Uzbekistan - The Times Of Central Asia

Viewing results 13 - 18 of 970

Mirziyoyev: Central Asia Can Become a Global Green Energy Hub

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan delivered a keynote address at the Sustainability Week Summit in Abu Dhabi on January 14. The event, hosted by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed Al Nahyan, gathered global leaders, including the presidents of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, the prime ministers of Italy, Malaysia, and Finland, as well as heads of international organizations and financial institutions. The Urgency of Transitioning to a Green Economy In his speech, Mirziyoyev emphasized the critical need for a green economic transition, stating: “The diversification of energy sources and a drastic reduction of hydrocarbons are now critical conditions for mitigating climate change and ensuring global security.” Mirziyoyev noted that Uzbekistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy.” The country’s strategic goal, under the "New Uzbekistan" framework, is to achieve sustainable economic growth through environmental sustainability and resource conservation. Low-Carbon Development Goals Outlining Uzbekistan’s low-carbon development strategy, Mirziyoyev announced plans to integrate green finance into 50% of investment projects over the next five years; reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030; "Green" at least 30% of urban areas; and ensure that 100% of agricultural lands adopt water-saving technologies. Mirziyoyev also highlighted Uzbekistan’s achievements in renewable energy, stating: “In the past five years, we have attracted almost $20 billion in foreign investments, commissioning modern energy capacities of 9.6 gigawatts. This includes 14 solar and wind power plants with a total capacity of 3.5 gigawatts.” Uzbekistan is currently collaborating with foreign partners on over 50 major energy projects worth $26 billion, aiming to reach a total energy capacity of 24 gigawatts by 2030. By that time, renewable energy is expected to account for 54% of the country’s total energy generation. Regional Collaboration and Global Ambitions Mirziyoyev underscored the importance of regional cooperation, saying: “We aim to turn Central Asia into one of the global centers for green economy and clean energy.” He highlighted a multilateral agreement with Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan to export green energy to Europe and restore the Great Silk Road through energy connectivity. The president shared success stories of partnerships with companies like Masdar, which have generated 1.5 gigawatts of renewable energy in Uzbekistan. Additional projects are underway to create 1.6 gigawatts of generating capacity and build energy storage systems with a capacity of about 520 megawatts per hour. He also noted Uzbekistan’s untapped renewable energy potential, citing the ability to produce 500 gigawatts of solar, 100 gigawatts of wind, and 10 gigawatts of hydro energy. Advancing Green Research and Innovation Mirziyoyev referenced the establishment of the Green University in Tashkent - which will serve as a hub for global scientific collaboration - and proposed creating an international research network focused on combating land degradation and desertification. He also reiterated Uzbekistan’s initiatives introduced at COP-28 and COP-29, including the creation of an International Center for Damage and Loss Assessment and a regional hub for water-saving technologies. “We are ready to begin practical work in these areas with all our partners,” he stated. A Nationwide Green Movement Concluding his address,...

Business & Economy Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Business & Economy Uzbekistan International Affairs

Uzbekistan to Launch VIP Air Taxi Service in Partnership with UAE’s JETEX

During President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s official visit to the United Arab Emirates on January 13, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport signed a memorandum of cooperation with JETEX, a leading UAE-based aviation services company. The agreement, signed by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov and JETEX founder Adel Mardini, sets the stage for ambitious projects in Uzbekistan’s civil aviation sector. One of the cornerstone initiatives involves JETEX providing Fixed Base Operator (FBO) services for VIP and CIP (Commercially Important Passenger) customers at Tashkent-East Airport through a public-private partnership. This project will also include the repair, sale, and maintenance of small aircraft, along with the launch of VIP air taxi services. These efforts aim to strengthen Uzbekistan’s tourism industry and elevate the travel experience for high-end customers. According to officials, the project is expected to improve the quality of passenger services and enhance Tashkent’s reputation as an attractive and prestigious destination. Moreover, it is anticipated to generate over 200 jobs in Uzbekistan’s business aviation sector, contributing to the nation’s economic growth. Founded in 2005, JETEX has become a global leader in business aviation services, with operations in over 50 locations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Americas. The company’s expertise in Fixed Base Operator services ensures reliable and sustainable growth in the business aviation sector. Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) provide essential airport services such as aircraft refueling, parking, hangar maintenance, repair, charter sales, and other aviation-related services. These facilities cater to private and business aviation, ensuring high-quality services for operators and passengers. The partnership with JETEX marks a significant step forward in modernizing Uzbekistan’s aviation infrastructure and expanding its footprint in the global business aviation market.

