by: TN Media News Pakistan: As Uzbekistan marks its 33rd Independence Day on September 1, the nation reflects on its remarkable progress and ambitious future. Over the past three decades, Uzbekistan has laid a foundation of peace and stability, focusing on freedom, unity, and equality while driving sustainable development.
Economic transformation is at the heart of Uzbekistan’s growth, fueled by ambitious reforms and strategic investments. The World Bank forecasts a 5.3% GDP growth for Uzbekistan this year, with the International Monetary Fund predicting that the country’s GDP will surpass $100 billion. In just the first half of 2024, the nation’s GDP grew by 6.4%, attracting $15.5 billion in foreign investments.
Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has seen significant advances in economic and social reforms. The New Uzbekistan 2022–2026 strategy and Uzbekistan-2030 strategy are central to the country’s development, with a focus on economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion. Key initiatives include tax regulation simplification, state-owned enterprise privatization, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Tourism is also a growing priority, with Uzbekistan expecting 10 million tourists in 2024, up from 7 million in 2023. Over $1 billion has been invested in improving tourist infrastructure, particularly in Samarkand.
Uzbekistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and global engagement is evident in its active participation in initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which aims to enhance regional connectivity.
As Uzbekistan celebrates its 33rd Independence Day, the nation looks forward to continued growth, technological innovation, and strengthened regional ties under President Mirziyoyev’s leadership. The country remains dedicated to building a prosperous future for all its citizens.
writer by: Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad.