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LATEST NEWS : JUNE 2008

The Committee for Labor and Social Affairs of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan held a seminar on the legal framework for prevention and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It was organized jointly with the AIDS Control Project in Central Asia, UzA reported.

The event, attended by deputies of the Legislative Chamber, heads of relevant ministries, departments, organizations and institutions, as well as medical personnel, was led by the committee chairman I.Nasriyev.

Vice Speaker of the Legislative Chamber A.Rustamov, Deputy Health Minister A.Komilov and others noted that the legal framework to regulate relations associated with HIV infection were established in the country.

In particular, a large-scale work is being condicted on the implementation of the 1999 Law “On prevention of the disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)”. A number of regulatory and institutional instruments have been adopted and measures are carried out to prevent the epidemic.

There country currently has a State nationwide network consisting of 15 AIDS centres.

The meeting participants expressed views and suggestions to improve the legislation related to this sphere and its unification with international standards and requirements.
 

Fourteenth plenary session of the Senate of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan opened in Tashkent on June 27, 2008, UzA reported. It was attended by invited members of the Cabinet and heads of state bodies, whose activities are relevant to the matters included in the agenda of the event. The meeting was led by the chairman of the Senate Iigizar Sobirov.

The senators began their work by considering the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On accession of Uzbekistan to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (New York, 31 October 2003)”. It was noted that the law was adopted on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The UN Convention against Corruption is a universal international legal instruments aimed at preventing and combating corruption, at both national and international levels. The objectives of the Convention are to promote and strengthen measures aimed at effectively preventing and combating corruption and encouraging international cooperation and technical assistance in this area.

The provisions of the Convention apply to activities related to the prevention, investigation and prosecution of corruption offences as well as the arrest, confiscation and return of proceeds. The Convention also regulates the mutual legal assistance and extradition of the perpetrators of crimes of corruption.

In Uzbekistan, a large-scale work to combat crimes in public administration and in the economic sphere is being carried out. The country’s legislation and the enforcement practice in this area meets the generally accepted rules and standards. Accession to the Convention is a manifestation of the commitment of Uzbekistan to the course of deepening democratic reforms and protection of human rights. The law approved by the senators will further improve the judicial system and public service, as well as increase the attractiveness of the country’s economy to foreign investments.

Then senators then reviewed and approved the Law “On amendments and supplements to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On social protection of disabled persons in the Republic of Uzbekistan”. They noted that the law was passed in accordance with clause 4.1. of the State programme “Year of social protection”, approved by the resolution of the President of Uzbekistan on 23 January 2007.

The act is a continuation of the systematic and comprehensive measures taken to protect the social, property and other interests of persons with disabilities. The main purpose of the changes and additions to the law on social protection of the disabled is improvement of conditions of social protection of disabled persons, expansion of their rights and guarantees to working, modern living and medical conditions, as well as development of norms and legal mechanisms in accordance with the requirements of international treaties ratified by the republic . The law was approved by the senators.

The senators also considered the Law “On securities market”, adopted on the basis of the resolutino of the President of Uzbekistan dated 27 September 2006 “On measures to further develop the securities market”. It was said that the main purpose of the law was to regulate the system of market relations in the field of wid introduction of new and innovative financial instruments for implementing the opportunities and advantages of the securities market. The law meets modern requirements, conditions and priorities for further financial market liberalization and economic modernization.

The endorsement of the document will facilitate and strengthen the guarantees of the rights of investors for their confidence and free activity in the securities market, broad mobilization of investment opportunities of the country, development of private property and increasing its share in the economy, as well as healthy competitive environment in the securities market. This law was also approved by the senators.

The members of the Senate approved the Law “On amending article 224 of the Criminal Code”. The main purpose of the law is to prevent violations of rules of stay in the Republic of Uzbekistan by foreign nationals and stateless persons. In particular, article 224 reinforces the responsibility of foreign citizens or stateless persons for living in Uzbekistan without the residence documents or with invalid documents, failure to comply with the established order of temporary or permanent residence, travelling or choosing the place of residence, failure to depart at the end of residence term and violation of the order of transit through the territory of Uzbekistan. According to senators, the law will improve the effectiveness of measures to counteract illegal migration and responsibilities of foreign nationals and stateless persons for compliance with legislation on the rules of stay in the Republic of Uzbekistan.

While reviewing the Law “On introducing changes and additions to the Air Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan”, the senators noted that its main purpose was to bring individual articles of the code in line with the requirements of standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. It also regulates the basic rules of flights of the aviation of ministries, departments, enterprises and organizations, as well as foreign users who perform flights in the airspace of Uzbekistan, and expands the list of transportation documents processed on paper or electronically. The law was passed by the senators.

The members of the parliament’s upper chamber considered the Law “On changes and amendments to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On inventions, utility models and industrial designs”. The senators stressed that the main purpose of this act was to create favourable conditions for small business development, promoting economic development and reducing the initial cost of developers to receive legal protection through imposition of pending expertise of patent applications, as well as rules related to temporary legal protection the applicant of a published application receives.

The changes and additions remove the existing restrictions from the list of objects that may be granted legal protection as inventions, impose criteria emphasizing the technical nature of the invention and contain provisions aimed at protecting the rights of the third parties, using industrial property in good faith during the suspension of the patent. The law was approved by the senators.

Another approved document was the Law “On ratification of the protocol to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in persons, especially women and children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against transnational organized crime (New York, 15 November 2000)”. To date, the Protocol was ratified by 116 nations. The Protocol envisages implementation by the participating state of complex activities to combat trafficking in persons (preventing trafficking, assisting the victims, prosecution of traffickers, cooperation with other participating nations), as well as improvement of the national mechanisms in this regard.

The accession to the Protocol will help to further improve the system of protection of human rights and freedoms, provide legal and other assistance to victims of trafficking, adopt additional measures for their rehabilitation and social protection and develop international cooperation in this field.

The chairman of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan made a report on the bank’s activities in 2007.

The senators also reviewed and approved other legal acts.
 

The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Iran hosted a briefing on the economic reforms underway in Uzbekistan. Representatives of official, scientific and research, analytic circles of Iran, as well as diplomatic corps, business people and journalists attended the gathering.

It was noted that the economic growth in Uzbekistan is based on gradual implementation of policy of systemic market reforms, attraction of foreign investments, deep structural transformation of the economy, modernization and renovation of production, establishment of new export-oriented companies, rapid development of business and private entrepreneurship.

Speaking of the economic transformations in Uzbekistan, independent expert, teacher of the Tehran University, Dr. Bakhrom Amirakhmadiyon said that during his visits to Uzbekistan he saw the efforts of Uzbekistan's leadership being supported by the population, which, in turn, provides for the success of ongoing reforms in country.

He also underscored that Uzbekistan was increasing the export of goods, which stirs up the rapid development of the country's industrial sector.

President of Macro Economy Consulting Group M.Hoshgu also highly assessed the economic indicators of Uzbekistan and said that not every state can brag such a rapid pace of growth as Uzbekistan does.

Iran's leading English language newspapers - Tehran Times and Iran News have featured articles about the briefing, Jahon information agency reports.
 

A press conference on the introduction of the World Bank's new assistance strategy for Uzbekistan for 2008-2010 was held in Tashkent on June 26, 2008, UzReportcom reported. WB Country Director for Central Asia Annette Dixon presented the new strategy.

The previous strategy allocated Uzbekistan some US$210 million, soft loans are given by the World Bank on very advantageous terms. Having been satisfied with the implementation of previous assistance strategy, the Word Bank Board of Directors launched a new one.

Representatives of the World Bank will hold negotiations soon with the government of Uzbekistan to discuss the amount of funds being allocated in line with the new strategy.

The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors on 12 June discussed a new Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Uzbekistan focused on basic human needs and improving living standards. The CAS is a document that details the World Bank Group's work plan to assist client countries in achieving their development goals.

The new CAS for Uzbekistan covers the period 2008-2011 and plans on contributing to the financing of 2-3 public investment projects per year, as well as support to the private sector, through the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector lending arm of the World Bank Group.

The Bank Group's new strategy is designed to support the Welfare Improvement Strategy (WIS) adopted by Uzbek Government last summer. Specifically, by 2011, it aims at achieving measurable progress in the following areas: Enabling an environment for shared growth; increasing income and economic opportunities in rural areas; improving service delivery for better health, education, and water supply to population; improving the business environment for the private sector; and more efficient environmental management, disaster risk management and global public goods provision, including regional cooperation. In addition to lending, the World Bank Group (WBG) support also includes policy advice in these key areas.

"Our goal is to improve the quality of life of the people of Uzbekistan," said Annette Dixon. "After extensive consultations with the government and civil society, we are confident that Bank's financial and knowledge support can help make a significant difference."

During consultations for the preparation of this CAS, the Government expressed its broad agreement with the proposed priority framework for the Bank Group's assistance under the CAS. Discussions with civil society representatives were also very supportive of the proposed strategy and participants expressed their keen desire to see the WBG continue and increase its support and activities in Uzbekistan. Overall, the consultations indicated that the new CAS's focus on basic human needs and improving living standards is aligned with the country's needs. Many stakeholders also solicited increased involvement of the WBG in improving the enabling environment for development of the private sector.

The proposed CAS framework will allow the consolidation of results, expansion of the areas of engagement, and the strengthening of the role of the Bank as a trusted partner. The CAS provides for a regular review process to assess whether the target outcomes are being achieved.

As of now, the impact of World Bank projects in Uzbekistan includes nearly 44,000 people who now have access to safe water and over 800,000 who have improved quality and quantity water in South Karakalpakstan; 90% of covered population have access to water and 75-87% satisfied with water supply services; over 5,000 farmers benefited from improved irrigation; over 11 million people living in rural areas have had access to medical services through over 2,300 improved and refurbished primary care centers; the incidence of infectious diseases has reduced.

