Uzbekistan

[hakz2007]

News and discussions about Uzbekistan

[hakz2007]

Uzbekistan’s anti-crisis experience considered

An international conference on the “Efficiency of anti-crisis programs and priorities of post-crisis development (example of Uzbekistan)” was held in Tashkent on 12 April.

Over 400 state and public figures, businesses and experts from 46 countries, as well as representatives of international organizations and financial institutions, including the UN and its structures, the IMF, the World Bank, the ADB, the IDB, EurAsEC, etc., participated in the forum.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov sent a greeting to the participants of the conference, in which he touched upon the anti-crisis measures undertaken in the country.

Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Rustam Azimov said the implementation of the “Uzbek model” of continuous reforms, as well as timely and thoroughly developed anti-crisis measures had allowed ensuring macroeconomic stability and stable economic growth in the country.

Uzbekistan has taken necessary measures for stable and uninterrupted work of the national economy, all financial institutes and industrial sectors. Despite the slowdown in the world economy, the country continues implementing wide-scale structural reforms and increasing production and exports.



The Anti-Crisis Program for 2009-2012, outlined in the book of the President “The world financial and economic crisis, ways and measures for its overcoming in Uzbekistan”, was a logical continuation of the policy of deep transformations in the country.

The main directions of the Anti-Crisis Program are supporting budget, financial, banking and credit systems, the real sector, a well as modernizing and technological renewal of the production for increasing its competitiveness on internal and foreign markets.

These measures have allowed in the past two years to double the cumulative capital of commercial banks. Measures were taken to reduce the tax burden for economic entities. Local exporters have received an unprecedented support, which has led to increased exports in 2009.

A particular attention was paid to stimulating small business, which currently produces almost 50% of the country’s GDP, as well as strengthening the farms.

The successful implementation of the Anti-Crisis Program minimized the negative consequences of the world crisis and ensured GDP growth of 8.1% last year.



The representatives of the international institutions and foreign businessmen gave a high evaluation to the results of the economic reforms in Uzbekistan and measures to overcome the economic crisis.

ADB Vice-President Xiaoyu Zhao in his speech said that Uzbekistan was implementing a unique program, which included effective economic policy in the pre-crisis period, measures to soften the crisis influence, as well as further progress in the post-crisis period.

World Bank country manager in Uzbekistan Loup Brefort spoke about macroeconomic consequences of the global crisis for the states of Central Asia. He said the diversification of the economy and stimulation of the banking system helped to reduce the negative impact of the world crisis on the national economy.

President of Korean Air company Chi Chang Hun said one example of effectiveness of the Uzbek reforms was creation of the free industrial and economic zone in Navoi region. The upgrade of the Navoi international airport carries huge perspectives for creation of the modern Silk Road, which will link Europe, India, China and South-East Asia.

US Ambassador in Tashkent Richard Norland said Uzbekistan was an attractive market for the American investors. The number of US businesses cooperating with Uzbekistan is growing from year to year. Measures to protect foreign investments in Uzbekistan are a guarantee of their further active flow in the country’s economy, the diplomat noted.

http://uza.uz/en/business/1261/

[India101]

From another thread

Originally Posted by D&A

Tashkent residential project.


Architect: Ken Yeang 2007 www.llewelyn-davies-ltd.com
Developer: Global Management Limited
Total area: 200.000 m2









200,000sq.m new residential development with river frontage in close proximity to residential palace with spa / offices. The development will promote a green masterplan solution providing high quality public realm and amenities within in a phased masterplan.

[hakz2007]

Uzbek president, Chinese state councilor back bilateral cooperation

TASHKENT, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Uzbek President Islam Karimov and visiting Chinese State Councilor Meng Jianzhu both have pledged to deepen the mutually beneficial cooperation between their countries.

Uzbekistan wishes to further deepen its mutuallu beneficial cooperation with China on politics, economy, trade and security, which will benefit the two countries and the two peoples, Karimov said Friday during a meeting with Meng.

China-Uzbekistan relations developed smoothly in 2009, said Meng, who also attended the fifth session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Security Council Secretaries in Tashkent.

Leaders of the two countries have kept close contacts, which is a strong driving force for the development of bilateral ties, Meng said.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english201...c_13265957.htm

[hakz2007]

UZBEKISTAN BANKS RECEIVES ADB SUPPORTS ON MICROFINANCE LENDING

TASHKENT, April 26 (NNN-ADB) -- The Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Board of Directors has approved a $50 million loan and a $600,000 grant to help three Uzbekistan banks expand finance to small and micro businesses.

The Second Small and Microfinance Development Project Loan will provide a credit line to three commercial banks – Ipak Yuli Bank (IYB), Hamkorbank, and Agrobank.

The banks were chosen for their financial soundness, significant rural and/or urban retail network, proven track record in microfinance intermediation, prudent exchange risk management, and transparent corporate, financial, and management practices.

The loan will help the banks meet a growing demand for credit from micro and small enterprises (MSEs). Hamkorbank and Agrobank will have allocations of $20 million each, while IYB will have an allocation of $10 million. The participating banks will match ADB's loan funding with equal co-funding from their own resources.

The commercial banks will lend funds to MSEs at market-based rates and give them the option to draw down loan funds in cash. These features avoid subsidized direct credits or a premium to cash over noncash funds.

The MSEs can use the money for production and trade in goods and services, and for investment and working capital purposes.

The technical assistance will help banks with credit appraisal and microfinance accounting and reporting standards, as well with lending to women and microcredit organizations. It will also coach end-borrowers, especially women, in business plan preparation and credit applications.

Under the loan agreement, at least 25% of the new microfinance accounts opened will be for women, and at least 1,000 women borrowers will be trained.

"The project will generate 30,000 additional jobs which will increase economic growth, improve living standards, and reduce poverty," said Radhakrishna Narasimham, principal financial management specialist of ADB's Central and West Asia Department.

http://www.namnewsnetwork.org/v2/read.php?id=118150

[hakz2007]

ADB PANEL HIGHLIGHTS ENORMITY OF CLIMATE CHANGE

TASHKENT (UZBEKISTAN), May 3 (NNN-ADB) -- Glacial melt, drought, desertification and reduced river flows are among the serious climate change impacts being experienced by countries in Central and West Asia, a seminar audience heard Sunday.

"The need for urgent actions on climate change at the local, regional and global levels cannot be overstated, and poor and vulnerable groups are at greatest risk," said Ursula Schaefer-Preuss, ADB Vice-President for Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development.

"The good news is that there is a wide range of financing facilities now available that can help governments in Central Asia and elsewhere become more climate resilient and ensure their food and energy security."

The seminar, "Financing Climate Change and Sustainable Development Action in Asia and the Pacific," was held at ADB's 43rd Annual Meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Recent projections warn that increasing glacial melt and warmer temperatures may reduce river flows in Central Asia by as much as a third by 2040 to 2050. This in turn may disrupt hydropower, irrigation and potable water supply, greatly affecting the well-being of the region's people.

The seminar featured lively discussion on the need for and the terms of climate change financing for developing countries in the Asia and Pacific. While there was a divergence of thought on some issues, participants agreed on the urgency for action, the enormity of financial requirements, and the need to attract private sector partners as public financing alone will not be adequate to the task.

India’s former Secretary of Environment and Forests Prodipto Ghosh indicated that while many view as ambitious the Copenhagen Accord target of $100 billion in annual climate change financing from 2020, this amount is only a fraction of estimated future global GDP.

He estimated that just 0.5% of the global GDP in the year 2030 would be somewhere between $560 billion and $675 billion. “So we are a long way from bridging this financing gap,” Mr. Ghosh said.

Despite the challenges, the panelists were unanimous in voicing their optimism that the world will make significant advancements in fighting climate change over the coming decade.

http://www.namnewsnetwork.org/v2/read.php?id=118953

[hakz2007]

Daimler, Uzavtosanoat sign agreement to set up bus joint venture in Uzbekistan

Daimler and Uzavtosanoat JSC have signed an agreement to set up a bus joint venture in Uzbekistan. The joint venture, Manufacturing Buses Central Asia, will assemble and sell coaches, intercity buses, city buses, and midibuses for the Uzbek market and export to neighbouring countries.

The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010, AutomotiveWorld reported. Mercedes-Benz buses have been sold in Uzbekistan since 1994. The vehicles built under the new joint venture will be sold under the Mercedes-Benz brand.

"Local production will significantly improve the market opportunities for Daimler Buses in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. With Uzavtosanoat, we know that we have a strong, professional and reliable partner that knows the Central Asian markets inside out and has considerable experience in production and sales," comments Hartmut Schick, head of Daimler Buses.

Daimler's subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Buses Central Asia will own a 51% stake in the new joint venture, with the remaining 49% held by the automotive holding company Uzavtosanoat. The new company will have $8 million of equity capital.

Uzavtosanoat will provide the production facilities, while Daimler Buses will deliver the Mercedes-Benz chassis. The bodies will be built in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz' long-time body-building partner Manufacturing Commercial Vehicles (MCV).

The venture will have capacity to build at least 600 buses a year under full-scale production, with scope for gradual growth. The first batch of vehicles will be delivered in September.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=75274

IMF looks forward to continuing excellent relations with Uzbek authorities

Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Naoyuki Shinohara issued a statement on 5 May in Tashkent at the conclusion of his visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan.

"This is my first visit to Uzbekistan as Deputy Managing Director of the IMF, and I wish to thank the Government and the Central Bank of Uzbekistan for their warm hospitality and the productive discussions on the state of the Uzbek economy," he said.

"During this visit I also participated in the Annual Meetings of the Asian Development Bank. This was a good opportunity to exchange views with a wide range of representatives from private and public sectors on the reform of the global monetary system as well as on enhancing regional cooperation in Asia," the statement further read.

"Uzbekistan has remained resilient to the global economic crisis largely because of the authorities' prudent policies, which have enabled them to accumulate considerable resources to support growth in this period," the IMF expert noted.

"A very cautious approach to borrowing on global financial markets also limited the country's exposure to the global crisis. With the global recovery and improved regional conditions, output is expected to continue growing at a healthy pace in 2010," Naoyuki Shinohara said.

"Uzbekistan's strong fiscal and external position provides an excellent opportunity to further improve its great economic potential and the living standards of the population. We look forward to continuing our excellent relations with the Uzbek authorities," he concluded.

http://finance.uzreport.com/other.cgi?lan=e&id=75230

[hakz2007]

President of Uzbekistan meets Oman's State Minister for Foreign Affairs

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received the State Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman Yusuf Bin Alawai bin Abdullah at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent on 14 May.

Welcoming the guest, the head of the state said that the relations between Uzbekistan and Oman were developing not only in the diplomatic sphere, but also in the economic field.

"The historical, spiritual and cultural closeness of our peoples is an important factor in the development of bilateral relations," President of Uzbekistan said.

The relations between Uzbekistan and Oman have been developing in a friendly and dynamic way. In October 2009, President Karimov paid a state visit to Oman.

During that visit, important agreements on the bases of trade, economic and investment cooperation and on air communication were signed, along with over 10 documents on joint activity in oil and gas, chemical and construction sectors, education, tourism, culture and humanitarian area.

The two countries have signed intergovernmental agreements on joint stimulation and protection of investments, avoiding double taxation of incomes and preventing avoidance of capital tax payment.

Uzbekistan and Oman have also reached an agreement on creating a joint Uzbek-Oman investment fund.

Oman considers Uzbekistan as one of the key states in Central Asian region. Cooperation with Uzbekistan opens wide opportunities for Oman in terms of participation in the regional economic relations.

