Uzbekistan has launched a project to procure 200 electric buses, reported two inmate deaths prompting investigations, welcomed over 37,000 German tourists, lifted the ban on Pakistani work visas, and identified a $60 million export potential to Kuwait in agriculture and food sectors. These initiatives illustrate Uzbekistan’s ongoing commitment to economic growth and international collaboration.
Uzbekistan has initiated a project to procure 200 electric buses along with associated charging stations for the capital city, in line with the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy aimed at enhancing the country’s green economy and environmental sustainability. After a competitive bidding process with three Chinese companies, Yutong Bus was selected for the project due to its comprehensive solution that satisfies all requirements.
In recent developments, Uzbek authorities reported the deaths of two inmates in prisons within a week. The fatalities occurred in penal colonies in the Tashkent region, with one inmate, a 21-year-old man, suffering from a heart attack and acute pancreatitis, while the second, a 41-year-old man, died from injuries sustained during repair work in the facility. The Chief Prosecutor’s Office has since launched investigations into both cases.
The Uzbek tourism sector has experienced a significant boost, welcoming over 37,000 tourists from Germany in 2024—a rise of nearly 8,000 visitors compared to the previous year. This influx primarily comprises tourists, with 31,291 individuals visiting for leisure purposes, followed closely by those visiting relatives, conducting business, and pursuing educational opportunities. These statistics underscore an increasing interest in Uzbekistan among German travelers.
In response to a recommendation from the Pakistan Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan has lifted the ban on work visas for Pakistani nationals, thereby allowing them to seek employment in the country. The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment is coordinating the registration of these workers after a previous cessation due to concerns over working conditions and wages. This policy shift aligns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to Uzbekistan in February 2025.
Uzbekistan is exploring significant economic opportunities with Kuwait, projecting a $60 million export potential in the agriculture and food sectors. This initiative follows President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Kuwait, where discussions centered on enhancing bilateral trade relations. The Centre for Economic Research and Reforms conducted a review of trade patterns, noting ongoing growth yet substantial untapped potential for further collaboration between the two nations.
In summary, Uzbekistan is making strides in various sectors, including sustainable transportation with the introduction of electric buses, addressing inmate welfare with investigations into recent deaths, and boosting tourism from Germany. Additionally, the opening of work visas for Pakistanis marks a significant shift in labor relations, while economic cooperation with Kuwait showcases the potential for future growth in trade. These developments reflect Uzbekistan’s commitment to enhancing its economic landscape and international ties.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
