13 27 March 2014 - Uzbekistan Today
Transcription
13 27 March 2014 - Uzbekistan Today
Weekly Since September 1, 2006 No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 inside: Experts Exchange Views 3 Navruz in Tashkent’s Park Spring in Soul and on Canvases 7 world 8 culture 2 kaleidoscope OPINION SPECIAL REPORT With Diploma and Knowledge New University in Opens in Tashkent In the hall of a new block at Tashkent State University of Economics Oleg Gaevoy To provide the nation with qualified specialists, Uzbekistan’s leadership has been assigning a greater deal of efforts to the comprehensive development of the higher education system since the initial days of independence. Uzbekistan Today reporters have tried to build up the vector of major courses in the advancement of the university network. STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION In the early 1990s, there were 42 universities across the country, including 19 in Tashkent. The further economic evolution required a radical restructuring of the higher education system. In 1991, several institutions and universities were established on the basis of major universities. The Faculty of Law and that of Oriental Studies segregated from the National University as separate Institutes, the Tashkent Polytechnic Institute became a platform for the Technical University, the Engineering and Chemical Technology Institute and the Tashkent Architecture and Construction Institute. The Tashkent Institute of National Economy was split into the University of Economics and the Institute of Finance. A year later, Jizzakh Polytechnic Institute, Qarshi Engineering and Economics Institute, Namangan Engineering and Technology Institute and Navoi State Pedagogical Institute were founded on the basis of regional branches of metropolitan high schools. In the same year, Andijon, Bukhoro, Guliston, Qarshi, Namangan, Farghona and Urganch universities were established on the basis of regional pedagogical institutes. The Tashkent Institute of Foreign Languages and the Tashkent Institute of Agriculture were granted a status. New higher education institutions opened subsequently: the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, the Tashkent University of Islam, the Navoi State Mining Institute. The Samarqand Cooperative Institute was transformed into an Institute of Economics and Services. By 1997, the higher education system of Uzbekistan numbered as many as 58 higher educational institutions, including 16 universities and 42 institutes. Reorganization of universities continued after the adoption of the Law ‘On Education’ and the National Specialist Training Program. The The university is to mainly focus on training graduates majoring in information and communication technologies (ICT), primarily in software development, management of information systems and computer networks. The new school is expected to introduce advanced international practice in the higher education system of Uzbekistan, help promote a sound competition and an open educational environment. The University branch will bolster the formation of a system of continuous education and training in the field of information and communication technologies, establishment of close interaction between research and education institutions, software producers and enterprises. In accordance with international standards of targeted educational programs, the new establishment will create conditions for the preparation of highly qualified professionals to meet the needs of the manufacturing sector of the economy. Classes at the University division will be conducted in English in accordance with the curricula and programs, subject to the requirements of state educational standards in Uzbekistan. The basic areas of study are computer engineering, software engineering and engineering of computer networks. Graduates will receive Inha University diplomas, to be recognized in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The University plans to welcome first students this October. the State Agricultural University, the Institute of Irrigation and Land Reclamation, the Pediatric Medical Institute and the Institute of Culture and Arts opened one affiliate each. Taking into account the needs of production localization and the modernization of provincial economies, the Bukhoro Technological Institute of Food and Light Industry was transformed into Engineering and Technology Institute, the Andijon and Engineering and Economics Institute was transformed into machine building institute, and Namangan Engineering and Economics Institute to the Engineering and Technology Institute. In 2013, the Tashkent State Institute of Law received the status of university. Meetings with Voters 4 Karima Majidova On March 24, 2014, the President of Uzbekistan signed a decree on the establishment of Inha University (South Korea) branch in Tashkent. The education institution is launched in Tashkent to help improve training highly qualified specialists to meet international standards, and boost cooperation with leading foreign higher education centers. Tashkent State University received the status of the National University of Uzbekistan. In 2005, two metropolitan medical schools merged in the Tashkent Medical Academy. Westminster International University, Turin Polytechnic University, Management Development Institute of Singapore in Tashkent, branches of the Lomonosov Moscow State University, Plekhanov Russian State Economic Academy, Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas opened in Tashkent as Uzbekistan boosted cooperation with foreign countries. In order to ensure an