At the meeting in Oqsaroy, Yusuf Bin Alawai bin Abdullah expressed gratitude to President Islam Karimov for warm reception and confirmed the interest of the Sultanate of Oman in further development of bilateral cooperation with Uzbekistan in various spheres.

During the talks, the sides exchanged opinion on the perspectives of expansion of Uzbekistan-Oman relations and other topics of mutual interest, UzA reported.

http://news.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=75557

Samarkand student wins bronze medal at Mendeleyev olympiad

Daniyar Nasriddinov, third-year student of academic lyceum No.2 at Samarkand state university, won a bronze medal at the 44th Mendeleyev international Olympiad held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

According to Daniyar, eight people from Uzbekistan participated in the Olympiad among 150 participants from 18 countries.

Prior to the lyceum, Daniyar studied at school No.26 of Pastdargom district and at specialized school for gifted children No.77. Being interested in chemistry, he numerously won prizes at national Olympiads in this science.

Chemistry teacher of the lyceum Zair Eshanqulov told UzA Daniyar was the winner of the regional chemistry Olympiad for three consequent years.

In future, Daniyar wants to become a highly qualified specialist to work in the chemical industry of the country.

Round table discusses grant program to support socially significant projects

Gulnara Karimova on 12 May participated in a roundtable discussion on the Grant Program to Support Socially Significant Projects of Regional NGOs in Uzbekistan. The round table was organized by Fund Forum and Social Initiatives Support Foundation (SISF) in Tashkent.

In the framework of the event Gulnara awarded grants to regional non-governmental organizations. About 100 representatives of NGOs, public and government organizations, the media attended the discussion.

In February 2010, within the Social Projects and Initiatives Integration Forum Gulnara was first to announce the launch of the Grant Program to Support Socially Significant Projects of Regional NGOs in Uzbekistan.

The program is aimed at financial support of socially significant projects initiated by regional NGOs to enhance efforts in social issues salvation.

The program was attended by registered regional NGOs, which could submit projects in the following areas: the preservation and revival of cultural and national traditions, health, education, infrastructure, ecology, etc.

A special expert council was set up to select and identify the best projects. The council consisted of representatives of NGOs, media, education, culture and arts, clergy, and representatives of the executive and legislative authorities, local authorities and others.

All submitted project proposals were considered by the Expert Council collectively by principles of social partnership. According to the principle, each participant has an equal responsibility to implement the socially significant projects of any scale.

"The whole stuff of our NGO was very pleased to be invited to participate in this program. Our organization is engaged in the children infectious diseases prevention. The grant will help us to expand our activity geography and to involve more children to this case. After all, we are working according to the child to child principle," said Marat Rakhimov, Aesculapius NGO, winner (Ferghana region).

"All the children are presented information on infectious diseases prevention in the playing and cognitive way. Having some knowledge, they share it with their peers. We are glad that our project has been evaluated by the Expert Committee. Of course, this is a big responsibility, but I am very glad that our activity is supported, understood and approved," he added.

http://news.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=75513

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi to visit Uzbekistan

China's Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi will pay an official friendly visit to Uzbekistan on 20-22 May upon his Uzbek Counterpart Vladimir Norov's invitation, Trend News reported citing the Chinese Embassy in Uzbekistan.

Jiechi will visit Uzbekistan in the run up to China's President Hu Jintao's upcoming Uzbekistan visit. Jintao will participate in the SCO member-states' leaders' meeting to be held in Tashkent in June.

During the visit, Jiechi will hold a meeting with Norov to mull the development of the Uzbek-Chinese relations and exchange views on important regional and international issues.

Jiechi is also expected to be received by President Islam Karimov. During the meeting Jiechi will convey President Jintao's good wishes and discuss issues of the Uzbek-Chinese relations that are of mutual interest.

http://news.uzreport.com/mir.cgi?lan=e&id=75507

[hakz2007]

SCO Summit under the chairmanship of Uzbekistan opens in Tashkent

TASHKENT, May 22 (PNA/Itar-Tass) -- A meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) under the chairmanship of Uzbekistan opened in Tashkent on Saturday.

The Russian delegation is headed by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

“Participants in the meeting will discuss preparations for the CIS Tashkent summit due to be held this June,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Andrei Nesterenko said.

The point at issue is, first of all, the draft final declaration to mirror the SCO approaches to topical international issues, including issues of overcoming the effects of the global financial crisis, reforms of the international financial and currency system, disarmament, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, broader interaction in the antiterrorist and anti-drug directions.”

“Priority attention will be devoted to the situation in Kyrgyzstan,” the diplomat said. “The situation in the country, which is one of the SCO founders, is of major significance for stability in Central Asia. It is planned to discuss measures of SCO support to Kyrgyz partners,” he said.

According to Nesterenko, “Taking into account the significance that SCO member-states attribute to the fight against terrorism, drug trafficking and organized crime, the whole complex of issues related to the situation in Afghanistan will be discussed. It is planned to discuss, in particular, issues of coordination between SCO member-states in the context of preparations of the international conference on Afghanistan in Kabul in July 2010,” Nesterenko said.

At the same time, as the diplomat said, “draft provisions on the procedure of admitting new members is of great importance for the SCO future. The adoption of this document at the Tashkent summit will give an impulse to the formation of a mechanism of the organization’s expansion.”

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is a permanent regional international organization which include six countries - - Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Mongolia, India, Iran and Pakistan have the status of observers. In 2009, Sri Lanka and Belarus got the status of partners in the SCO dialogue. The organization is an observer at the UN General Assembly.

The Council of Heads of State, which meets once a year, is the SCO supreme body. In 2009-2010, the SCO is presided by Uzbekistan. Since January 1, 2010, Muratbek Imanaliyev occupies the post of SCO Secretary General.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is called a unique floor for a dialogue, taking into account the SCO’s vast geographical arsenal. Several world cultures and civilizations - - Russian, Chinese, Central Asian and Indian joined here. The SCO territory, including the countries-observer, embraces the space from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans and from the Arctic to Indian Oceans and occupies 61 percent of the whole Euro-Asian mainland or one fourth of land.

