During his visit to the Andijan region, the President of our country shared the following thoughts:

“Today we have outlined the most important tasks for taking  development of Andijan region to a new stage. We have addressed all the issues and allocated the necessary funds for the region. If we all work together in unity, our achievements will multiply, there will be no goal beyond our reach, and Andijan will become even more prosperous.” Unity and cooperation are the paths to progress. And this is directly related to the well-being of the people.

  On April 16, 2025 a meeting was held in Bulokboshi district under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to discuss measures for the socio-economic development of the Andijan region.

  It was noted that the spirit of the New Uzbekistan is reaching every district and neighborhood in Andijan. Last year, over 4,000 new entrepreneurs started their businesses in the region, and 450,000 people gained employment.

  1.5 million square meters of housing and 850,000 square meters of non-residential buildings were constructed in the region. As a result, trade and services increased by 13%, and industry by 7.5%.

  These figures reflect real, ongoing progress.

  The results of unity and collaboration are clearly visible not only in social life but also in the economy, education, culture, and other areas. Mutual respect, trust, harmony among people, public order, and a peaceful atmosphere all play a vital role in this. Projects carried out through cooperation lead to the creation of new jobs. This is clearly seen in the example of Andijan. There is renewed life in entrepreneurship, small business, and industry. Infrastructure (roads, electricity, water, internet) is improving, and investors are being attracted. All of this is the result of unity. It is through such efforts that attention to spiritual upbringing and national values among youth increases.

   But life doesn’t stand still. Andijan's economic potential, new projects, and initiatives were highlighted.

   The meeting discussed supporting small and medium-sized businesses, increasing investment and exports, and developing construction and social sectors.

  It was emphasized that in 2025, Andijan region aims to ensure at least 6% economic growth, increase the gross regional product to over 105 trillion soums, provide employment for 305,000 people, and lift 150,000 out of poverty.

  For example, although machine manufacturing is well developed in Andijan, over $1 billion worth of equipment was imported into the region in two years. If this equipment were produced domestically, it would bring additional income to the economy and create jobs. Such entrepreneurs should be supported in obtaining certificates and necessary equipment.

  Moreover, mechanical engineering and design production centers will be established. The technical specifications of imported equipment in high-demand industrial sectors will be studied, and local alternatives will be offered to enterprises. Entrepreneurs interested in localizing this equipment will be provided with concessional loans of up to 5 billion soums.

  It’s all about initiative and organization. People with vision can turn deserts into gardens. Systematic and planned work serves the interests of the people. The following numbers also support this view:

  13,000 hectares of hills in the region could be irrigated and cultivated. However, electricity costs for using pumps make it difficult for farmers. Therefore, financial instruments will be used to install solar panels. In Korgontepa, 300 hectares of hilly land will be used to establish intensive orchards and vineyards, which will be handed over to entrepreneurs ready for operation.

  Unproductive greenhouses from other regions will be relocated to Andijan and leased to the population. Affordable seeds and fertilizers will be provided to neighborhoods.

  Tourism has become a profitable and growing sector. Indeed, Andijan is one of the regions in Uzbekistan rich in historical and cultural heritage. It holds particular significance as the birthplace of the great scholar and statesman Zakhiriddin Muhammad Babur. The Babur Park and museum attract many tourists. The city and region are home to many mosques, mausoleums, and ancient monuments.

  The nature of the Andijan valley is beautiful and diverse. The Qamchiq mountains, waterfalls, and lakes offer great opportunities for eco-tourism. Natural recreational areas, mountains, and clean air attract visitors year-round. Andijan is also known for its handicrafts, especially adras and atlas weaving, embroidery, and pottery. These local products contribute to tourism development.

  The President also drew attention to this area. Andijan has high tourism potential. Tourist zones will be established in Kampirovot (Khonobod), Shirmonbulok (Bulokboshi), and Tosh ota (Khojaobod), which will help attract more tourists. This year, 25 tourism projects worth $125 million will be completed, and 3.5 million foreign and domestic tourists will be attracted, with tourism exports expected to exceed $200 million.

  Opportunities open the door to innovation, growth, and change. Opportunity allows a person to unlock their potential and test their abilities. Any opportunity is a source of new knowledge and experience. When given an opportunity, a person finds it easier to believe in themselves, become active, and take initiative. Opportunities lead people toward new successes and goals.

   Speaking about water-related issues, the President also touched on these opportunities. Small and micro hydropower plants with a capacity of 75 MW can be built on high-flow canals and streams. Entrepreneurs participating in this will receive loans with a 3-year grace period for 7 years at a 12% interest rate.

  There are many tasks in construction and infrastructure development as well. In particular, 245 multi-story buildings with 9,700 apartments will be built this year, providing jobs for 10,000 people. Over 1,000 km of roads and bridges will be repaired.

  Due to insufficient capacity of the Xonobod–Andijan main water pipeline, 510,000 people in six districts face water supply issues. Therefore, it was emphasized that the second branch of this pipeline needs to be built with the involvement of the Asian Development Bank.

  Attention was also given to ensuring that social initiatives directly impact people's lives. This year in Andijan, the share of high-tech surgical operations will reach 40%. Employment will be provided for 15,000 vocational school graduates, and 6,000 students will be enrolled in dual education programs. Four higher education programs in engineering, medicine, economics, and agriculture will undergo international accreditation.

  To this end, measures have been outlined to develop medical education and tourism, and to increase the number of private medical points providing 24/7 services in neighborhoods.

  In conclusion, it can be said that behind prosperity of Andijan region lies the hard-working nature, mutual respect, and unity of our people.

   During the President’s visit to Andijan, he met with residents and visited cultural institutions and homes — and the spirit of unity and harmony could be felt everywhere.

Rakhimboy Jumaniyozov

Professor, Member of the Writers and Journalists Unions of Uzbekistan