integrated economic development in the regions, major universities opened their branches: the University of Information Technologies opened five affiliates across the nation, the Medical Academy launched two, and Members of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan have met with voters in the constituencies UT FILE Inha University, founded in 1954 in South Korea’s city of Incheon, provides educational opportunities to more than 20 thousand students in various fields, including ICT. According to the South Korean daily JoongAng Ilbo, the University is in the top five in South Korea in engineering and information technology studies. In the course of direct dialogues the participants receive answers to issue exercising directly from the tax authority experts Entrepreneurs and Benefits Contribution of Uzvinosanoat-Holding to the development of food industry is highly appreciated Production Mix and Scope to Grow 6 Uzbekistan has held activities timed to the World TB Day Contrary to Infection A computer control system ‘Mahalla’ has been developed Program for the Elders 5 BUSINESS Share Experience and Find Partners India is one of the target countries in the developing world for investors to put their capital in. Factors conducive for investment include the enormous demand in the domestic market, the availability of skilled labor force, extensive transport and telecommunication infrastructure. However, the investment flow is immensely unpredictable and depends on many factors. China, the formidable neighbor competitor, is one of them. India thus has to go beyond attracting foreign investment capital; it approaches outer markets in searching for new niches. According to experts, Uzbekistan and India have similar models of investment cooperation, which makes the relations between the two nations tighter and results in a unique combination of equal partnership. Sarvar Navruzov The sixth international Uzbekistan Industrial Forum 2014, one of the most dynamic exhibitions that combined six minor expositions together, is currently underway in Tashkent. I t is evidently the unique expository event in Uzbekistan that joins six related yet different industries. Here specialists may address challenges comprehensively, study the wide range of equipment and technology for short time, share their experience and best practice with colleagues, find new partners for the implementation of joint projects. Over 50 enterprises and companies from Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Turkey, South Korea and other countries participate in the forum this year. Herewith, the share of foreign corporate bodies makes not less than 60%. By the estimates of experts, this figure shows the attractiveness of the Uzbek market both for foreign investors and the global producers of specialized equipment and machinery. According to organizers, principal spheres of the exhibition – metallurgy, automation, service equipment and technologies, mining, energy and chemical industries – have been selected on purpose. Concurrent Courses of Development 4 cyan magenta yellow black 1 4 Uzbek companies showcase their unique solutions 2 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.vk.com/ut_uz No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 TODAY IN UZBEKISTAN In accordance with the tradition, new facilities were constructed around the country on the eve of Navruz. One of them is a new school building at the Qarshi State University for 1,500 seats. The building contains four lecture halls, classrooms and laboratories, a library and a medical center. This year, an information resource center at the university for 300 seats is projected to be built. PARLIAMENT Meetings with Voters The building of the central hospital under the Namangan City Medical Association and a laboratory and diagnostic center have been commissioned following reconstruction works. The 240-bed hospital is outfitted with modern laboratory and medical equipment. Among them are six hemodialysis machines and installation of water treatment used in kidney diseases. Among the most important social facilities constructed in Surkhondaryo region for Navruz holiday is a swimming pool Surkhon in Qumqurghon district that will serve for the development of water sports in the region. Designed for almost 400 people, the swimming pool meets all modern requirements. Special units maintain the desired temperature of air and water at any time of year. Socially Important Projects Receive Support Members of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan have met with voters in the constituencies. Members of the political party factions in the lower house of parliament fully informed voters about the implementation of the Concept of Further Deepening Democratic Reforms and Formation of Civil Society in the Country, the State Program “The Year of the Healthy Child” as well as the recently adopted laws. These political processes are undoubtedly important in explaining the large-scale work carried out during the years of independence the country in the political sphere, state and public construction, public life and spirituality, the judicial system, foreign policy and security. A particular attention is paid to the importance of the work carried out by parliament and the content of the adopted laws. During the meetings, voters asked a lot of questions about the law on guardianship and draft laws on the openness of public authorities and administration and on social partnership. “Of a great interest among citizens and, in particular, senior officials was the draft law on the openness of public authorities and administration. On