Initially the SCO was created solve problems of ensuring security on the borders of the member-states, fighting with terrorism, separatism and extremism in Central Asia, but gradually the SCO’s spheres of interest expanded and it turned into an organization of multi-profile cooperation responsible for ensuring peace, well-being and joint prosperity of the member-countries. Stability and security in the region, as well as development of cooperation in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres are the alliance’s aims.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=...d=4&rid=277184

[hakz2007]

Uzbek President visits Andijan region to see social and economic reforms

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov visited Andijan region on 26 May in order to have a closer look at the enduring social and economic reforms, large-scale transformation on the ground.

A tremendous creative work has been ongoing in Andijan region like every other corner of the nation. Towns and villages are being improved and face-lifted, new enterprises and businesses, educational institutions and healthcare stations, sports complexes and stadiums, modern roads and alleys are being built, gardens and parks planted.

In the first quarter this year, gross regional product has grown by 11%. Industrial production, consumer goods and paid services have been on steady rise.

During independence years Andijan has grown to become one of those regions with thriving manufacturing and engineering sector. Cars produced at Asaka automotive factory have been enjoying enormous demand both in our country and abroad. Technological re-equipment and modernization of industrial enterprises are in full swing.

In line with the anti-crisis program of measures elaborated by President Karimov enterprises oriented to external markets are supported, ensuring their stable activity and increasing export capacities. As a result, the region's exports amounted to $59.6 million in the first quarter of 2010.

The President's trip started with a visit to an armed forces division. The head of state enquired into living conditions of the military and their families, and came up with a number of recommendations.

Islam Karimov suggested that comprehensive improvement of armed forces' combat readiness and security of nation's borders has always been imperative.

In recent years, the services sector has seen consistent development in Andijan region. New shopping centers, consumer service points are working in urban as well as rural areas. Just over the past year, as many as eight modern shopping malls were commissioned in various districts of the region, creating greater convenience to the public and promoting the infrastructure advancement.

One of those complexes built in Khojaobod district has turned into one of the most preferred places to visit thanks to a state-of-the-art design and a high level of services. Built in strict compliance to modern requirements, the complex boasts more than twenty trading stores, a mini-bank and a pharmacy – an encouraging environment for retailers and customers. Foods and industrial and textile goods produced in such major associations and companies as O'zbekyengilsanoat, Faiz Holding, O'zeltekhsanoat.

President Islam Karimov visited the trade center.

"We must support businesspeople and farmers who create new industries in the countryside and produce finished goods. We should expand the scope of opportunities for them", Islam Karimov said. "The people's worldview has changed. Today they buy high quality goods. Hence every product sold in this mall and services provided must meet strict requirements".

In Uzbekistan, a lot of work is directed at improving rural infrastructure and welfare of the population, at enhancing the services and perfecting the villages.

Resolution "On Additional Measures to Expand Housing in Rural Areas" signed by the head of nation August 3, 2009, provides guidance to work in this direction. Sixty houses of model projects are built in Shahrikhon, Asaka and Oltinkul districts.

The President reviewed the dwellings constructed in accordance with standard designs, in citizens' community center Ittifoq of Oltinkul district. The leader of nation had a talk with homeowners.

"Transformations in villages, construction of modern houses, of new roads, of water and gas and electricity pipes, and infrastructure development contributes to change in the thinking and outlook of people, strengthens confidence in the future", President Karimov put. "We must create the environment essential to nurturing a harmoniously advanced generation inferior to no one".

"By no means had we ever even dreamed of living in such a gorgeous home with all amenities", Asalhon Rasulova, a resident, shared. "Your attitude to life changes when you have a modern house like this".

In the year of harmoniously advanced generation, 620 new residences of model projects are to be erected in Andijan region.

Head of state visited a modern sports complex that meets international standards, built in Shurbuloq quarter of downtown Andijan. The youth are provided with all comfort to work and recreate.

President proposed to name this site Andijan football boarding college. As young people going in for this sport should not merely be physically strong, but equally intellectually powerful, it is necessary that experienced coaches be employed, available opportunities used effectively.

Andijan regional public education department's Children's Town comprises 16 modern residential buildings, an amphitheater and a music hall, a sports complex containing a swimming pool, halls for boxing and gymnastics. 112 children are currently being brought up there.

While visiting the Children's Town, President Karimov chatted with kids, asked about their studies, future plans, reviewed the conditions of life in the quarter.

Islam Karimov presented a gift for the Town – a bus produced in Samarkand automobile plant. All the kids received various gifts.

Universiada-2010 sports competition among students is to open in Andijan on May 28.

In connection with the Universiada, huge construction and improvement work is carried out in Andijan. On the basis of modern requirements, 31 facilities hosting the contest have been reconstructed. In particular, a new image is granted to Andijan State University, Institute of Agriculture, Institute of Foreign Languages, Medical Institute, Sports College of Olympic Reserve, where major races of the Universiada will be held. Gyms have been renovated and equipped with required equipment. The contenders will enjoy all the conditions.

The head of state visited the stadium Soghlom Avlod that is to host the opening and closing ceremonies of the Universiada-2010, and acquainted with the preparatory work.

Appreciating the large-scale creative work done in Andijan, President Islam Karimov focused on the challenges ahead and gave proper recommendations.

http://news.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=76094

[hakz2007]

US Assistant Secretary to travel to Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert O. Blake, Jr. will travel to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 14-16 June and Tashkent, Uzbekistan on 17-18 June.

Assistant Secretary Blake will lead a large official delegation to the first Annual Bilateral Consultations (ABCs) with the Government of Turkmenistan.

The delegation includes Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Michael Posner, and Kurt Donnelly, the Director for Central Asia at the National Security Council.

The ABCs will address a wide range of bilateral issues from energy cooperation to human rights. Turkmenistan is the fourth Central Asian country to conduct ABCs with the US over the past six months.

