President Shavkat Mirziyoyev: 2026 to become fundamental in developing all spheres

On December 26, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered an Address to the Oliy Majlis and the citizens of Uzbekistan.

• "Over the past nine years, alongside you and our people, we have traversed a significant path of development. Our economy has attained a new quality, we have broadened market relations and social protection, and reinforced the rule of law. Most importantly, the outcomes of our reforms are evident in every mahalla, every family, and by every individual in their daily lives," stated the Head of State at the outset of his address.

Despite the challenging circumstances, democratic reforms have been persistently pursued. With the backing of the populace and the enthusiasm of our youth, shifts in people's mindsets and worldviews, a more united society, as well as the initiative and dedicated efforts of entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers, along with a friendly foreign policy grounded in mutually beneficial cooperation, substantial progress has been achieved across all sectors in 2025.

For the first time in the nation’s history, gross domestic product surpassed $145 billion. It was highlighted that exports rose by 23 percent, reaching $33.4 billion. Notably, it was emphasized that gold reserves exceeded $60 billion for the first time.

The volume of foreign investment attracted to the economy reached $43.1 billion, with the proportion of total investment in GDP standing at 31.9 percent. Leading international rating agencies upgraded the country’s sovereign rating from BB– to BB.

Due to significant reforms in the energy sector, electricity production increased to 85 billion kilowatt-hours.

This year, clean drinking water was provided to the homes of 715,000 residents across 188 mahallas for the first time, and water supply was improved for an additional 2.3 million people.

This year, 5 million individuals began to receive sustainable income, and the unemployment rate fell from 5.5% to 4.9%. Approximately 1.5 million people in need have been lifted out of poverty, and for the first time, 1,435 mahallas have been declared poverty-free areas.

168,000 children from low-income families were granted preferential admission to state kindergartens. Beginning this year, an inclusive education system was introduced in 208 kindergartens for the first time.

The poverty rate in the country has decreased from 8.9% at the start of the year to 5.8%.

• "When we started this work, one-third of our population lived below the poverty line."

The introduction of a completely new social protection system, which offers over 100 types of services—including loans, subsidies, and compensations—through the “seven” in mahallas, has enabled more than 8.5 million individuals to escape poverty, while halving the unemployment rate.

Consequently, this year we have met the goal established three years ago to reduce poverty by 50% by the end of 2026, stated the President.

It was highlighted that the talented youth play a significant role in the advancement of New Uzbekistan, achieving notable successes in education, science, culture, arts, sports, and other areas.

In recent years, the nation has increasingly positioned itself as a platform for international dialogue on global issues. Notably, this year Uzbekistan hosted the 150th anniversary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the session of the UNESCO General Conference, the Central Asia – European Union Summit, and the International Climate Forum.

Additionally, it was mentioned that during the meeting of the leaders of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan in March in Khujand, a historic agreement was signed regarding the junction point of the three countries’ borders for the first time, along with the adoption of a “Declaration of Eternal Friendship.”

At the recent Consultative meeting of the Heads of State in Tashkent, a proposal was made to establish a strategic format for the Central Asian Community to advance integration processes to a new qualitative level. The decision to accept Azerbaijan as a full member of the Central Asian format is of historic importance.

According to the President, this move will undoubtedly enhance strategic connectivity and stability between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

In October, an Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union was signed in Brussels. The Central Asia – U.S. Summit held in November helped elevate multilateral and long-term partnerships to a fundamentally new level. Last week, during the leaders' meeting “Central Asia – Japan” in Tokyo, significant agreements were made in education, healthcare, digital technologies, infrastructure, and industry.

Earlier this week, a meeting took place in Saint Petersburg with the heads of the Commonwealth of Independent States, which also identified new avenues for our cooperation.

• All of these developments are elevating our international relations to a fundamentally new level.

"We will continue to foster bridges of cooperation with nations both near and far – East and West, North and South," stated the President.

It was emphasized that the principles of mahalla and good neighborliness are in harmony, significantly contributing to the enhancement of social capital.