Uzbekistan joined the World Bank in 1992. The World Bank's mission in the country is to improve people's livelihoods through being a partner in economic reforms, supporting the modernization of the country's social sectors and infrastructure, and sharing its knowledge and experience with the government and the people of Uzbekistan. Total World Bank commitments to Uzbekistan amount to US$650 million.
 

During a charitable action held on 17-25 June in Tashkent, Uzbek and South Korean doctors operated almost 60 children, UzA reported.

Specialists of the Bundang clinics of the Seoul National University have visited Uzbekistan’s National emergency medical aid scientific center for several years.

They provide help to children from low-income families and orphanages with inborn illnesses of palate, arms, legs, chest, etc.
 

Fourteenth plenary session of the Senate of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan opens today in Tashkent, UzA reported.

The members of the upper chamber of the parliament will discuss a number of laws and questions aimed at playing an important role in the consequent solution of problems of democratization and renewal of society, reforming and modernization of the country.
On 26 June, all six committees of the Senate held sessions to discuss issues related to the agenda of the 14th plenary session.

The senators noted that the laws to be considered at the forthcoming session were directed at deepening social and economic reforms, creation of favorable conditions for development of small business, securities market, social and scientific-technical spheres.

The results of work of senators in the expired period of 2008 were also considered at the sessions, and measures on further improvement of activity of senatorial committees were adopted.
 

The presentations Uzbekistan’s tourism potential has been initiated by the Forum of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan Fund in two different countries, ‘Narodnoye Slovo’ newspaper reported.

First presentation was held at the Ninth Moscow International Tourist Fair. More than 1,000 tourist firms and companies from 50 countries have gathered in Russian capital.

The guests of the Uzbek potential have enjoyed the national fabrics, ceramics, jewelry and other samples of applied art. They also learnt about the famous places of sightseeing, as well as the activity of the Fund. The presentation of newly established “Kelajak tour” Bureau for International Youth Tourism and Cooperation of “Kelajak ovozi” (‘Voice of the future’) Center for Youth Initiatives has been held at the event.

The presentation of Uzbekistan was held at the Fourth Chinese International Fair of products of cultural industry as well. More than 1600 companies from 46 countries attended the gathering with Uzbekistan being the only Central Asian country to attend the event.

Uzbekistan’s tourist potential drew a significant interest of participants. Along with the economic and investment potential of the country, the guests have learnt about the culture and history of Uzbekistan.
 

Central Election Commission of Uzbekistan held its regular session on June 24, 2008, UzA reported. The session was chaired by commission chairman Mirza-Ulugbek Abdusalomov.

In accordance with article 4 of the Law on the status of the deputy of the Legislative Chamber and the member of the Senate, the issue of authorities of some senators was considered.

The commission also discussed its work in the first half of 2008 and approved the plan of activities for the second half of the year.

Besides, reports of some commission members of the carried out activities were considered.
 

Uzbekistan is preparing to celebrate the 2200th anniversary of its capital - Tashkent. Beauty and charm of the city, along with its sublime buildings, wonderful climate, shady and cool squares fascinate each and every one who comes to Uzbekistan.

It is a busy time now for Tashkent since it is witnessing a real influx of foreign tourists. UzA correspondents asked some of them about their impressions from the trip to Uzbekistan and notably to Tashkent.

“I see the big changes every time I come to Uzbekistan,” said Wang Tyezyun of China. “It is wonderful to see the country living in peace and stability, its people prosperous. I would say that it is a result of wide-scale reforms underway in Uzbekistan and aimed at a single goal – providing for the well-being of people”.

“I know that next year Tashkent will celebrate its 2200th years anniversary. For over the centuries this ancient city has been astounding the entire world with its monuments of architecture, great scholars, hospitality and friendliness of its people”, Mr. Tyezyun concluded.

“This is my first visit to Uzbekistan,” Katarzina Konarska from Poland said. “I’ve read a lot about the history and culture of your country. But I have never expected to see such a wonderful country, amazing people, breathtaking monuments. It has all exceeded my expectations. Tashkent is amazing. I truly envy the people who live on this ancient and beautiful country”.

Taner Guven from Turkey is also for the first time in Tashkent. “I know that the people of this country have contributed to the development of humanity and I heard that Tashkent is famous as the Gate of the East,” he said. “But it is much more beautiful than I've ever imagined. I visited all famous places of sightseeing, monuments of architecture and sacred places of worship. I especially enjoyed the complex of Hazrati Imam. Many nations of the world could adopt such virtues of Uzbek people as diligence, kindness and adherence to the national traditions.
 

The conference on the problems of Aral Sea and overcoming the consequences of ecological crisis in the area adjacent to Aral Sea took place at JICA Global Plaza-Hiroo International Complex in Tokyo, ‘Jahon’ agency reported.

The gathering was organized by Japan’s Ministry of Environment, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Water Forum, the Research Fund of the Japan Institute for Global Infrastructure and the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Tokyo.

The participants have noted that the process of drying of Aral Sea caused a chain of social, economic and demographic problems, which have global character. They also dwelled upon the measures taken by the government of Uzbekistan on rehabilitation of ecological situation, construction of small local reservoirs and water supply systems, providing for healthcare services, enhancement of social well-being of population of this area.

The outcomes of the international conference on Aral problems which took place in Tashkent in March this year have also been presented at the gathering.

Addressing the conference professor of the Tokyo University Mikiyasu Nakayama suggested that reasonable use of water and energy recourses in Central Asia, as well as coordinated policy towards the regulation of the largest cross-border rivers’ flow can be an effective way of tackling Aral crisis. “Central Asian countries should come to terms on the principles of using water and energy resources. When unilateral actions of states can negatively influence the well-being of millions of people in neighboring countries concerted principles of water utilization can serve as a reliable guarantee of mutual understanding and respect,” he said.

According to Mr. Nakayama, corresponding UN conventions can serve as a basis for mutually beneficial agreements while a number of leading world countries stand ready to broker this intensive dialog between the countries of the region.

The expert at the Japan Water Forum Kunio Kavamoto said that the ecological crisis of Aral Sea was mistakenly considered as exclusively regional problem.

“The issues of water and energy cooperation of Central Asian countries and rehabilitation of Aral Sea were discussed for the first time at the Asian continent during the First Water Summit of Asia-Pacific in December last year, “ he said. “I believe that high level discussions over this issue on the level of Asia-Pacific which is one of the fastest growing regions of the world will attract even more funds and capacities for tackling the crisis”.

Special photo exhibition demonstrating the current ecological situation in Aral Sea was organized within the framework of conference.
 

President of Uzbekistan signed a resolution on 23 June 2008 “On creation of the Research centre for democratization and liberalization of the judicial legislation and guaranteeing the independence of the judicial system”, UzA reported.

In the recent years, Uzbekistan’s judicial-legal system has gone through a process of deep reformation and liberalization. This year alone, a number of measures to further democratize judicial and legal sphere has been implemented.

Since the beginning of 2008, laws on abolishment of the death penalty and the introduction of the Habeas Corpus institute came into force, as well as changes have been introduced in a number of laws aimed at liberalizing the criminal punishment system, democratization of the courts and other law enforcement agencies.

The systematic work to reform the judicial system is inextricably linked with the processes of democratic renewal of society, since large-scale democratic reforms currently carried out in the economic, political, humanitarian and other spheres of the country cannot be implemented without liberalization and democratization of the judicial system.

The President’s Resolution “On creation of the Research centre for democratization and liberalization of the judicial legislation and guaranteeing the independence of the judicial system” is a continuation of the deep democratic reforms in the judiciary and legal system in Uzbekistan, aimed at improving the judicial practices, strengthening the authority of the courts and their independence, raising the efficiency of judicial activities to ensure the rule of law and the protection of the rights and interests of the people.

The resolution states that the new institution, created under the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan, is firstly a research center, whose task is not simply holding seminars and conferences. It is a functional structure in the Supreme Court system, which has the necessary authority to deal with its main tasks: analysis of the state and preparation of proposals for liberalization and democratization, as well as ensuring the independence of the judiciary.

The Research center is directly subordinated to the chairman of the Supreme Court and works in close collaboration with the divisions of the Supreme Court, Supreme Economic Court, Justice Ministry and other government agencies.

The newly created center will also work to develop cooperation with international and foreign organizations, analysis and formulation of for implementation of universally recognized principles and norms of international law in judicial activity. Implementation of this task will allow using the experience of developed countries and international legal institutions in reforming the judicial system and improving the related legislation.
 

OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb sent a letter to President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, in which he expressed gratitude for warm exchange of opinions and hospitality during his visit to Uzbekistan on June 4, 2008, UzA reported.

“Strengthening OSCE’s cooperation with the Central Asian countries is one of the key priorities of the Finnish Chairmanship. Besides, the visit was a good opportunity to develop the potential of our bilateral relations,” Stubb wrote.

“OSCE strives to assist Uzbekistan in its efforts to continue reforms and expresses readiness to support the implementations of the OSCE obligations in order to further strengthen the security and stability in the region. OSCE welcomes further strengthening of the cooperation between Uzbekistan and the OSCE,” he said.

“Civil society, human rights, supremacy of the law and the freedom of the press are the main values of the OSCE. Uzbekistan’s progress in promoting and protecting human rights and the supremacy of the law has a positive feedback, including the abolishment of the death penalty and the introduction of the Habeas Corpus institute. In this respect, independent representatives of the civil society play an important role. Uzbekistan and the OSCE have a long history of interaction in the issues of the role of women in the social and political life, as well as in civil society issues. Our organization hopes this cooperation will continue and expand.”

The OSCE Chairman-in-Office also noted that his organization welcomed the provision of the access to prisons to the International Committee of the Red Cross and the ratification by Uzbekistan of the Convention on the worst forms of child labor.