the example of Samarqand and Bukhoro regions we explained that this document provides for the implementation of the constitutional rights of citizens to information, it defines the procedure for informing the public about the activities of public authorities and governance, transparency and openness of domestic and foreign policy of the state, taking into account the pluralism of opinions about the events occurring in the country and abroad,” said Adham Shodmonov, member of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis. Not fewer questions asked in relation to the draft law on social partnership. “It is of great public importance, as developed in accordance with the proposal of the President and tasks defined in the Concept,” said Polyante Sveshnikov, member of the lower house of parliament. “During the meeting it was noted that the draft law is aimed at further development of civil society and enhance their role in ensuring the transparency and efficiency of the reforms. In addition, it provides for the implementation of socio-economic development, human issues, as well as a clear definition of the spectrum of the interaction of NGOs and other civil society institutions to protect the rights, freedoms and interests of a diverse population and institutional arrangements to improve them.” On activities focus on strengthening interaction between local councils’ deputies with members of the lower chamber of parliament, strengthening their role in the socio-political life of the country. The attention is focused on the work of each member of a political party, done on the basis of the election program. Measures have been taken to address the field of proposals, recommendations, requests, complaints and petitions of citizens. During dialogue citizens have not only the issues, but also constructive suggestions. “They are summarized and as a deputy request directed to the appropriate authorities,” said Arslon Eshmurodov, member of the lower house of parliament. “The meeting was attended by heads of local departments of public education, finance, health, law enforcement, businesses, gas, electricity, as well as members of local councils. This undoubtedly contributed to the effective resolution of the issues addressed and the definition of priorities for the future.” Meetings with voters clearly demonstrated the political activity of the people, increasing their degree of confidence in the future. In addition, they are important in the implementation of the urgent task facing the parliament and local representative bodies: establishing effective parliamentary and deputy control over executive bodies to implement laws. Celebration of Unity and Mercy Anora Usmanova Elbek Gafurov Priorities of the Public Fund for the Support of NGOs and other Civil Society Institutions under Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2014 have been discussed at a press conference in the lower house of parliament. T he purpose of the meeting was to inform the public about the priorities for the provision of financial support to civil society institutions this year, state support for initiatives of NGOs and the media, their active participation in the development and implementation of the most important projects in national, regional socio-economic development, addressing humanitarian challenges, defending democratic values, human rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of the population. In order to achieve the objectives, the Parliamentary Committee on Public Funds Management under Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan has allocated over UZS37 billion from 2008 to 2014 in the form of state subsidies, grants and social orders. Targeted and effective provision of government support ensures comprehensive and systematic approach to the organization of interaction of the Parliamentary Commission with NGOs and other civil society institutions. The press conference emphasized that the measures taken in the framework of the phased implementation of the Concept of Further Deepening Democratic Reforms and Formation of Civil Society in the Country is becoming an important factor in strengthening practical social partnership of institutions of civil society, including NGOs and the media, with government agencies, favors the establishment of effective feedback between the public and the state. For the implementation of priority activities of NGOs and other civil society institutions aimed at increasing their activity in 2014, the Parliamentary Commission allocated funds amounting to UZS8.2 billion, which is 17.1% as much as those in 2013. More than UZS3.8 billion or 46.3% of the total funds are allocated for grant competitions and project financing in the form of government grants aimed at organizing and conducting competitions for healthy generation with great future, promoting involvement of NGOs for implementation of the crucial tasks of the national program “The Year of Healthy Child”. The contest to promote a healthy lifestyle is planned, instilling love of the young generation to physical culture and sport, development of creative and intellectual potential of young people, especially in regions. A particular attention is paid to competitions aimed at the development of social partnership between civil society and state agencies in the implementation of socio-economic development of regions, improving the welfare of the population, business development and assistance to socially vulnerable groups of the population. A separate area of the competition is designed to support independent media projects aimed at lighting process of deepening