This is supported by the fact that 90 percent of individuals surveyed identify as part of the mahalla community, which reflects a strong sense of belonging to the destiny of our nation, indicating that this institution serves primarily as a foundation for social cohesion.

• "Regardless of the challenges we have encountered throughout history, we have drawn strength from our unity. During tough times, our people and the mahalla stood together to overcome obstacles. Families thrived by supporting one another; neighbors aided neighbors. We must remain committed to these exceptional values and instill this spirit in our younger generation."

Naturally, the existence of diverse opinions and perspectives is expected. This is a fundamental aspect of democracy.

Nevertheless, irrespective of nationality, language, or faith, there exists a powerful idea that unites our 38-million-strong nation: the interests of the Motherland and the welfare of our people.

The significance and impact of the mahalla system in achieving this noble objective are immeasurable. When peace and harmony prevail within the mahalla, our society will be unified and tranquil. The development of the mahalla will lead to the progress of the entire nation, the President remarked.

In light of this, the Head of State proposed designating 2026 as the "Year of Mahalla Development and Social Prosperity" in our country.

The audience present in the hall warmly endorsed this initiative.

The agenda for the upcoming year will tackle urgent issues, including the transformation of over 9,000 mahallas in our nation into hubs of kindness, solidarity, justice, and education.

• "We are entering a pivotal phase in the construction of New Uzbekistan. Our efforts in this area necessitate profound transformations across all sectors and spheres.

Our objective is clear: in the coming years, to elevate our status to that of upper-middle-income countries.

From the Ferghana Valley to the Aral Sea region, from the Zarafshan Valley to Kashkadarya and Surkhandarya, and from Tashkent to Jizzakh and Sirdarya – regardless of the region in which a citizen resides, starting today, they should experience the tangible benefits of reforms in their daily lives."

Consequently, the year 2026 is anticipated to bring significant changes in the realms of public administration, the judicial and legal system, various economic sectors, education, science, healthcare, culture, sports, and ecology – across all areas, as stated by the President.

The Head of State specifically detailed the primary focus areas for 2026.

The foremost priority is the continued enhancement of mahalla infrastructure, transforming them into representations of the New Uzbekistan.

Efforts toward the comprehensive development and improvement of territories will persist.

Beginning next year, a holistic approach to mahalla development will be adopted. New reforms aimed at urbanization and sustainable city development will commence.

The initiative to support entrepreneurship will remain in effect: in 2026, the principal tax rates will stay the same, and over 10 trillion soums will be allocated for projects aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial infrastructure. To foster small and medium-sized enterprises, 140 trillion soums in resources will be made available, with 43 trillion soums specifically earmarked to support women’s and youth entrepreneurship.

The second priority focuses on shifting the economy towards a technological and innovative development model.

It was emphasized that henceforth, every dollar of investment should primarily facilitate the transfer of advanced technologies, the production of high value-added goods for specific foreign markets, the enhancement of efficiency in energy, water, land, and other natural resources, the training of local specialists in new technologies, and the improvement of labor productivity.

An industrial development program aimed at advancing to a new technological level and broadening the value-added chain will be initiated. In 2026, 782 new industrial and infrastructure projects will be launched, with a total investment of $52 billion. Within the next year alone, 228 new large-scale production facilities will be established, totaling $14 billion.

Economic growth is expected to reach 6.6%, with GDP projected at $167 billion.

Enterprises engaged in the production of high-tech, innovation-driven products will receive encouragement. Income generated by specialists in these enterprises from research and development activities will be exempt from taxation.

Next year, four data centers, two supercomputers, and artificial intelligence laboratories in 15 universities will be established in Tashkent, Bukhara, Fergana, and Tashkent regions.

This will facilitate the execution of over 100 AI initiatives in critical sectors including healthcare, transportation, agriculture, geology, banking and finance, and public safety.

• Today, I wish to announce another significant development. For the first time in the history of independent Uzbekistan, we have initiated efforts to launch a satellite into orbit and send the first Uzbek astronaut, who is a citizen of our nation, into space," the President declared.

The third priority focus is on stimulating demand within the domestic market.