“OSCE expresses readiness to support Uzbekistan in reaching our common goals. I hope my visit will serve to strengthening relations and dialogue between Uzbekistan and the OSCE, as well as relations between Uzbekistan and Finland,” Alexander Stubb concluded.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov visited Bukhara and Kashkadarya regions on June 20-21, 2008 to familiarize himself with the socioeconomic reforms there, UzA reported.

The head of the state started his trip from the visit to the Husen Bolta Zamini farm in Vobkent district of Bukhara region.

At the meeting with farmers and other representatives of the region, Islam Karimov spoke about the improvement of the living level of the rural residents, protection of rights and interests of the farmers and their support.

Today there are more than 15,000 farms in Bukhara region. The local farmers plan to sell 350,000 tons of grain to the state this year.

Issues of providing wide support to the young people were also discussed at the meeting.

Almost 540 general education schools function in the region currently, and the number of academic lyceums and professional colleges is increasing.

After the meeting, Islam Karimov visited the memorial complex of Bahauddin Naqshbandi, the great scientists and thinker.

Familiarizing himself with the complex, the President said honoring the memory of the great ancestors and studying their heritage was showing care about the future.

During the last year’s trip to Bukhara, the head of the state voiced the need to create the new city center here. The project is currently being implemented.

The city center will occupy a territory of over 50 hectares and include the regional administration and other buildings, fountains and green zones.

The park square to be created here should become the favorite site of the local people, the President said.

In Kashkadarya region, President Islam Karimov also got acquainted with the farmers’ activities and the construction works.

The head of the state visited the rebuilt Geologist stadium in Karshi, the region’s administrative center. The stadium has been reorganized into a cultural and sports center and can accommodate 8,000 people. The center includes, among others, a closed swimming pool and a tennis court.

Islam Karimov met the members of the women’s football team Sevinch, children going in for volleyball and gymnastics and their trainers.

On the second day of the visit, the President visited the Shohruh Eshqulov farm and the Beshkent farm in Karshi district.

At the meeting with farmers, the head of the state drew the attention to the need to harvest the grain in the shortest terms possible and without losses, as well as the issues related to cotton growing.

The farmers of Kashkadarya region have harvested about 360,000 tons of grain to date, and the target is 750,000 tons.

The President stressed that receiving high harvests depended not only on the farmers, but also on the service and supply structures.
 

Uzbekistan's state-owned power utility UzbekEnergo has called for a new tender to choose the general contractor of a modernization project of the Tashkent State District Power Plant (GRES) worth over US$200 million, with the announcement of the tender published in Uzbek newspapers, UzReportcom reported.

Applications to bid at the tender must be submitted by 30 June in line with the terms of the new tender. Results of the previous tender were annulled, a source in the UzbekEnergo management told Interfax.

Earlier reports said that the last tender was called for in July 2007. A Chinese and a Russian consortium led by Harbin Power Engineering Co. Ltd and by Intertekhelectro, respectively, got through all tender stages.

The UzbekEnergo management said earlier that China's offer was the most attractive, but it is the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), the sponsor of the project, that was to make a final decision. The JBIC, however, did not appoint the winner.

The turnkey modernization project of the Tashkent GRES provides for the construction of a new steam and gas energy unit with a capacity of 370 megawatts. The steam and gas energy unit will not only boost the GRES' output but will also improve technical-economic and ecological indices of the plant.
 

The Uzbek-Lithuanian intergovernmental commission for trade and economic cooperation held a session in Tashkent on 19 June, UzA reported.

The forum was attended by representatives of various ministries and departments and companies of both countries operating in foreign economic relations, trade, fuel and energy sector, banking and finance, agriculture and water resources, foodstuffs, chemical and light industry, transport and communications, building materials, metallurgy, tourism, furniture industry and other sectors.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Minister for Foreign Economic Relations, Investment and Trade of Uzbekistan, commission co-chairman A.Kamalov noted that the cooperation between the two countries had been expanding in all areas. The visit of the President Islam Karimov in September 2002 to the Republic of Lithuania created new opportunities for raising bilateral relations to a higher level.

Lithuania is one of the important partners of Uzbekistan. Cooperation between the two nations is developing intensively in many areas. Regular meetings of the economic cooperation commission shows that both sides are equally interested in strengthening economic relations. In 2007, the two countries’ mutual trade turnover amounted to USD 72.4 million.

Favorable investment climate and the ongoing process of privatization in Uzbekistan draws the attention of many foreign businessmen, in particular those of Lithuania. More than 20 joint ventures operate in Uzbekistan with participation of Lithuanian investors. They work in such fields as textile, agricultural products processing, building materials, footwear production, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and others.

Uzbekistan exports to Lithuania plastic products, petrochemical products, mechanical equipment, cotton, black metal and horticultural products. Imports from Lithuania include transport vehicles, dairy products and confectionery, sugar, chemical fiber, rubber, furniture, etc.
 

International conference on Habeas Corpus as an important guarantee of human rights in the sphere of justice took off in Tashkent. The gathering was held within the framework of events dedicated to the 60th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UzA reported.

Ministry of Justice of Uzbekistan, Supreme Court, National Center for Human Rights and Germany-based Fredrick Ebert and Conrad Adenauer Funds organized the conference. Deputies of Legislative Chamber and Senate of Uzbekistan, staff-members of the Office of General Prosecutor, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Association of lawyers, as well as the representatives of various international organizations attended the event.

Chairman of Regional Office of Fredrick Ebert Fund V.Lapins and the Judge of Municipal Administrative Court of Hamburg, Germany, K.Khernekamp delivered a speech on Habeas Corpus Institute and its role in human rights protection, as well as the international experience in this sphere.

The participants noted that Uzbekistan effectively implements the experience of Habeas Corpus in meeting the citizens’ interests. They also exchanged the views on ensuring the constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens and, above all, protecting them from illegal criminal prosecution and interference in private life.
 

On June 17, 2008 more than fifty specialists from the countries of Eastern Europe, Caucuses and Central Asia (EECCA) gathered in Tashkent to take part at the annual meeting of Regulatory Environmental Programme Implementation Network (REPIN), UzA reported.

At the moment the EECCA countries are experiencing number of ecological problems, such as air pollution, soil desertification, loss of bio-diversity, and lack of water resources. Moreover, the crisis of Aral Sea is yet another factor that aggravating the ecological problems of Central Asian countries.

Majority of these problems has cross-border nature. Thus, it is especially important for the countries to pursue their own environmental policies while cooperating in this sphere with other players at both regional and national levels. Tashkent meeting is aimed to exchange the views and establish relations with partners on various aspects of environmental policy, as well as discuss the issues of funding this sphere.

The delegates noted that coordination of activity in dealing with the environmental issues is vital for Uzbekistan. The three-day international forum also includes a seminar, which will assess the works undertaken by EECCA countries to reform the indicators of regulatory and enforcement activities.
 

Since the first days of independence, formation of healthy families and improving the health of women and children has been among the priority policies of Uzbekistan, “Jahon” agency reported. To meet these challenges, since 1998 specific measures have been implemented for early detection of congenital and other pathologies with pregnant women and newborns to prevent the birth of the disabled since childhood.

The main focus was on creating specialized medical system that provides healthcare-genetic help to the population, screening of expectant mothers and newborn babies, aimed at creating conditions for the birth of healthy children.

During this period, the Ministry of Health in conjunction with the Fund “Soglom avlod uchun” in Tashkent and regional centers have organized and equipped with modern diagnostic equipment 11 centers of screening mothers and children.

As a result of development of the state system of early detection of congenital and hereditary diseases among newborns and pregnant women, examination of newborns increased from 5.3% in 1999 to 83% in 2007, and the birth of children with congenital anomalies decreased by 14% in 2007 compared to 2000.

At the same time, Syrdarya and Jizzakh regions still have no screening centers. Among the problems requiring attention is raising the awareness of the general population, especially the youth, on the importance of primary prevention of congenital and hereditary diseases.

Given the enormous importance of the matter, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan signed a resolution on 18 June 2008, which approved the State program of early detection of congenital and hereditary diseases to prevent the birth of the disabled since childhood for the period of 2008-2012. Its adoption is an important link in the implementation of the state program “Year of the youth”.

Among the wide range of tasks envisaged by the program is improvement of the primary prevention of congenital and hereditary diseases. The awareness raising activities are going to increase, including round tables, conferences and meetings.

The document also envisages equipping the national and regional screening centers with modern equipment. Besides, regional screening centers are going to be set up in Syrdarya and Jizzakh regions.

There are plans to provide the regional screening centers with high-resolution ultrasound scanners, refrigerating and other modern equipment. By the end of this year, all screening centers will be equipped with electronic devices for processing biological material, which should significantly speed up the diagnosis process.

Providing screening centers will special transport will ensure timely delivery of blood samples to screening centers in remote areas, expand the coverage of the population with modern examination methods and ease the work of identifying patients with hereditary diseases.

By 2012, it is expected that the coverage of the newborns with screening will reach 90%, and this will ensure timely identification of the most common hereditary diseases.

The state program also envisages wider provision of children with special nutrition and medicines. If in 2003-2007, USD 951,100 was spent for these purposes, the new program stipulates spending of some USD 1.7 million in 2008-2012.

Measures have been outlined also to raise the qualification of the professionals working at screening centers, including their training abroad and holding seminars and conferences with visiting foreign specialists.

In general, to implement the program, UZS 710.3 million and USD 15 million will be allocated.
 

Office of Microsoft for Central Asia and Kazakhstan has officially announced the release of Microsoft Windows Vista in Uzbek, the Pravda Vostoka newspaper reported.

This is the first time when Microsoft product has been localized on the territory of Uzbekistan. Free version of Windows Vista in Uzbek will be available for the subscribers of licensed operation system on Microsoft’s official site.