Assistant Secretaries Blake and Posner and NSC Director Donnelly will travel to Tashkent for regular consultations with the government, civil society, and multilateral partners in Uzbekistan.

http://news.uzreport.com/mir.cgi?lan=e&id=76717

[hakz2007]

China, Uzbekistan sign accords on gas, uranium

Chinese President Hu Jintao and Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov signed a number of agreements regarding the purchase of energy from Uzbekistan, including uranium and natural gas.

In connection with Hu's state visit, Uzbekistan's state-owned Uzbekneftegaz and China National Petroleum Corp. signed a framework agreement on supply of 10 billion cu m (bcm)/year of gas, Oil&Gas Journal reports.

The two sides also noted that, under the accord, they would aim to link Uzbekistan's gas transmission system with the China-Uzbekistan gas pipeline.

The China-Uzbekistan gas line is part of the 1,800-km China-Central Asia gas line that opened in December 2009, linking gas fields in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan to northwest China's Xinjiang region.

In May, official media reported that deliveries of Turkmen natural gas to China had exceeded 1 bcm since the December 2009 launch of the new gas line, with a further 5 bcm expected by yearend.

New agreement

Meanwhile, the new agreement between China and Uzbekistan came just days after the South Korean government announced that a significant amount of gas has been found in an Uzbekistan block equally owned by a Korean consortium and four countries.

Initial drilling, which ended in April, produced 500,000 cu m/day of gas, according to South Korea's Ministry of Knowledge Economy, which also said that the block "likely" has a gas reserve that can be converted into 63 million tonnes of LNG.

The Korean consortium comprising Korea National Oil Corp. and Posco owns a 20% stake in the Aral Sea block, while Uzbekistan, Russia, China, and Malaysia each own a 20% stake in it, the Korean ministry said.

In addition to the gas agreement, China and Uzebekistan also agreed on further cooperation in the supply of uranium, a point underlined by the Chinese leader.

"One of the questions we discussed was that of long-term and stable cooperation in the field of…uranium," said Hu, adding, "It's necessary to work in such a way to develop natural uranium and uranium fields."

During Hu's visit, Uzbekistan's state-owned Navoi Mining & Metallurgy Combine and the China Guangdong Nuclear Power Co. signed a contract for the supply of uranium, but details of the agreement were not made available.

The new accord follows reports that China imported 425.97 tonnes of uranium in April, lower than the 550.8 million tonnes shipped in during March and sharply up on year, according to the General Administration of Customs.

China's imports of uranium have been increasing in accord with Beijing's plans to raise nuclear power's contribution to 5% of total generating capacity by 2020, from less than 2% now. Ahead of that increase, China is said to be stockpiling supplies of uranium.

According to one industry analyst, China's two licensed uranium importers — CGNPC and China National Nuclear Corp. — are importing far more uranium than the country's actual requirements, bringing in "roughly 2-4 times its actual requirements" last year.

http://business.uzreport.com/mir.cgi?lan=e&id=76955

[hakz2007]

Syrdarya: gross regional product up 11.2%, retail trade 15% in 1H 2010

Administration of Gulistan city has hosted a meeting to discuss results of socioeconomic development of Syrdarya region in the first half of 2010 and priority tasks on the implementation of the country's socioeconomic development program for 2010.

It was noted that the gradual reforms, pursued within the Anti-Crisis Program initiated by the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, are an important factor of ensuring socioeconomic stability.

The gross regional product (GRP) of Syrdarya region increased by 11.2% in January-June 201. Production of consumer goods grew by 2.2%, agricultural output – by 13%, retail trade turnover – 15%, paid services – 15.2%. The region exported products worth $20.9 million.

As a result of work on provision of employment to the population, some 21,530 new workplaces were created in the reporting period, mainly in rural area. 275 housing estates are currently being built on typical projects.

126 production enterprises were commissioned in January-June 2010 in the region. Investments worth $11.3 million were attracted within the regional investment program. 56.1 billion soums of long-term investment credits were issued for the modernization, technical and technological re-equipment of enterprises.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=78336

Navoi: GRP grows by 5.7%, agricultural output 6.4% in Jan-Jun 2010

Administration of Navoi city has hosted a meeting to discuss results of socioeconomic development of the region in the first half of 2010 and priority tasks on the implementation of the country's socioeconomic development program for 2010.

It was noted that the gradual reforms, pursued within the Anti-Crisis Program initiated by the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, are an important factor of ensuring socioeconomic stability.

The gross regional product (GRP) of Navoi region increased by 5.7% in January-June 201. Agricultural output and production of consumer goods rose by 6.4%, construction work – by 17.1%, sphere of services – by 17.4%.

As a result of work on maintaining employment of the population, some 23,700 new workplaces were created in the reporting period. The support of small business and private entrepreneurship was an important factor of that.

The positive indicators in the sphere of foreign trade turnover of the region, observed at the end of 2009, remained the same in the first half of 2010. Export of products and services in Navoi region made up $252.7 million in January-June 2010.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=78334

Social enterprises giving equal opportunities for men and women

The sweet smell of hot baked bread fills the room, where girls and boys are busy with their daily tasks at Mehrjon bread factory in Jizzakh city.

Thanks to the UNDP Enhancing Legislative and Institutional Environment for Equal Opportunities for Women and Men in Uzbekistan (Equal Opportunities) project now more than 30 women and men will have access to work and the chance to improve their livelihoods.

The opening of Mehrjon bread factory was a real celebration for the communities and local authorities who were closely involved from the start. "These are unique enterprises, working to make a difference in people's lives," said Natalia Alhazishvili, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative a.i.

Mehrjon bread factory is a social enterprise - first of its kind in Uzbekistan piloting initiatives that apply market-based strategies to achieve social change. These types of enterprises are distinctive because their social purpose remains central to their operation with gained profits to be used to further support a social cause.

