The congratulatory message emphasizes that this year, the significance of this holiday is particularly felt, as it occurs amidst historical transformations in the political-legal, socio-economic, and spiritual spheres of our lives.
“It is essential to reiterate that an important step towards the realization of our updated Constitution was the elections to the Oliy Majlis and local Kengashes, which took place in the spirit of open and competitive struggle on October 27 of this year. The elections vividly demonstrated the high political culture, unity, and solidarity of our hardworking and tolerant people on the path to building a New Uzbekistan, resulting in the formation of a new system of representative power. Its constitutional rights and powers have been strengthened, and its responsibilities have significantly increased,” - the festive congratulation notes.
One of the key changes was the implementation of a new system where, instead of the practice of khokims simultaneously heading local Kengashes, chairpersons of the Kengashes are now elected from among the deputies for the first time. The transfer of over 30 powers from khokims to local Kengashes confirms the further strengthening of democratic principles in the country.
In his message, President Shavkat Mirziyoev highlighted that significant measures are being taken in the country to consistently implement the priority principles of ensuring the rights, interests, and dignity of individuals as enshrined in the Constitution.
“Thanks to the selfless labor of our people, the national economy has doubled in recent years, per capita income has reached 3,000 dollars, the poverty level has decreased from 23 to 11 percent, the coverage of preschool education has exceeded 74 percent, and higher education has reached 39 percent, which is undoubtedly a historic achievement,” - noted the head of state.
It was emphasized that to further deepen reforms and implement the norms of the updated Constitution, issues related to the development of entrepreneurship will remain a focal point, which, in turn, will contribute to increasing the income of the population, strengthening an atmosphere of mutual respect and harmony in families and mahallas, as well as providing comprehensive support for the elderly, women, and youth.
The Constitution defines Uzbekistan as a social state, making the improvement of cities and villages, the construction of new residential buildings, healthcare, education, culture, and sports facilities, the modernization of road and communication networks, as well as strengthening targeted social protection, top priorities. One of the key tasks is to double the funding allocated to the healthcare sector, transition to a medical insurance system, and ensure guaranteed medical services for the population.
Within the framework of educational programs, plans are in place to increase university enrollment to 50 percent in the coming years. In 2025, 4 trillion soums will be allocated from the state budget for the renovation of existing and construction of new kindergartens and schools.
One of the priority areas is support for socially vulnerable groups. For this purpose, 46.5 trillion soums are allocated, along with programs aimed at lifting 1 million citizens out of poverty.
Additionally, plans are in place to improve conditions for persons with disabilities, facilitate their social integration, and ensure inclusivity within society. Necessary steps will be taken to reform the pension system.
The new edition of the Constitution enshrines citizens' rights in the area of ecology for the first time. The state's obligations to protect the environment and maintain ecological balance are particularly emphasized.
The year 2025 has been declared the Year of Environmental Protection and the “Green Economy.” In this regard, specific tasks have been set, which will serve as the foundation for implementing the relevant constitutional norms and principles.
“Taking this opportunity, I call upon you, dear compatriots, and all our people to actively participate in the development and implementation of the State Program for the upcoming year.
We must not forget that protecting nature means protecting humanity, our future. We must cherish our invaluable wealth - fertile fields, clean springs, rivers and lakes, mountains and plains, creating new gardens and parks, green spaces, so that our beloved Uzbekistan becomes even more beautiful, and future generations live in a free and prosperous country,” - emphasizes the President of Uzbekistan in his message.