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LATEST NEWS : JANUARY 2009

UzA

The business forum “Economic and Investment Potential of Tashkent” was held in Tashkent on 28 January. The event was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade, Commerce and Industry Chamber, Tashkent city administration and the Uzinfoinvest agency.

The heads of ministries and departments, companies and joint ventures, Uzbek and foreign businessmen, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organizations participated in the forum.

Today, Tashkent, which will soon mark its 2200th anniversary, is a modern city with a developed transport and social infrastructure, and numerous enterprises of the basic economic sectors, scientific, educational and cultural establishments.

The city’s development showed notable growth in all directions last year. The volume of industrial production grew by 36.8% against 2007, foreign trade turnover by 15.5% and exports by 22.6%.

The industrial sector in Tashkent is represented by electronics, aircraft and machinery building, textile and other sectors. More than 30,000 enterprises of small business and private entrepreneurship function in the capital of Uzbekistan.

The investment climate and preferences provided to the foreign investors allow attracting investments on a long-term basis and participate in the programs of privatization and industrial modernization.

Annually, more than 50 specialized international trade fairs are held in the city, attracting numerous companies from many countries.

The business forum participants familiarized themselves with the large strategic investment projects, objects of state property for sale, as well as projects in small business.

The sections of the forum were devoted to sectors like energy, machinery building, textile industry, city infrastructure, small business and others.

I.A. “Jahon”

On January 22 this year on the invitation of President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov the President of Russia Dmitriy Medvedev arrived in Uzbekistan on a State visit.

The relations with Russia are particularly significant in Uzbekistan’s foreign policy. In 2004 the two states signed Agreement on strategic partnership and in 2005 – Agreement on Allied Relations that served as legal basis for raising the cooperation to a qualitatively new level. For over the last years over 150 documents and agreements on various directions were inked between Uzbekistan and Russia at state and governmental levels.

On January 23 the official ceremony of welcoming the President of Russia took place at the Durmen countryside residence in Tashkent. Islam Karimov and Dmitriy Medvedev stepped up to the podium. The state anthems of both countries were played. Then the two presidents observed the honorable guard lined up in honor of the top-level guest.

Then both presidents turned to tête-à-tête talks. Islam Karimov and Dmitriy Medvedev are reported to have thoroughly exchanged views on a broad range of the Uzbek and Russian relations, as well as regional and international issues. Both sides are also reported to have underscored that strategic partnership and allied relations were the main factor for extending cooperation.

Uzbekistan and Russia interact rather actively in political and economic spheres. Both states support one another at the international arena. It comes true with the fact that Uzbekistan and Russia share same stands in terms of such problems as establishing peace in Afghanistan and energy security. The heads of two countries - whatever problem they discuss - always treat with respect the opinion, stance and initiatives of one another.

Uzbekistan and Russia are the reliable partners in the sphere of economic cooperation. Russia accounts for one fifth of Uzbekistan’s foreign trade. On the outcomes of 2008 the trade between the two states made up about 4 billion US dollars.

At the talks in Tashkent the presidents noted the gradual development of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Russia on the versatile basis as a part of such international organizations and structures as the UN, SCO and CIS. The sides also exchanged views in terms of cooperation in strengthening the regional security, as well as mitigating negative impacts of international economic crisis. The situation in Afghanistan was also on the agenda of talks.

The presidents continued talks at the Oksaroy Residence in Tashkent - then with participation of official delegations of Uzbekistan and Russia in the expanded format. The sides are reported to have paid a particular attention to the economic, investment and humanitarian cooperation of both countries.

At the moment, Uzbekistan and Russia are intensively extending the investment ties. One third of 786 Uzbek-Russian companies in the country have been created for over the past two years alone. The investment volume of Russia to Uzbekistan in establishing the authorized fund of those companies exceeds one billion US dollars. 127 Russian firms and companies opened their representation offices in Uzbekistan. 349 joint ventures established with the participation of the Uzbek entrepreneurs are operating in the Russian Federation.

On the outcomes of talks the sides adopted the Joint Communiqué of Presidents of Uzbekistan and Russia. The Intergovernmental agreement on the conditions of locating and servicing the diplomatic representations of two states, as well as the Program of cooperation for 2009 between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan and Russia have been signed, as well.

“The visit of President of Russia to Uzbekistan is a logical continuation of developing ties between our countries”, said President Islam Karimov at the news conference dedicated to the visit. “Russia is a reliable economic partner of Uzbekistan. Despite the grave economic situation that came about in 2008 worldwide, the indicators of volume of bilateral trade are being invariably preserved. We have discussed the issues of developing and strengthening cooperation, diversifying investment ties, as well as the interaction as a part of international organizations, as well as the problem of Afghanistan.”

“Today’s talks have demonstrated that our relations are at the level of strategic partnership”, said the Russian President Dmitriy Medvedev. “The policy of the state is shaped with taking into account factors of interest and trust. Our relations reveal these two factors. Good, active and broad-scaled relations were proved between Uzbekistan and Russia. We have considered priority spheres of possible development of strategic cooperation.”

Thus, on January 23 President of the Russian Federation Dmitriy Medvedev ended his two-day state visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan. President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov saw off the top-level guest at the Tashkent airport.

UzReport

Active lending to support the economy is one of the main areas of activity of the National Bank of Uzbekistan (NBU). More than 60% of its assets consist of credits. The volume of credit portfolio made up 2,105.4 billion soums as of 1 January 2009, the bank's press release says.
At this time, the National Bank of Uzbekistan for Foreign Economic Activity services 145 foreign credits on 110 investment projects for the total amount of US$3.88 billion (in equivalent).

The bank signed a number of loan agreements with foreign banks on the projects aimed at the development of the agro-industrial complex, telecommunication and technology sectors, the financing of which will be conducted in the next few years.

NBU continues to lend to the real (manufacturing) sector of economy and priority areas, such as mortgage and consumer lending, providing young families, needy and other groups of population access to the bank's resources.

