Section 5
Key water developments in the countries of Central Asia
5.5. Republic of Uzbekistan
Water Sector
Water resources. The average quantity of water used in Uzbekistan is 51-53 billion m3, of which 80% (approx. 41 km3/year) is got from transboundary rivers. The estimated natural fresh and brackish groundwater deposits potentially yield 27.6 km3/year; however, they are unevenly distributed throughout the country. The water demand is met through a combination of surface water (50.9 km3/year), usable groundwater (0.5 km3/year), and the reused collector and drainage water (1.6 km3/year). The average water use by sector is as follows: 90-91% – agriculture; 4.5% – municipal sector; 1.4% – industry; 1.2% – fisheries; 0.5% – thermal power; 1% – other sectors.
Latest developments in legislation. The Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 and the State Program for its implementation were approved. Target 31 “Implementation of the state program on fundamental changes in the water management and water saving system” of the Strategy sets the following subtargets: (1) save at least 7 billion m3 of water through efficient water use; (2) reduce electricity consumption by waterworks facilities; (3) introduce a PPP-based water management system.
For the achievement of goals set in the “Concept of Water Sector Development in the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2020-2030”, the following resolutions were adopted:
• “On measures to further improve agricultural water saving” (PP RUz No.PP-144 of 01.03.2022), which (1) approved the proposal to increase water use efficiency through water saving technologies on an area of 478 thousand ha, including drip irrigation on 230 thousand ha, sprinkling – 28 thousand ha, discrete irrigation - 2 thousand ha, and laser leveling on 218 thousand ha; (2) established a procedure of government support in the form of subsidies to cover a portion of costs related to adoption of water saving technologies;
• “On measures to improve water management and regulate relations between end water users” (PP RUz No. PP-145 of 01.03.2022). The document defines a number of procedures in context of water management based on PPP principles.
• “On measures to develop social and production infrastructure of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2022-2024” (PP RUz No.PP-98 of 22.01.2022), which instructed the Uzbek Ministry of Agriculture together with a number of ministries to (1) analyze efficiency and effectiveness of irrigation and land reclamation projects, taking into account water supply, land condition and other specifics of the provinces; (2) make proposals on automation of water and energy measurement and monitoring on irrigation networks and improvement of construction and reconstruction of these networks, including with the use of modern resource-efficient construction materials.
• “On measures to develop social and production infrastructure of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2022-2024” (PP RUz No.PP-98 of 22.01.2022), which instructed the Uzbek Ministry of Agriculture together with a number of ministries to (1) analyze efficiency and effectiveness of irrigation and land reclamation projects, taking into account water supply, land condition and other specifics of the provinces; (2) make proposals on automation of water and energy measurement and monitoring on irrigation networks and improvement of construction and reconstruction of these networks, including with the use of modern resource-efficient construction materials.
A draft Water Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan was posted on the state portal for discussion.
The Agreement on joint water management of the Andizhan (Kempirabad) reservoir between the was ratified Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic (ZRU No. ZRU-805 of 30.11.2022).
Water management system. In the course of implementation of the “Strategy for water management and irrigation development in the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2021-2023” , water saving technologies were introduced on 940 thousand ha; digital technologies were implemented at 11,554 waterworks facilities, including 5,736 Smart Water devices, 4,452 groundwater monitoring tools, and 1,335 online monitoring tools for pumping stations; and, automation was implemented at 31 large hydroschemes; 1.116 trillion UZS were allocated for the construction and reconstruction of irrigation and land reclamation systems.
In Surkhandarya province , a pumping station on the Kapchagay canal was constructed, a 2.4-km water main was laid, construction of a 0.9-km canal near arable area was completed; hydraulic structures were cleaned and repaired, 17 new structures were constructed, and 2 Smart Water devices were installed on 22-km sections of Suenli and Keneges canals.
In Navoiy province, two canals were reconstructed, the Kuksaroy mudflow reservoir was repaired. In Fergana province, a two-stage pumping station was put into operation to lift water to 211 m through a 4-km pipeline network.
Projects. For development of the water sector, $114.88 million were spent as part of a number of international projects, including: $52.04 million - “Amu Bukhara irrigation system rehabilitation” (ADB), $17.2 million - “South Karakalpakstan water resource management improvement” (WB), $10.69 million - “Improved water resources management in Surkhandarya province” (IsDB), $26.1 million - “Fergana Valley water resource management - Phase II” (WB), $8.85 million - “Karshi pumping cascade rehabilitation-Phase-III” (SFD).
Ongoing projects: (1) “Ferghana Valley water resource management - Phase 2” (WB), 49 (62%) regulating structures on tertiary canals and 42 (55%) water-metering facilities were constructed; seminars were held on construction and operation of water metering and distribution unit on the Mukhtar canal (August 22) and on monitoring, assessment and repair of irrigation structures (September 12-15); meetings were held with the “GEDEPSA S.A.” consulting company (September 19, Madrid) and the WB Mission, where the “Support to intensification and diversification of agriculture and improvement of water resource management” project was launched ($2.7 million); (2) “National water resource management project in Uzbekistan” (SDC), the office and special-purpose equipment was handed over; training seminar for women in water (11 May; 9-12 June) and training on the use of modern water meters (October 17-21) were arranged; the water sector middle- and lower level professional development center was equipped; (3) “Amu Bukhara irrigation system rehabilitation”, Kiziltepa-1 pumping station was commissioned; (4) USAID “Regional water and vulnerable environment”, the Syr Darya River Day was celebrated (September 9). For other projects, see http://www.uzaifsa.uz/en/content/ongoing-projects.
Under the “EU’s Water Initiative National Policy Dialogues (NPDs) in Central Asia” project (EU, UNECE/ OECD, September 2019 - February 2023), the 1st Steering Committee meeting of NPDs on IWRM, launching NPDs in Uzbekistan, took place; achievements, problems and priorities of Uzbekistan in the field of water policy were discussed; ways of NPDs implementation were agreed upon; intersectoral collaboration, safe and equitable water supply and sanitation, and transboundary cooperation aspects were discussed (September 27, Tashkent). The consortium of CARITAS and CAREC launched the project “Climate resilient integrated water resource management in the Zeravshan River Basin in Uzbekistan” aimed at improving the living conditions of the population in basin by strengthening the capacity of water stakeholders, introducing market instruments and raising awareness of water users. A workshop was organized in Samarkand as part of the initial phase.
