President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated at a meeting on April 24 that Uzbekistan needs to accelerate economic growth and increase the efficiency of its sectors, noting that current results do not yet match the country's potential.
“When did the Fergana region achieve 10 percent growth? Why did I set such high goals? I prepared for this for 10 years. Now people must feel it. If we overcome this difficult period, these hard years, God willing, new opportunities will open before us,” the president said during a conversation with regional governor Khayrullo Bozorov.
The head of state emphasized that increasing the population's income remains the main task. “We must teach people to earn money in all areas. This is my main assignment,” the president said.
According to Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country's development primarily depends on internal efforts. “I repeat every time: no one from outside will do anything for Uzbekistan. Those sitting here, the entire presidential team, must roll up their sleeves and work. Yes, today we talk about big numbers, but the demands of our people are also growing. They want to live better every day — to live in a good house, drive a good car, and educate their children at the world's best universities,” the president said.
The president particularly stressed the importance of stability for development. “What is needed for this? First of all, peace. Where there is peace, there is a future. Efficiency increases, interest appears. There is no room for complaints anymore. People have believed. The understanding that 'it can be done' has emerged,” he said.
The head of state noted that further improvement of socio-economic indicators depends on sector efficiency. “Results can be improved, salaries, pensions, and stipends can be increased — these issues depend on us. Next quarter, there will be a report from the sectors before the president. It will be very strict. Why? Because today the sectors are working at only 50 percent of their potential. If we delve deeper and study, we can achieve great results and get closer to the final goal,” Mirziyoyev said.
In conclusion, he called for unity and intensified efforts during a difficult period. “We must safely guide our beloved country and great people through this difficult period. This requires great, painstaking work. And such work is possible only when there is peace. May our country be peaceful. We will be ready to serve our people faithfully, fulfill all tasks on time, and preserve our peace,” the president said.
In the first quarter, Uzbekistan's economy grew by 8.7 percent, the president said. Economist Mirkomil Kholboyev noted that since the start of the new stage of reforms, no first-quarter growth has exceeded 7 percent. “There are also those who do not work, just receive a salary and 'ride on the same train',” the head of state said.
At the same time, as the president warned, if inflation continues to accelerate, economic growth will not bring a noticeable effect for the population and business. He instructed to keep price growth at around 6.5 percent by increasing the supply of local products, expanding meat imports, and eliminating logistical disruptions.
Source: www.gazeta.uz