democratic reforms and formation of civil society, promotion of healthy lifestyles, especially among young people, improving the legal culture and justice. Thus, the total amount of the five areas of grant competitions is 67 socially important topics. Growth in funds allocated for grant competitions was 15.8% compared to the last year. A resolution of the Parliamentary Commission announced a competition for occupancy of the social order of NGOs and other civil society institutions to implement projects aimed at addressing specific social issues, which are of great public importance. Emphasized that while aid placement social orders of NGOs, the media and other civil society institutions increased by 6.0% compared to last year. “So, in 2014, for social order among NGOs and other civil society institutions allocated UZS1.4 billion or 17.0% of total funds,” said Senator Damir Siddikov, deputy chair of the parliamentary committee for management of the assets of the Public Fund for Support NGOs and other Civil Society Institutions. “In this connection provides for the implementation of tasks aimed at implementing measures to further develop and ensure the active participation of the third sector in the creation of conditions for the formation of healthy, harmonious development of children, as well as strengthening foundations of family.” In order to ensure transparency, openness of ongoing socio-political, socio-economic reforms there are provisions for systematic organization of advocacy about the nature and significance of the national program, measures implemented to ensure support to the younger generation. Role of Women in National Development Karima Majidova The National Interethnic Cultural Center has hosted an event “May every day of ours be like Navruz!” The interethnic cultural center had prepared for the holiday in advance. In Karakalpakstan, in all regions and Tashkent city events were held, during which manifested unity, harmony and tolerance embodied in the spirit and philosophy of Navruz, the needy people were given free help. “In Uzbekistan, in peace and harmony live more than 130 nations and ethnicities, there are all the conditions for preservation and development of their unique cultures, customs and traditions. In the capital and regions there are 137 national cultural centers, which play an important role in strengthening the situation of civil accord in the country,” said Nasriddin Muhammadiev, director of the Republican Interethnic Cultural Center. “The Basic Law of the country secures legal guarantees for the people regardless of religion and ethnicity, education, employment, for profession and health.” Exhibitions of fine art and folk art were demonstrated in the lobby of the center, which reflect elements of festive decorations houses of different ethnicities, sounded festive songs and poems. On the big stage a gala concert featuring the best amateur groups and professional artists. Head of the Polish national cultural center Oleg Skuridin noted that Navruz is a festival celebrating generosity, friendship and consent of the people of Uzbekistan, which is a single united family. “Peace in our home country, friendship and unity of nations, an atmosphere of tranquility, love, mutual respect and tolerance in society is the greatest wealth,” he said. Guests of the event were representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Uzbekistan, various state and public organizations. All present a fascinating journey into the world of traditions spring meetings of different nations, met with a variety of art and culture. cyan magenta yellow black The Conference’s participants discussed the state support to NGOs 2 The Council of the Federation of Trade Unions has organized a cultural and enlightenment event on the role of women in the country’s development. A strong social policy is one of the five principles of the Uzbek Model of development. A particular attention in the implementation of this aspect of the reform is on the legal, economic and social protection of women. In particular, a legal framework in labor and social relations. Its most important document is a general agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers, the Council of Federation of Trade Unions and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry on socio-economic issues in 2014-2016. Its implementation has given new impetus to development of social partnership. The Program of Action of the Council of Federation of Trade Unions as defined priority issues of women’s work, free choice of profession, ensuring safe working conditions, social security and health care, participation in social and cultural life. Created under it, the women’s council has a policy to further strengthen the protection of their economic and social rights and interests of enterprises, organizations and institutions, regardless of their form of ownership. Responsibility of Journalists Shahlo Usmanova Participants of a roundtable at the National Press Center of Uzbekistan discussed the problems facing journalists to ensure the implementation of the National Program “The Year of the Healthy Child”. It defines the problem to develop and nurture healthy children, strengthen families, its economic and spiritual and moral foundations, more efficient use of resources allocated to the social sector. Coverage of these issues and bringing the relevant work to the general population places a greater responsibility on journalists. As Chairman of the Creative Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan Sherzod Gulamov said, articles are regularly published in the domestic media on this topic. “Strengthening the advocacy work in this direction, bringing to countrymen, especially the younger generation, the goals and objectives of the Year on Healthy Child on simple life examples, increase of public activity in the process of building of a civil society are priority tasks for journalists,” he said. During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the issues of advocacy, the essence and importance of the State program, a sequence of tasks to ensure its execution, facing the print media and Internet publications. The event, jointly organized by the Creative Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan, the Agency for Press and Information, the Independent Institute to monitor the formation of civil society, the Public Fund for Support and Development of Independent Print Media and News Agencies, was attended by members of parliament, representatives of various interested organizations, teachers of the Mirzo Ulugbek National University Uzbekistan and the Uzbek University of World Languages, journalists and students. 3 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday www.vk.com/ut_uz No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 WORLD NEWS Uzbekistan Reveals Its Posture on the Ukraine and Crimea Uzbekistan’ stance toward the events in the Ukraine laid out in the Statement of the Jahon Information Agency on March 4, 2014, remains intact. The Republic of Uzbekistan, proceeding from the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter and norms of international law, firmly and invariably adheres to the position on “settling the international disputes by peaceful means, refraining in international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.” These fundamental target tasks have been reflected in the Constitutional Law on the Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which defines the principal priorities of our policy at the current stage. Uzbekistan has adhered to these principles with regard to the same international issues and intends to stick to them also in the future. Along with this, taking into account the hard-to-predict prospects of the developments now unfolding in Ukraine and the Crimea in the long run, and building on the centuries-long closeness of the Ukrainian and Russian people, the historical community of spiritual and cultural values, and their economic ties, the only reasonable way out, in our opinion, is direct bilateral negotiations to seek a mutually acceptable compromise settlement of issues. The more time is missed, the more contradictions arise and the situation gets exacerbated. Duties Assumed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Canada with residence in Washington, D.C., Bakhtiyor Gulamov has presented his credentials to the Governor-General of Canada David Lloyd Johnston. During a meeting held after the ceremony, David Johnston expressed gratitude to the leadership of Uzbekistan for their active participation in regional security efforts in Central Asia. The parties discussed the state and prospects of bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Canada in various spheres. In particular, the two sides stressed that there has been a noticeable intensification in the UzbekCanadian relations in recent years, and confirmed interest in expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation across a wide range of issues of mutual interest. Maintaining Good Traditions With Joy and Exultation Uzbekistan has celebrated Navruz with splendor. The major celebration at the Alisher Navoi National Park traditionally brought together also the heads of foreign diplomatic missions. They have been rather kind to share their impressions. Lee Uk Hyun, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea: I have had an imperishable impression from the holiday celebration. Performed by great masters of arts, songs and dances underscored the ancient customs and traditions of the Uzbek people, making it unforgettable. I would like to say a few words about the speech of President Islam Karimov. In my opinion, it is a message to the people of Uzbekistan and the whole world. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in the country, along with partnership and dialogue among nations. I hope it will be heard abroad. Mohamed Hareb Al Mehayribi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Arab Emirates: I have been working in Uzbekistan for eight years, and every year I look forward to this holiday. It’s an honor for me to attend the celebrations of Navruz and share the joy of the Uzbek people. Festive and friendly atmosphere and a positive mood reign everywhere. It is a pleasure to watch the performance of diverse ethnic groups who live in the country as a friendly and close-knit family. It is a very important and great event to promote peace and stability, and it might be a good example for many countries. Undoubtedly, the ancient history, national traditions and culture and industriousness of the people are the basis of all the achievements of Uzbekistan. New Opportunities A group of Uzbek officials headed by Elyor Ganiev, Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade, has visited France. T he delegation included the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources Yashin Hidirov and CEOs of major Uzbek companies. They took part in a business forum at the headquarters of the Movement of Entrepreneurs of France (MEDEF International) together with representatives of more than 40 French companies. As part of the visit, the Uzbek officials held talks in the French Development Agency (AFD), where they signed an agreement to