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 ambitious Strategy 2030 of the country. This all-encompassing plan is built on five key pillars: ecological sustainability, governmental reform, societal advancement, national security, and innovation geared towards the future. Through this strategy, Uzbekistan is paving the way for sustainable development, tackling long-standing issues while establishing a strong presence in the global arena.
A strong economy and global acknowledgment
The economic expansion of Uzbekistan has been truly remarkable. In 2024, the nation’s GDP exceeded €120 billion, representing a significant milestone in its economic journey. Exports surpassed €24 billion, while gold reserves and foreign exchange amassed €38 billion, offering a solid base for ongoing success.
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.
A key driver of this growth has been the country’s openness to foreign investment. The Third International Investment Forum, held in Tashkent, saw contracts worth €25.5 billion signed, highlighting Uzbekistan’s appeal to global investors. The government has also focused on infrastructure development and energy projects, creating 1.5 million new jobs and strengthening ties with major global economies like the United States and China. Additionally, Uzbekistan’s ongoing negotiations to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) reflect its commitment to integrating into the global economy.
Uzbekistan’s progress in environmental sustainability has received global commendation. In the last five years, the nation has initiated 16 significant solar and wind power facilities, adding 3,500 megawatts of renewable energy to its network. Consequently, the proportion of green energy in Uzbekistan’s energy portfolio increased to 16% in 2024, with an aim of achieving 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 been grappling with water scarcity for a long time, with more than 50 billion cubic meters used each year. In 2024, the adoption of advanced water-saving technologies enabled the nation to enhance irrigation efficiency over 1.8 million hectares of agricultural land. This advancement highlights Uzbekistan’s dedication to effective water management, a crucial part of its enduring agricultural and environmental plans.
Advancements in society and reform
Uzbekistan has focused on the well-being of its citizens as the cornerstone for national advancement. In 2024, the government broadened social support programs to aid 2.2 million families, including those with disabilities. Job creation efforts, advanced prosthetic services, and the creation of INSON social service centers in collaboration with the World Bank illustrate the nation’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its most vulnerable communities.
Uzbekistan has prioritized its citizens’ welfare as the foundation for national progress. In 2024, the government expanded social assistance programs to support 2.2 million families, including those with disabilities. Employment initiatives, modern prosthetic services, and the establishment of INSON social service centers with support from the World Bank exemplify the country’s dedication to improving the lives of its most vulnerable populations.
Uzbekistan’s abundant culture has become a central aspect of its national identity. Under President Mirziyoyev’s guidance, the conservation and promotion of the nation’s heritage have been elevated to a matter of 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 brought the country’s historical treasures to the attention of an international audience. These efforts 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.
Youth and athletic accomplishments
Uzbekistan’s young people have been instrumental in propelling the country’s advancement. Young business owners represent almost a quarter of the nation’s entrepreneurial sector, with numerous farmers and artisans adding to its economic strength.
The nation’s triumphs in sports have also sparked national pride. During the Paris 2024 Olympics, Uzbekistan’s athletes achieved their best results ever, securing 13 medals, including eight golds. The Uzbek boxing team topped the medal charts with five gold medals, showcasing the effectiveness of long-term 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 established itself as a key component of Uzbekistan’s forward-looking development. The Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 initiative has fast-tracked the nation’s technological progress, with IT exports bringing in €326 million in revenue in 2024. More than 1,000 startups are situated in IT parks, illustrating the robust tech landscape of the country. The complete digitalization of elections using the E-Saylov system has also created a new standard for transparency in democratic procedures.
Technology has become a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s future-focused development. The Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 program has accelerated the country’s technological advancements, with IT exports generating €326 million in revenue in 2024. Over 1,000 startups are now housed in IT parks, reflecting the country’s thriving tech ecosystem. The full digitalization of elections through the E-Saylov system has also set a new benchmark for transparency in democratic processes.
A brilliant model of advancement
A shining example of progress
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.