Localization of Microsoft Windows Vista is seen not only as the impetus for the development of local IT-sector but also as a significant support to enhance the computer skills of people. The new version of Vista will allow advanced PC users work more effectively with the software in their native language and for some others it will open ABC of computer skills.

Microsoft Windows Vista in Uzbek has been released with the support of Communications and Information Agency of Uzbekistan in cooperation with Spells Company - Microsoft’s partner in Uzbekistan.
 

The delegation of the Republic of Singapore led by the President of Islamic Religious Council of this country Khoja Alami Musa is paying a visit to Uzbekistan, “Jahon” agency reported. In the course of travel its members have had talks with their counterparts in the Committee of Religious Affairs and Muslims Council of Uzbekistan. They are also to visit historical cities of Samarkand and Bukhara.

Despite a heavy schedule, the delegation spared a time to speak about the significance of this visit.

“Singapore is the multinational country with the representatives of more than one hundred nationalities and dozens of religious,” Khoja Alami Musa said. “We’ve held very productive meetings in the Committee of Religious Affairs and Muslims Council of Uzbekistan. We also had the honor to see one of the dearest jewels of Muslim world – Koran of Usman”.

“Relations between our countries are developing at a rapid pace,” Mr. Musa continued. “Uzbekistan is also a multinational country where people of hundreds of nationalities and dozens of confessions live in peace and accord. We are pleased to see that Islam secures a very important place in the lives of people here. Muslims of two countries maintain close relations and do all they can to further develop our friendly ties”.

“Both countries have a lot of experience and knowledge in promoting and preserving Islamic values. If we share this experience with each other it will benefit not only our bilateral cooperation, but also entire Muslim community,” Mr. Musa concluded.

Mufti Said Isa Mukhammad Bin Semait would rather spoke about his impressions about Uzbekistan.

“I am happy to visit your ancient country,” he said. “It is the Homeland of great Muslim scholars and religious figures. Being a cradle for ancient civilizations, this country is also known for its centuries-old cities, such as Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, where we can find perfectly preserved monuments and sacred places of Islamic culture. Any Muslim would be honored to have an opportunity to visit these cities.”

“During the years of independence Uzbekistan has been paying a particular attention to the restoration of Islamic religion, national traditions and spiritual values of the Uzbek people,” Mr. Bin Semait said. “We have been thrilled to see the Koran of Usman - one of the most beloved heritages of all Muslims. We are also looking forward to visit the burial-vault of Imam al-Bukhari in Samarkand, one of the brightest scholars of Islamic world”, he concluded.

For several years Kamolot Public Youth Movement of Uzbekistan alongside with the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Special Education, office of LG Electronics Company to Uzbekistan has been awarding the students with the LG Grant, “Jahon” agency reported.

The main goal of LG Grant is to render assistance to talented young men and women in pursuit of their goals and aspirations, help them manifest their potential, support those who study on a contract basis.

More than 500 students from Tashkent and Samarkand have applied for the contest. Eight students with the best grades for all disciplines, active participation in social life and excellent proficiency in foreign languages have secured the LG Grant.

According to the press-service of Central Council of Kamolot Public Youth Movement, upon the initiative of organizers the geography of contest has been expanded. Thanks to this students of Navoi and Bukhara provinces have also had an opportunity to participate in the contests this year. On the outcomes of the local level contests seven students have been awarded with LG Grant.
 

On June 11, 2008 the Exhibition of people’s applied art of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia took off at the Alisher Navoi State Academic Big Theater.

The event was organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Uzbekistan jointly with the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, “Jahon” agency reported.

The Saudi Minister of Culture and Information Iyad Ibn Ameen Madani participated at the festive opening ceremony. The Saudi folk group performed at it, as well.

“The friendly relations between our states trace the centuries-old history. We hope that the relations of Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia will further gradually develop. I should say that such cultural events promote further consolidation of friendship and cultural ties between our people”, Iyad Ibn Ameen Madani said.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of the first countries that recognized the sovereignty of Uzbekistan. President Islam Karimov’s visit to Saudi Arabia in April 1992 laid foundation to the cooperation between the two states.

In 1992 Uzbekistan opened its consulate in Jeddah and in 1995 – its embassy in Riyadh. Since 1997 the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been operating in Tashkent.

Relations between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia are gradually developing in the framework of Organization of the Islamic Conference, Islamic Development Bank and Arab Coordination Group. Last year the heads of those organizations visited Uzbekistan and held talks.

During this visit to Uzbekistan the Saudi delegation is expected to learn about the rich historic and spiritual heritage of Uzbekistan, attend sacred places in Samarkand, Bukhara, Shakhrisabz and Karshi. It will stay in Uzbekistan until June 15.
 

The presentation on the investment and economic potential of Uzbekistan was held at the Kortreik city in Belgium, “Jahon” agency reported. Kortreik and Tashkent are known to have established the partnership relations.

In 2000 the monument to the Uzbek great ancestor Abu Ali ibn Sino was unveiled in this city.

The event was organized by the Embassy of Uzbekistan to Belgium along with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of West Flanders and Kortreik City Municipality. The representatives of the regional, business, scientific and social circles of the Belgian region of Flanders, various local firms and companies, sectoral associations and journalists participated at it.

During the presentation those gathered were informed on the social and economic development of Uzbekistan and conditions created in the country for foreign businesses and investments, as much as perspective directions of cooperation.

The participants of the presentation noted the fact that Uzbekistan was famous among the Belgian community and especially the business community as a country with rich economic potential and attractive for comprehensive development of trade and economic cooperation.

In particular, the chairman of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of West Flanders J.Libeer has said that a number of Belgian companies in the region have already established close cooperation with the Uzbek partners but most of them would also like to engage in trade and economic cooperation with firms and companies in Uzbekistan.

On the outcomes of presentation the sides signed Memorandum of cooperation between the chambers of commerce and industry of Uzbekistan and West Flanders.
 

Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan will hold its 14th plenary session on 28-29 June in Tashkent, Senate press service told UzA.

The upper chamber of the Parliament will consider a number of laws, including the laws:

• on introducing changes and addenda in the law on social protection of the disabled,
• on securities market,
• on introducing changes in the article 224 of the Criminal Code,
• on introducing changes and addenda in the Air Code.

The senators will also consider the reports on the activity of the Central Bank and the Clearings Chamber, as well as the information of the justice minister on the implementation of the laws by the state, law-enforcement and controlling bodies in 2007.
 

Radiology is the sphere that includes modern technologies of diagnostics and treatment of diseases based on the cutting-edge achievements of medicine which are undertaken with the help of ultrasonic apparatus, X-ray, computer and MR(I)-scan.

Introduction of these methods into the practice of healthcare allows for timely revealing the ailments, overcoming disablement and returning the patients to a healthy life.

According to UzA the participants of the scientific and practical conference of radiologists in Tashkent spoke on the above said issues. The event was organized by the Ministry of Healthcare and Association of Radiologists of Uzbekistan with the participation of local scholars and specialists as well as the experts from Russia, the Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Austria and Germany.

First Deputy Minister of Healthcare of Uzbekistan A.Ikramov noted that profound reforms underway in the country in the sphere of healthcare make for bettering the quality of medical services, consolidating the material and technical bases of patient care institutions, and raising the level of cadre skills.

As a part of the gathering the participants are reported to have listened to reports on theory and practice of using the innovations of radiology in various directions of medicine, including the cardiology, surgery, urology, oncology and gastroenterology.

The seminar training for the young doctors is also expected to be held with the participation of leading specialists of Uzbekistan and foreign countries, according to the report.
 

On June 9-10 this year the International conference “On freedom of mass media in modern democratic society” was held in Tashkent.

The Civil Society Studies Institute jointly with the Regional Policy Fund and the National Center for Human Rights of Uzbekistan organized the event, according to the Uzbek news agencies.

Experts, analysts and journalists from 18 countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Egypt, Israel, Indonesia, China, Kuwait, Malaysia, Poland, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the U.S., Turkey, the Ukraine, France, Japan as well as diplomats and international organizations accredited in Uzbekistan are reported to have taken part at the conference.

The participation of leading specialists from the European and Asian countries, as well as the Americas is a vivid example of growing attention on the part of foreign community to positive transformations now underway in Uzbekistan. During the two-day forum the experts discussed the outstanding issues related to the development of mass media given the conditions of building the democratic society.

“This conference is the start for the good events held in Uzbekistan. Its topic is very important to all 56 OSCE member-states, including the Central Asian countries”, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Miklos Haraszti said at the opening ceremony of the conference. “This conference showcases that Uzbekistan is on the way of liberalization, democratization, demonopolizing the mass media”, he further said.

At the moment, over thousand mass media outlets are operating in Uzbekistan. For over the last ten years the number of mass media increased two-fold and now it makes up 900 newspapers and magazines, four information agencies, tens of television and radio channels, web-based agencies, and news services. Uzbekistan undertook effective measures to develop and support the mass media, provided for the gradual and step-by-step introduction of market mechanisms to the information sphere. The network of non-state radio and television stations, print mass media is dynamically developing.

Taking account the poly-ethnic nature of the Uzbek community the country publishes newspapers in 12 languages, as well as broadcasts television and radio programs in many world languages.

“Uzbekistan truly took very important steps to providing for independence of mass media and journalism”, the publishing president of South Korea-based The Korea Post magazine Lee Kyung-seek said. “It is obvious that the Uzbek people work hard to achieve progress. On the eve of the conference I learnt about the operations of one of the private television companies in Samarkand. I highly appreciate that there is private mass media with a self control and financing in Uzbekistan. That provide for their free activity”.

According to the delegates of the conference, the issues of further improving the mass media operations, consolidating their economic independence, bettering logistics, equipping with latest technologies and tools, training and raising the professional mastery of journalists remain to be on the focus of attention in Uzbekistan.