To make the pilot intervention a success UNDP teamed up with Istiqbolli Avlod youth centre, which is in charge of coordinating and overseeing activities, including selection of beneficiaries to be employed and the needed help to women starting work at the factory.

Mehrjon bread factory is established at Lochin business enterprise, which takes over all business initiatives, including marketing and distribution of bread and use gained profits to further support social inclusion in Jizzakh region.

The Equal Opportunities project is supported by UNDP in Uzbekistan to address the impact of the global financial crisis, with a great number of migrants returning and in need of stable jobs and security.

The project works to improve the coordination and monitoring of employment policies, legislation, and their gender impact. Also the project seeks new ways of generating income in rural areas of the country giving equal opportunities for both men and women.

The Equal Opportunities project is also helping to open a dairy factory in Gallaaral district of Jizzakh region, to be launched in September this year. UNDP is supporting similar social enterprises in Karakalpakstan and Ferghana regions. Currently in its Initiation Plan phase, the Equal Opportunities project plans to target more than 100 direct beneficiaries.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=78325

[hakz2007]

Real volume of Uzbekistan's GDP exceeds 24.1 trillion soums in 1H 2010

The real volume of the gross domestic product (GDP) of Uzbekistan comprised over 24.1 trillion soums in January-June 2010 or 108% to the corresponding period of 2009, according to the preliminary data of State Statistics Committee.

Out of the total volume of GDP the share of non-state sector is 77.5% (in January-June 2009 – 76.5%) and that of state sector – 22.5% (in January-June 2009 - 23.5%).

Small business entities produced 41.1% of the total volume of GDP (in January-June 2009 – 40.9%). Out of the total volume of GDP produced by small business entities the share of small enterprises and microfirms was 25% (24.6%).

The significant growth of the real volume of gross regional product was observed in Syrdarya region (111.2%), Namangan region (111.1%), Samarkand region (111%), Andijan region (109.6%) and the city of Tashkent (108.5%).

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=79439

Total volume of light industry output exceeds 486bn soums in 1H 2010

Uzbekengilsanoat (Uzbek light industry) state joint-stock company has summed up the results of the first half of 2010. The system enterprises produced commercial products worth 486.5 billion soums and indicated 139% growth.

The plan on production of consumer goods was fulfilled on 139.6% in respect of the previous year.

The study of world market demand and manufacture of export-oriented products lays a huge responsibility on enterprises. According to Uzbekengilsanoat the total volume of products exported for the first half 2010 comprised $280.6 million.

For the years of independence, the company attracted foreign investments worth $1.2 billion to create a basis for further development of this branch of the production and the extension of volume of integrated products.

For the past period, the company launched 12 new enterprises and thus created 2,000 new workplaces for youth. The attraction of foreign investments total worth $46.32 millions provided a new opportunity for additional manufacture of additional 23,000 tons of threads and 5.67 million units of integrated products.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=79423

Number of registered enterprises in Uzbekistan comprised over 510,800

The number of registered in Uzbekistan legal entities was 510,800 as of 1 July 2010, 476,000 of them (93.2% of total registered enterprises) were operating, according to the data of the Uniform State Business Register.

The greatest number of enterprises and institutions was registered in trade and catering (27.1% of total registered enterprises), agriculture (20.6%, excluding private farms), industry (12.2%) and construction (8%).

In the total number of registered enterprises the share of enterprises with non-state form of ownership was 92.4% of which 52.1% - private and dekhkan farms, 21.4% - private enterprises, 0.9% - enterprises with participation of foreign capital, 0.2% - joint-stock companies, 17.8% – other enterprises.

The number of newly registered enterprises and institutions was 27,200 in January-June 2010. Their significant number was marked in the city of Tashkent (15.8% of total registered enterprises in the republic), Ferghana region (10.2%), Kashkadarya region (8.7%), Tashkent region (8%) and Samarkand region (7.6%).

In the sectoral structure of newly created enterprises 27.9% - the share of trade and catering, 23.2% - agriculture, 17.1% - industry.

In the reporting period 15,200 enterprises and institutions were liquidated. Out of them more than 2,000 were liquidated voluntarily.

In the sectoral structure of liquidated enterprises 51.1% – the share of agriculture, 22.1% – trade and catering, 8.8% – industry.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=79440

Uzbekistan expanding zinc production

In September, Uzbekistan's Almalyk Mining and Smelting Combine (AMSC) will complete the construction of a polymetallic ore-dressing and processing plant worth approximately $150 million.

The project will allow achieving two goals: to begin developing the combine's own zinc resource base and increase the industry's export potential, TCA reports.

Under the project, AMSC will commission a concentrating mill with annual capacity of 650,000 tons of ore at the Khandiza deposit in Kashkadarya region. The mill will produce 5,000 tons of copper concentrate, 20,000 tons of lead concentrate, and 60,000 tons of zinc concentrate a year. According to optimistic estimates, the mill can reach full production capacity by the end of 2011.

The Khandiza deposit was selected for several reasons, first of all, due to high quality of its resources. The deposit's resources according to JORC classification make up 14.4 million tons of ore with a content of 134 grams of silver per ton, 7.24 grams of zinc per ton, 3.5 grams of lead per ton, 0.86 grams of copper per ton, and 0.38 grams of gold per ton.

Also, the ores contain selenium, cadmium, and indium. Another important factor was the opening of the Tashguzar-Boysun-Kumkurgan railroad bypassing Turkmenistan, which will significantly reduce transport costs.

Currently, zinc production at AMSC, with annual capacity of 125,000 tons, works fully by tolling contracts with Kazakhstan. However, favorable world market conditions coupled with growing domestic demand urged Kazakh companies to increase ore production and develop new deposits. As a result, tolling contracts no longer work effectively, and Uzbekistan now has to develop its own resource base.

According to analysts, expansion of raw material base of zinc producers is a global trend. "In 2010-2011, investments in raw material assets will begin to bear fruit," believes Ilkhat Tushev, an analyst at Central Asia Investments.

