Uzbekistan has launched a project to acquire 200 electric buses to promote a green economy. Recently, the country reported two inmate deaths, prompting investigations. Tourism from Germany surged, with over 37,000 visitors in 2024. Work permits for Pakistanis have been reinstated, and trade opportunities with Kuwait in agriculture are being explored, potentially worth $60 million.
Uzbekistan has embarked on a project to procure 200 electric buses along with their associated charging stations, in alignment with the country’s green economy objectives outlined in the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy. This initiative, aimed at mitigating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality, has chosen Yutong Bus as the provider following a competitive bidding process involving three Chinese contenders, namely BYD Auto Industry, Yutong Bus, and Zhongtong Bus Holding.
The Uzbek authorities reported the deaths of two inmates in the country’s prisons last week. These incidents occurred in penal facilities located in the Tashkent region. The fatalities involved a 21-year-old who suffered a heart attack and severe pancreatitis and a 41-year-old inmate who died from injuries sustained during repair activities within the prison. The Chief Prosecutor’s Office has initiated investigations into both occurrences.
In 2024, Uzbekistan experienced a significant uptick in German tourism, welcoming over 37,000 visitors, which marks an increase of 7,918 compared to the previous year. The Statistics Agency indicated that these tourists mainly traveled for leisure (31,291), but also for family visits (4,524), business (1,580), and other purposes. These statistics reflect a burgeoning interest in Uzbekistan and underscore the strengthening of cultural and economic relationships between Uzbekistan and Germany.
In a recent development, Uzbekistan has lifted the ban on work permits for Pakistani citizens, as recommended by the Pakistan Embassy in Tashkent. This decision allows Pakistani workers to seek employment opportunities in Uzbekistan, following previous restrictions due to adverse labor conditions. The announcement precedes Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming official visit to Uzbekistan in February 2025, emphasizing improving bilateral ties.
During a visit to Kuwait from February 17 to 18, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev discussed boosting trade in agriculture and food sectors between Uzbekistan and Kuwait, which is estimated to present a $60 million export opportunity. The Centre for Economic Research and Reforms analyzed trade dynamics over the past eight years, identifying areas for enhanced economic collaboration, highlighting the growth in trade but also recognizing the potential for further expansion.
In summary, Uzbekistan is advancing on multiple fronts, including a commitment to sustainable transportation with the procurement of electric buses, addressing inmate welfare through investigations into recent deaths, and fostering international ties via a surge in German tourism and improved labor opportunities for Pakistanis. Furthermore, the potential for trade enhancement with Kuwait underscores Uzbekistan’s strategic focus on expanding its agricultural and economic sectors. Overall, these developments reflect Uzbekistan’s growing engagement on domestic and international levels.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
