Book on Uzbekistan’s remarkable journey of social, economic reforms launched
Eminent writer, analyst and columnist in Pakistan Observer, Dr Mehmoodul Hassan Khan’s latest book ‘ShavkatMirziyoyev: Great Leader of Reforms & Regional Integration’ has been ranked as an authentic document encapsulating Uzbekistan’s remarkable journey of social, political and economic reforms under the visionary leadership of President ShavkatMirziyoyev.
These views were expressed by the panelists at the launching ceremony of the book at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).
Speakers including Federal Minister for National Heritage & Culture Division Aurangzeb Khan Khichi (Chief Guest), Ambassador of Uzbekistan AlisherTuhtayev, Director General, ISSI Ambassador SohailMahmood, Director, China Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC), ISSI, Dr. TalatShabbir; President of the Centre for South Asia and International Studies, Islamabad Maj Gen (R) Syed Khalid Amir Jaffery and Dean of Bahria University, Islamabad Prof Dr. Adam Saud viewed the book as chronicling Uzbek President’s inclusive approach, commitment to modernization and efforts to build a “social state” focused on education, poverty reduction, and employment generation.
Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khichi said the book celebrated Uzbekistan President’s visionary leadership shaping the country’s future. He noted that President Mirziyoyev’s reform agenda served as model for other countries.
The Minister described Uzbekistan as a wonderful country and stressed that greater connectivity was bringing Pakistan and Uzbekistan closer.
Appreciating the Uzbek president’s vision and the writer DrMehmoodul Hassan Khan’s efforts, the minister hoped the book would serve as a useful document and reference book for researchers and students of international relations.
Ambassador AlisherTuhtayev, in his congratulatory address, praised the strong bond of friendship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. He noted with pleasure that in Pakistan interest in Uzbekistan’s system of governance, its miraculous development, social, economic reforms, its sights and tourism spots was increasing. This is the second such book in a period of 30 days on Uzbekistan, its growth and achievements under President ShavkatMirziyoyev, the Uzbekistan envoy said praising the book for capturing key economic and social reforms, Uzbekistan-Pakistan bilateral relations and regional connectivity. He appreciated the author’s effort, calling the book a gesture that strengthens Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations.
Author DrMehmoodulHasan Khan in vote of thanks, said the completion of the book marked a proud moment for Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and the wider Central Asian region. He thanked Ambassador Tuhtayev, Uzbek think-tanks, and scholars for their cooperation and feedback. Highlighting President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, the author noted that Uzbekistan’s reforms have driven economic growth, reduced poverty, and promoted modernisation. He added that the book, covering over 39 areas, reflected the deepening partnership and shared vision between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
While sharing the miraculous journey of reforms and economic uplift of Uzbekistan under President ShavkatMirziyoyev, DrMehmoodul Hassan said the annual GDP growth of Uzbekistan averaged between 5 and 6 percent since the “reform drive” began, and the national poverty rate has fallen to 8.9 percent which may be surpassed to 6 percent in the current fiscal upholding its immense stability, sustainability and diversity inching towards quality development, modernization and digitalization.
Since President ShavkatMirziyoyev came to power in 2016, Uzbekistan has pursued a series of market-oriented reforms to dismantle decades of economic isolation and stagnation, the author said adding the government unified the exchange rate, lifted currency restrictions, and simplified customs and tax rules. It also began privatizing state enterprises, liberalizing trade, and reducing barriers to foreign business in line with President ShavkatMirziyoyev’s vision, he said.
