Uzbekistan

The construction of Uzbekistan's first nuclear power plant in the Jizzakh Region is poised to become a key factor in achieving the republic's energy independence. According to a report by Deputy Presidential Advisor Rakhim Khakimov, prepared for the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Russia, the commissioning of the facility will allow for annual savings of approximately 3.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas.

In the Mirzaabad district of Sirdaryo region, two state bailiffs from the Bureau of Compulsory Enforcement (BCE) were detained by the State Security Service. They are accused of taking bribes during the enforcement of a court decision in a civil case.

A new labor migration program has been launched between Uzbekistan and the United States. Under an agreement signed between the Migration Agency of Uzbekistan and the American organization USA Farm Labor, citizens of Uzbekistan will have the opportunity for legal employment on US farms. The program is implemented within the framework of the H-2A visa program.

In Tashkent, planned tests of the main heating networks are scheduled to take place from March 24 to May 1, 2026. The works will be conducted under increased pressure to check the strength and density of pipelines, aiming to enhance the reliability of the heating supply system ahead of the winter season.

According to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, the country's cotton harvest has increased by 10% compared to last year. This growth is attributed to agricultural reforms and the adoption of modern technologies in the sector.

The World Athletics Indoor Championships are underway in Kuyavia-Pomerania, Poland, with Uzbekistan's national team representatives competing among 674 athletes from 118 countries. On the second day of the event, 19-year-old Sharifa Davronova achieved a result of 13.81 meters in the triple jump, marking a significant improvement of 37 centimeters from her performance at last year's world championships.

During the holy month of Ramadan, on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the National Agency for Social Protection implemented a comprehensive program across the country. The main goals of the initiative were to ensure family well-being, improve housing conditions, and preserve citizens' health through the provision of quality medical services.

Uzbekistan's economic growth forecast for 2024 is set at 6%, announced as part of the country's economic development strategy. The authorities plan to achieve this target by increasing investments in industry and agriculture, as well as promoting exports.

According to a survey conducted by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan among the population, perceived inflation in February decreased by 0.1 percentage points compared to December, reaching 11.6%. This indicator reflects a slight decline in inflation, but it remains at an elevated level, suggesting ongoing economic pressures and challenges in price stability.

In Tashkent, executives of a construction company responsible for building the 'Rohat' residential complex in the Yashnabad district have been taken into custody. A criminal case has been initiated against the firm's director and sales department head on suspicion of large-scale fraud.

Uzbek authorities have released official forecasts for the cotton harvest, yet the sector continues to face significant challenges. The projected yield for 2024 is 3.5 million tons, slightly above last year's figures, but factors such as climate change and water scarcity could negatively impact future outcomes.

In Tashkent, new BRT (bus rapid transit) lines with a total length of 18.1 km are expected to be launched by 2026. These lines will run along Shahrisabz (an extension of the line on Shota Rustaveli Street), Mirzo Ulugbek and Amir Temur avenues, as well as Yangi Sergeli Street. This was announced at a presentation by the Road Traffic Organization Center (RTOC) on March 12.