The EBRD Board of Directors approved a loan to finance the project “Modernization of 118 pumping stations in Andizhan, Namangan and Fergana provinces” (2023-2027) worth of $199.96 million (PP RUz No.PP-438 of 07.12.2022).
Water Ways Technologies Inc signed an agreement for construction of 6 reservoirs and 6 complete head controls in Bukhara province (February 9).
Capacity building. The following events were held among many others: (1) seminars for water professionals on water-saving irrigation technologies (January 11; March 3-5; July 7; November 10); (2) practical seminars for land reclamation services (January 27; April 19); (3) webinar “Water security in Central Asia” (February 11); (4) seminar of the University for World Economy and Diplomacy entitled “Water allocation issues in Central Asia and prospects of their solution” (February 18); (5) training seminar on PPP projects (February 22); (6) workshop within the EU-IWMI program “Sustainable water resource management in rural areas of Uzbekistan”, component I (July 29); (7) training seminar “Introduction of digital technologies and models in water management” (August 23, IWMI); (8) courses on cybersecurity in the water sector (September 5-20); (9) seminar “Efficient use of land and water resources in agriculture” within the framework of the EU-AGRIN project (November 25).
In 2022, the office of the Sectoral Council for Professional Skills and Knowledge Development and the Water Sector Professional Development Centre with the support of the EU and the UNESCO project “Development of employment skills in rural areas of Uzbekistan” were launched.
Events. The following events were organized: (1) roundtable “Topical issues of rational water resource use and glacier conservation in Central Asia” (January 19, online); (2) roundtable dedicated to the memory of Prof. Dukhovniy “Science and innovations for water security” as part of the International Central Asian Science-to-Practice Conference “30-years of water cooperation among the Central Asian states: facing the future” (April 26-27); (3) conference “Uzbek-Tajik cooperation on rational use of water resources” (April 29, online); (4) a regional seminar “Central Asia towards the 2023 UN Water Conference” (September 20, Tashkent); (5) workshop on supporting IWRM principles for development of the National Water Strategy of Uzbekistan for 2024-2026 (December 6-7, Tashkent).
Representatives of Uzbekistan took part in the 24th ICID Congress and 73rd IEC meeting (October 3-6, Adelaide).
Regional cooperation. Agreements were signed with: (1) the Government of Turkmenistan on the management, protection and sound use of the Amu Darya River (July 14, Tashkent); (2) the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic on joint water management of the Andizhan (Kempirabad) reservoir (November 3, Bishkek); (3) Water Resource Service under the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic on water cooperation (November 3, Bishkek). See “Bilateral Water Cooperation between the Countries of Central Asia”.
Deputy Prime Minister took part in the 22nd meeting of the IFAS Board (November 28, Dushanbe, Tajikistan). The following events were held in Tashkent: (1) 3rd coordination meeting of the EC IFAS with international development partners (September 20); (2) 8th meeting of the Working Group on institutional and legal improvement of IFAS (September 21-22); (4) meeting of the Head of IFAS with the Director of SIC ICSD branch in the Republic of Uzbekistan (November 21).
ICWC member from Uzbekistan Sh.R.Khamrayev participated in 82nd (April 27) and 83rd (November 22) ICWC meetings. See IFAS and other regional organizations in Central Asia.
Drinking Water Supply
According to the Central Public Utility Organization (AO Uzsuvta’minot), the coverage by centralized drinking water supply to population expanded from 69.7% to 74.4%, while that of centralized sanitation services increased from 17.2% to 18.9%. The amount of drinking water supplies increased to 1.19 billion m3, while the number of customers equipped with water meters increased from 2.42 to 2.83 million (64.3%). The customer base enlarged from 4.15 to 4.4 million.
Assimilated government investments in fixed assets through the Fund for Water Supply and Sewerage Development amounted to 2.9 trillion UZS (92% compared to 2021).
3.3 trillion UZS from government funds and $185.5 million from international financing institutions were spent for 7,130.1 km of drinking water supply networks and 232.9 km of sewerage networks and for construction or reconstruction of 859 water supply and sewerage facilities.
Latest developments in legislation. The law “On drinking water supply and sewage disposal” (RUz No.ZRU-784 of 22.07.2022) sets the following: (1) guarantees drinking water supply of good quality to consumers; (2) the Ministry of Housing and Communal Services is an authorized state body in the sphere of drinking water supply and sewage disposal; (3) organizations of any legal forms may perform as a drinking water supplier; (4) drinking water must be safe in epidemiological, radiation and chemical terms.
Resolutions: (1) “On measures for implementation of “Obod Kishlok” and “Obod Makhalla” programs in 2022-2026” (No.PP-172, 18.03.2022) adopted targets for the improvement of drinking water supply and sewerage systems; (2) “On additional measures to increase the coverage of population by drinking water supply and sewerage services” (No.PP-257, 24.05.2022) adopted the targets for the extension of the coverage by the services and the Program of drinking water supply to secondary schools, pre-school educational organizations, medical institutions, and communities.
Programs. A number of programs are implemented, including the Program of social and industrial infrastructure development, investment programs, “Obod Kishlok” and “Obod Makhalla” state programs to reconstruct water supply and sanitation infrastructure and construct new one in provinces throughout the Republic.
Projects. AO Uzsuvta’minot implemented 20 projects through $1.861-billion loans from the WB, ADB, EBRD, IsDB, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Saudi Fund for Development and OPEC Fund for International Development.
Those included construction of: (1) Kadyria water treatment plant, with a capacity of 100 thousand m3 per day in Tashkent province and a sewage treatment plant, with a capacity of 30 thousand m3 per day in Djizak city (at the expense of ADB); (2) sewerage treatment plants for 100 thousand m3 per day in Bukhara city (WB) and for 4 thousand m3 per day in Shirin city (IsDB).
At the expense of the local water supply enterprises, 82.8 km of water mains were laid, 7 wells were drilled, 121 pumps were installed, 1.8 thousand drinking water supply networks and 1.8 thousand pumping units were overhauled and repaired. Replacement of 53 pumps with energy saving ones at Syrdaryf and Surkhondarya water operators resulted in saving 77 thousand kW of electricity per month in each.
As part of the “Water” program, the non-governmental foundation “ONA” installed 1,200 pumps and 6 treatment facilities in water-short areas.
