MINSK, August 25. /Dunyo IA/. Evgeny Baskin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Servolux” Company and Honorary Consul of Uzbekistan in Belarus, extended his sincere congratulations and best wishes to the people of Uzbekistan through Dunyo IA on the eve of the 35^th Anniversary of the Independence of Uzbekistan:

- Outcomes of the decade-long path of reforms in New Uzbekistan are evident: over this period, the country has undergone a large-scale transformation, evolving from a relatively closed, resource-dependent economy into a dynamically growing state characterized by an open foreign policy, a more favourable investment climate and new opportunities for economic and social development.

Following the reforms in foreign exchange market liberalization initiated in 2017, rating agencies such as “Fitch” and S&P upgraded the country’s credit ratings, leading to a stable influx of foreign direct investment. In essence, this marked a maturation point for the economy of Uzbekistan, “a moment when the country demonstrated to investors that it is a reliable partner and an integral part of the global community”.

We welcome and support the economic policy pursued by the leadership of Uzbekistan aimed at establishing modern industrial zones and technology parks, as well as advancing industrial cooperation.

Reforms of New Uzbekistan stand as an impressive example of how well-calibrated strategic decisions and a systematic approach can fundamentally transform the economic and social landscape of an entire nation.

Strengthening of international community and investor trust in Uzbekistan is today confirmed by the concrete decisions of domestic and international businesses. Over the years of reforms, the influx of foreign direct investment into the country has multiplied, significantly expanding the presence of major companies and investors from China, Türkiye, the European Union member states, Belarus and Russia. Their entry is driven not merely by the appeal of public statements, but primarily by the fact that investors observe functioning mechanisms for asset protection, return on invested capital and genuine opportunities for further business growth and development.

In the coming years, a significant potential for further cooperation between Uzbekistan and Belarus lies within digital transformation and the development of modern technologies. Belarus possesses one of the strongest IT sectors, which creates solid opportunities for implementing joint projects in the digitalization of public services, the deployment of digital identification systems, the strengthening of cybersecurity and the development of BI systems. Engagement in these areas can serve as a practical mechanism for exchanging experience, technological solutions and competencies, thereby contributing to the development of the digital economy and human capital in both nations.

I would highlight several initiatives that hold long-term significance not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire region. First and foremost, this includes enhancing Central Asia’s role in global supply chains. The development of transport corridors - including the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, which reduces the route from China to Central Asia by approximately 900 kilometers and by seven to eight days, alongside the development of the Trans-Afghan Corridor providing access to the ports of the Arabian Sea - opens new opportunities for business, lowers logistical costs, and expands access to international markets.

I consider the formation of a unified energy market in Central Asia to be an equally significant direction. The synchronization of the region’s power grids creates opportunities for the efficient redistribution of electricity - including that generated from renewable energy sources - taking into account seasonal demands. In the long term, this could ensure greater stability of power supply and predictability of conditions for energy-intensive industries.

“Digital Uzbekistan - 2030” Strategy also warrants particular mention. The active development of e-government, digital identification and cybersecurity systems shapes a modern business environment where numerous processes can be executed without physical presence. For foreign investors, this signifies a reduction in administrative barriers and increased transparency, while for the entire region, it offers the prospect of unifying digital standards, thereby facilitating cross-border trade and the free movement of capital.

Over the decade, Uzbekistan has traversed a long path, and the country is now entering a new cycle characterized by a necessary transition from extensive to intensive growth. If Uzbekistan maintains the pace and quality of its institutional transformations, its position within the global economy will continue to steadily strengthen.

First and foremost, I would like to congratulate the leadership and the people of Uzbekistan on this important historic milestone. A decade of reforms is a period during which strategic decisions have transformed into tangible changes, noticeable not only within the country but also far beyond its borders. This is the result of the consistent efforts of the Leadership, which succeeded in making reforms a part of everyday practice, and the people, who supported and embraced these transformations. Today, new goals have already been set for the country and I wish Uzbekistan to maintain the same will, courage and attention to every individual that were established at the beginning of this journey. Uzbekistan has already become a successful example of transformation and possesses every capability to strengthen its position as a resilient leader in the region.