmental organizations, ministries, state industrial associations and companies of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and other countries of Asia, Europe and the CIS; private businessmen and heads of the private textile and sewing enterprises; representatives of distributor companies; scientific employees and technical experts; representatives of international financial institutions and banks.

Official support to the exhibition is provided by Economy Ministry, Ministry for Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade, State Demonopolization Committee, UzbekYengilSanoat (Uzbek Light Industry) state joint-stock company.

Main sectors of CAITME 2007: Machinery for spinning preparation, man-made fibre production, spinning, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Machinery for winding, texturing, twisting, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Machinery for web formation, bonding and finishing of nonwovens and felting, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Weaving preparatory machinery, weaving, tufting machinery, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Knitting and hosiery machinery, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Braiding and embroidery machinery, accessories; Washing, bleaching, dyeing, printing, drying, finishing and make-up machinery, auxiliary machinery and accessories; Machinery and accessories for the making-up industry; Laboratory testing and measuring equipment, accessories; Transport, handling, storing and packing equipment, accessories; Equipment for recycling, waste reduction and pollution prevention, accessories; Software for design, data monitoring and processing and integrated production; Associated equipment and products for the textile and making-up industry; Services for the textile and making-up industry.