Agreements were signed with: (1) the International Development Association and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs of the Swiss Confederation (SECO) for the “Reconstruction of water supply and sewerage systems in Kattakurgan town in Samarkand province” project ($79.3 million, 2022-2026); (2) the ADB for the “Construction and reconstruction of drinking water supply and sewerage systems in cities and districts of Tashkent Province (Stage 3)” project ($185.8 million, 2022-2027); (3) the EBRD for the projects. “Improvement of drinking water supply in Chust, Pap, Namangan districts and construction of sewerage systems in Chust and Mingbulak district centers in Namangan province” and “Improvement of water supply in Muzrabad district of Surkhandarya province by constructing water mains from Oktosh and Poshkhurt groundwater deposits”; (4) the Alkatas Insaat Ve Taahhut LLC and Mesmer-East LLC for reconstruction of the sewerage treatment plant in Chirchik.
The French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Commission allocated funds for the projects : (1) “Construction of sewerage systems in Karmana district of Navoiy province”; (2) “Reconstruction and construction of sewerage systems in Shakhrisabz city and Kitab district center of Kashkadarya province”.
The governmental resolution was adopted (PP-428 of 18.11.2022) for implementation of the “Transformation of drinking water supply and sewerage systems in Tashkent city” project (ˆ218.8 million).
Capacity building. (1) training courses “Modern management of drinking water supply and sanitation” (March-April) and training seminars (March 1-3) for managers and employees of provincial water supply enterprises under AO Uzsuvta’minot; (2) international press conference “Human resources policy in the water sector: problems and solutions” (May 26). Totally, 1,400 employees upgraded their qualifications in operation, current and capital repairs, and construction quality control; 50 laboratory technicians underwent internal certification.
According to the draft resolution “On measures to develop the training system for drinking water supply sector”, a unified scientific center “Water Academy” is to be established with the aim of introducing innovative technological solutions and modern approaches and of building capacities of drinking water supply services.
International cooperation. AO Uzsuvta’minot signed: (1) a MoU with South Korea's K-Water Corporation on capacity building in drinking water supply and sanitation in Uzbekistan (June 3); (2) a MoU with the Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services (ADSSC), UAE (November 2); (4) a MoU with the AFD on the improvement of access to drinking water in the regions of Uzbekistan (November 21-22, Paris).
Agriculture
By the end of the year, crop acreage was 3,260.7 thousand ha. Agricultural production amounted to 347,564.4 billion UZS, including crop production – 179,853.4 billion UZS and livestock production – 167,711.0 billion UZS. The production growth rate was estimated at 103.8% in crop growing and 103.4% in livestock production. Production of meat increased by 3.4%, milk – 3.2%, eggs – 4.4%, grain – 4.7%, potatoes – 4.7%, cucurbits – 5.9%, fruits and berries – 4.6%, grapes –3.9%, and fish – 3.2%.
Uzbekistan was ranked 73rd in the Global Food Security Index 2022 (GFSI) (78th in 2021).
Source: Institute of Forecasting and Macroeconomic Research
Latest developments in legislation. To implement the Agricultural Development Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2020-2030 , the following Resolutions were adopted: (1) “On measures to establish the International Agricultural University” (No.PP-237 of 07.05.2022); (2) “On additional measures to effectively implement the tasks defined in the Agricultural Development Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2020-2030” (No.PP-273 of 07.06.2022); (3) “On measures to introduce advanced technologies in agriculture in Uzbekistan at the expense of grant funds of the Republic of Korea” (No.PP-321 of 14.07.2022); (4) “On additional measures to further develop agriculture in Tashkent province” (No.PP-435 of 01.12.2022).
In 2022, a number of laws and resolutions were adopted in support of fisheries, poultry and livestock production (PP-83 of 13.01.2022, PP-100 of 24.01.2022, PP-121 of 08.02.2022), for soil fertility and crop yields improvement (PP-179 of 25.03.2022), science and innovation-based cotton production (PP-308 of 07.07.2022), combating land degradation (PP-277 of 10.06.2022), etc.
New appointments. A.B.Voitov was appointed Minister of Agriculture.
Strategies and programs. As part of implementation of the “Agricultural Development Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2020-2030”, agricultural lands have been put up on the E-AUKSION platform since January 2022 . In one year, regional authorities reserved 102.6 thousand ha of land plots (103% compared to the plan), of which 95.5 thousand ha were allocated to 428.7 thousand citizens through open e-tenders.
A unified information system “Agrosubsidy” and a special telegram bot https://t.me/agrosubsidiya_support were launched in a test mode; agricultural producers may now submit e-applications for subsidies for adoption water-saving technologies in their production processes.
Agroclusters. In 2018-2022, 506 clusters were established in Uzbekistan. In 2022, their production amounted to 28.7 trillion UZS; the share of their output reached 11.4% in the total exports of industrial products.
Two agro-industrial clusters in Namangan province and 14 modern service centers and 100 mobile brigades were formed and equipped in cooperation with CLAAS, John Deere, and Case companies in line with decrees on establishment of horticultural agro-industrial clusters in Namangan province (PKM 309 of 07.06.2022) and of agricultural engineering cluster in Chirchik city (PP RUz No.PP-335 of 28.07.2022). A modern agro-industrial cluster is to be established in Andizhan province .
The Deputy Business Ombudsman and JICA representatives discussed the cluster system development in Uzbekistan during a meeting on February 28.
Projects. The following projects were continued: (1) “Integrated natural resources management in drought-prone and salt-affected agricultural production landscapes in Central Asia and Turkey” (CACILM-2, FAO/GEF). High-tech laboratory equipment was handed over to the “Tuproqsifattahlil” SUE ($29 thousand); 3 motor tillers and 3 mini hay mowers were handed over to the karakul farm “Guzor” LLC in Guzar district, Kashkadarya province; households received 5 motor tillers and earth augers each in Bukhara district of Bukhara province and Kamashi district of Kashkadarya province; a training for trainers was conducted (July 18-21); (2) “Sustainable management of forests in mountain and valley areas in Uzbekistan” (FAO/GEF), under which a number of legal documents have been drafted to develop forestry in Uzbekistan and empower women working in the industry; conditions were created to improve the social status of 620 local households; (3) “Smart farming for the next generation” (FAO). In Andizhan, Namangan and Fergana provinces, 20 rural households were supported to modernize and optimize their greenhouses; (4) “Agriculture modernization project for Uzbekistan” (WB). A training of future consultants in AKIS was held (May 10-13), an initial agreement was reached to provide a total of $20 million for the development of a single integrated Digital Agriculture platform; (5) “Supporting an inclusive transition to a green economy in the Agri-food sector and development of a “climate-smart” Uzbek Agriculture Knowledge and Innovation System (UAKIS)” (EU/UNDP). Annual work plan was presented (July 20), innovation groups were established; a training (August 19-20) and a seminar “Efficient use of land and water resources in agriculture” (29 November), and the “Zamin Yulduzlari” contest were held. For other projects, see www.agro.uz/ru/loyihalar/.
