by Uzbekistan, situated at the core of Central Asia, has become a nation experiencing an impressive transformation. In the last ten years, it has embarked on bold plans in governance, economic reform, environmental conservation, and education, establishing its reputation as a notable player in the area. Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country’s approach to development serves as an example of harmonizing economic advancement with social and ecological priorities.
Leading this transformation is the nation’s ambitious Strategy 2030. This all-encompassing framework is built on five key pillars: environmental sustainability, administrative reform, social advancement, national security, and innovation geared towards the future. Through this method, Uzbekistan is paving the way for sustainable development, tackling enduring issues while striving to become a competitive entity in the global arena.
A strong economy and global acknowledgment
A robust economy and international recognition
A major catalyst for this growth has been the nation’s welcoming stance towards foreign investment. The Third International Investment Forum, hosted in Tashkent, resulted in agreements totaling €25.5 billion, underlining Uzbekistan’s attractiveness to international investors. The government has also prioritized infrastructure enhancements and energy projects, generating 1.5 million new jobs and bolstering relations with leading world economies such as the United States and China. Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s continued discussions to become a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) demonstrate its dedication to becoming part of the global market.
Promoting environmental transformation
Uzbekistan’s progress in environmental sustainability has earned worldwide acclaim. In the past five years, the nation has launched 16 significant solar and wind power facilities, adding 3,500 megawatts of renewable energy to its network. Consequently, the portion of green energy in Uzbekistan’s power distribution increased to 16% in 2024, aiming for 40% by 2030.
The Yashilmakon (“Greenhouse”) national project has resulted in notable environmental enhancements. Over 138 million trees have been planted, and green belts covering 10,000 hectares have reshaped both urban and rural areas. Furthermore, 257 new parks have been created, and programs like My Garden, which offered land to 10,000 residents, have not only enhanced the environment but also encouraged local business ventures. These initiatives are part of a larger strategy to tackle desertification, a crucial issue for the area.
The national Yashilmakon (“Greenhouse”) project has also led to significant environmental improvements. More than 138 million trees have been planted, and the creation of green belts spanning 10,000 hectares has transformed urban and rural landscapes. Additionally, 257 new parks have been established, and initiatives like My Garden, which provided land to 10,000 citizens, have not only improved the environment but also spurred local entrepreneurship. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to combat desertification, a critical challenge for the region.
Uzbekistan has faced the challenge of water scarcity for a long time, using over 50 billion cubic meters of water each year. In 2024, the adoption of new water-saving technologies enabled the optimization of irrigation over 1.8 million hectares of agricultural land. This advancement highlights Uzbekistan’s dedication to sustainable water management, which is crucial to its long-term agricultural and environmental plans.
Water scarcity has long been a pressing issue for Uzbekistan, with over 50 billion cubic meters of water consumed annually. In 2024, the introduction of innovative water-saving technologies allowed the country to optimize irrigation across 1.8 million hectares of farmland. This progress demonstrates Uzbekistan’s commitment to sustainable water management, a vital component of its long-term agricultural and environmental strategies.
Social progress and reform
Conserving cultural heritage
Uzbekistan’s abundant cultural heritage has taken center stage in its national identity. Under the leadership of President Mirziyoyev, the preservation and promotion of the country’s heritage have been prioritized as state policy. Significant events, like the international exhibition “Uzbekistan: Avant-Garde in the Desert” in Italy and the “Silk Roads” exhibit at the British Museum, have displayed the nation’s historical treasures to an international audience. These initiatives not only emphasize Uzbekistan’s cultural importance but also enhance its emerging status as a center for art and history.
In August 2024, Tashkent and Samarkand were the venues for the Eighth International Congress focused on Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage. Organized alongside the Center for Islamic Civilization, the event highlighted the nation’s dedication to protecting its historical legacy while adopting contemporary progress.
In August 2024, Tashkent and Samarkand hosted the Eighth International Congress on the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. The event, organized in partnership with the Center for Islamic Civilization, underscored the country’s commitment to preserving its past while embracing modernity.
Youth and sporting achievements
Uzbekistan’s accomplishments in sports have sparked a sense of national pride. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Uzbek athletes achieved their best results ever, securing 13 medals, including eight golds. The Uzbek boxing team topped the medal table with five gold medals, highlighting the payoff from sustained investment in sports facilities and youth programs.
The country’s achievements in sports have also inspired a sense of national pride. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Uzbekistan’s athletes delivered their best performance in history, winning 13 medals, including eight golds. The Uzbek boxing team led the medal standings with five gold medals, demonstrating the success of years of investment in sports infrastructure and youth development.
Technology has become a vital part of Uzbekistan’s forward-looking development. The Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 initiative has quickened the nation’s technological progress, with IT exports creating €326 million in revenue in 2024. More than 1,000 startups now operate in tech parks, showcasing the country’s vibrant technology landscape. The complete digitalization of elections via the E-Saylov system has also established a new standard for transparency in democratic activities.
Educational reforms have bolstered Uzbekistan’s groundwork for sustainable growth. University enrollment increased from 9% in 2016 to 42% in 2023, with an aim to achieve 50% by 2030. Government expenditure on education rose to €4.5 billion in 2023, facilitating the creation of international university branches and scholarships that have enhanced access to quality learning. Specialized programs in artificial intelligence, data science, and blockchain are equipping students for the challenges of a competitive global market.
A brilliant model of advancement
Uzbekistan’s evolution in the last ten years stands as proof of the impact of forward-thinking leadership and methodical planning. From economic expansion and environmental conservation to social reform and cultural preservation, the nation has achieved notable progress in all areas of development.
Uzbekistan’s transformation over the past decade serves as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and strategic planning. From economic growth and environmental sustainability to social reform and cultural preservation, the country has made significant strides in every aspect of development.
With its ambitious Strategy 2030 guiding the way, Uzbekistan is not only achieving remarkable success but also setting an example for other nations in the region. As it continues on this path, the country stands as a beacon of hope and progress in Central Asia, inspiring optimism for a brighter future.