Over the last nine years, a conducive business environment has been established, leading to an increase in both the volume and variety of goods and services. By providing no less than 1 billion dollars in affordable loans each year to low-income families, inflation has been lowered to a “single-digit” level, and the purchasing power of the populace has doubled.

In response to the needs of the population, 23 trillion soums will be allocated for housing mortgages in 2026, which are in high demand in the economy. To help offset the down payment and interest costs associated with home purchases, a subsidy of 2.7 trillion soums will be provided. Furthermore, the amount of concessional mortgage credit available per apartment will be increased by 15 percent.

To boost demand for services in 2026, 85 trillion soums in loans and 9 trillion soums in subsidies will be designated for the sector. Specifically, 7 trillion soums will be allocated from the budget for educational services.

An ambitious target has been set: to double the number of foreign tourists and elevate the volume of tourism services to $20 billion within the next five years. In achieving this objective, particular attention will be given to enhancing tourism infrastructure.

The rising number of tourists necessitates a doubling of passenger transport in both aviation and railways. Consequently, by 2026, the fleet of aircraft will be expanded to 120.

A five-year plan for the advancement of domestic railway infrastructure will be established. To link cities with high-speed trains, the construction of an additional 500 kilometers of railway will commence in 2026. A five-year initiative will also be launched to improve the quality of highways and further enhance transit capabilities.

The fourth priority area focuses on the development of professions and the establishment of a new labor market framework.

At present, the global job landscape is undergoing significant transformations due to advancements in technology, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. Over the next five years, it is projected that 30 percent of current professions will be fully automated, while 50 percent will necessitate the acquisition of new skills.

• “Now, the labor market in our country must operate on a completely new architecture — as a unified mechanism integrating profession, qualifications, technology, and education,” stated the President.

Beginning in 2026, a minimum of 100 technical colleges will undergo comprehensive renovations and be equipped to align with technological demands and the requirements of in-demand professions. The number of technical colleges adopting advanced educational programs from countries such as Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, China, Korea, and others will reach 100.

In 2026, Innovative Vocational Skills Colleges and “City of Professions” initiatives will be initiated in seven regions, with implementation in the remaining regions scheduled for 2027.

To enhance vocational education within the medical sector, training for nurses based on international standards from the British company Pearson has commenced in one technical college in each region. These technical colleges will now offer educational programs from Germany, Switzerland, the USA, Japan, and other nations.

This initiative aims to cultivate a nursing workforce that adheres to international standards and possesses proficiency in foreign languages.

The fifth priority area focuses on ensuring ecological balance, promoting green energy, and the sustainable use of water resources.

A credit line of $100 million will be established for large enterprises to install filters, treatment facilities, and emission monitoring stations for harmful atmospheric substances.

It was highlighted that traffic congestion in urban areas not only complicates daily life but also inflicts significant environmental harm. Consequently, an environmental sticker system will be introduced, based on global practices, to categorize vehicles according to their level of harmful emissions.

Vehicles with elevated emission levels will face restricted access to the capital, regional centers, and major cities. To facilitate the replacement of such vehicles with newer models or the installation of filters, the government will offer supportive measures.

Individuals who replace an old vehicle will receive partial compensation for auto loan interest. Additionally, drivers who opt to install filters and reduce harmful emissions will be eligible for a subsidy to help cover part of the associated costs.

The enhancement of public transportation in Tashkent and other major cities will be a key focus.

A five-year initiative will be implemented to boost the number of eco-friendly vehicles. Auto loans will be available at an interest rate of 12% for domestic electric vehicles and 16% for foreign electric vehicles.

To facilitate the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations, entrepreneurs will be offered concessional loans at a rate of 10%, along with the opportunity to acquire land plots at auctions for half the market value. The state budget will cover the difference in the cost of 1 kWh exceeding 300 soums at these charging stations. Additionally, citizens operating taxi services with electric vehicles will benefit from various incentives.

To mitigate dust and sandstorms, a green zone spanning 10 thousand hectares will be established in Surkhandarya, while an 84-kilometer green wall will be constructed in Syrdarya.

In Karakalpakstan, Khorezm, Bukhara, and Navoi, a total of 250 thousand hectares of trees and shrubs will be planted, including 115 thousand hectares on the desiccated Aral Sea bed. Each region will feature botanical and dendrological gardens, as well as 20 shaded walking paths.

