President Shavkat Mirziyoyev sincerely congratulated all our people and compatriots abroad on the 34th anniversary of state independence.
“Today, on these significant days, we all realize even more deeply one vital truth. Thanks to the large-scale reforms launched based on the idea of building a New Uzbekistan, every one of our compatriots tangibly feels and widely enjoys the rights and freedoms granted by independence. It is precisely thanks to this noble idea that we have reinterpreted our three-thousand-year history and rich culture, revived the traditions of the First and Second Renaissances, and are confidently taking practical steps toward the Third Renaissance”, the Head of State emphasized.
The Head of State expressed confidence that on this path, the state and society of New Uzbekistan will become a solid bridge connecting the country’s glorious history with a new, even brighter period of Renaissance.
It was noted that independence is, above all, based on a strong economy. The most important achievements of recent years were listed.
Despite the challenging global situation, Uzbekistan’s economy is experiencing steady growth of over 6 percent. Over the past eight years, gross domestic product has doubled, reaching $115 billion, and by the end of the current year, it is expected to grow to $130 billion. The export volume has reached $26 billion, and foreign exchange reserves have exceeded $48 billion for the first time. Approximately $130 billion in foreign investment has been attracted to the country.
Before our eyes, thousands of modern enterprises and infrastructure facilities are being built. This year alone, with investments totaling $35 billion, approximately 9,000 new enterprises and service complexes are expected to be constructed. The number of small and medium-sized businesses has doubled over the past eight years, and today more than 10 million people are employed in this sector.
Since the beginning of the year, employment has been provided for 5 million citizens, and an additional 700,000 of our compatriots have returned to their families from abroad. Thanks to Uzbekistan’s opening to the world, the tourist flow has exceeded 10 million people, and the export of tourism services has reached $3 billion.
With the development of the economy and the growth of the population, the demand for safe and stable energy resources is increasing. Therefore, huge steps have been taken to increase the share of green energy.
Electricity production has increased from 59 to 85 billion kWh, and it is expected to reach 97 billion kWh next year. This year, 6.5 billion kWh of green energy has been generated, accounting for a 30 percent share. By 2030, this figure is expected to rise to 54 percent, driven by the attraction of $35 billion in direct investment.
The social sphere is developing, and the living conditions of the population are improving. Over the past eight years, more than 11,000 multi-storey apartment buildings, totaling 31 million square meters of housing, have been constructed. This year, another 130,000 modern apartments will be handed over to the population in the New Uzbekistan residential complexes and other districts.
The state’s social policy is designed to support those in need. Under the “Hamrohlik” (“Accompaniment”) program, 11,000 children deprived of parental care have been provided with education, vocational training, and sports. More than 2.5 million members of low-income families have received 110 types of assistance and services. As a result, the poverty rate has decreased to 6.8 percent.
The President particularly emphasized that quality education and public health are the most important issues determining the country’s future. The number of places in kindergartens has reached 2.5 million, and an additional 1 million student places have been created in schools. The share of higher education coverage has increased from 9% to 42%.
Spending on healthcare has increased sixfold, and quality medical services are now being provided in the mahallas. More than 400 high-tech surgeries are now performed in the regions. The average life expectancy has increased from 73.8 years to 75.1 years.
The success of young people in science, culture, and sports was also highlighted. Addressing the youth, the President said:
“Dear children, always remember: Happiness comes only to those who are determined, victory – only to those who fight! The future is created by the brave, and the victors write history. Always strive forward! The Motherland, the people, and the President will always be your reliable support and encouragement in your good endeavors”.
In his speech, the President also addressed the global geopolitical situation. He emphasized that the voice of Uzbekistan is confidently heard on the regional and international stage, and the country is becoming a platform for high-level summits and forums. Uzbekistan’s foreign policy stance was reaffirmed once again.
The Head of State sincerely welcomed the ambassadors of foreign countries and representatives of international organizations present at the celebration, expressing gratitude to them for their practical cooperation.
Concluding his speech, Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that the country’s transformations will continue:
“We, the citizens of Uzbekistan, are one people, one country, one family. We share a common destiny and future, as well as happiness and achievements. I am confident that each of our compatriots, deeply aware of these urgent demands of the time, will selflessly serve our beloved Motherland for the sake of its prosperity”.
The festivities concluded with a grand concert featuring songs that reflected the rich culture and values of the people, a sense of gratitude, and aspirations for the future. The celebration was broadcast live on television and on the internet, bringing its spirit to all regions of the country.