In 2008 the National Bank issued loans for the total amount of some 969 billion soums, including loans in national currency totaling 724.7 billion soums, which is almost the double of the result of 2007 (412.3 billion soums), and loans in foreign currency for US$177.3 million (US$124.3 million in 2007).

UzReport

Uzbekneftegaz national oil and gas holding company said natural gas production increased by 3.7% in 2008.

Production of petroleum rose by 4.7%, aviation kerosene by 21.4%, oil bitumen by 9.3% and liquefied gas by 20% and gas sulfur by 27.5%.

The company is continuing work on construction of facilities to utilize associated gases.

Uzbekneftegaz is working on increasing production of liquefied gas, including due to use of full capacity of the third and fourth propane-butane mixture equipment at Shortan gas station.

It is expected that the company is planning to launch production of aviation kerosene Jet A-1 in 2009. Currently, Uzbekistan produces aviation kerosene TS-1.

UzReport

GM Uzbekistan, an Uzbek-US joint venture, increased its car production by 13.5% year-on-year to 195,038 units in 2008.

The venture produced 95,027 Nexia cars, up 12.9% year-on-year; 70,144 Matiz cars, up 10.3% year-on-year; 24,510 Damas minivans, up 17.6% year-on-year.

The enterprise also produced 2,061 Epica cars, up 4.8% year-on-year; 1,892 Captiva SUVs, up from 191 units in 2007; 1,389 Lacetti cars, down 19.3% year-on-year; and 15 Tacuma minivans, down from 873 units in 2007.

“Pravda Vostoka” newspaper

The fourteen educational establishments of Uzbekistan joined the UNESCO Associated Schools Network, the wrote.

The goal of the Network is to propagate the ideas of peace, education and tolerance.

The solemn dedication ceremony was held at the Ministry of Public Education of Uzbekistan. From now on 45 schools and secondary special and professional educational institutions in various regions of Uzbekistan now have the UNESCO Associated Schools Network certificates.

“Last year the Syrdarya regional boarding school with an in-depth study of foreign languages was recognized as one of models in Uzbekistan on many criteria. The main of them are the educational and pedagogical works and the quality of teaching. The Ministry for Public Education recommended this school to join the UNESCO Associated Schools Network,” the school principal Saodat Fayzieva said.

“This is truly unique opportunities for teachers to exchange experience and cooperate with foreign colleagues, to learn about new pedagogical and innovation technologies in education, to receive support from UNESCO in implementation of interesting educational programs and projects and other initiatives,” she added.

According to her, for the schoolchildren who intensively learn the English, French and Russian languages it is a good opportunity to expand the worldview, learn about culture and history of other countries, as well as showcase their talents. Also, the school will actively participate at various events held by the UNESCO Associated Schools Network that serve for assertion of ideals of peace and progress of human civilization.

UzA

The ceremony of awarding the winners of the best banks of Uzbekistan attracting the population’s deposits was held in Tashkent.

The annual contest was organized for the first time by the Central Ban and the Banks Association.

The National Bank of Uzbekistan has been named the best bank and was awarded with the President’s prize – Nexia car.

The winners of the best branch in the city and rural area – Ferghana regional branch of Asaka Bank and Chust branch of Pakhtabank (Namangan region) – received Damas cars.

Turon Bank won in the best deposit in national currency nomination for providing high-quality services to support young people.

Winners in a total of 7 general and 11 additional nominations were awarded.

According to the Central Bank, the volume of deposits of the population in the country’s commercial banks increased 1.7 times last year.

Uzbekistan Today

Oqrasoy Pesidential Residence on January 16 hosted a regular session of the Trusteeship Council of the Fund for Children’s Sports Development of Uzbekistan.

The President of Uzbekistan noted that the goal of the session was a comprehensive analysis of the work carried out by the Fund for Children’s Sports Development in recent years.

Purposeful work in this area creates opportunities to involve our children in sports. This, in turn, contributes to our efforts to bring up a physically and spiritually healthy generation.

A comprehensive development of children is a crucial factor in ensuring a healthy future. In this regard, the bringing up of a physically and spiritually healthy generation receives a lot of attention in the Republic.

Presidential Decrees “On the Establishment of the Fund for Children’s Sports Development” of October 24, 2002, and “On Measures to Improve the Activities of the Fund for Children’s Sports Development” have served as important “instructions” in this sense.

“Sports means a healthy generation, a healthy future. Only healthy people, healthy nation are capable of accomplishing lofty goals,” said President Islam Karimov.

At its previous session the Trusteeship Council mapped out goals such as production by domestic enterprises of sports equipment, inventory and attire meeting international standards, organization of a permanent exhibition of sports equipment and attire, and boosting the efficacy of coach training, including female coaches.

The session made an all-round analysis of the implementation of these tasks. The country pays a great deal of attention to the formation of a healthy lifestyle and boosting the medical culture of the population. Work on the development of sports, especially children’s sports, has reached a new level. In 2003, over 90 sports facilities were created while in 2008 as many as 186 sports complexes, 162 of these in rural areas, were constructed.
In line with the Presidential Resolution of December 12, 2007 “On the Endorsement of the Budget of the Fund for Children’s Sports Development and Target Program for the Construction of Children’s Sports Facilities for 2008”, a list of inventory necessary for the sports facilities and schools gymnasiums built in 2008 was drawn. All the sports facilities have been provided with the necessary equipment. Children from low-income families were given sports attire worth over 2 billion UZS. 166 sports objects built in 2008 are gyms in schools. The session also discussed how effectively they are being used.

The President also laid emphasis on the necessity to create a single system for assessing the quality of the sports equipment produced in the Republic. To this end, a permanent exhibition was organized in 2008 in collaboration with leading producers of sports equipment.

Possibilities to produce high-quality children’s sports equipment were studies and a catalog of the most convenient and optimal inventory for children’s sports facilities was created. The country now produces 118 of the 120 necessary types of inventory for children’s sports facilities.

