Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of Uzbekistan since 2016, has risen as a pivotal figure in Central Asian politics. This article offers a unique perspective on his life, political journey, and the transformative reforms that have redefined Uzbekistan during his presidency.
Early Life and Educational Pursuits:
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, born on July 14, 1957, into a family of medical professionals in Uzbekistan’s Jizzakh region, embarked on a journey that led to a mechanical engineering degree from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanisation Engineers in 1981. He subsequently earned a Ph.D. in engineering, solidifying his status as an associate professor.
Ascension in Politics:
Mirziyoyev’s political journey commenced in 1990 when he became a deputy in the Supreme Soviet of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Over the years, he assumed key roles, including serving as the mayor of the Mirzo-Ulugbek district of Tashkent, governor of the Jizzakh region, and mayor of the Samarkand region. Simultaneously, he served as a deputy in the Oliy Majlis, the Uzbek Parliament, from 1995 to 2003. His substantial contributions to regional development culminated in his appointment as Prime Minister of Uzbekistan in 2003, a role he occupied three more times in 2005, 2010, and 2015.
Presidential Stewardship:
Following the passing of former Uzbek President Islam Karimov in September 2016, Shavkat Mirziyoyev was named interim president and later elected as president in December 2016.
“Honour and Dignity” Reforms:
Mirziyoyev’s presidency has been marked by the ambitious “honour and dignity” reforms, encompassing:
- Political Renewal: A commitment to infuse transparency and openness into the political system.
- Economic Modernization: Creating a business-friendly environment, economic liberalization, and eradicating the black market for foreign currencies.
- Rule of Law: Reinforcing human rights, freedom of speech, and media freedom while upholding the rule of law.
- Social Advancements: Executing initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
- Global Engagement: Focusing on building trust and cooperative relations within Central Asia and globally.
The New Uzbekistan 2022–2026 Program:
Uzbekistan is currently advancing the New Uzbekistan 2022–2026 program under Mirziyoyev’s leadership. This program aims to consolidate past reforms and position the nation as a prime hub for foreign investment and tourism in Central Asia. Key objectives encompass propelling economic growth, elevating per capita GDP to USD 4,000, championing free-market competition, and streamlining bureaucratic processes.
The Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy:
The ongoing development of the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy builds upon earlier initiatives, with priorities that include:
- Individual Empowerment: Creating conditions for personal growth through educational reforms and poverty alleviation.
- Sustainable Economic Progress: Paving the way for enduring economic development.
- Environmental Conservation: Focusing on water conservation and environmental preservation.
- Effective Governance: Ensuring a responsive public administration and a reformed judicial system.
- A Peaceful Nation: A vision for Uzbekistan as a secure and peace-loving nation.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s presidency marks a transformative era, both within Uzbekistan and on the global stage. His steadfast commitment to reform and his vision for an empowered Uzbekistan underscore his dedication to improving the lives of Uzbek citizens and fostering sustainable regional development.