implement an AFD project on waste management in Samarqand. Chaired by the Minister of Foreign Trade of France Nicole Brik and the Uzbek Minister Elyor Ganiev, the fifth meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation was a key item on the agenda. The participants reported on an increase in the volume of trade, which reached 244 million euros last year due to the conclusion of several big contracts, experts say. The French side suggested holding the IPC meetings annually in order to promote economic and trade relations and fully employ the existing potential. According to participants, there are also good prospects for cooperation in agriculture, water resources, transport and tourism. In this regard, Nicole Brick said: “We have much in common with Uzbekistan both in terms of powerful agriculture, and attractive tourism. We need to extend our presence in this country, using agricultural industry as one of our reserves.” The Uzbek side expressed interest in importing grape seedlings from France for pilot projects, and supplies of small and big cattle. The participants mentioned the modernization of pumping stations Navoi and Uchkara, funded by a French Treasury loan, among the successfully operating projects. Speaking about the future plans, the French authorities told about the upcoming visit of the delegates of the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy to Uzbekistan to explore the needs in the railway sector, including urban rail transport. The French side also supported the application of Samarqand to be a venue of the 99th Session of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organization in October 2014. Experts Exchange Views The holiday of Navruz was presented at the London club of Institute of Directors. The event was spearheaded by the international charity Navruz Commission jointly with diplomatic missions and friendship societies of Central Asian and the Caucasian nations. Founded in 2010 in the United States, the Navruz Commission has been pursuing preservation of the traditions of Navruz and promotion of its humanistic values worldwide. It aims to promote the development of friendly relations among its members and other partners in cultural exchanges, education and health. Welcoming the guests, the Navruz Commission founder and chairman Nasser Kazemini noted that Navruz has been gaining in popularity, especially in the countries where previously it was not celebrated widely, including the U.S., Britain, France, Italy and Canada. “Today, we can share the common joy together. It makes a positive impact on the lives of many people. Charity, humanism and help for those in need are among the numerous nice traditions.” Uzbekistan at Foodex Japan Japan has held the 39th International Exhibition of Food and Beverage Foodex Japan-2014. This year it was attended by 2,800 companies from 78 countries. Uzbekistan was represented by the company Bearing Resurs Ltd., which exhibited a diversity of bee products. The visitors tried the unique taste of the Uzbek honey collected in the Chotqol and Zomin Mountains. Director of International Trade Fairs of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Kenjiro Watanabe noted the high quality of mountain and cotton honey. According to a visitor Hana Toyama, the Uzbek bee products have a very special taste and naturalness. cyan magenta yellow black 3 Boribay Zheksembin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan: It is nice to see how all the people of Uzbekistan joined the mass social action under the slogan ‘A seedling for every child’, dedicated to the Year of the Healthy Child. Avenues, streets and cozy courtyards of Tashkent are decorated with both traditional ornamental trees and fruit trees, which symbolize happiness and well-being of future generations of Uzbekistan. I am delighted to witness all the positive changes taking place in the republic. And glad to welcome the holiday of spring together with residents of Tashkent. George Krol, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States: From the first days of independence, Constructive Ties U.S. Department of Commerce and the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce (AUCC) in the United States have organized a presentation of economic, investment and tourism potential of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan and Japan sign a grant contract under the Program of Grant Aid for Small-Scale Social Projects. D ‘The Aral Sea Problems and Water Resources Management in Central Asia’ has been the subject of an international panel discussion in Austria. It was triggered by the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT), Vienna University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), and the Ecology Movement of Uzbekistan. BOKU researchers, water experts and environmentalists, representatives of the water distribution in the region. As emphasized in presentations, unfortunately, the problems of transboundary watercourses are still vital in Central Asia as they create additional challenges and threats to environmental security and sustainable development in the region. According to Austrian experts, the intention of certain countries to build huge hydropower facilities in the headwaters of the trans-boundary rivers of the Amudaryo and Sirdaryo might cause irreparable damage to the fragile ecosystem of the Aral Sea Basin as it is, and significantly worsen the living conditions of the population. In this regard, the panelists expressed the need to address all the issues pertaining to the rational and equitable use of trans-boundary water resources, building on