“A lot remains to be done in this direction,” the President of Uzbekistan said. “In particular, it is necessary to review norms of sports equipment production and provision of school gyms with sports supplies. Our country has gained broad experience in sports facilities construction. In other words, a single system has been established. Now the main goal is to equip these facilities on a level that would meet modern requirements and ensure effective use.”

Consecutive development can be seen in sports such as futsal and calisthenics. If in 2003 children in sections and clubs were engaged in 8 types of sports, presently conditions in contemporary sports complexes make it possible to do 20 types of sports.

The number of people engaged in sports at modern sports complexes and diverse clubs constructed across the Republic is growing. More specifically, notable success in this regard has been achieved in Bukhara, Navoi, Samarkand, Jizzak, Andijan, and Tashkent regions.

The effectiveness of large-scale reforms aimed at rearing a harmoniously developed generation and considerable attention given to the development of children’s sports are visually confirmed by the successes of our athletes at prestigious international competitions.

Year 2008 was full of sporting victories that imbue our hearts with a deep sense of pride. In particular, Uzbek athletes participated actively in Beijing Olympics in 2008 and clinched one gold, two silver and three bronze medals.

Of special note is the participation by Uzbekistan’s youth football team in the Asian championship and its upcoming participation in the world championship which will be held in Egypt in 2009.
In 2008, as many as 423 young Uzbek athletes who participated successfully in international competitions won 17 gold, 15 silver and 15 bronze medals.

The achieved results demonstrate that the youth’s interest in sports such as football, mini-football, table tennis, swimming, canoeing and kayak paddling, boat racing, chess, calisthenics, kurash, Greco-Roman style, boxing and acrobatics is increasing.

Around one million boys and girls participated in sporting events, in 2008, held by the Fund for Children’s Sports Development. Thousands of families took part in “Healthy Family” competitions organized in compliance with the Year of the Youth State Program.

The President of Uzbekistan has emphasized the importance of shaping a special approach to the issue of involving girls in sports. “Graceful” sports such as calisthenics and eurhythmics have also been actively developing in recent years as well.

As the President of Uzbekistan noted, the development of children’s sports, especially in rural areas, the creation of conditions for girls to do sports require attention to issues of female coach training.

“The health of the future depends, first of all, on women. A healthy mother means a healthy child. Healthy children will ensure a healthy future,” said President Islam Karimov.

The President also underlined that the heads of respective organizations must understand that the effective solution of issues related to sports development in schools is a matter of state significance.

As it was noted at the session, there were particular shortcomings in the implementation of the program for children’s sports development. Therefore, those in charge were given corresponding tasks.

The session also reviewed work for next year under the State Program for the Improvement of the Material and Technical Basis of Children’s Schools of Music and Art and Improvement of Their Activities for 2009-2014.

Minister of Economy of Uzbekistan B. Hojayev, Minister of Education G. Shoumarov, Deputy Minister of Education and Executive Director of the Fund for Children’s Sports Development A. Achilov, and mayors of several regions delivered speeches related to the issues discussed.

Uzbekistan Today

Belgium’s VZW Reis&Opleidings tourist company organized a presentation of Uzbekistan’s tourism potential as part of the annual tourism fair of the Flemish Tourism Union (VTB) in Belgium.

Benelux countries have displayed a lively interest in Uzbekistan. The number of tourists and travelers wishing to visit Uzbekistan is rising year after year. The increased interest is attributed to Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, pearl-cities located along the Great Silk Road. A lot of tourist companies offer Europeans tours to Uzbekistan.

Amid the stands representing 25 countries of the world was also a stand of Uzbekistan which provided information on the tour routes.

An important part of the presentation was a documentary by VZW Reis&Opleidings, which showed the unique culture and traditions and the rich historical heritage of Uzbekistan.

The director of the documentary Guido Boken noted that the film was shot in an effort to tell Belgians about the cultural, historical, and architectural heritage of Uzbekistan. He went on to note that Uzbekistan’s cities suit the finest taste of culture-vultures as well as admirers of architecture and arts. “The country has all the necessary resources: a favorable climate, modern hotels and transportation, affable personnel, and most importantly, hospitality,” said G. Boken.

The presentation about tourism opportunities of Uzbekistan took place in famous Mьnster city in Westphalia. The event was organized by Studiosus Gruppenreisen GmbH tourism company, AWO-Treff organization and the Uzbek Embassy in Germany.

The presentation was attended by the representative of tourism companies and tourism-related organizations and media, as well as by the general public of Mьnster city and North Rhine – Westphalia area.

The presentation program included the address by Christopher Maler, a geographer and ethnographer and representative of Studiosus Gruppenreisen GmbH. The German scientists noted the valuable contribution of such Uzbekistan cities as Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to the global civilization and development of trade and cultural exchange between the East and the West.

According to the scientist, numerous and various architectural historic monuments of Uzbekistan are one of its major treasures and that they distinguish the Republic from other countries of the region. And this is an important factor in promoting tourism development.

In this regard the event participants noted the extensive work on preservation and reconstruction of cultural and historic monuments, as well as on the overall tourism development which has been carried out in Uzbekistan during the years of independence. The participants drew special attention to the opportunities created for the expansion and growth of tourism companies, which at the moment offer a wide range of high quality services.

Uzbekistan Today

Uzbekistan Airways National Air Company transported 2,069,343 passengers in 2008.

As the press service of the Airways informed UT in, the average load for one flight increased from 86 to 90 passengers last year, 22.2 thousand tons of cargo was transported, which is 6.4 % or 1327 tons more than in 2007. Airports of the Republic served 1,695,627 passengers in 2008.

During introduction of the E-Ticketing system airports of the airline were equipped with all necessary equipment and software. Currently, E-Ticketing is successfully used by clients of the airlines along with traditional plane tickets.

