Uzbekistan, situated at the center of Central Asia, has become a nation experiencing an extraordinary change. In the last ten years, it has pursued bold efforts in governance, economic transformation, environmental sustainability, and education, establishing itself as a noteworthy presence in the region. Led by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan’s growth plan has set a benchmark for harmonizing economic advancement with social and environmental objectives.
Uzbekistan, located in the heart of Central Asia, has emerged as a country undergoing a remarkable transformation. Over the past decade, this nation has implemented ambitious initiatives in governance, economic reform, environmental sustainability, and education, earning its place as a rising star in the region. Spearheaded by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan’s development strategy has become a model for balancing economic growth with social and environmental priorities.
A strong economy and global acknowledgment
Uzbekistan’s economic expansion has been truly remarkable. In 2024, the nation’s GDP exceeded €120 billion, representing a key point in its economic journey. Exports surpassed €24 billion, and gold reserves along with foreign exchange assets hit €38 billion, ensuring a solid base for sustained growth.
A major factor in this growth has been the country’s welcoming stance towards foreign investment. At the Third International Investment Forum in Tashkent, agreements worth €25.5 billion were secured, showcasing Uzbekistan’s attractiveness to international investors. The government has also prioritized infrastructure improvements and energy initiatives, generating 1.5 million new jobs and bolstering connections with significant global economies such as the United States and China. Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s active negotiations to become a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) demonstrate its dedication to becoming part of the global market.
Promoting environmental transformation
Uzbekistan’s progress in environmental sustainability has earned worldwide acclaim. In the past five years, the nation has launched 16 significant solar and wind power facilities, adding 3,500 megawatts of renewable energy to its network. Consequently, the portion of green energy in Uzbekistan’s power distribution increased to 16% in 2024, aiming for 40% by 2030.
Uzbekistan’s strides in environmental sustainability have garnered international praise. Over the past five years, the country has commissioned 16 large-scale solar and wind power plants, contributing 3,500 megawatts of renewable energy to its grid. As a result, the share of green energy in Uzbekistan’s energy mix rose to 16% in 2024, with a goal of reaching 40% by 2030.
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 faced the challenge of water scarcity for a long time, using over 50 billion cubic meters of water each year. In 2024, the adoption of new water-saving technologies enabled the optimization of irrigation over 1.8 million hectares of agricultural land. This advancement highlights Uzbekistan’s dedication to sustainable water management, which is crucial to its long-term 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 cultural heritage has taken center stage in its national identity. Under the leadership of President Mirziyoyev, the preservation and promotion of the country’s heritage have been prioritized as 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 displayed the nation’s historical treasures to an international audience. These initiatives not only emphasize Uzbekistan’s cultural importance but also enhance its emerging status as a center for art and history.
Uzbekistan’s cultural richness has become a focal point of its national identity. Under President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, the preservation and promotion of the country’s heritage have been elevated to state policy. Major events, such as the international exhibition “Uzbekistan: Avant-Garde in the Desert” in Italy and the “Silk Roads” exhibit at the British Museum, have showcased the nation’s historical treasures to a global audience. These initiatives not only highlight Uzbekistan’s cultural significance but also contribute to its growing reputation as a hub for art and history.
Youth and sports accomplishments
Uzbekistan’s young population has been instrumental in propelling the nation’s advancement. Young business owners constitute almost 25% of the country’s entrepreneurial landscape, with numerous farmers and artisans enhancing 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 become a vital part of Uzbekistan’s forward-looking development. The Digital Uzbekistan – 2030 initiative has quickened the nation’s technological progress, with IT exports creating €326 million in revenue in 2024. More than 1,000 startups now operate in tech parks, showcasing the country’s vibrant technology landscape. The complete digitalization of elections via the E-Saylov system has also established a new standard for transparency in democratic activities.
Educational reforms have bolstered Uzbekistan’s groundwork for sustainable growth. University enrollment increased from 9% in 2016 to 42% in 2023, with an aim to achieve 50% by 2030. Government expenditure on education rose to €4.5 billion in 2023, facilitating the creation of international university branches and scholarships that have enhanced access to quality learning. Specialized programs in artificial intelligence, data science, and blockchain are equipping students for the challenges of a competitive global market.
Education reforms have further strengthened Uzbekistan’s foundation for long-term growth. University enrollment rates have surged from 9% in 2016 to 42% in 2023, with a goal of reaching 50% by 2030. Government spending on education reached €4.5 billion in 2023, enabling the establishment of international university branches and scholarships that have improved access to quality education. Specialized courses in artificial intelligence, data science, and blockchain are preparing students for the demands of a competitive global economy.
Uzbekistan’s evolution in the last ten years stands as proof of the impact of forward-thinking leadership and methodical planning. From economic expansion and environmental conservation to social reform and cultural preservation, the nation has achieved notable progress in all areas of development.
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.