Uzbekistan Roundup: Initiatives in Transportation, Tourism, and Trade

Uzbekistan has launched a project to procure 200 electric buses to advance its green economy goals. The country reported two inmate deaths, prompting investigations. German tourism has surged with over 37,000 visitors, reflecting strong ties. Work visas for Pakistanis have reopened after previous restrictions. President Mirziyoyev visited Kuwait to discuss trade potential, particularly in agriculture.

Uzbekistan is actively promoting eco-friendly transportation through a project to acquire 200 electric buses and their charging stations in the capital city. This initiative aligns with the country’s green economy objectives under the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy and reinforces its commitment to combat climate change. Following a competitive bidding process, Yutong Bus has been selected to provide the necessary solutions for the project, according to reports from Daryo.

In recent news, Uzbekistan has reported the deaths of two inmates within a week in penal colonies located near Tashkent. One victim, a 21-year-old man, reportedly died from a heart attack exacerbated by acute pancreatitis, while the second, a 41-year-old inmate, succumbed to injuries sustained during prison maintenance work. The Chief Prosecutor’s Office has initiated investigations into both incidents to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.

The tourism sector in Uzbekistan has witnessed significant growth, with over 37,000 German tourists visiting the country in the first quarter of 2024, an increase from the previous year. The majority of these visitors came for vacation purposes, with a smaller portion traveling for business, family visits, education, and medical treatment. This influx underscores the strengthening cultural and economic ties between Uzbekistan and Germany, emphasizing the importance of tourism in fostering international relations.

Additionally, following recommendations from the Pakistan Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan has reopened work visa opportunities for Pakistani nationals. This move comes after a prior suspension aimed at addressing issues related to poor working conditions and unpaid wages. The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment is now registering workers for job placements in Uzbekistan, coinciding with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s forthcoming visit to the country in late February 2025.

Furthermore, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan has recently visited Kuwait to explore potential trade partnerships. During this visit, the Centre for Economic Research and Reforms revealed that despite existing trade growth, there is considerable opportunity for expanding economic collaboration between Uzbekistan and Kuwait, particularly in the agriculture and food sectors, aiming towards a projected $60 million in export potential.

In summary, Uzbekistan is making strides towards a sustainable future with the procurement of electric buses, while addressing serious issues within its penal system. The tourism sector is thriving with increased German visits, notably enhancing bilateral relations, and the reopening of work visas for Pakistanis marks a significant development in labor relations. Trade relations with Kuwait present additional opportunities for economic growth, particularly in agricultural exports.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com