universally recognized principles and norms of international law enshrined in relevant UN conventions. The participants were detailed about the measures taken by Uzbekistan to upgrade and streamline its water infrastructure, about ongoing programs on the improvement of socioeconomic and environmental situation in the Aral Sea region, as well as the efforts on environment protection. Representatives of Austria appreciated the relevance of the Action Plan on elimination of the consequences of the Aral Sea drying and prevention of disaster in the Aral Sea ecosystem, supported by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. Krista Pikkat, Head of UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan: I am very pleased to take part in the celebration of Navruz in Uzbekistan for the second time. This holiday is included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Navruz is a wonderful opportunity to plunge into the atmosphere of joy and exultation, enjoy the abundance of flowers, colorful national costumes, music, songs and dances. I deeply respect the traditions and folk arts and crafts of Uzbekistan. Suzani is one of the finest examples of original hand embroidery, so my dress today meets the festive mood of spring. Marian Przezdziecki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Poland: Navruz is a bright holiday. It is a festival of sun, energy and the start of spring. It is a motivation and desire for us to work actively. I am celebrating Navruz for the fourth time in Tashkent. Unfortunately, my mission is completing later this year, but I will always remember the wonderful time of my mission in Uzbekistan. Chinese Ambassador: By Facilitating Each Other’s Interests, We will Achieve the Goal P resentations were held in the Chamber of Commerce of Seattle, regional offices of the Department of Commerce in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the World Trade Center of Northern California and Nevada Governor’s office. Representatives of the U.S. business community received information on economic development in Uzbekistan, opportunities provided for foreign investors, projects implemented in FIEZ Navoi and FIZ Angren and Jizzakh. American entrepreneurs were invited to the international specialized sale exhibition of mini technologies and compact equipment for agriculture Uzbekistan Agrominitech Expo, which is due this May in Tashkent. Keen interest was expressed by American firms Sweet Spring, Pacific Rim and Omega Machine & Tool Inc. The advisor to U.S. Department of Commerce D. Starks said that the U.S. government is willing to provide financial assistance to American businesspeople who intend to build up cooperation with Uzbek partners. Following the meeting, those present agreed that such events allow the business community to open up new prospects for investment and trade cooperation and establish new useful contacts between the two countries. Under Joint Program Vienna University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Uzbekistan revived the public celebration of Navruz throughout the country. Ever since the traditional Oriental New Year has been welcomed by songs and dances, planting trees and flowers, and cooking traditional spring meals. An ancient tradition, Navruz is celebrated nowadays by all the people of Uzbekistan, regardless of religion and ethnic origin. It unites the people of this beautiful country, demonstrating their tolerance and unity, love and respect for nature and national traditions. I wish the people of the Uzbek land an eternal peace, good health and prosperity. May Navruz bring friendship and happiness to every home. uring the ceremony in Tashkent the sides signed 13 projects in healthcare and education for a total of $1.2 million. The Japanese grant is to cover educational institutions of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Samarqand and Surkhondaryo regions, hospitals of Bukhoro, Andijon and Farghona regions and the Tashkent city. Having inked the contract, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Uzbekistan Fumihiko Kato said ”the Program of Grant Aid for SmallScale Social Projects envisages financial assistance for nongovernmental and nonprofit organizations, hospitals, primary and secondary schools and other entities to implement their social projects. Under the program, 328 projects valued at more than $21 million were implemented in Uzbekistan since 1995.” Ambassador Kato commended the declaration of 2014 as the Year of the Healthy Child and expressed hope that the implementation of small projects will further improve the welfare of citizens and boost their health. The grant aid program was launched in Uzbekistan in 1994. Under it, Japan has supplied Uzbekistan with medical equipment, road construction machinery, food production technologies, and allocated annual fellowships for Uzbek young people to study in Japan. The new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Uzbekistan Sun Lizi has held a meeting in Tashkent to mark the start of his mission. T he newly appointed head of the mission already has some experience of work in Uzbekistan. “In 2004, while working here in this country, I was deeply impressed by the ancient culture, beautiful land, hospitable people of Uzbekistan. 