In total, 1.9 trillion soums will be allocated to the environmental sector in 2026.

Furthermore, 3.3 trillion soums will be earmarked in 2026 for initiatives related to the implementation of water-saving technologies.

Additionally, 1,300 km of major main canals will be lined with concrete, enabling the conservation of 500 million cubic meters of water annually. A separate program will also be initiated to transform open drains and collectors into a closed system. Large-scale projects will be launched to convert canals into closed systems.

As part of a significant program valued at $160 million in Tashkent, a 150-kilometer closed drainage system will be constructed, 197 kilometers of canals and collectors will undergo repairs, and 63 kilometers of new canals will be built, contributing to a cooler microclimate in the city.

The sixth priority area involves the continuation of reforms in modern public administration and the establishment of a fair judicial system.

Beginning in 2026, the “Electronic Government” platform will undergo a comprehensive update.

Over one thousand government services, more than 5 thousand functions and responsibilities, 240 databases and information systems, and over 100 thousand duties of civil servants in mahallas, districts, regions, and the republic will be integrated into a unified digital platform.

• Most importantly, we will establish an ecosystem for delivering government services without human intervention, thereby eradicating corruption and excessive bureaucracy. We will create a system for providing government services in a proactive and integrated manner, - stated the President.

From this point forward, instances of direct government procurement of goods, works, and services will be governed solely by law.

As part of constitutional reforms, the roles of regional hokims and chairpersons of local kengash have been delineated. This system will be implemented starting in 2026 across 208 districts and cities.

The President highlighted the importance of civil society institutions in enhancing the effectiveness of reforms. Consequently, the policy of supporting these institutions will be consistently pursued in the future. Specifically, a five-year strategy for the advancement of civil society will be formulated.

• I reiterate: during this period of extensive reforms in our country, we will steadfastly uphold the policy of transparency. Ensuring freedom of speech and the press continues to be our priority, - declared the President.

Efforts to bring the judicial and legal system closer to the populace will persist.

It was noted that the role and involvement of society in the administration of justice will be expanded. The institution of a “jury of representatives” will be gradually introduced – a mechanism that has yielded positive outcomes in countries with the English legal system.

The campaign against drug-related crimes will be transformed into a national movement, fostering a zero-tolerance atmosphere towards this issue within society.

A mandate has been established to create an effective system for preventing violence against women and children, engaging all state bodies and the general public to eradicate such negative phenomena.

• Corruption poses a serious threat that hinders state development, undermines the rule of law and justice, and diminishes public trust. Tolerating corruption equates to betraying our reforms.

In the battle against this menace, we will declare a “state of emergency” regarding corruption in 2026, - asserted the President.

In all government agencies, a deputy responsible for compliance and internal anti-corruption oversight will be appointed. Furthermore, the role of a representative from the Accounts Chamber will be established.

Personal accountability for every soum of state funds and resources will be reinforced.

In light of the growing geopolitical and economic challenges, efforts to enhance equal and constructive relationships with all nations and to pursue a balanced and open foreign policy will continue. Collaboration with esteemed international and regional organizations, as well as economic institutions, will be elevated to a new level.

• The significant achievements and emerging priorities necessitate a reassessment of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy. This document, which outlines the development of our country over the next five years, will be updated following extensive public discussions and the input of our citizens, - stated the President.

It was emphasized that next year will see the widespread celebration of important milestones in social and cultural life. Notably, the 35th anniversary of our Motherland’s independence will be commemorated as a significant holiday. The need to start preparations for the important anniversaries of Amir Temur and Alisher Navoi was also highlighted.

• Today, history itself, life itself places a great responsibility upon us.

Our cherished Homeland is evolving into a nation where individuals live and work on new political, legal, social, and spiritual foundations, where people think independently, are free, and liberated.

If we remain united, acting as one people, one nation, we will undoubtedly achieve our grand goals. I have faith in the unmatched strength and potential of Uzbekistan, as well as in the will and determination of our beloved youth, - concluded the President in his address.