The new phase of the “Support for intensified and diversified agriculture and improved water resource management” project started ($2.7 million). A memorandum of cooperation was signed between the project representatives and the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) Center, the Council of Farmers, Dekhkan Farms and Homestead Plot Owners of Uzbekistan, the Association “Women of Agrarian Sphere” and the “ShirinMeva” project (March 1); “Farmer's Day” was organized (June 16).
The Presidential Resolution was adopted on the “Financing sustainable development of the livestock sector” project with participation of the AFD (2022-2026, ˆ147.07 million).
Capacity building. The International Agriculture University was established in Tashkent in cooperation with the UK . The Uzbekistan Smart Farm, an industrial technology platform is launched to boost economic growth by increasing the agricultural efficiency . To improve capacities, a resolution was adopted to organize training and experimental farms in agricultural sector (No.527 of 27.09.2022).
Series of workshops for representatives of dekhkan farms (January, Tashkent), practical training “Internal audit – model of opportunities” (March 16), seminar “Seed production – future of agriculture” for farmers and agrarians (March 29, AKIS), workshop “Prospects for the development of artisanal fish farming and aquaculture in Uzbekistan within the framework of the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture” (March 30) ; seminar-presentation of the program “Business game in farming” by German Sparkassenstiftung for international cooperation (April 1), training on “Development of horticulture value chain for extension agents” (May 16-20, USAID), regional training workshop on “Organization of strategic planning and policy development in food security” in cooperation with ADAFSA (May 24-25, Abu Dhabi), international training “Legislative framework of the EU and its impact on the organic production in Uzbekistan” (June 13-14, GIZ), and many other capacity building events were held in 2022.
International cooperation. n the course of bilateral negotiations, the agriculture ministers of Uzbekistan and Turkey signed: (1) a roadmap for enhancing strategic partnerships in agro-industry; (2) final minutes of the third meeting of the joint Uzbek-Turkish working group on agriculture; (3) memo of intention between the agrarian ministries of the two countries on cooperation in agricultural research and development (February 8-9, Tashkent).
Cooperation on application of GIS in agriculture was discussed during the meeting of directors of the Agroindustry Digitization Center (Uzbekistan) and GEO TWO Co.Ltd (Korea) (March 24). At the meeting of the Russian-Uzbek IGC, the agricultural ministries of Russia and Uzbekistan exchanged roadmaps on the development of agriculture cooperation for 2022-2024 (October 23). The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Italy held a briefing on food security reforms in Uzbekistan at the FAO headquarters (June 7, Rome). The Minister of Agriculture addressed the 33rd Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Europe (ERC) (May 11, Poland).
A number of meetings were held with Germany, the Organization of Turkic States and ECO, IFAD and other organizations to further develop cooperation on agriculture.
Events. The Uzbek Ministry of Agriculture hosted workshops and conferences in cooperation with the: (1) Ask Facility EU Program (February 25); (2) FAO (April 22, May 10-11, July 1); (3) IFAD (May 18); (4) AKIS/ISCAD (June 1-2); (5) OTS (July 4); (6) International Agriculture University (December 2), etc.
Energy
The available generating capacities in Uzbekistan amount to 12,900 MW, of which 11,000 MW (84.7%) – TPP; 1,850 MW – HPP (14.3%); and more than 133 MW 75 (1%) – station units and isolated stations . The energy system capacity is expected to reach 25.6 thousand MW (thermal - 18.8 thousand MW, hydro - 2.5 thousand MW, and solar and wind - 4.3 thousand MW) by 2025 and 29.2 thousand MW (share of RES, including hydro, solar, and wind – 40.4%) by 2030.
In 2022, 74.3 billion kWh of electricity (71.3 billion kWh in 2021) was generated, including 66.6 billion kWh (65.6 billion kWh in 2021) by AO TEC. The electricity export was 2.7 billion kWh (2.15 billion kWh in 2021), while the import was 5.6 billion kWh (6.2 billion kWh in 2021). As forecasted, by 2030, the republican consumption will reach 120.8 billion kWh.
At year-end, 66.5 billion kWh of electricity was transported through the main power grids (growth rate compared to 2021 - 102.8%).
According to the Program for modernization and reconstruction of power grids, power transformers were replaced at 9 substations, and the installed capacity was additionally increased by 1,241 MVA.
Latest developments in legislation. In line with the decree on implementation of the “Energy sector transformation and resilient transmission” project with the involvement of the World Bank (No.PP-113 of 03.02.2022), a resolution was approved on automation of the energy sector (No.68 of 10.02.2022.
Another resolution was adopted on 18.10.2022 (No.609) “On approval of the operational regulations of electric stations and grids in the Republic of Uzbekistan”.
New appointments. J.T. Mirzamakhmudov was appointed Minister of Energy (September 30).
International cooperation. The Government of Uzbekistan signed: (1) an intergovernmental MoU on energy cooperation with Azerbaijan (June 20); (2) a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia (August 18); (3) a MoU on further development of cooperation in energy sector with Turkmenistan (October 24).
The following events were held: (1) 2nd meeting of Energy Ministers of the SCO member states (June 28); (2) 60th meeting of the CIS Electric Power Council (July 14); (3) meeting of the Ministers of Energy of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan (February 26).
Events. The following events were organized: (1) 16th international exhibition “UzEnergyExpo-2022” (October 26-28); (2) 15th international exhibition “Energy, energy saving, nuclear energy, alternative energy sources – Power Uzbekistan 2022” (May 18-20); (3) Uzbekistan Energy Forum/UEF 2022 (June 23-24); (4) roundtable on international experience in developing a competitive wholesale electricity market and future plans of Uzbekistan in this area (October 14); (5) exhibition “Use of renewable energy sources in Uzbekistan and new opportunities” (July 28-29).
Hydropower
76,550 million m3 of water was used for hydropower generation.
In Uzbekistan, the hydropower sector has 49 HPPs, particularly 14 large HPPs with a total capacity of 1.76 GW (86% of total hydropower capacity), 23 medium HPPs with a total capacity of 0.262 GW (13%), 9 small HPPs with a total capacity of 0.0285 GW (0.014%) and 3 micro HPPs with a total capacity of 0.86 MW (0.004%). 30 HPPs (532 MW) are run-of-river. 10 HPPs (1.4 GW) operate at reservoirs.
