Yury Sigov, Associate Professor of the Department of International Relations at the Russian State University for the Humanities, commented on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan:

– The annual Address of the President of Uzbekistan is a traditional event regularly held by the Head of State on New Year’s Eve, a kind of official summing up. At the same time, in my view, the current speech is noticeably different from the Address delivered in previous years.

The current international situation is characterized by a high degree of uncertainty. Nevertheless, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev made it clear in his speech that the country will continue the course of ongoing reforms next year and can confidently look to at least the near future.

The Address also highlighted the country’s significant achievements: more than $140 billion in foreign investment was attracted, and industrial and agricultural production increased. The state is strengthening its position as one of the most influential players not only in Central Asia but also in international relations, from Japan to the United States. The success of the foreign policy aimed at strengthening cooperation between the five countries is of particular importance. Working together, the region has now begun to achieve significant results in the international arena. The fact that Shavkat Mirziyoyev personally attaches priority importance to these relations inspires confidence in the people of Uzbekistan and throughout Central Asia.

It is also essential that the Head of State conducts direct dialogue, openly informing the public about the results achieved and the tasks to be addressed. It is this format of interaction that enables broad support from lawmakers and society and greater confidence in achieving the goals outlined in the Third Renaissance program.

I. Abdukhalikov, UzA