“I am very glad that I have had an opportunity to participate at this conference. This is a vivid example of Uzbekistan’s strife to extend the international cooperation, including with such international organizations as the OSCE”, member of the U.S.-based National Press Club Peter Hickman said. Representatives of many countries gathered in Tashkent and that speaks about the fact that the world is interested in exchanging experience on the work of mass media in the conditions of democracy.

According to the senior consultant of Deutsche Welle Frank Lemke, the free mass media allows for sustainable development of the country and it fully meets the principles of Universal Declaration of Human Rights. “But any freedom must have some limits and firstly with an aim to provide for the security. Therefore, the mass media are called upon to realize their responsibility for the objectiveness of information they disseminate. Unfortunately, it is not the case in many countries”.

During the conference the foreign experts particularly emphasized that Uzbekistan was liberalizing the mass media in a consistent and step-by-step manner while employing the evolutionary way.

According to Maria Sever of the U.S.-based New Democracies Institute, the balance between the need to maintain the national security, personal immunity rights and mass media freedom is very important. She said that standards of mass media operations must be cohesive with public interests.

“The world community is ready to support the initiative of the Uzbek Leadership to broadly celebrate the 60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Holding such events will promote the development of open dialog, interaction between government and civil society”.

The conference also saw the comprehensive examination of aspects of improving the legal bases of consistent consolidation and liberalization of mass media with consideration of national and foreign experience. Experts and analysts exchanged experience on raising the role and importance of mass media in deepening the democratic reforms aimed at consolidating the institute of civil society.
 

The Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan held its regular session on June 12, 2008, UzA reported. Speaker of the Legislative Chamber Dilorom Tashmuhamedova chaired the meeting.

Deputy chairman of the Committee for labor and social affairs S.Umarov presented the draft law “On mandatory state social insurance against industrial accidents and occupational diseases”. After answering the questions, there was a discussion of the document, in which representatives of all factions of political parties took part. Taking into account the views expressed, the Legislative Chamber adopted the bill in second reading and requested the Committee to finalize it and introduce in the third reading.
The draft law “On introducing changes in article 49 of the Criminal Procedure Code” was presented by the member of the Committee for legislation and judicial and legal issues F.Radjabov. The deputies adopted the law based on proposals and amendments received in the course of its consideration.

The member of the Committee for legislation and judicial and legal affairs F.Kamilov reported on the draft law “On introducing amendments and additions to the Administrative Responsibility Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan”. After answering the questions and a thorough discussion of each article of the document, the Legislative Chamber adopted the law.

The member of the Committee for legislation and judicial and legal affairs A.Ahunova presented the draft law “On introducing amendments and additions to the Economic Procedure Code of Uzbekistan”. After consideration, the deputies adopted the law, taking into account the proposed amendments.

The presentation of the draft law “On the National museum collections and museums” was made the member of the Committee for science, education, culture and sports O.Isayev. During a detailed discussion of each article of the document, the deputies stressed the importance of its adoption for the further development of national culture and adopted the bill in second reading.

The draft law “On introducing amendments and additions to the Criminal Code and the Administrative Responsibility Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was introduced by the member of the Committee for legislation and judicial and legal affairs A.Tuhtashev. Following the discussion, the Legislative Chamber approved the concept of the bill and adopted it in the first reading.

A.Tuhtashev also reported on the draft law “On amending article 85 of the Criminal Code”. The deputies approved the main provisions of the bill and passed it in the first reading.

The member of the Committee for defense and security S.Tursunov presented the draft law “On ratification of the Protocol on amending the Agreement between the member states of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure, signed on 7 June 2002 in the city of St. Petersburg (Russian Federation) (Bishkek, 16 August 2007)”. The deputies approved the document and adopted the law.

The member of the Committee for defence and security S.Ahmedov introduced the draft law “On ratification of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on cooperation in combating organized crime, terrorism and other dangerous types of crimes (Abu Dhabi, 17 March 2008)”. After answering the questions and the detailed discussion of the received proposals, the Legislative Chamber adopted this law.
 

Silkworm breeders of Uzbekistan met the annual contractual obligations and prepared about 23,500 tons of cocoons, UzA reported. This is 2,000 tons more than last year.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources told UzA that in the current season silkworm breeders of the country grew 445,687 boxes of grain, each giving an average of 53 kilograms of cocoons.

This spring, mulberry groves were expanded by 2,600 hectares, and their total area increased to 56,000 hectares.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov sent a letter to Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev on 11 June, in which he expressed condolences on the passing away of the famous writer Chingiz Aitmatov, UzA reported.

“With deep sorrow I accepted the news of the heavy loss in connection with the death of the prominent writer, thinker and sociopolitical figure Chingiz Aitmatov,” Islam Karimov wrote.

“Reflecting the reality in artistic images, deeply affecting our feelings, Chingiz Aitmatov with his works made a great contribution to the world literature,” the head of the state said.

“Chingiz Aitmatov has been and will remain close to the Uzbek people, he will live forever in our memories as a symbol of selfless and dedicated service to his Motherland,” the President of Uzbekistan stressed.
 

Business forum within the framework of Expert Councils on "Small and private business development" and "Improving the system of private sector human resources development" of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan on the "Problems and perspectives of preparing skilled workers by VET sector for business community of Uzbekistan" was held in Tashkent on June 11, UzReportcom reported.

The event was organized by the UNDP Project "Business Forum of Uzbekistan", the Tashkent Office of the British Council and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Improving education system has been identified as one of the priority directions of reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan. In 1997 the government of Uzbekistan adopted the Law "On education", which introduces new education system 4-5-3. This system consists of: (i) elementary education (1-4 classes) and general secondary education (5-9 classes), (ii) secondary education or secondary-special and professional education (10-12 classes), and (iii) higher and post-graduate education.

Particularly, secondary special and professional education (SSPE) is becoming an important stage in the education system of Uzbekistan. SSPE aims on providing young generation of the country with professional skills, which should help them to find a job right after finishing the education. Moreover, considering the increasing volumes of industry and products being manufactured domestically, then it is obvious that in the labour market of Uzbekistan graduates of SSPE establishments will be highly demanded.
On the other hand, the importance of the business forum was caused by the fact that employers are not satisfied with the quality of the SSPE graduates, the need for sharing ideas on how to bridge the gap between the business and schools in the country, and the necessity for discussing the prospects of organizing belter quality SSPE in Uzbekistan.

The British Council in Uzbekistan has invited two British experts in the field of developing vocational education and training (VET). They made two presentations on the topics of "Role and importance of VET within the British and other countries' educational system" and "Recommendations on increasing the effectiveness of secondary special and professional education system in Uzbekistan".

Presentations were also made by the representatives of Center for secondary special and professional education, local company-employer, and the UNDP Project "Business Forum of Uzbekistan".

The business forum was attended by the representatives of the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Education, Ministry of Public Education, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, public organizations, a number of IFIs, and heads of SSPE establishments and private companies-employers, including training centres.

Participants exchanged views and presented specific recommendations that caused a lively discussion. The outcomes and conclusions of the forum should enable interested parties in development of SSPE in Uzbekistan to consolidate their further efforts in training demanded specialists for the labour market of the country.
 

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) launched the regional forum in Tashkent on the "Decreasing the breach in the area of standardization of information and communication technologies in developing countries".

The event involves the CIS countries, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and the Baltic States, Jahon information agency reported quoting local media.

The regional preparatory meeting to the World Assembly on Standardizing the Telecommunications of ITU – 2008 (WAST-08) for the CIS countries is also due as a part of the forum.

Over 50 experts from the CIS countries, CEE and the Baltic States as well as the heads of ITU Telecommunication Standardization Bureau and Executive Committee of Regional commonwealth in communications are participating at the forum, according to the reports.

Regional forum is held for the ministries and national regulatory bodies in ICT, operators and telecommunication service providers to discuss and exchange experiences on urgent issues in the ICT standardization and closely learn about the ITU activity in this direction.

Those who took a floor at the forum spoke of the ways and tools of consolidating the cooperation in standardization, security and the ICT regulation, expanding the participation of regional representatives in this work. They have also discussed the trends of development and scenarios of transition onto a next generation network, technology of a broadband wireless access and their introduction in fixed networks, international standards in the area of radio communication, and other issues.

Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, Director-General of Uzbekistan Agency for Communication and Information Abdulla Aripov is reported to have spoken at the opening of the forum.
 

Experts of the newly created Arbitration Development Center under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan participated in the study tour on 4-7 June to London, UK, to learn the British experience on the development of the arbitration courts, UzReportcom reported.

The delegation of the Arbitration Development Center met representatives of the British organizations, such as International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation, London Chamber of Commerce, London Court of International Arbitration and other agencies working in the arbitration system. The purpose of the visit was to study modern trends in teaching alternative dispute resolution, learn best practices and ways of their implementation in Uzbekistan.

The study tour was organized within the framework of the joint UNDP and Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan project "Supporting to the development of arbitration courts and other alternative methods of dispute settlement in the Republic of Uzbekistan". The project focuses on development of the arbitration courts and other alternative ways of dispute resolution through creation of Arbitration Development Center, which was officially opened in early May 2008.
 

A two-day international seminar "Freedom of mass media in modern democratic society" organized on the initiative of Civil Society Institute jointly with Fund of Regional Policy and National Human Rights Centre of Uzbekistan was held on 9-10 June in Tashkent, UzReportcom reported.

Journalists and experts from 18 countries including Great Britain, Germany, Egypt, Israel, India, Indonesia, China, Kuwait, Malaysia, Poland, Korean Republic, Russia, USA, Turkey, Ukraine, France, Japan, representatives of diplomatic corps and international organizations accredited in Uzbekistan participated in the meeting.

"This seminar is evidence that Uzbekistan follows the way of democratization and liberalization of society, government of state makes all efforts for eliminating barriers impeding free development of mass media. Organization of seminar is very timely and actual for all region," Miklos Haraszti, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media said in his opening speech.

He considers that no country in the world can achieve success at once in democratization and liberalization, giving freedom to mass media and journalists. "We understand that these changes are maid gradually: it requires certain period of time," Haraszti noted.

He noted that OSCE plans to organize a number of large events this year dedicated to freedom of speech and mass media. "I think this seminar will be good beginning for other events on open discussion of problems concerning mass media freedom," OSCE Representative emphasized.

Sidhart Saksena, Chairman of Cambridge Forum, noted: "Uzbekistan has powerful legal basis, relying on which possible to achieve considerable results in mass media field and establishment of democratic standards. Every country, including Uzbekistan must follow their own strict policy without falling under external influence with their "loud democratic models". In this aspect Uzbekistan's chosen proper strategy of gradual realization of reforms on establishing effective civil society that further will manage mass media and certainly improve level of justice sense, legal culture of country population".

Lee Kyong Sik, President-editor of The Korea Post journal noted in his address that before seminar he managed to familiarize with work of one private TV Company in Samarkand. As per his appraisal functioning of such station is convincing argument of development of private sector in telecommunications sphere in Uzbekistan, which is evident from modern approaches applied in management of regional TV station and enabling channel to achieve commercial profitability and financial independence.

Currently 1,031 media outlets operate in Uzbekistan one third of which are established by private and non-governmental structures without state interference. Mass media share established with participation of state capital makes up 66%, 17% of them were established jointly with private and non-governmental investors.
 

TNT Products, Inc will organize the 4th International Specialized Exhibition of beauty industry "BeautyExpo Uzbekistan 2008" at InterContinental Tashkent hotel on 26-28 July 2008, UzReportcom reported.

The exhibition will be held under support of the Association of barbers (hairdressers) and cosmetologists of Uzbekistan, Society of plastic and reconstructive surgeons and Embassy of Beauty Center.

Subjects of the exhibition are: Decorative cosmetics, Professional cosmetics, Perfume and aroma therapy, Hygienic means and toiletry, Weight correction medications, biologically active additives, Accessories and jewelry, equipment and materials for plastic surgery, Instruments and materials for barbers and cosmetologists, equipment and materials for tattoo, permanent make-up and piercing, Beauty saloons, Spa saloons and aesthetic medicine clinics, raw materials and packaging materials.

More than 45 companies from 15 countries of the world – Bulgaria, Great Britain, Germany, Israel, India, Italy, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Pakistan, Poland, Russia, USA, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, France and Switzerland will participate in the coming exhibition.

The 3rd International conference on cosmetology and aesthetic medicine and the 2nd Open championship of hairmaking art, decorative cosmetics and nail design will be held in framework of exhibition.

Organizer of the exhibition TNT Productions, Inc (USA) is specialized on exhibition and conference management. During past 20 years this company organized more than 200 specialized events almost in all big cities in USA. Since 1987 TNT Productions, Inc has organized more than 100 specialized exhibitions in CIS states. Among them are exhibitions in Russia (Novosibirsk, Ekaterinburg), Kazakhstan (Almaty), Uzbekistan (Tashkent), Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek), Armenia (Yerevan) and Georgia (Tbilisi).
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received minister for Cabinet of Ministers of the United Arab Emirates, executive chairman of Dubai Holding Muhammad Abdulla al-Gargavi on 9 June in Tashkent, UzA reported.

The sides discussed issues of expansion of ties between Uzbekistan and the UAE, particularly in the economy and investments sphere.

The commodity turnover between the two countries made up USD 93.1 million in 2007. Almost 70 joint ventures created with UAE investments operate in Uzbekistan in the areas of foodstuff production, electronics, textile, construction materials and transport services.

Dubai Holding is one of the largest investment companies of the United Arab Emirates and participates in a number of economic projects in Uzbekistan.
 

From June 9 to June 13 this year the delegation of Italian business circles led by the president of Italian-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce Luigi Iperti will visit Uzbekistan, according to a press-release by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Jahon agency reported.

In keeping with the press-release, the goal of the visit is to extend the economic cooperation between the Uzbek and Italian business circles, establish mutually beneficial contacts with the Uzbek businesspeople and dwell on the prospects of bilateral cooperation.

The delegation staff will include the representatives of 24 Italian companies engaged in construction, textile, furniture and food spheres, as well as in manufacturing equipment, as well as metalworking.

As a part of their stay in Uzbekistan the Italian businesspeople will be joined by the representatives of local ministries and departments, sectoral associations and unions, commercial and industrial enterprises, as well as the small and private businesses of the country that operate in related sectors.

In accordance with the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between the Republic of Uzbekistan and European Union and their member-states, which came into effect starting from July 1, 1999, the most favoring regime has been established between Uzbekistan and Italy.

In 2007 the trade between Uzbekistan and Italy made up 62.4 million dollars. At the same time the exports rose and made up 24.5 million dollars, imports – 37.9 million dollars.

Forty-two enterprises with participation of Italian capital, including 35 joint ventures and 7 enterprises with a 100% Italian capital are now operating in Uzbekistan.

At the moment, seven offices of Italian firms and companies busied in textile production, wholesale trade of construction materials, production and supplies of equipments for food, oil and chemical industries, and others accredited at the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The Uzbek-Italian business-forum, seminar on textile industry and bilateral negotiations between the business circles of Uzbekistan and Italy are going to be held as a part of the visit.

Besides, the bilateral talks between the businesspeople of Italy and Ferghana Valley are due on June 12. On June 13 such meetings will also be held between the business circles of Italy as well as Andijan and Namangan provinces.
 

Uzbekistan became the first and only team to storm into the forth round of preliminaries for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, Asia’s final ten-team round. Uzbekistan has two games to spare it picked up the fourth straight win, 1-0 over Singapore at Tashkent on Saturday, June 7, UzA reported.

Uzbekistan played an attacking football and Shatskikh, Djeparov and Zayniddin Tajiev had good chances to score, however only second half substitute Alexander Geynrikh scored the only goal with ten minutes to go.

Sixteen minutes after he was sent on, Geynrikh eased the home crowd’s worries by netting the winner. An onrushing Server Djeparov was tackled by Singapore forward Shi Jiayi but the loose ball fell into the path of Geynrikh, whose blistering shot from the edge of the area gave goalkeeper Lewis Lionel no chance.
 

Uzbekistan stormed into the last 10 of Asian World Cup qualifying but a shock loss for Australia and Bahrain's unexpected draw with Thailand mean they missed golden opportunities to join them.

The Uzbeks' 1-0 win over Singapore in Tashkent made them the only team through to the final phase of qualifying, which starts in September as Asian sides chase four automatic berths to the finals in South Africa in 2010, AFP reported.

Second-half substitute Alexander Geynrikh was their hero after he netted the game's only goal in the 81st minute, maintaining their perfect record in Group 4.

"It was a tough match and we were lucky to win this time," said Uzbekistan coach Rauf Inileev, whose team hammered Singapore 7-3 last week.

"Singapore played attacking football in the first match but they totally changed their tactics and played a defensive game which made them very difficult to break down."
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov participated in the informal meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of States in St. Petersburg, Russia, on 6 June, UzA reported.

The presidents discussed issues related to the formation of the draft economic development strategy in the Commonwealth until 2020, the main directions of humanitarian cooperation and the development of the CIS.

The experience of interaction within the Commonwealth over the years shows that every member country has an enormous potential for development of the integration. The economies of the Commonwealth do not compete among themselves, but on the contrary, complement each other in many ways. All member states are interested in developing the cooperation.

Taking this into consideration, all necessary legal and institutional frameworks for development of cooperation in accordance with modern requirements have been set up within the CIS. All member states may provide their further development through the expansion of mutually beneficial ties in trade, economic, sociopolitical, cultural, humanitarian, military-technical and other areas.

When it comes to the ways of developing cooperation within the Commonwealth, President Islam Karimov notes the need to follow the principle “Economy first, policy second”. Nobody doubts that economic ties constitute the basis of interstate relations. When economic cooperation develops, there is economic interest between the nations and the political consent strengthens next.

To achieve these goals, the head of Uzbekistan put forward the initiative to establish the Free Trade Zone within the CIS. Of course, this process will require a lot of efforts, since the economic potential and the level of development of member states are different. Therefore, each country prefers to have its own methods and ways of cooperation and integration. Despite this, the adoption of the Concept of further development of CIS and the Plan of its implementation in 2007 was an important step in this direction. The economic sphere has also been defined as priority in this concept.

The CIS has a possibility to coordinate economic processes. This structure also serves as a source of receiving and exchanging information on the economic potential of member countries. Commonwealth summits create a convenient opportunity for the dialogue. Undoubtedly, each state determines its position regarding the discussed issues, primarily on the basis of its own national interests.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, who arrived in St. Petersburg to attend the informal CIS summit, met President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev, UzA reported.

During the meeting the two leaders noted that cooperation between Uzbekistan and Russia had been developing in line with the Treaty on Allied Relations signed in 2005.

Islam Karimov said that cooperation with Russia had always been a priority for Uzbekistan. The two countries have similar views on reforming the CIS.

President of Uzbekistan proposed to merge the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). This will improve the efficiency of their activities.

Dmitry Medvedev said Uzbekistan was a key and strategic partner of Russia in Central Asia. He underlined that great plans for the future were being developed, which will serve for the further development of relationships.

Multilateral relations between the two countries are actively developing in the framework of such structures as the UN, SCO, CIS and EurAsEC. Uzbekistan and Russia are partners in fighting such threats as drug trafficking, terrorism, extremism and transnational organized crime.

Uzbekistan and Russia cooperate closely in almost all sectors of economy. The volume of mutual trade turnover continually increases. In 2007, the figure rose by 48 percent and amounted to USD 4.2 billion. Business forums, exhibitions and meetings of the intergovernmental commission are conducted regularly.