Home Environment Uzbekistan Environment Kazakhstan Environment Kyrgyzstan Environment Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Features Kazakhstan Tajikistan Features Features Tajikistan Environment Kyrgyzstan Features Kazakhstan Featurees

Fossil-Fuel Rich UAE Drives Central Asia’s Green Energy Transition

Central Asian nations, especially Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, are seeking to develop closer ties with the oil-rich United Arab Emirates. What they need from the Gulf state is not fossil fuels, but renewable energy technology and investment in their green energy sectors. Despite being a significant oil-exporter, the UAE has managed in recent years to position itself as a regional leader in solar energy and photovoltaic solar projects. As a result, it now has global aspirations in the renewable energy industry. The Gulf country, through its semi-government-owned company, Masdar, has already invested billions of dollars in the construction of wind farms and solar plants all over the world – from the Bahamas and Barbados to Australia, as well as several African and European nations. Central Asia is no exception. In the region, the green energy giant is particularly active in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. It is, therefore, no surprise that, on January 14, two regional leaders, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, were major guests at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, a global platform focused on accelerating sustainability efforts. [caption id="attachment_27597" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] President Tokayev of Kazakhstan speaking at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week; image: TCA, Nikola Mikovic[/caption] Their visit to the UAE signals a strong push for a green energy transition at home. For Tashkent and Astana, cooperation with Abu Dhabi in the field of green energy can help them to achieve their ambitious goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, despite both being significant producers of natural gas and oil. “Together with our foreign partners, we are currently implementing more than 50 large energy projects worth a total of $26 billion,” Mirziyoyev stressed, pointing out that by 2030, the share of renewable energy sources in the country will reach 54%. [caption id="attachment_27593" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev backstage at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week; image: TCA, Nikola Mikovic[/caption] In his view, Central Asia should turn into a “center of green economy.” The Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Francesco La Camera, seems to share this stance. “Central Asia can play a stronger and leading role in the global energy transition. I’m confident this new partnership can accelerate the pipeline of renewable energy projects and drive green industrialization,” La Camera said at the 15th session of the IRENA Assembly, held in the UAE capital two days prior to the meetings Mirziyoyev and Tokayev had with the UAE’s leaders. According to the Uzbek President, Tashkent is interested in jointly realizing the potential of Central Asia in solar, wind, and hydro energy, as well as in developing the production of green hydrogen. Fully aware of the Central Asian state’s green energy potential, Masdar is committed to investing $2 billion in Tashkent’s clean energy projects with a total capacity of more than two gigawatts. In the most populated Central Asian nation, the UAE’s semi-state-owned company is already involved in the construction of both solar plants and wind farms. [caption id="attachment_27594" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Abdulaziz Alobaidli, Masdar’s Chief Operating Officer, at the Abu...

Central Asia Home Uzbekistan Life & Culture Uzbekistan Features Uzbekistan Home Features Uzbekistan Life & Culture

Cat Houses Installed at Tashkent Airport

Tashkent International Airport has introduced a heartwarming initiative by installing cat houses in the green space between the departure hall and the main terminal. Designed by students from the Tashkent University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, the structures provide a safe and comfortable habitat for the airport's feline residents. According to the press service of Uzbekistan Airports, cats have long been part of the airport's ecosystem. “Cats are natural inhabitants of the urban environment and play a vital ecological role. Apart from their aesthetic charm, they are skilled hunters, helping control populations of mice and rats,” the service said. The idea to construct cat houses had been under consideration for years but was delayed due to ongoing construction at the airport. With the involvement of the Mushukkent project and university students, the houses were finally completed and installed in locations safe for both the animals and airport operations. Materials used in building the cat houses are durable, resistant to decay, non-combustible, and environmentally friendly. The houses are equipped with heating systems for winter and ventilation for summer, ensuring the cats' comfort year-round. [caption id="attachment_27583" align="aligncenter" width="1151"] Image: Uzbekistan Airports Telegram[/caption] “For Uzbekistan Airports, this is more than just an ecological project - it’s a social initiative that reflects the company’s commitment to animal welfare. It symbolizes Uzbekistan’s hospitality, beginning right at the airport, and highlights the city’s humane values,” the company added. The Mushukkent project, launched in 2019, is supported by various government agencies, the National Guard of Uzbekistan, and non-governmental organizations. Its goals include fostering kindness towards animals, establishing shelters, controlling the stray cat population, and increasing penalties for animal cruelty. This initiative is not unique to Uzbekistan. Two years ago, animal rights activists in Almaty, Kazakhstan, installed wooden shelters for street cats. These huts, raised above the ground, feature a roof, ladder, and feeder, providing a safe and comfortable place for up to nine cats to sleep, eat, and stay protected from the elements.