Latest developments in legislation. The Cabinet of Ministers of RUz adopted a resolution for implementation of investment projects entitled “Construction of HPP cascade on the Big Andizhan Canal in Namangan province” and “Construction of Zarchob-3 HPP on the Topalang River in Surkhandarya province” (No.534 of 28.09.2022).
Hydropower construction and modernization. n 2017-2022, AO Uzbekgidroenergo commissioned 12 new HPPs with a total capacity of 262.8 MW and modernized 16 operating power facilities. In accordance with the 2022-2026 Uzbekistan Development Strategy, 15 new HPPs with a total capacity of 868 MW will be built in the country and 5 operating HPPs will be modernized.
By the end of 2022: (1) construction of the 90-MW Lower Chatkal HPP was launched on the Chatkal River in ashkent province; (2) construction of Pskem HPP is continued in Tashkent province; (3) Farkhad HPP was reconstructed in Syrdarya province. Modernization of 4 hydroelectric units resulted in increased capacity of the HPP by 11.4% (from 114 to 127 MW); (4) Topalang HPP is modernized in Surkhandarya province. After installation of 2 units, the capacity of the HPP will be increased to 175 MW.
The Presidents of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan launched the construction of a 140-MW Yavan HPP on the Zeravshan River at an estimated cost of $282 million. The HPP will generate 700-800 million kWh (June 2).
Within the framework of the Investment Program, AO Uzbekgidroenergo implemented 13 projects at a total cost of $1.3 billion and a total capacity of 797 MW.
Small hydropower. It is planned to build 200 small HPPs at a total capacity of 56 MW in line with the Presidential Decree “On additional measures to introduce energy-saving technologies and develop renewable energy sources of small capacity” (No.UP-220 of 09.09.2022). 8 mini hydropower will be launched.
Regional and international cooperation. AO Uzbekgidroenergo signed: (1) a MoU with MACLEC technical project laboratory pvt. LTD (India) for manufacturing of generating units in Uzbekistan; (2) a MoU with K-Water Corporation for construction of Khojikent pumped storage (February 15); (3) an agreement with Hydro4U consortium to purchase equipment for a projected 2.2 MW small HPP in Fergana province (June 21).
Events. AO Uzbekgidroenergo had official meetings with ADB delegation, representatives of Toshiba and Itochu (Japan), WB, and AFD.
Thermal power
AO TEC includes 6 TPPs, 3 CHPPs and 3 service companies. The installed capacity of TPPs is 11,932 MW (available capacity – 11,060 MW); 55.5 billion kWh of electricity and 5.35 million Gcal of thermal energy were generated in 2022. By 2030, it is planned to increase the total capacity of TPPs to 14.7 thousand MW .
Fitch Ratings (USA) assessed the international indicative rating of AO TEC at BB- “Stable” and equated it to the sovereign rating of RUz.
Thermal power construction and modernization. In 2022, 6 TPPs with a total capacity of 1,374 MW were launched: (1) 174-MW TPP in Khorezm province; (2) 270-MW gas-piston TPP in Bukhara province; (3) 220- MW TPP in Syrdarya province; (4) 240-MW combined cycle gas turbine, 230-MW gas-fired TPP and 240-MW TPP in Tashkent province.
The President launched the construction of the Surkhandarya TPP – the largest in the country with a capacity of 1.56 GW at $1.2 billion.
Within the framework of the projects (1) “Construction of 2 new gas turbine units with a total capacity of 32 MW at Tashkent TPC JSC” (JICA), an annual production of 515.6 million kWh of electricity and 690.3 thousand Gcal of thermal energy was achieved; (2) “Expansion of Talimarjan TPP JSC with the construction of another combined cycle plant with a total capacity of at least 900 MW” (ADB/EBRD), it is planned to generate 7.2 billion kWh of electricity per year; (3) “Construction of the third combined cycle plant with a capacity of 650 MW at Navoiy TPP JSC” (JICA), an annual production of 4.9 billion kWh of electricity and 931.4 thousand Gcal of thermal energy was achieved.
A resolution (No.PP-464 of 30.12.2022) was adopted for implementation of the “Construction of 1,573-MW combined cycle plant Bayaut district, Syrdarya province” investment project.
International cooperation. AO TEC cooperates with the General Electric (USA), Mitsubishi Corporation, Itochu (Japan), Hyundai (South Korea), Intecsa Ingeniera Industrial S.A. (Spain), AC Boilers S.p.A (Italy), Power Machines, Krasny Kotelshchik, Kaluga Turbine plant, Taganrog Boiler Building plant, Leningrad Metal plant (Russia), Calik Enerji (Turkey), EBRD, Asia-Pacific Bank, JICA (Japan), China Development Bank (PRC).
Alternative energy sources
Latest developments in legislation. To promote energy-saving technologies and development of RES in Uzbekistan, the Presidential Decree (No.UP-220 of 09.09.2022) was adopted on “On additional measures to introduce energy-saving technologies and develop renewable energy sources of small capacity”. In pursuance of the Decree, the Cabinet of Ministers approved resolutions for acceleration of production of RES-based facilities (No.518 of 21.09.2022) and for support of local producers of RES installations and their customers (No.568 of 05.10.2022).
The National Research Institute for Renewable Energy Sources under the ME and the Research Center for Hydrogen Energy and the Laboratory for Testing and Certification of Renewable and Hydrogen Energy Technologies within its structure were established (PKM RUz No.127 of 24.03.2022).
A number of documents were approved: (1) Green Economy Transition and Green Growth Program in Uzbekistan until 2030; (2) Concept for transition to green economy and energy saving in industries; (3) Green Economy Transition and Green Growth Action Plan in the Republic of Uzbekistan until 2030; (4) Targets for fuel and energy resource saving in economic sectors for 2022-2026 (PP RUz No.PP-436 of 02.12.2022): (1) reduce GHG emissions by 35% of the 2010 level; (2) increase RES up to 15 GW and bring their share in the total volume of electricity generation to 30% and more; (3) improve sectoral energy efficiency by at least 20%; (4) reduce energy intensity per unit of gross domestic product by 30%, including through increased use of RES; (5) improve water use efficiency in all sectors and introduce water-saving technologies on an area of up to 1 million ha; (6) expand urban green spaces to 30% or more by planting 200 million seedlings per year and bring their total number to 1 billion; (7) increase household waste recycling up to 65%, etc.