Humanitarian cooperation has also been actively developing between the two nations. In particular, the Fund “Forum of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan”, whose main purpose is to promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Uzbek people, has organized various exhibitions and festivals. Branches of the Russian Economic Academy named after Plekhanov, Moscow State University named after Lomonosov and the Russian State University of Oil and Gas named after Gubkin function in Tashkent.

Islam Karimov and Dmitry Medvedev expressed satisfaction with the magnitude of current relationships. They exchanged views on further development of ties between Uzbekistan and Russia, in particular, in trade and economic, scientific-technical, investment and humanitarian fields.
 

On 6 June President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov left for Saint Petersburg to participate in the informal summit of the CIS leaders, UzA reported.

The CIS presidents will discuss the strategy of the project of economic development of the Commonwealth, humanitarian cooperation and other issues.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb in Tashkent on 4 June, UzA reported.

During the talks, the sides considered the current state and perspectives of Uzbekistan’s cooperation with OSCE and the Uzbek-Finnish relations.

Alexander Stubb said Finland was interested in development of multilateral cooperation, including cooperation within international organizations.

Uzbekistan has been the member of the OSCE since the early years of independence. The cooperation with this structure covers areas like development of civil society institutes, strengthening regional security and stability, expansion of international economic and humanitarian relations and environment.

The foundations for the Uzbekistan-Finland relations were laid during the visit of the President Islam Karimov to this country in 1992.

Finland was the first EU state to ratify the Partnership and Cooperation Treaty, signed between Uzbekistan and the European Union.

The two countries cooperate not only within the OSCE and the EU, but also in the framework of the UN and the NATO’s Partnership for Peace program.
 

On May 30, 2008 the academic community and residents of Jizzakh Province responded with great enthusiasm to the events devoted to the Day of Indo-Uzbek Friendship held for the first time in the regional capital city of Jizzakh, according to the press-release by the Indian Embassy in Tashkent.

The Indian delegation was accorded a traditional warm Uzbek welcome by Deputy Khokim (governor) Mr. B. Kalandarov on behalf of the Khokimiyat (governor’s office) and the Vice Rector of the Jizzakh State Pedagogical Institute, Mr. A. Tangirov.

The same day an Indo-Uzbek seminar was held in the State Pedagogical Institute. Mr. K.D. Dewal, Second Secretary, Embassy of India in Tashkent, spoke about India’s past, present and future, and gave a panoramic view of Indian achievements in the fields of economy, education, science and technology and the emergence of India as a major global player. Dr. Jyotsna Bakshi of India Chair at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) spoke about “Friendly Relations and Reliable Partnership between India and Uzbekistan”, the text of the press-release further read.

On the part of the Pedagogical Institute several eminent speakers highlighted the rich historical, cultural and literary ties between India and Uzbekistan. Prof. U. Rakhmonkulov provided valuable information about the nature and climate of Jizzakh Province, and the research being conducted by the University scholars in this field.

Prof. U. Kosimov, the Vice Rector, Department of Sciences of the Jizzakh State Pedagogical Institute, gave a presentation on Uzbek and Indian literary relations. Prof. M. Pardaev threw light on the history of Jizzakh Province. The seminar contributed to knowledge and information about each other and was marked by a lively question and answer session.

The evening was devoted to the Indo-Uzbek music and dance performed by Dr. Ranjana Sarkar, the teacher of classical Kathak dance, her students and the artists of the popular ‘Bollywood Group’ at the Lal Bahadur Shastri Center of Indian Culture at Tashkent and talented local Jizzakh artists. The cultural show at the packed Regional Music and Drama Theater named after Y. Rajabiy began with the welcoming words by the Deputy Khokim of Jizzakh Province Mr. B. Kalandarov. The Indian guests Mr. K.D. Dewal and Mr. V. Vasudevan, Director, Lal Bahadur Shastri Center for Indian Culture, were presented with the traditional Uzbek robe of honor.

The sides exchanged views about the prospects of further enhancing the Indo-Uzbek cooperation in academic, economic and cultural spheres and organize such events in future, as well.

During the day, the Indian delegation visited the city museum devoted to the memory of former Uzbek leader Mr. Sharof Rashidov, a native of Jizzakh.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the Mediator of the French Republic Jean-Paul Delevoye on 4 July at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent, UzA reported.

Welcoming the guest, the head of the state said the French Ombudsman’s visit to Uzbekistan was a good opportunity to familiarize with the process of reforms in the country.

Jean-Paul Delevoye, in his turn, said relations between the two countries were developing steadily in all spheres.

The sides considered issues related to cooperation between Uzbekistan and France.

On 3 June, the ombudsmen of Uzbekistan and France signed a cooperation agreement.

During his visit to Tashkent, the Mediator of France held talks with the representatives of the Legislative Chamber, the Senate and a number of ministries and state bodies.
 

The ombudsmen of Uzbekistan and France signed a cooperation agreement on 3 June in Tashkent. The signing took place at the conference on the experience of Uzbekistan and France in human rights protection held at the Legislative Chamber, UzA reported.

The forum participants listened to the reports on the protection of rights and interests of the people, the activities of the ombudsman and cooperation with the law enforcement bodies.

Uzbekistan has achieved a lot in creation of the democratic state and civil society, the Mediator of the French Republic Jean-Paul Delevoye said.

France widely supports the reforms in Uzbekistan, and the two countries have great opportunities for expansion of cooperation, he added.

The Uzbekistan Parliamentary Representative for Human Rights has established close ties with related organizations in more than 40 countries, and France is among them. The Ombudsman of Uzbekistan is Sayyora Rashidova.

The Mediator of France also held talks with the Speaker of the Legislative Chamber Dilorom Toshmuhamedova, as well as representatives of the Senate, ministries and other state bodies.
 

Reflection of the norms of the UNESCO Declaration on the Principles of Tolerance in the national legislation and the legal practice in Uzbekistan was considered at the round table in the Legislative Chamber on 3 June, UzA reported.

The forum was organized by the Committee for international affairs and inter-parliamentary relations and chaired by the committee chairman M.Teshaboyev.

In the years of independence, Uzbekistan joined more that 60 human rights documents and has been making a worthy contribution to the efforts of the international community in this area, the forum participants said.

The particular attention is paid to the implementation and wide introduction of rules and norms of the Declaration on the Principles of Tolerance into the national legislation.

Of particular importance is the signing of the Decree “On the program of activities devoted to the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights” by the President on 1 May 2008.

The round table participants discussed the experience of Uzbekistan in strengthening ethnic unity and inter-religious consent, which are the essential norms of tolerance.
 

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Richard Boucher at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on June 2, 2008, UzA reported.

Welcoming the US official, the head of the state noted that relations between Uzbekistan and the US were evolving steadily. “Your visit is a good opportunity to exchange views on the relationships between our countries”, Islam Karimov said.

Uzbek-American cooperation covers a wide range of issues of international and regional policy, including combating transnational threats, as well as strengthening regional security and stability.

The priority in bilateral relations is given to the expansion and strengthening of mutually beneficial trade-economic and investment cooperation.

The legal basis of relations between the two countries consists of more than 50 instruments, in particular, the Declaration on Strategic Partnership and the Bases of Cooperation signed in 2002.

Uzbekistan and the US continue to work together to bring peace and stability in Afghanistan, and for socioeconomic reconstruction of this country.

The US Assistant Secretary of State noted that his country was interested in developing cooperation with Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, Islam Karimov and Richard Boucher considered Uzbek-American relations and other topics of mutual interest.
 

Uzbekistan won Singapore 7-3 to establish a six-point cushion atop of Group 4 in the qualification round for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, UzReportcom reported.

The hosts, second going into play, twice equalized after Timur Kapadze and then Victor Karpenko had given Rauf Inileev’s side the lead, but a Server Djeparov double and another from Vitaliy Denisov sent the visitors in at the break 5-2 to lead. Aziz Ibragimov and Maksim Shatskikh completed the Uzbekistan National team’s scoring following the restart.

Uzbekistan have now taken nine points from three games leads in Group 4 even if Saudi Arabia will win the match against Lebanon at home later today.
 

UNIStream international money transfer system has signed a cooperation agreement with the People's Bank of Uzbekistan, UzReportcom reported. The agreement provides development of service points through branches of the bank. This way UNIStream will widen its service network in the republic by more than 200 points.

The agreement was signed in the framework of the CIS and global service points' development programme, said Suren Airyan, UNIStream Director General.

These days market is developing very steadily. It is stimulated by increasing migration processes, it forms new corridors of money transfers and one of the most prospective is Europe-Russia-Central Asia, notes S. Airyan emphasizing that system pays a special attention to development of this important direction.

He also noted that market finally transferred into new stage of high requirement of clients to rendered services in 2008 and global development of network is important component of quality improvement process.

He informed that system have operated 300 points of service in Uzbekistan before conclusion of agreement and turnover in 2007 increased to US$420 million comparing with US$145 million in 2006.

There are eight financial partner-institutes of the system in the republic such as Hamkorbank joint-stock commercial bank, Asaka State joint-stock commercial bank, Ipak Yuli joint-stock innovation commercial bank.

Rendering service to 4 million clients annually, UNIStream international money transfers system reached US$3.7 billion turnover in 2007. The system operates more than 65,000 points of service in 90 countries worldwide. Having 30% of market share in CIS the system confidently realizes its strategy directed to reformation into large international business.
 

A press conference with the Managing Director and the First Deputy Director General of the General Motors Uzbekistan JV Harry West was held at the Embassy of the United States in Tashkent, UzReportcom reported.

"My work in Uzbekistan has begun recently, in January this year. I am impressed by the friendliness of people here and the importance attributed to family values in Uzbekistan. I thank you for the welcoming given to me in your country," he said opening the press conference.

