34th Anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Independence Celebrated in Tashkent
Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Festivities dedicated to the 34th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan took place in the capital’s Yangi Uzbekistan Park. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed citizens and compatriots abroad with a congratulatory speech.
The head of state emphasized that over the years of independence, the country has rethought its millennia-old history, revived its cultural heritage, and is confidently moving toward a new stage — the Third Renaissance. According to him, independence has become the solid foundation for large-scale reforms and the expansion of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
The President noted that the cornerstone of independence is a strong economy. Despite a difficult international environment, the country’s GDP has doubled over the past eight years, reaching US$115 billion, with growth expected to reach US$130 billion by the end of the year. Exports have surpassed US$26 billion, gold and foreign currency reserves stand at US$48 billion, and the total volume of attracted investments amounts to about US$130 billion dollars.
This year alone, projects worth US$35 billion are being implemented, including the construction of around 9,000 new enterprises and infrastructure facilities. The number of small and medium-sized businesses has doubled in eight years, with over 10 million people employed in this sector. Since the beginning of the year, 5 million citizens have been provided with jobs, and more than 700,000 compatriots have returned home.
The President highlighted the growth of tourism, with the number of visitors exceeding 10 million and tourism revenues reaching US$3 billion. Particular emphasis was placed on the development of green energy: electricity production has increased from 59 to 85 billion kWh, of which 6.5 billion comes from renewable sources. By 2030, the share of green energy is planned to reach 54 percent.
In the social sphere, more than 11,000 apartment buildings have been constructed over the past eight years, with an additional 130,000 apartments to be delivered this year. The poverty rate has fallen to 6.8 percent, and more than 2.5 million low-income families have received support. Enrollment in higher education has risen from 9 to 42 percent, while healthcare spending has increased sixfold.
Mirziyoyev devoted special attention to youth, stressing that the country’s future depends on their determination and pursuit of knowledge. He also noted that Uzbekistan’s voice is increasingly heard on the international stage, and the republic itself has become a venue for major summits and forums.
The event was attended by diplomats and representatives of international organizations. The celebrations concluded with a large concert broadcast on television and online.
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