Carbon neutrality action plan for the energy sector of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan aims to transit to carbon-neutral electricity generation by 2050.
Solar power. Commissioned projects: (1) 100-MW plant to generate 260 million kWh per year in Samarkand province, (May 24); (2) 131-MW solar farm “Tutli” (Total Eren, France) to generate 270 thousand kWh per year, 100 km west of Samarkand.
By the end of 2023, 4 solar plants will be built and commissioned in: (1) Surkhandarya province - 456.6 MW; (2) Djizak province - 220 MW; (3) Samarkand province - 220 MW; (4) Navoiy province - 200 MW.
Wind power. A resolution was adopted (PP-169 of 18.03.2022) for the construction and operation of 100-MW wind power plant Karauzyak district, Republic of Karakalpakstan in the format of PPP .
The Masdar Company (UAE) signed agreements on financing construction of the first industrial 500-MW Zeravshan WPP in Navoiy province (August 31).
Agreements were signed between the Government of Uzbekistan, the International Finance Corporation and EBRD on cooperation in the sphere of renewables (March).
Environment and climate change
Latest developments in legislation. A number of resolutions were adopted for arrangement of protected natural territories (PP-131 of 16.02.2022, PKM 93 of 04.03.2022), enforcement of laws on nature protection in Djizak province (PP-226 of 27.04.2022), amendment and addition of the Regulations on state environmental monitoring (PKM 99 of 07.03.2022), improvement of performance of the Environmental and Nature Use Technology Research Institute (PKM 458 of 18.08.2022), etc.
Strategies and programs. Within the framework of the:
• Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, decrees and resolutions were adopted on priority measures for reformation of the waste management system (UP-189 of 11.08.2022), on organization of sanitation and cleaning service in settlements (PP-349 of 11.08.2022), on facilitation of transition to green economy (PP-436 of 02.12.2022), etc.
• Concept for Environmental Protection until 2030, provisions on Green Gardens and Green Parks were approved (PKM 529 of 27.09.2022).
The Aral Sea region. In 2022, the government adopted resolutions for afforestation of the dried bed of the Aral Sea and in the Aral Sea region and for formation of the Borsakelmas state reserve in the Republic of Karakalpakstan.
For implementation of the tasks defined in the Special Resolution “On declaring the Aral Sea region a zone of ecological innovation and technologies”, decisions were made to take additional measures to transform the Aral Sea region into a zone of ecological innovations and technologies (PKM 41 of 25.01.2022) and to implement the UNDP-GEF project “Conservation and sustainable management of lakes, wetlands, and riparian corridors as pillars of a resilient and land degradation neutral Aral basin landscape supporting sustainable livelihoods”. An agreement was signed with ADB on financing the project “Climate adaptive water resources management in the Aral Sea Basin sector” (June 24).
MPHSTF for the Aral Sea Region. In 2022, Uzbekistan contributed $1.5 million and Germany - ˆ700 thousand to the Aral Sea region.
The EU delegation visited the MPHSTF’s project sites (April 30, Nukus, Karakalpakstan). The MPHSTF beneficiaries took part in a picture exhibition “Expanding the opportunities of youth: Uzbekistan's youth in European Union Cooperation” (May 19, Tashkent).
MPHSTF continued projects aimed at ensuring access to drinking water, supporting innovative youth initiatives in agriculture, etc. See United Nations and its Specialized Agencies.
As part of the “Sustainable natural resource and forest management in key mountainous areas important for globally significant biodiversity” project, (1) SMART patrol system for snow leopards was tested in the Chatkal State Biosphere Reserve and Gissar State Reserve; (2) training workshops were held on business planning, tourism and gardening (May-June); (3) forest restoration activities were carried out on 2,436 ha of degraded highland forests; (4) final meeting of the Coordination Council of the joint project was held (November 30, Tashkent). The Upper Tupalang National Nature Park was established on 27,851 ha in Surkhandarya province.
As part of the “Green rehabilitation Investment Project for Karakalpakstan Republic to address impacts of the Aral Sea crisis” (KOICA/GGGI) project, the GGGI office in Uzbekistan organized technical consultations (April 12 and June 14, Nukus; June 22, Tashkent). The (1) “Green Recovery Investment Analysis: Climate-Resilient Agriculture in the Republic of Karakalpakstan”; (2) “Climate Resilient Green Growth Assessment: for the Republic of Karakalpakstan”; (3) “Agriculture Sector in Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan: Legal & Political Framework Review”; (4) “2022 Karakalpakstan Agriculture Risk Profile for Climate Resilience Capacity Development” were developed.
International and regional cooperation. The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI ) opened its office in Tashkent (February 22). GGGI signed: with the ICSD a MoU on cooperation in the area of green growth and climate change (February 24); a Joint Declaration of Intentions with the UN in the face of Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan (March 30).
Agreements were signed: between the Uzbek State Committee for Ecology and GIZ on the “Climate risk management in Central Asia” project (August 11, Tashkent); between the Uzbek Government and EBRD on the “Rehabilitation of domestic waste landfills and construction of new landfills in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Khorezm province” project (March 25, Tashkent) and on a grant project in support Uzbekistan's efforts in rehabilitating the Chorkesar and Yangiabad special landfills (September 1, London, UK).
The Uzbek State Committee for Ecology held meetings with the: (1) Committee on Environmental Protection of Tajikistan (May 25, Tashkent); (2) Committee for Environmental Regulation and Control of Kazakhstan (May 26, Tashkent); (3) Ministry of Environmental Protection of Israel (June 15, online). The 3rd meeting of the Uzbek-Russian working group on the Agreement between the environmental agencies of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation on environmental cooperation was held online on December 13.
Events. In 2022, the “green cover” was formed of saxaul and other desert plants on 107 thousand ha of the dried bed of the Aral Sea. With the support of the local population, a stock of 590.3 t of desert plant seeds was made. Plant nurseries were arranged on 100 ha. The nationwide “Green land” project is under implementation.
The Embassy of Uzbekistan in the United States organized a charity reception in support of the Aral Sea region (December 15, Washington, D.C., USA).