GM Uzbekistan JV was set up on the base of the UzDaewooAuto JSC for the production and sale of Chevrolet automobiles in Uzbekistan. UzAutoSanoat JSC has the controlling interest in the JV (75%), and GM Corporation's stake in the enterprise today constitutes 25% and one share with the possibility of subsequent increase of the presence in the company's ownership to 40%. The JV's equity capital comprises US$266.7 million.

This enterprise is given an important role in speeded development of car manufacturing industry of Uzbekistan and fast global growth of the GM-Chevrolet brand. According to the management's plans the joint venture will assist GM in further promotion and stable growth of the Chevrolet brand's share in Central and Eastern Europe.

"It is especially important for us that the government realizes the role of car-manufacturing industry in the development of the national economy," West said. "And in order to succeed we will need qualified staff, investments and advanced technology. And there is nothing impossible in this for us," he added.

The General Motors Uzbekistan JV manufactures Chevrolet cars and SUVs successfully marketed through the internal dealership network consisting of more then 60 dealership points. The Asaka plant assembles three Chevrolet models – Captiva, Epica, and Tacuma. And as soon as this year the product line will be expanded by the Chevrolet Lacetti model.

GM plans to expand the model range at the Uzbek plant. The plans are to integrate the whole global model range, as well as the models that are now in the process of design and developing, which are not being manufactured yet. Two of such models will be manufactured in Uzbekistan, and the Uzbek plant will have the exclusive right for their manufacturing. Today General Motors manufactures twelve models: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Corvette, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, and Vauxhall.

Sharing some of the company's secrets, West told the reporters that a new brand, Cadillac, would soon join Chevrolet and GM Daewoo brands in Uzbekistan.

In order to develop the production further the company will require major investments. Foreign partners have evaluated the technical condition of the Asaka plant as highly modern.

"Whereas in 2007 we manufactured 171,800 automobile, this year we will confidently raise the level of production to the plant's projected capacity, which is 200,000 automobiles, West said.

He also spoke of the production expansion plans – the second forming workshop was in the process of construction, running along other major improvements.

Captiva, Epica, and Tacuma can already be spotted on the streets of Uzbekistan. Right now these are the products of large unit assembly, but within the next three years they will be based on full-scale manufacturing achieved through further localization of production.

In 2007 it reached almost 60%. It is planned that the localization process will be intensified and thanks to the General Motors, the Uzbek spare parts manufacturers will gain access to the international markets, benefiting both the owners and the whole economy. Thus, in the first quarter of 2008 spare parts worth 30,168.1 million soums were produced (up 21% against 1Q 2007). Last year the spare parts production made up 103,959.4 million soums also demonstrating the year-on-year growth of 24.6%.

In the future GM plans to expand the production at Asaka plant to 250,000 automobiles yearly, substantially upgrading the plant's production capacity. At this time, according to West, the experts were estimating the size of the investments required.

West did not provide any specific figures on investments, noting that the figures would be announced once the analysts would complete the estimations. However, he added, this could be expected within the shortest time period.

In CIS and Eastern Europe, the corporation already has similar production bases in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Poland. It is worth noting that the capacity of the Uzbek plant exceeds the capacities of all six JVs and GM's own plants in the CIS and Eastern Europe. One of the tasks set for the Uzbek venture is to utilize the corporation's global platform for the marketing of Uzbek automobiles, which would provide additional opportunities for the economy of the country.

Meanwhile, the latest results of the Uzbek car manufacturing giant's activity are as follows.

GM Uzbekistan JV increased the production of automobiles by 23.3% in January-April 2008 compared to the same period of the year 2007 to 61,018 units. The first quarter was ended with the output level of 42,499 units, up 16.6% against the first quarter 2007.

According to the State Statistics Committee reports, this included 29,561 Nexia models (up 20.9%), 22,409 Matiz models (up 25.4%), 7,970 Damas models (up 46.1%), 495 Captiva models, 574 Epicas, and 9 Tacumas.

As reported earlier, in 2007 UzDaewooAuto scaled up the production of automobiles by 22.7% compared to 2006 to 171,809 units.

In January-February 2008 GM Uzbekistan's output increased by 21.8% to over 26,000 units. The output volume of Nexias made up 12,360 units (up 12.4%), 9,750 Matizs (up 26.6%), 3,400 Damases (up 1.78 times), as well as 352 Epicas, 8 Tacumas and 350 Captivas.

Speaking of the company's global achievements, West noted that for the fourth year in a row the GM's global sales exceeded 9 million units.

General Motors Corp is still one of the largest car manufacturers in the world with a hundred-years experience in the car market, it led in global sales for 76 years. Founded in 1908, today GM employs some 280,000 people around the world. It operates in 35 countries of the world, and is headquartered in Detroit, USA.

In 2006 people in different parts of the world bought some 9.1 million units of cars and trucks of the Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall brands. In Europe GM markets Opel, Vauxhall, Saab, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Corvette and Hummer brands in more than 30 markets. It has 10 production and assembly enterprises employing about 60,000 people in seven European countries.

However, according to the official financial reports of the corporation, in the first quarter this year the GM suffered losses in the amount of US$3,25 billion, whereas in the same period of the previous year it made net profit of US$62 million.

The company's turnover in the first quarter this year dropped by 1.7% to US$42.67 billion against US$43.39 billion recorded a year earlier. The operational losses in the reporting period comprised US$589 million, whereas in the first quarter last year the company made a consolidated operation profit of US$304 million.

Moreover, the concern has recently announced its intention to cut down the production of truck automobiles on four plants in the United States. This decision will affect the manufacturing of pickup trucks and SUVs. Their production will be cut down by 88,000 and 50,000 at two plants in Michigan and Wisconsin respectively. Moreover, according to the new programme, the auto-concern will dismiss about 3,500 employees.

Earlier this month GM announced its intention to withdraw 122,593 Pontiac Vibes from the US market due to the defects in the bolts of the window raisers.

The company's top management explained the decision to cut down the production by the drop in sales associated primarily with the growing prices for gas and a decline currently experienced by the US economy.

However, West assured that the difficulties currently experienced by the company would have no affect on the investments in the Uzbek plant. It is possible that the Uzbek JV will be able to compensate for some part of the company's losses through the scaling up of the production, model range expansion and increasing the production level of the projected capacity this year. This conclusion was may be drawn from the global trend of companies cutting down on their productions in the countries where economies at decline and the labour resources are expensive, which eventually reflects on the costs of production, and compensate for the losses by increasing the production in the countries with stable economic growth and cheaper labour resources.

As for the GM, it may not appear very patriotic, but right now the company is suffering losses. And it just turns out that this matches the interests of Uzbekistan.

According to the forecasts of the company's analysts in 2008-2012 car exports to Russia and the countries of the CIS will increase by 70%. And whereas in 2007 the demand for the Uzbek plant's products made up 0.1 million, by 2012 it will increase to 2 million automobiles. Looking at these numbers one may one may make his judgments about the growth of the population's welfare in the next four years.

In general the GM analysts are quite cautious in their forecasts. They expect a sales growth of 11.2% in 2008 and 15% yearly in the subsequent years.

Mr. West is convinced that balanced domestic demand will support the growing demand for the company's products.

He said that in cooperation with UzAutoSanoat, the owner of the controlling interest in the JV, the pricing policy of the company would be adjusted too. "We should please our customers," West said.

Concerning the increase of the GM's share in the venture to 40%, allowed by the agreement, West said that how soon this would happen would depend on the business's profitability. As soon as all the agreements would be implemented, GM would start to make substantial additional investments. "This is a very realistic plan," according to West.

The Managing Director said he strongly believed in human resources. "Without people, technology is nothing," he said. "We believe in people. They are the moving force of production."

As for the GM Uzbekistan JV's main strategy in the country, the focus will be made on the development of the auto-industry and production localization, in which a major role is given to the Government of Uzbekistan, represented by UzAutoSanoat Company, and the strengthening of the business through investments and integration of new technology, which will be the contribution of the GM to the Uzbek economy. The company will also put its strongest efforts to maximize the sales both in the domestic market and through exports, in which the company relies on the Uzbek people as a loyal customer of the Asaka plant's.

"We have great hopes in this venture," Harry West said.
 

The Uzbek farmer succeeds in the experiment of rose oil and rose water production from Damascus sort rose-petal, UzReportcom reported.

As farmer Furkat Melikulov told Uzbekistan TV channel, he started production from four saplings. A plant stroke root in our conditions despite it is very capricious, he says.

Now 400,000 Damascus rose bushes are growing in 15 hectare plantation. Rose oil and rose water are applied in perfume industry and medicine.

Though this oil is expensive due to complicated extraction technology, adoption of such plants and products id economically expedient, says Vazira Salidjanova candidate of technical science in her interview to Uzbekistan TV-channel.

In order to produce 1 kg of oil 5,000 kg of raw materials are required. Flower petal and leaves are collected in the morning before sunrise only.

Only three countries in the world Bulgaria, France and Russia produce rose oil from Damascus rose for export.
 

The conference of plastic surgeons of Central Asia took place in Tashkent. The event was organized by the Ministry of Health, Society of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery of Uzbekistan and Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute.

In line with regional representatives there participated specialists from Egypt, Russia and Korea Republic, UzA reported.

Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery is one of improving spheres of medicine. According to data of World Health Organization, these days annually 2 millions of patients are rendered such medical services.

Owing to radical reforms in healthcare system held in Uzbekistan in line with other fields of medicine is also developing plastic surgery with introduction of leading technologies.

Nowadays in many medical institutions of the Republic is effectively applied experience of plastic and reconstructive surgery on prevention correction hands, legs and grain defects. Medical treatment of such infant congenital and acquired diseases is fulfilled in surgery division of Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute Clinic during 10 years. With this aim there established close cooperation relations with Korean specialists.

During two day conference were presented reports dedicated to leading technologies applied in state and world medicine, progress of science and techniques related with healthcare system, development prospective of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.