"Supply of zinc concentrate will increase. At the same time, the growing demand will slow down. China is increasing its zinc production, but its need for zinc imports will be reducing slowly due to 10%-15% annual zinc consumption growth."

But it is risky to focus only on China. The second-largest market is Japan, which has a high demand for zinc concentrate. It is followed by South Korea with its large zinc processing facilities. And then comes Russia, which will become a large zinc consumer.

According to experts, prices of zinc have returned to their pre-crisis level. In 2010, demand for this metal will probably recover and may surpass the supply, exceeding 12 million tons (world's zinc production this year is expected at 11 million tons). However, zinc producers will see reduced profits due to lowering quotations on the LME from $3,000 per ton in 2008 to $2,000 now.

To make the project profitable requires producing at least two million tons of ore a year. This requires approximately $200 million of further investments in extraction and enrichment, and $50 million to $100 million in production. Construction of new facilities will help increase profitability of AMSC.

http://business.uzreport.com/uzb.cgi?lan=e&id=79424

[hakz2007]

Uzbekistan nationalizes business from Russia's WBD

MOSCOW, September 21 (RIA Novosti) - Uzbekistan has de facto nationalized the local branch of Russia's largest dairy manufacturer, Wimm-Bill-Dann (WBD), "in profit of state," Kommersant business daily said on Tuesday, following the company's conflict with the powerful Uzbek National Security Service.

"In fact, they took away our business," Marina Kagan, a member of WBD's Management Board, was quoted by Kommersant as saying after Monday's decision by a Tashkent city court to transfer WBD's property in Tashkent to the Uzbekistan state. "We intend to file an appeal to Uzbekistan's highest court."

Kagan said it was not a serious loss for the company, adding that WBD had invested $5 million in its Uzbekistan business.

A source familiar with the situation told Kommersant the decision was due to a conflict between WBD and the country's National Security Service, which controls all large businesses in the country including foreign investment, as well as its role in combating dissent and insurgency. Uzbekistan's Interior Ministry declined to comment.

WBD launched its business in Uzbekistan in 2004 after buying 77 percent of local company Toshkentsut for $131,400. In 2005, the Uzbekistan authorities offered it tax privileges, which were to last until 2011. But problems for WBD began in 2009, when the tax authorities started checks on the firm.

Three months ago, a Tashkent court opened a criminal trial against WBD Tashkent's management, including former Chief Executive Officer Alexandra Usova. WBD management was accused of creating organized criminal groups, breaking tax and budget legislation and embezzlement.

Kommersant quoted a source at the Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry saying Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov had discussed the matter during a phone conversation, with Karimov maintaining a tough stance on the issue.

http://en.rian.ru/business/20100921/160664693.html

[hakz2007]

Uzbekistan plagued by petrol shortages

Tashkent motorists wait September 21 to buy gas. Petrol shortages have meant long lines at the pump.

TASHKENT – Motorists in Uzbekistan are complaining of gasoline shortages and what they believe is attempted profiteering, but the government insists the situation is not as grave as it seems.

Gasoline vanished from filling stations in July, shortly before the government ordered 15% price increases. In line with the cabinet decision, the retail price per litre for AI-80 petrol and diesel fuel rose from 1,065 to 1,220 UZS (US $0.67 to $0.76); for AI-91, from 1,175 to 1,350 UZS; and for AI-95, from 1,300 to 1,500 UZS.

That was the second price increase this year; in January, the government raised the consumption tax included in the price of gasoline.

Some consumers are linking the fuel shortage with problems facing Zeromax, a company that used to develop oil and gas deposits in Uzbekistan before it folded last spring. But at least one industry insider disagreed.

“Zeromax was not the largest supplier of oil products,” Igor Sanybutin of the national holding company UzNefteGaz contended. “The bulk of Uzbekistan’s oil was imported from Kazakhstan. After joining the customs union (with Russia and Belarus), Kazakhstan lost the opportunity to make independent decisions (to discount its) oil exports.”

Uzbekistan can extract about 8m tonnes of liquid hydrocarbons per year, which is enough to satisfy domestic demand for gasoline and diesel, an UzNefteGaz press release said.

But a high sulphur content and other impurities in Uzbek oil reduces the quality of oil products and rules out the production of AI-95, Uktam Tangrybergenov of Lukoil's office in Uzbekistan said. “It is this particular petrol brand that has not been available at the filling stations since June.”

Sanybutin denied the existence of major shortages of fuel throughout Uzbekistan: “Occasional irregularities at the local level do not signal that the problem exists nationwide. Nevertheless ... the government will look into the reasons for fuel supply disruptions in certain localities.”

The holding company keeps striving to modernise its constituent enterprises, UzNefteGaz press spokeswoman Yulia Kim said.

The company began deep preliminary drilling in seven new areas, finished building 10 exploratory and 12 production wells, and discovered two new deposits in the Bukhara-Khiva region, its press service said. Its production of gasoline and diesel in the first half of 2010 grew 108.9% and 101.2%, respectively, compared to the same period last year, it said.

Yet long queues at gas stations are visible daily, media and eyewitnesses say.

Ferghana Valley is rife with petrol problems

Buying gasoline in the Ferghana Valley is simply impossible, compared to merely time-consuming in Tashkent, said Andizhan-based businessman Anvar Solikhov. “(In the valley), you can buy petrol only from black marketeers who feel free to profiteer with zero attention from law enforcement."

Rashid Solomov, a district policeman from Ferghana Oblast, said the police got a few complaints on the problem. “We instantly catch one or two such violators. The last one was just four days ago.

These people are violating the law and they are persecuted. The problem is that not every case is reported to us by the witnesses. I urge them to co-operate with us”. Paying profiteers is a time-saving option for some.

“I have to purchase petrol from profiteers because I can’t afford to spend three hours at the filling station,” Samarkand motorist Azim Kodirov said.

For those with time to spare, profiteering is a money-making proposition.