Since November 1, 2008 National Airline became a member of IATA Clearing House (International Air Transportation Association). IATA is a coordinator and representative of interests of air transportation service in such fields as safety of flights, management of flights, tariff policy, servicing, aviation safety, development of international standards in association with International Civil Aircraft Organization and others. Entering IATA Clearing House allowed the airline to increase efficiency of mutual settlement with foreign partners for air transportation services.

Currently, the airline continues working on entering Sky Team Alliance. In this connection, IOSA auditing was conducted, which confirmed that production activity and procedures of support of the necessary level of security of the airline meets international standards.

Within the limits of modernization of aircrafts, Uzbekistan National Airlways signed agreements with Boeing and Airbus for the purchase of eight new planes, including four Boeings 767 and four A 320. Besides that, modernization of the systems and equipment of air traffic control and dispatching is proceeded.

In line with resolutions adopted by the government, work on creation of inter mode transport-distributing unit in Navoi Airport continues. Uzbekistan Airways and Korean Air signed an agreement on the transfer of Navoi Airport under the administration of the Korean side. On August 27, 2008 the Korean Air began carrying out regular transit flights.

IA “Jahon”

The Eleventh sitting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation took place in Moscow on January 14 this year.

The sitting chaired by the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Rustam Azimov and Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Sergey Ivanov discussed the implementation of decisions adopted at the Tenth sitting of the Intergovernmental Commission.

Those who took a floor at the Moscow sitting have said that the bilateral cooperation between the two countries was dynamically developing in all spheres of economy. On the outcomes of 2008 the volume of trade between Uzbekistan and Russia made up over 3.8 billion US dollars.

The members of the Commission spoke on further developing the legal and normative basis of bilateral interaction. The participants of the sitting also discussed the state and prospects of cooperation in the fuel and energy complex, industry, in the sphere of communication and transport, science and technologies.

The next, the Twelfth sitting of the Uzbek-Russian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, has been scheduled to be held early 2010 in Tashkent.

On the outcomes of the sitting in Moscow the sides adopted the protocol.

IA “Jahon”

This year the Japanese Mitsubishi Corporation is going to implement projects on the so-called Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) at the three largest Uzbek chemical factories – Navoiazot, Maksam-Chirchik and Farghonaazot, according to the Narodnoye slovo newspaper.

The Japanese company also plans to deliver to the Uzbek chemical factories the technologies and know-how on utilization of greenhouse gases which would allow to substantially increase the power efficiency of their operations.

According to experts, the implementation of the project will let in the aggregate to reduce emissions more than 1,1 million tons per year.

Also, the experts believe that the participation of developed countries in implementation of the CDM technological projects on the territory of Uzbekistan will allow for the country to locate a new channel of investments from the international financial organizations.

UzA

Tashkent hosted the scientific and practical conference “Contemporary forms and methods of counteracting terrorism financing”.

The Higher study courses at the Office of the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan alongside with the Central Bank of Uzbekistan, S. Rajaratnama International School of Research of the Republic of Singapore and the Singapore Center for Political Violence and Terrorism Research are reported to have organized the conference.

The attendees of the Higher study courses at the Office of the Prosecutor General of Uzbekistan, the staff members of the Interior Ministry, National Security Service and banking establishments of Uzbekistan participated at the conference.

The delegates to the event are reported to have said that terrorism stood as a global problem and struggle against it was one of the important objectives of an international scale.

Uzbekistan adopted a number of normative and legal documents on combating terror which stipulate this phenomenon as the gravest kind of transnational organized crime. Such documents provide for mechanisms and measures aimed at averting and combating any manifestations of terror.

The special subdivisions for combating terror have so far been established and are efficiently operating at the law-enforcement agencies of Uzbekistan, while the Uzbek national parliament had ratified a number of international conventions on the struggle against terrorism financing.

The delegates to conference are also reported to have paid a particular attention to the history of emerging terror, activities of modern terrorist groups, as well as to bettering international legal mechanisms to efficiently combat terrorism financing.

Uzreport

The Uzbek Agency for Information and Communication (UzACI) officials held negotiations with Dubai's Technosat Trading on 15 January to discuss development of digital television in Uzbekistan.

It was said that digital television has been introduced in Tashkent and Bukhara stage by stage. Equipment of Japan's NEC and Germany's Rode Schwartz were used in developing digital broadcasting in these two cities.

Technosat Trading officials highly valued the work carried out in introduction of digital television and expressed their interest in working in telecommunication market in Uzbekistan.

The sides expressed readiness to develop close and mutual beneficial cooperation.

During the discussions, the sides discussed issues of organization on assembly of digital tuners Settop Box.

Technosat Trading delegation visited Koinot LLC to familiarize with production objects, the UzACI said.

IA “Jahon”

The Complex for information systems and telecommunications at the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan held the meeting on the outcomes of social and economic development in 2008, the national newspapers wrote.

At the meeting the participants are reported to have addressed the outcomes of activity of sectors of the Complex for information systems and telecommunications in 2008 in terms of resolving the tasks put forward in the address of President of Uzbekistan dedicated to the outcomes of the first half of year 2008 at the meeting of Cabinet of Ministers.

The delegates to the meeting also spoke on the need to work on the instructions set in line with the protocol of Cabinet’s meeting, introducing information and communication technologies at the ministries and agencies, local bodies of state power, as well as spoke on ensuring accomplishment of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On mass media”.

In 2008 the sectors of the Complex produced goods and rendered services worth 1493.13 billion Uzbek soums. The growth rate made up 156.8 percent compare to 2007. The number of mobile communication subscribers increased more than two-fold and accounted for 12.5 million.

The export indicators made up 140.2 percent compare to forecasts. In 2008 243.87 million US dollars-worth (339.95 billion Uzbek soums) direct foreign investments were attracted that allowed to ensure accomplishment of Investment program parameters by 135 percent.

The delegates to the sitting have paid a particular attention to rigorous implementation of the action plan elaborated with an aim to provide for stable work of companies of complex in 2009 and improve their export potential, rational use of material resources, decrease the prime cost of products and raise its quality, save fuel and electricity, increase nomenclature and volume of production of competitive, export-bound goods, ban groundless cutting jobs.