Central Asia Uzbekistan Uzbekistan Business & Economy Business & Economy

World Bank Urges Reforms to Unlock Uzbekistan’s Service Sector Potential

The World Bank has published a report analyzing Uzbekistan’s service sector, underscoring its critical role in driving economic growth and creating jobs. In 2023, the service sector accounted for 43.9% of the country’s GDP, solidifying its position as the main pillar of the Uzbek economy, ahead of industry, agriculture, and construction. The sector has also become a key source of employment, compensating for the long-term decline in agricultural jobs since independence. Since 2017, Uzbekistan has implemented market reforms that have spurred sustainable economic growth, averaging 5.5% annually. In 2023, the service sector alone contributed to a 6.3% rise in GDP. However, structural transformation has lagged, with the sector’s share of GDP increasing only modestly - from 41% in 2010 to 44% in 2022. The report highlights challenges such as a concentration of low-skilled jobs in retail, hospitality, and transport, while high-productivity and innovation-driven services, such as ICT and professional services, remain underdeveloped, comprising just 4% of service-sector employment. To unlock the sector’s full potential, the World Bank report identifies three key priorities -connectivity, contestability, and capabilities (3Cs). Improving physical and digital infrastructure is critical, as Uzbekistan ranks 88th globally on logistics performance indicators. While 4G/LTE coverage is expanding, it has yet to achieve universal accessibility. Additionally, market liberalization is essential, as restrictions on cross-border services and state monopolies in sectors like telecommunications hinder competition and innovation. The World Bank recommends a range of reforms, including investing in infrastructure, liberalizing markets, easing data localization requirements, and expanding professional education programs such as One Million Uzbek Coders. These initiatives, combined with Uzbekistan’s anticipated accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), could significantly boost the economy. The report projects that these reforms could increase GDP by 17%, stimulate growth in the financial, communications, and insurance sectors, and support the development of small and medium-sized industries. Market liberalization, in particular, promises substantial economic benefits, including higher wages and enhanced global competitiveness. By addressing these challenges, Uzbekistan can position its service sector as a key driver of sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

Home Uzbekistan Environment Environment Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan to Launch “Eco-Active Citizen” Project for a Greener Future

The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Technologies, has announced plans to launch the “Eco-Active Citizen” project by June 1, 2025. This initiative is part of the nationwide “One Million Green Families” movement and integrates with the “Healthy Lifestyle” platform. It is outlined in the draft Presidential Decree “On the State Program for the Implementation of the Strategy ‘Uzbekistan – 2030,’” which places significant emphasis on environmental protection and fostering a “green economy.” The project seeks to promote an ecological lifestyle and enhance environmental awareness among the population. Citizens will be encouraged to take actions such as planting trees, using public transportation, walking 10,000 steps daily, reducing waste, and transitioning to electric vehicles. Additional recommended measures include installing solar panels, utilizing energy-saving materials, and conserving electricity, gas, and water. Active participation in public environmental activities will also be key. Participants in the “Eco-Active Citizen” program will qualify for public service discounts, lower interest rates on consumer loans, and may even receive environmentally friendly vehicles such as bicycles or scooters. Families in which all members achieve “eco-active” status will be recognized as “Green Families” and will have the opportunity to participate in an annual lottery to win an electric car. Neighborhoods (mahallas) with over 50% of households classified as “Green Families” will earn the title of “Green Neighborhoods” and will receive additional environmental benefits, such as designated waste collection sites, tree planting initiatives, and green public parks. Cities or villages with more than 50% “Green Neighborhoods” will be officially recognized as “Green Cities,” “Green Villages,” or “Green Auls” (fortified villages). The Ministry of Ecology underscored the environmental impact of individual actions. For instance, one car emits an estimated 4.6 tons of carbon dioxide annually, whilst walking 10,000 steps per day can prevent up to 1.5 tons of waste. Additionally, conserving 100 cubic meters of natural gas can prevent 2 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. These efforts aim to establish sustainable “green cities” while promoting environmentally responsible tourism. In a related development, The Times of Central Asia previously reported that Uzbekistan is preparing a draft national program to reduce plastic pollution for 2025-2027.