Foreign investors plan to invest $1 billion in coal mining in Surkhandarya region. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting on the comprehensive development of the region.

It was noted that in recent years, over 8,000 business projects worth about $5 billion have been implemented in the region. Signed agreements with investors from China, India, the US, Russia, Austria, Hungary, and other countries provide for the launch of new initiatives worth an additional $10 billion.

In the social sphere, the construction of 23 new schools and renovation of 448 schools created 102,000 student places, while preschool education coverage increased from 28% to 68%. Approximately 32,000 families received housing in 688 apartment buildings.

The head of state emphasized that the region's development is an important part of strengthening the southern pillar of "New Uzbekistan." Tasks have been set to reduce the poverty rate to 2.8%, unemployment to 4.5%, and achieve poverty-free status for Termez, Denau, Jarkurgan, Angor, Muzrabot, and Kizirik districts. Plans include increasing investment volume to $3 billion and raising exports to $1 billion.

It is reported that Chinese investors are ready to invest up to $1 billion in developing coal deposits in the Sariosiyo district.

South African company Sasol has shown interest in establishing polypropylene, polyethylene, and rubber production based on coal. Authorities have also instructed the development of an industrial cluster project worth at least $200 million.

Additionally, a promising natural stone deposit has been identified in the Bezaktop area, with its products estimated to compete with supplies from Iran, Turkey, and Italy. The president ordered accelerated geological study of the site.

Source: kun.uz