The following events were held: (1) scientific and practical seminar “Protection of land resources” (April 22, Tashkent, Uzbekistan); (2) session “Solution of environmental problems” of the 3rd International Rating Forum (May 7, Tashkent); (3) Plenum of the Central Council of the Ecological Party of Uzbekistan (May 21, Tashkent); (4) 3rd meeting of the Environment Ministers of the SCO member states (May 27, Tashkent); (5) international conference “Enhancing environmental culture of youth for sustainable development: domestic and foreign experience” (August 19, Tashkent); (6) campaign on the World Cleanup Day (September 17, Tashkent); (7) session “Climate change and the need to transit to a green economy” (November 4, Samarkand).
The delegation of Uzbekistan participated in a number of big international events, including UNEA-5 (February 28-March 2, Nairobi, Kenya), “Stockholm+50: a healthy planet for the prosperity of all – our responsibility, our opportunity” (June 2-3, Stockholm, Sweden), Climate Change Conference (November 7-18, Sharm el Sheikh), 15th UN Biodiversity Conference (December 7-19, Montreal, Canada), etc.
SDG in Uzbekistan
The country continued implementing the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2021-2025 . The Resolution of the Uzbek Cabinet of Ministers No.83 “On additional measures to accelerate the implementation of national goals and objectives of sustainable development for the period up to 2030” of 21.02.2022 approved national goals and objectives for the period up to 2030 and the Plan of measures for 2022-2026.
Uzbekistan was ranked 69 of 166 countries in the annual ranking of sustainable development.
A Resolution was adopted (No.2816-IV of 29.12.2022) for strengthening the role of parliaments in accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. This document approved a Roadmap outlining 57 concrete measures in 13 areas.
The Government of Uzbekistan, with the support of the UNDP, developed and published the SDG Bond Allocation and Impact report, which provides information on how the proceeds from the bond issuance are helping to achieve the Government’s development priorities and highlights Uzbekistan’s commitment to achieve the SDGs.
A joint meeting of the Chambers of Oliy Majlis on the implementation of the SDGs (October 26, Tashkent) and a roundtable “Human development and prospects for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Uzbekistan” (November 1, Tashkent) were held.
The delegation of Uzbekistan participated in the UNECE Regional Forum on Sustainable Development 2022 (April 7, online), High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (July 5-15, New York, USA), 6th North and Central Asia Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (October 6-7, Almaty, Kazakhstan).
Emergencies
Latest developments in legislation. (1) Law “On protection of population and territories from natural and anthropogenic emergencies” (ZRU-790 of 17.08.2022), under which (à) emergencies, depending on the source, may be of natural and man-made nature; (b) citizens are provided with free medical care, compensation and other benefits for work in emergency zones; (c) concealment, late submission or submission of false information as concerns emergency situations is not allowed; (2) resolution “On measures to protect the population and territories from emergencies related to hazardous hydrometeorological phenomena and geological processes” (PP-426 of 18.11.2022), which establishes the procedure for protecting the population and territories from floods and other emergencies.
Strategies and programs. Implementation of the 2022-2030 Strategy for Development of Cooperation among the Central Asia Countries in DRR was started . The Uzbekistani delegation participated in the meeting of the working group (experts) of the Regional forum-meeting of the Heads of Emergency Authorities of the CA countries , where trainings in monitoring of implementation of the Sendai Framework Program on DRR were held for representatives of public authorities in the CA countries (October 5, Dushanbe, Tajikistan).
Natural disasters. Due to heavy precipitation in spring, 15 floods and landslide events registered in several provinces of Uzbekistan damaged main and internal roads and bridges, houses, flooded homestead plots and crops, caused death of people and hundred heads of livestock.
Preventive measures. The Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) organized: (1) 172 tactical and special exercises on cleaning riverbeds, mountain streams, and canals, strengthening their banks, and constructing embankments; (2) preventive and precautionary measures among the population living in hydrometeorologically and geologically hazardous areas; (3) emergency prevention and civil protection month (May). Provincial divisions of the MES were equipped with 15 sets of automated warning system.
Regional cooperation. The Agreement approved between the Governments of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan on cooperation in prevention and elimination of emergencies (PP-248 of 18.05.2022) provides for “...organization and monitoring of hazardous man-made and natural processes and phenomena; regular exchange of information on monitoring and forecasting of natural and man-made emergencies...”, etc.
The Ministers of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan and Belarus signed the 2023-2024 Action Plan for Cooperation (October 1, Samarkand).
Events. The MES took part in the: (1) 7th session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (Bali, Indonesia); (2) regional consultation workshop on climate change and security in CA (July 13-14, Almaty, Kazakhstan); (3) Regional Forum - Meetings of Heads of Emergency Authorities of Central Asian Countries (October 4-6, Dushanbe, Tajikistan); (4) summit of the Heads of Emergency Authorities of the Organization of Turkic States (21 December, Ankara, Turkey).
The following events were hosted: (1) training seminar for the heads of Expertise Departments at the Emergency Situations Directorate (May 26-27, Tashkent, Uzbekistan); (2) roundtable at the Research Institute of Fire Safety and Emergency Situations at the MES (August 30, Tashkent); (3) training seminar on emergencies in the water sector (October 17).
Foreign Policy and International Cooperation
In 2022, the President of Uzbekistan paid official and working visits to China (February), Pakistan (March), UAE (May), Kyrgyzstan (July), Hungary (October), Russian Federation (October, December), Kazakhstan (October 12, October 27), Turkmenistan (October), and France (November).
The country was visited by: the Presidents of Turkey (March), Tajikistan (June), Azerbaijan (June), Turkmenistan (July), Kazakhstan (December); the delegations from IRI (March, July), Russian Federation (March, April, October, November), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (March, September, December), UAE (March, June), USA (June, August), PRC (July), Germany (November); the Prime Ministers from Kazakhstan (February), Belarus (April), Georgia (July); the Foreign Ministers from Japan (April), Poland (June); Head of the UN Counter-Terrorism Office (March), ADB President (March), SCO Secretary General (May), OSCE Chairperson-in-Office (June), first deputy UN Secretary General (June), WB delegation (September), EU President (October), EBRD President (November), OSCE Secretary General (November), and many others.
Key developments in the foreign policy of Uzbekistan in 2022. The aim of the republican foreign policy is to ensure dynamic and sustainable political, socio-economic, secular and democratic development of Uzbekistan. The most important objective is enhancing good neighborly relations and strategic partnerships, first, with the CA countries. The Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 sets the following goals: (1) Goal 93: Increase the role of the country as an equitable international entity; (2) Goal 94: Elevate to the highest level the close cooperation in Central Asia in security, trade and economic, water, energy, transport and cultural and humanitarian spheres; (3) Goal 95: To further develop relations with our traditional partners, strengthen economic diplomacy, and prioritize expanding the geography of our foreign relations; (4) Goal 96: Strengthen the activities of Uzbekistan in the framework of United Nations bodies and institutions, global and regional economic, financial and humanitarian organizations; (5) Goal 97: Achieve World Trade Organization membership and deepen integration processes with the Eurasian Economic Union; (6) Goal 99: Improve the regulatory framework of foreign policy and foreign economic activity, as well as the legal framework of international cooperation.