“Fuel shortages allow me to earn a living and feed my children,” said a jobless Samarkand resident who gave only his first name, Zinnur. He braves long queues daily at a gas station to buy gas that he resells for a profit of 400 UZS (US $0.25) per litre. Some gas station operators collude with black market vendors, he said.

That is rare, though. One Tashkent gas station operator Sunnat Razzakov, said law enforcement closely monitors stations. "We have security and police inspections every day, ... so colluding with black marketeers is out of the question for us,” he said.

National Security Service officer Alisher Sayimov agreed. “Filling stations are considered strategically important facilities, so each station’s work is monitored," he said. During the past few months, filling stations have been subject to especially stringent oversight, he added.

The government declined to comment on reported fuel shortages but seems to be seeking a way out of the awkward situation.

“Those occasional disruptions in a couple of regions clearly violated individual motorists’ rights,” Sanybutin said. “Local authorities will be notified and ordered to respond."

Tashkent might be courting oil-exporting states. The pending visit to Uzbekistan by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, announced by his press service, will focus on hydrocarbon trading, political scientist and journalist Sergey Yezhkov said.

The government had once hoped for preferentially priced oil and gas imports from Turkmenistan, but during Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov’s visit to Tashkent in February 2009, the parties failed to agree on prices.

http://centralasiaonline.com/cocoon/.../25/feature-02

[hakz2007]

Karimov urges US companies to invest in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan President Islam Karimov recently held negotiations with high-level representatives of General Motors, Sikorsky Aircraft and Honeywell companies in New York, US, Uzbekreport.com reported. At the talks with deputy chairman of General Motors Thomas Stephens, Islam Karimov said that Uzbekistan was dynamically developing the car industry, and the cooperation with the GM had a great importance in this aspect.

Karimov said that cooperation with GM also plays an important part in attracting foreign investments for new projects in the car production industry.

Stephens said General Motors highly valued its cooperation with Uzbekistan and was interested in further expansion of the relations. The leader of Uzbekistan met, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp President Jeffrey Pino, who is one of the leaders in aircraft production.

Both discussed issues of expansion of mutual cooperation.

Pino said his company was interested in cooperation with Uzbekistan. Karimov also received Honeywell Chairman and CEO David Cote.

The head of the state said Uzbekistan could become a link for the American corporation in entering new market.

The President stressed fruitful cooperation of Uzbekistan with US largest corporations and opportunities for the establishment of partner relations with Honeywell.

Uzbekistan is interested in attracting Honeywell technologies and investments in order to open new modern sectors of economy.

Cote said Uzbekistan is a country with high intellectual potential and rich mineral resources, and Honeywell sees broad perspectives for cooperation with the country.

The sides discussed issues of expansion of cooperation with Honeywell, including development of joint projects.

http://www.neurope.eu/articles/Karim...tan/103076.php

[hakz2007]

Uzbekistan to supply electricity to Tajikistan's Sughd Oblast

KHUDZHAND – Uzbekistan has agreed to temporarily supply electricity to Tajikistan's Sughd Oblast, Ferghana.ru reported October 5.

Sughd Oblast has been short of power during repair work to the Yug-Sever electrical transmission lines, causing rationing of electricity. Tajikistan also has chronic power shortages during fall and winter.

http://centralasiaonline.com/cocoon/...5/newsbrief-09

[hakz2007]

Uzbekistan opposes large dams

NEW YORK – Uzbekistan opposes the construction of large dams on the Syr-Darya and Amu-Darya rivers, Uzbek Ambassador to the UN Murad Askarov said October 7, according to UN Radio’s Russian service.

Such projects threaten the Aral Sea regional ecology, he told the UN General Assembly’s Second Committee, adding that agriculture should have first claim on fresh water. He suggested building less dangerous, more economical hydropower stations on the two rivers.

http://centralasiaonline.com/cocoon/...8/newsbrief-08

[hakz2007]

EBRD ups forecast of Uzbekistan’s economic growth up to 8.5 percent in 2011

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) raised its forecast for economic growth of Uzbekistan in 2011, a statement posted on the EBRD's website on Thursday said.

The EBRD predicted Uzbekistan's economic growth at 8.2 percent in 2010 and about 7 percent in 2011. The forecast for the current year remained the same.

The earlier reports said that in late September, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) confirmed the April forecast of Uzbekistan's GDP growth rate at 8.5 percent in 2010, 9 percent in 2011, inflation ratio at 9.3 percent and 9 percent in 2010 and 2011 respectively, the current account balance at 13 percent of GDP in 2010 and 14 percent in 2011.

In early October the International Monetary Fund (IMF) confirmed the April forecast of GDP growth at 8 percent in Uzbekistan in 2010, 7 percent in 2011, current account surplus at 3.8 percent of GDP and 6.3 percent in 2011. According to the IMF, inflation will rise up to 10.6 percent in Uzbekistan in 2010 compared to the April forecast of 9.2 percent, up to 11.4 percent in 2011 compared to 9.4 percent in April.

According to the WB's forecasts, Uzbekistan's economic growth will hit 6.5 percent in 2010 and 2011.

According to the official statistics, Uzbekistan's GDP in 2009 increased by 8.1 percent compared to 2008. The rate of inflation hit 7.4 percent, industrial production increased by 9 percent, agricultural products - by 5.7 percent, the total investment in economy by 24.8 percent.

Uzbekistan plans to ensure GDP growth at 8.3 percent in 2010 compared to 2009, industrial production by 8.3 percent, agricultural production - by 5 percent. It is planned to hold inflation at the level of 7-9 percent.

Uzbekistan became an EBRD member in 1992. A representative office was opened in Tashkent in May 1993.

EBRD has provided Uzbekistan with credit worth 500 million euro since 1992 to implement over 40 projects in power engineering, entrepreneurship, transportation, construction, mineral resource development, public utilities.

http://en.trend.az/capital/business/1774009.html