As a part of the meeting the heads of agencies, companies and organizations were tasked with concrete objectives.

IA “Jahon”

The film industry is now well developing in Uzbekistan, while bringing nice surprises and joy for the Uzbek moviegoers, as much as offering them the new movies.

The film by the well-known filmmaker Zulfikor Musakov “Oy ostidagi khovli” (‘A house at moonlight’) is an example.

According to the Deputy General-Director of the Uzbekkino National Agency Jakhongir Kasymov, the jury of the First national film festival held in Tashkent assessed the script of the movie as the best one of the Uzbekkino in 2008.

The film was shot on the script of the filmmaker and was named such in honor of the first line of poem of the People’s poet of Uzbekistan Alexander Feinberg.

The shooting of the film lasted for a one and half year and it attracted such renowned and honored artists of Uzbekistan as Diyas Rakhmatov and Rano Shodieva with Sergey Genkin cast in a leading role.

Also, Alexander Feinberg appeared in the movie himself, according to the newspaper report.

Uzbekistan's export operator the Navoiisky mining and smelting plant (NGMK) plans to put into operation seven new uranium deposits, the NGMK general director said Tuesday.

Kuvandik Sanakulov said the uranium production and enrichment monopoly was conducting geological prospecting work at five of the seven deposits.

"As part of an increase in uranium production up to 2012, the expansion and reconstruction of sulfuric production, at a cost of about $12 million, will be carried out. The implementation of the program will make it possible to increase uranium production in 2012 by 50%," Sanakulov said.

According to data by the International Atomic Energy Agency, Uzbekistan is ranked seventh in the world in terms of uranium reserves and fifth in terms of its production.

Newspaper “Pravda Vostoka”

The Fan Publishing House of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan published a new book “Bukhoro mughanniylari” dedicated to the history of music, the wrote.

The author of the book is a Ph.D.-holder in Pedagogy, Associate Professor of Department of Music at the Bukhara State University Fayzulla Turaev.

The book reflected on the life and activity of more than 130 singers, musicians and composers who lived and created in various years in Bukhara.

The well-known composers Mukhtar Ashrafi, Mutavakkil Burkhonov, Fayzulla Karamatov, Mustafo Vafoev, pedagogue Akhmadjon Ikhtiyorov, musicians Marufjon Toshpulatov, Alibek Tanburiy, Abulabbos Bakhtiyor, Najmiddin Kavkabiy, Darvesh Ali Changiy, Abdurauf Fitrat, Ota Jalol, Ota Ghiyos, Domla Khalim Ibodov and Levicha Babakhanov are among them.

At the moment, the Musika Publishing House prepares for publication yet another book by Fayzulla Turaev, namely, “The national melodies for national instruments”.

Besides, the author works on his monograph “Mangit emirs and the Bukhara music arts” which is expected to be an interesting book both to specialists and book-lovers, especially, who are keen on such topics.

UzReport

Review of information and communication technologies development in Uzbekistan for 2006-2008 is published within the framework of the UNDP ICT Policy project.

The Review provides assessment of various factors impacting ICT development, as well as identifies development trends in the ICT area.

The Review examines ICT development indicators for last two years and provides recommendations in following sections: information infrastructure, ICT and population, ICT and businesses, E-government, E-commerce, E-healthcare, E-education, ICT sector, and Information security.

Review shows positive trend in development of ICT in Uzbekistan, including in E-government and E-Commerce, use of Internet and information security.

As of 1 January 2008, local network of the country had more than 2,000 ATS (Automatic Telephone Stations) with total capacity 2.08 million numbers. Share of digital ones was 82.3%, and as of 1 September 2008 – 86.1%.

Mobile communication services provided by five operators have been rapidly developing during the last period. In September 2008 the number of mobile subscribers in Uzbekistan exceeded 10 mln. and up to the end of year this index exceeded 12 million. Based on evaluations of foreign experts Uzbekistan for second year is in the top-10 list of countries with the highest "mobile communication development index", has and offered tariffs are of the lowest in the world.

Almost all mobile companies started activities on development of 3G networks in Uzbekistan.

Considerable part of review covers issues on Internet development and expansion. So, capacity of international channels that provide connection to Internet became 362 Mbps as of 1 January 2008, and at the beginning of 2002 it was only 8.5 Mbps. By the end of first half year of 2008 capacity has been increased up to 511 Mbps, which resulted in considerable increase of subscribers of leading Internet service providers of Uzbekistan.

Today benefits and advantages of use of information and communication technologies are becoming ever more evident, and ICT is regarded as the powerful instrument creating new opportunities for social and economic development. Therefore, the Review underlines the importance of ensuring accessibility of ICT and their usage as a strategic instrument in achieving the Millennium Development Goals identified in the Millennium Declaration.

The review is of interest not only for ICT specialists but also for broad range of readers – scholars and researchers, teachers, students, journalists, managers, and others – everyone who wants to be introduced into the current state of ICT development in Uzbekistan.

IA “Jahon”

Nowadays, the human trafficking is an acute problem which alarms the world community.

The Government of Uzbekistan undertakes a tangible work on preventing this phenomenon, not allowing the Uzbek nationals to be deluded, as well as rendering aid to the victims of human trafficking.

The participants of the roundtable held at the Banking college of Turtkul District in the Republic of Karakalpakstan have discussed these particular issues, according to the national newspapers.

The participants – the representatives of law-enforcement and self-governance bodies, teachers and students of other local colleges – spoke of the need of cooperation of respective bodies and public in struggling against this dangerous phenomenon to better ensure the rights and freedoms of citizens, as well as increase their legal and political awareness.

The adoption of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On counteracting human trafficking” in April 2008 and the Decree of President Islam Karimov “On measures to increase efficiency of counteracting human trafficking” in July last year became an important factor in further extending the work in this direction.