The Uzbek President delivered speeches at the: (1) 1st India-Central Asia Summit (January 27, online),where the Delhi Declaration was approved; (2) a high-level dialogue on global development in the “BRICS+” format (June 24, online); (3) 4th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of States of Central Asia (July 21, Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan); (4) 6th Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (October 13, Astana, Kazakhstan); (5) meeting of heads of delegations in the “Central Asia-EU” format (October 27, Astana, Kazakhstan).
Development of alliances and strategic partnerships. In October, Sh. Mirziyoyev paid an official visit to Turkmenistan, where priority areas of cooperation in water management and environmental protection, prevention and elimination of emergency situations were identified and a number documents were signed at the level of governments, ministries and departments of the two countries. See Bilateral Water Cooperation between the Countries of Central Asia.
As a member of CIS, Uzbekistan took part in meetings of the Council of Heads of CIS States (October 14, Astana), Council of Heads of Government (May 20, online; October 28, Astana), Council of Foreign Ministers (May 13, Dushanbe; October 12, Astana), Economic Council (December 2, September 23, June 10, March 18), 1st Dialogue of Women of Central Asian States and Russia (May 14, Ashkhabad), as well as in informal Summits of the Heads of CIS States (October 7, December 26, Saint Petersburg) and in the EAEU meeting in the status of an observer country (December 9, Bishkek).
Chairmanship in international organizations. In 2022, Uzbekistan held the chairmanship of the:
SCO. More than 80 events were organized, including the 21st meeting of the Council of Heads of the SCO member states. A package of documents was signed, incl.: (1) Samarkand Declaration; (2) Statement on Addressing Climate Change; (3) Statement on Ensuring Global Food Security; (4) Statement on Ensuring Global Energy Security (September 15-16, Samarkand).
The Samarkand Declaration noted that the member states: (à) “… emphasize the need to increase mutually beneficial cooperation in energy, … support the use of economically viable and environmentally friendly technologies that mitigate the negative impact on the environment and contribute to energy security and the transition to cleaner and environmentally friendly energy sources in an energy efficient economy…”; (b) “… stressed their commitment to building a sustainable economic system, also by promoting green and environmentally friendly technologies …”; (c) “… note the importance of cooperation in environmental protection, environmental safety, prevention of the negative consequences of climate change, conservation and use of biodiversity, as well as the exchange of experience and operational information on these matters…”.
Uzbekistan participated in the: (1) 21st meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO member states (November 1, online); (2) roundtable “SCO 2022: steering for new development goals” (February 22, Dushanbe, Tajikistan); (3) meetings of the Council of National Coordinators (January 25-28, June 14-17, Tashkent; April 25-28, Fergana; October 17-20, New Delhi, India); (4) 17th Meeting of the Security Council Secretaries (August 19, Tashkent); (5) meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers (July 28-29, Tashkent).
ECO. A number of events were organized, including: 4th ECO Experts Group meeting on RES (April 27, online); 7th meeting of the Ministers of Agriculture of the ECO countries (July 5-6, Tashkent). On the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, 2022 was declared the “Year of Strengthening Connectivity” in ECO.
OTS. The 9th OTS Summit was held under the leadership of the President of Uzbekistan. The Heads of State approved the Samarkand Declaration and signed a number of documents. The Chairmanship of the Organization was handed over to Uzbekistan (November 11, Samarkand).
Uzbekistan hosted: (1) 2nd meeting of the Working Group on Agricultural Cooperation of the Organization of Turkic States (July 3-6, Tashkent); (2) 1st meeting of the ministers of agriculture of the Turkic States (July 4, Tashkent); (3) 1st Turkic Agro-Forum (July 4, Tashkent).
Promotion of the national interests and reinforcement of the country’s image
Uzbekistan celebrated 30 years of UN membership in 2022. Uzbekistan initiated the resolutions on “Strengthening connectivity between Central and South Asia” , “Youth and human rights” , “Enhancing the role of parliaments in accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals”.
Documents prepared by the Uzbekistany side and recognized as official UNGA documents include the Bukhara Declaration , Tashkent Declaration , and Samarkand SCO Summit: Solidarity for Common Security and Prosperity.
The Uzbek Minister of Foreign Affairs speaking at the 77th session of the UNGA noted: “…We stand ready to actively participate in the multilateral efforts to promote the topical issues of the green agenda and curb climate change processes. Uzbekistan has taken on an additional obligation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Agreement and is implementing a comprehensive strategy for the transition to a green economy and the development of renewable energy… We will host the 14th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, as well as a meeting of the Committee to Review the Implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Uzbekistan …” (September 24, New York).
Uzbekistan was elected a member of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development for 2023-2026 (April 13, ECOSOC meeting) and became the member of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
Uzbekistan participated in the: (1) 49th session of the UN Human Rights Council (February 28, Geneva, Switzerland); (2) 66th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (March 14-25, New York, USA); (3) UN Ministerial conference on humanitarian commitments in Afghanistan (March 31, online); (4) 78th session of ESCAP (May 23-27, Bangkok, Thailand); (5) 7th annual session of the UNECE Steering Committee on Trade Capacity and Standards (June 27-28, Geneva, Switzerland); (6) UN Summit on Transforming Education (September 16-19, New York, USA); (7) Bazaar 2022 Festival under the UN auspices (November 22, Geneva, Switzerland).
Events. Uzbekistan hosted: (1) the international conference “Afghanistan: security and economic development” (July 26); (2) the 1st Tashkent international investment forum (March 24); (3) the international week of innovative ideas “InnoWeek.Uz-2022” (October 17-21); (4) “ICT Week Uzbekistan – 2022” (October 24-27).
Sources:
Official sites of the: President; Legislative chamber of Oliy Majlis; MFA; Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade; Ministry of Water Management; Ministry of Energy; Goskomecologiya; Ministry of Agriculture; National law database; Institute for Strategic and Inter-regional Studies; EC CIS; CIS Portal
Information agencies and sites: Uzdaily.uz, Norma.uz, Dunyo, Sputnik, Kun.uz