“At the moment, we accomplish measures on providing for implementation of such legal documents,” the Deputy Public Prosecutor of the Turtkul District Ziynat Rasbergenov said. “As a result of cases revealed during 11 months of last year related to human trafficking, nine people have been called to account.”

The participants of the roundtable noted that with a goal to avert the serious consequences of human trafficking it was necessary to strengthen preventive measures, to create additional jobs for youth, promote organization of labor fairs, as well as develop small and private businesses.

IA “Jahon”

The State Commission for tender bids on selling state property to foreign investors has extended the term of filing tender offers for realizing stocks of 27 local companies, enterprises and organizations, according to the Narodnoye slovo newspaper.

A broad choice of sites on a wide variety of business directions was offered to foreign investors.

The shares of stocks of the open joint-stock companies Uzbekugol (the state body on the coal industry), Samarkandkimyo (the Samarkand-based chemistry-related state company), Uzpahtamash (the state agricultural machinery), Jizzakh plastmassa (the Jizzakh-based plastics-production facility), and a number of other manufacturing companies are presented.

The one who is busied in the hotel business may obtain all 100 percent of stocks of the Markaziy Hotel Complex or 99 percent of stocks of the LLC Tashkent Palace Joint-Venture. For organizers of recreation and leisure, tourism and tours are presented for purchase the recreation area of Chinaz and Liner in the Tashkent Province.

The potential investors can acquire all necessary information not only about the starting price of share or full package of shares but also about the volume of investment obligations which the stock-buyers must assume.

For more information, go to the website of the Uzinfoinvest, the newly established body at the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of Uzbekistan, which deals with the prospects of investing in Uzbekistan on the part of both domestic and foreign investors.

IA “Jahon”

Uzbekistan now accomplishes a tangible work in terms of modernizing production and broadly attracting investments, according to the local news agencies.

Last year over ten joint companies were established jointly with foreign partners in Ferghana Province. Recently another Uzbek and South Korean Joint Venture “Korea Hana Medical” was put into operation at the province.

The newly established joint venture was launched as a part of the territorial investment program and equipped with cutting-edge technologies that allow to set up production of quality medical goods from cotton fiber.

According to the specialists, the power capacity of reprocessing and production of goods at the joint venture is 700 tons of cotton fiber per year. The company employs over 50 young men and women, according to the reports.

IA “Jahon”

The World Chess Federation (FIDE) announced the first rating list of the best chess players of the world in 2009.

The 2004 World champion Rustam Kasymjanov of Uzbekistan is reported to have collected 2687 rating points and secured the 42nd place in the list – still the eight points higher compare to the outcomes registered in 2008.

On the whole, the top place in the list is secured by Bulgarian Veselin Topalov. The troika of the best chess players included Vishvanatan Anand of India and Vasiliy Ivanchuk of the Ukraine.

The world gross master Rustam Kasymjanov is as usual in the lead in the rating list of Uzbekistan. The next places went to Temur Gareev and Anton Filippov, respectively, according to the news agency.

Nafisa Muminova, Olga Sabirova and Iroda Khamrokulova made up the list of the strongest female chess players in Uzbekistan, in keeping with the report.

UzPeport

The year 2008 is over. It was rich in different events in all spheres of economy and social life of Uzbekistan. Let's sum up the results of the past year and take the final look at the most noteworthy events in the insurance services market of Uzbekistan.

Transinsurance Plus Company's equity capital raised to US$1 million

In the very beginning of the past year Transinsurance Plus Company raised its equity to US$1 million. The increase of the equity capital was a part of the company's strategic development plan. The action was also one of the steps in the direction of stable development and expansion of company's presence in the insurance market, improvement of its competitive position, increase of the retention ratio and strengthening of its financial stability. It was also intended to reinforce the clients' and partners' trust in the company.

Alliance Insurance LLC registered in Uzbekistan

A new insurance agency set up in the form of a limited liability company, Alliance Insurance entered the market for insurance services of the Republic of Uzbekistan. On 16 January 2008 the Ministry of Finance issued the company a license No. 00084 to render insurance services on all 17 classes. The company is a subsidiary of the Alp Jamol Bank. The company was formed with an equity capital of US$1 million.

Legislative Chamber passes law on mandatory insurance of auto-civil liability

In February, the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis (parliament) of the Republic of Uzbekistan passed the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners" in the second reading. According to the legislation, the law was directed to the Senate of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for ratification.

ALSKOM' network of offices covers all regions of the country

In March ALSKOM Insurance Company opened offices in all regions of the country and the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The company strategy in terms of the development of regional network was carried out gradually. The expansion of the regional network allowed the company not only to attract new potential clients in all regions of the country, but also to actively develop its activity on working with individuals.

Government takes additional measures to develop insurance

On 7 March 2008 the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan issues a resolution approving a complex of additional measures to stimulate the activity of insurance, audit, leasing companies and commercial banks intended to motivate the expansion of the activity of insurance, audit, leasing companies and commercial banks, raise their level of capitalization, investment activeness and financial stability, grow the volume and range of services they provide, particularly in rural regions.

UzAgroSugurta, NBU sign general insurance policy

In the late March the UzAgroSugurta State Joint-Stock Insurance Company and the National Bank of Uzbekistan for Foreign Economic Activity signed a general insurance policy that envisaged the insurance coverage of the entrepreneurial risk for non-return of soft loans issued by commercial banks to agricultural businesses (farmers) to finance the cultivation of the harvest of 2008 ordered for the state needs.

IShONCh integrates complex mortgage insurance

In order to provide the guarantee of return of soft long-term loans extended as a part of the development of mortgage lending, the IShONCh Interbank Insurance Company launched the "complex mortgage insurance" product in April.

President of Uzbekistan promulgates Law on Mandatory Insurance of Auto-Civil Liability

On 21 April 2008 the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov promulgated the Law "On mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners" passed by the legislative Chamber on 21 February and ratified by the Senate on 27 March of the same year.

New insurance company opens in Uzbekistan market

On 30 April the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan issued a license to the Finans Sugurta Limited Liability Company rendering it a permission to provide voluntary and mandatory insurance services on 17 classes of general (non-life) insurance. Finans Sugurta Insurance Company was set up with an equity capital of US$1 million.

UzbekInvest signs agreement with Ipoteka Bank

In the late May UzbekInvest National Export and Import Insurance Company and Ipoteka Bank Joint-Stock Commercial Mortgage Bank signed a general agreement on cooperation for the purpose of further development of financial-economic sector of Uzbekistan and creation of an effective mechanism of protection of bank interests associated with the potential risks of the bank's activity in general and mortgage lending in particular.

New regulation on solvency of insurance companies

On 12 May the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan registered a Regulation on the Solvency of Insurance and Reinsurance Companies. The task on the development of this regulation was set in the resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PR – 618 of 10 April 2007.

New requirements set for insurance companies

The Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On additional measures on further reformation and development of the insurance services market" of 21 May 2008 set a new requirement for the minimum size of the capital of insurance companies operating in the sector of general (non-life) insurance. According to the Resolution starting from 1 January 2010 the minimum size of capital of insurance companies will be 750,000 euros.

Coverage of insurance market in media discussed

On 22 May a forum was held in Tashkent on "Insurance business in Uzbekistan: condition, prospects and coverage in the media" to discuss the issues concerning the development of insurance business in Uzbekistan, and raise public awareness about the results achieved over the course of reforms in the domestic insurance market, as well as to raise the level of insurance literacy of the population.

First national insurance pool created in Uzbekistan

On 22 May an agreement on the creation of the first national insurance pool of Uzbekistan signed during the forum on "Insurance business in Uzbekistan: condition, prospects and coverage in the media".

Oltin Soyabon public award in the field of insurance created

In May 2008 SAIPRO Company and the Association of Professional Participants of the Insurance Market of Uzbekistan founded the First Public Award in the Segment of Insurance – Oltin Soyabon (Golden Umbrella).

Accounting and bookkeeping standards for insurance organizations

On 22 May the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan registered the new accounting and bookkeeping standards for the financial-business activity of insurance companies and the instructions on their application approved by the Ministry of Finance as of 5 May 2008 No. 47.

Ministry of Finance approves Actuary Training Programme

Pursuant to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PR – 618 of 10 April 2007, the Ministry of Finance approved the Regulation "On the order of issuance of qualification certificates to actuaries" in June. The document was registered by the Ministry of Justice under No. 1725 on 10 October 2007.

New professional participant in insurance market of Uzbekistan

A new company providing assistance services, Insurance Assist Group, was set up in Uzbekistan on 19 June. Today the company provides services on technical, medical, legal and informational assistance on the territory of Uzbekistan.

Resolution on measures of implementation of the law on insurance of auto-civil liability

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan passed a Resolution "On measures to implement the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners" on 24 June 2008.

Fund to guarantee payouts on mandatory insurance of auto-civil liability created

Pursuant to the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan of 24 June 2008 No. 141, a Fund was created to guarantee the payouts on mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners.

Reliability rating affirmed for Kafil Sugurta Insurance Company

In July SAIPRO Company carried out the rating evaluation of Kafil Sugurta LLC based on the results of the company's activity in 2007. A reliability rating of "uzB+" was affirmed on the national scale ("acceptable financial reliability").

SAIPRO affirms Fotis Sugurta Insurance Company's rating at "uzB++"

In July SAIPRO Company affirmed the financial reliability rating of Fotis Sugurta Closed Joint Stock Insurance Company at "uzB++" based on the results of the company's performance in 2007 ("sufficient financial reliability").

Rating of Trainsinsurance Reinsurance Company improves

According to the results of rating evaluation of the activity of Transinsurance JV, SAIPRO Company affirmed the reinsurance company's rating at "uzA" (high financial reliability). Previously the company's reliability was affirmed at "uzB++".

SAIPRO launches calculator of premiums for mandatory insurance of auto-civil liability

SAIPRO Company developed and launched an online electronic calculator of premiums for mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners – MICLVO Calculator. The exclusive right to place the calculator was granted to UzReport.com Internet Portal.

ALSKOM's reliability rating improves

Based on the results of rating evaluation of the activity of ALSKOM Insurance Company in 2007, SAIPRO affirmed the company's rating at "uzA" (high financial reliability) in August (raised from "uzB++").

UzbekInvest Hayot Subsidiary Company's rating affirmed at "uzB++"

In September SAIPRO Company affirmed the reliability rating of UzbekInvest Hayot Insurance Company at "uzB++" (Sufficient financial reliability) based on its performance in 2007.

Employers obligated to insure staff against accidents at work

The Law "On mandatory state social insurance against accidents at production and insurance of occupational diseases" promulgated by the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov entered into force on 10 September 2008. The Law was passed by the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis (parliament) on 26 June 2008 and approved by the Senate on 28 August 2008.

Ingosstrah enters the market of Uzbekistan

In the late September the Russian Ingosstrah Insurance Company officially announce the beginning of its activity in Uzbekistan through a subsidiary – Ingo-Uzbekistan.

New insurance company in market of Uzbekistan

A new insurance company – Agro Invest Sugurta joined the insurance services market of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In October the Ministry of Finance issued the company a license granting it the permission to provide general (non-life) insurance services, the voluntary types.

UzbekInvest's rating improves to the highest level

Based on the results of an independent analysis of the activity of UzbekInvest Export and Import Insurance Company in 2007 carried out by the specialists of SAIPRO Company, the insurance company's reliability rating was affirmed at "uzA++", envisaging the "premium financial reliability", the highest rating on the national scale among Uzbek insurance companies.

Law on Mandatory Insurance of Auto-Civil Liability enters into force

The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners" came into force as of 22 October. According to the law the owners of vehicles are obligated to insure their civil liability for the cause of damage to life, health and/or property of other parties when using a vehicle.

Formation of group of specialists on actuary accounts

On 30 October the State Inspectorate for Insurance Supervision hosted the award ceremony of actuary qualification certificates. According to the Decree of the Ministry of Finance of 29 October 2008 Muhitdinov Abrar Ahbarovich was granted the qualification certificate of an actuary for the period of five years.

Toshkent Sugurta Insurance Company renamed as Eurasia Insurance

Eurasia Insurance insurance agency granted the license by the Ministry of Finance No. 000113 on 25 November 2008 became the successor of the Toshkent Sugurta Insurance Company.

Insurance for accidents at hazardous production objects

The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of 10 December 2008 No. 271 approves the Regulation on the order of mandatory insurance of civil liability for cause of damage to health, life and/or property of other parties and the environment in case of accident at hazardous production facilities.

Mandatory insurance of auto-civil liability – a social protection tool

On 15 December Poytaht business Centre in Tashkent hosted a joint press conference on the issues relating to mandatory insurance of civil liability of vehicle owners. The event was organized by the UzReport.com Business News Portal of Uzbekistan with the official support of the Fund to Guarantee the Payouts on Mandatory Insurance of Civil Liability of Vehicle Owners with information support of the Public Foundation to Support and Develop Independent Press and News Agencies of Uzbekistan.

Among the participants of the press conference were the representatives of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the State Inspectorate for Insurance Supervision under the Ministry of Finance, the Fund to Guarantee the Payouts on Mandatory Insurance of Civil Liability of Vehicle Owners, the Association of Professional Participants of Insurance Market of Uzbekistan, and the managers of nine insurance companies, among them UzbekInvest, UzAgroSugurta, Kafolat, IShONCh, ALSKOM, Asia Inshurans, Alfa Invest, Kapital Sugurta and Universal Sugurta, companies providing services on mandatory insurance of auto-civil liability.
 

IA “Jahon”

“It is not by chance that Uzbekistan is named a heavenly spot. The Uzbek soil is very generous, people are magnanimous, and the national traditions and values are amazing and rich. On the eve of the New Year I observe with a profound interest the bright and inflammatory festive performances which are now held at broadways, squares, and parks”.

These are the words of Danielle Rei-Nart from France, one of the numerous foreign guests which one come across to in the streets in Tashkent during the days of broad and active New Year celebrations.

“The New Year is a holiday which everyone, especially the children, await with big impatience,” D. Rei-Nart said while speaking to the Uzbekistan National News Agency. “I am impressed with the conditions created in your country for substantial and fascinating rest of children in the days of the holiday.”

“On seeing Uzbekistan, the world-known legendary cities, on getting accustomed to the national customs and traditions of the Uzbek people, I am bewitched with your land,” Braydon Wilson of Australia said. “Uzbekistan is a heavenly country. I am amazed with the constructions erected based on unique engineering projects, as well as pearls of national applied arts. I will never forget the unique taste of the Uzbek bread, national dishes and fruits.”

“I have arrived in Tashkent to see the unique historical monuments, the beautiful nature, as well as to mark the New Year,” Yao Wang of China said. “Undoubtedly, each person will be impressed of that the preparations for a long-awaited and beloved holiday were accomplished in Uzbekistan at such high level.”

It is worth noting that the sphere of tourism consistently develops in your country, as well as favorable conditions for substantial recreation are created for tourists. Therefore, the authority and prestige of your country which has a centuries-old history, rich culture and traditions even more raise around the world. The person, who at least once visited Uzbekistan, will certainly visit it again.

The public of Uzbekistan perceives with big alarm the escalation of tension in the Gaza Strip, which undermines the peace process of settling the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the prospects of stabilization of situation in the Middle East.

The fierce battles in the Gaza Strip have already led to numerous human casualties and humanitarian crisis. The resolution of the conflict with the use of force may not have any prospects.

The public of Uzbekistan calls upon the conflicting parties to stop the hostilities and settle the existing differences by way of negotiations.

IA “Jahon”

The New Year festivities are continuing nationwide. In his congratulatory address to the people of Uzbekistan President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov said that big successes were achieved first and foremost thanks to the selfless and tireless work of our people regardless of their nationality, religion and belief, to their solid confidence in their future, preservation of peace and stability, inter-national and civil accord which has been reigning in the country.

According to the local news agencies, at the moment, high enthusiasm and inspiration reign at the New Year festivities at squares, parks, as well as art palaces all around Uzbekistan.

Such festive outdoor-fetes are underway at the main square of the capital – Mustakillik. The square is now overcrowded with children, their parents and guests of Tashkent. Festive performances and music programs that are taking place at the square from morning till night with participation of the masters of variety art, circus and dancing art make the winter break of children interesting.

The children enjoy the theatrical music performance “Hello, New Year!” staged by the group from the Alisher Navoi State Academic Theater of Uzbekistan at the well-decorated scene of Gafur Gulaym Recreation Park, as well as the play “Fairy tails call for kindness” staged by the Head department of culture and sports of the city of Tashkent. The joyous games with participation of Grandfather Frost and Snow Maiden, fascinating quizzes add yet more fun and good mood to the holiday.

“The New Year allows to sum up the outcomes to the outgoing year as well as draw up plans for the future,” said the fresh graduate Zahro Aripova. “Last year was full of intensive and unforgettable events for me. I have earned the bachelor’s diploma from the Tashkent Medical Academy.”

“2008 was successful for our Charity house,” said Vladimir Kredich, the attendee of the Tashkent Charity House No.22. “I am very happy that I became a prize-winner of the Republican show-contest of rocket-modeling. And our Charity house was overhauled and refurbished with new equipments, educational literature and computers.”

The New Year festivities are continuing in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, as well as, as much as all around Uzbekistan. The charity events are also underway nationwide. As a tradition, at these days the Uzbek people go to see the less well-off families, people in need of social protection and render a comprehensive support.