10 years on, I am honored to return to your nation as an ambassador of the friendly Chinese people. For me it is a great honor. I am pleased to work in a country with a long history, rich and diverse culture, to live close to the hard-working, wise, sincere and kind Uzbek people, to be an envoy of my country for the development of friendship and cooperation ties between the two states. During my diplomatic mission, I will make every effort and knowledge to achieve this goal,” Sun Lizi said. Speaking about priorities of the foreign policy of China, the ambassador said “the development of strategic partnership with Uzbekistan is one of the priorities of China’s policy. Your country is constantly enhancing cooperation with the international community being a leader in cementing the security in the region. Uzbekistan’s remarkable political standing and economic potential are recognized by the international community. Your nation is making a huge contribution to the prosperity and welfare of the whole region. “We respect the independent choice of the Uzbek people, the way of evolution they have opted for, foreign and domestic policies. Our two countries have always strongly supported each other with regard to vital national interests, such as national sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and stability. Consolidation of the mutual political confidence, promotion of cooperation in security, expansion of trade, economic, investment, scientific, technical and humanitarian fields are priorities of bilateral relations. The relations between the two countries are developing in the spirit of traditional friendship and are built on mutual interest. “I am glad to note the intensive interaction under Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which is a platform for our two states to ensure security, stability and development in the region.” The diplomat emphasized the high level of the Chinese-Uzbek interaction, and drew attention to the tangible progress in all areas of cooperation. “2013 was a landmark year in the modern history of Sino-Uzbek relations. The last year was marked by successful visits of President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang to Uzbekistan. The bilateral trade hit its historic maximum - $4.5 billion. Taking into account such a high level of interaction, I see the enhancement of political trust, strengthening of economic ties and deepening of cooperation in the security and humanitarian exchanges as my key objective. “Uzbekistan is a country with huge economic potential. Trade and economic relations between our two nations are distinct with enormous capacities and efficiency. Today, about 500 joint ventures with Chinese investment and representative offices of over seventy companies operate in Uzbekistan. “Culture is an important segment of cooperation. Central Asia’s first Confucius Institute in Tashkent exemplifies the consistent development of bilateral relations in the field of education. We are currently working on opening a similar institute in Samarqand, as well. I’m glad that Uzbekistan is expressing a big interest in learning the Chinese language and literature, and our country as a whole. The interaction between the figures of culture and arts of the two nations has been dynamic and fruitful. I am convinced that adhering to the principles of equality and mutual respect, meeting each other’s interests, we will achieve our goals for sure, and fulfill the agreements signed by the two leaders to deepen our mutually beneficial cooperation in the shortest possible time,” Ambassador Sun Lizi said. Taking the opportunity, the head of mission cordially congratulated the people of Uzbekistan on the occasion of Navruz and wished peace and harmony, happiness and prosperity. 4 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday www.vk.com/ut_uz No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 BUSINESS Share Experience and Find Partners A bakery house commissioned in Navbahor district of Navoi region. Concurrent Courses of Development The production line, created under the open joint-stock company Navoi Don Mahsulotlari, reprocesses two tons of flour daily. Production of confectionery and creation of new jobs is planned to build up till the end of the year. *** 86 young families moved to new houses in Farghona. [1] Another similarity that, according to analytical forecast, facilitates a great extension of the investment flow into India and Uzbekistan in the near future is parliamentary election. This will be held in India in April to May, while in Uzbekistan it will take place at the end of the year. Election platforms of both countries’ parties, as specialists report, emphasize on the improvement of a business practice in the countries, promotion of attracting foreign direct investment, accelerated development of production, development of taxation system. Development of these spheres is seen in the two countries lately, which makes leading political forces pursue their course for modernization of the economy. However, there is much for the countries to do in this way, and a political will as well as strive for doing reforms and transformations is the main thing. The President of the Uzbekistan stated the same and noted in his report on the results of the 2013 and prospective on 2014 that creation of a valid competitive environment is the midpoint of a further development of the economy. It acts as the key factor for the technical and technological modernization of production, access to world markets. Cooperation in commissioning of modern gadget production in FIEZ Navoi can be reported as one of the latest, but the most interesting UzbekIndian Projects. Olive Telecom JV, which promoters are Uzbektelecom Stock Company and Indian Olive Telecommunication Pvt. Ltd., specializes in the manufacture of telecommunication equipment, including mobile and fixed-line phones, tablet computers and USB-modems. In the output of products know-how technologies of the world companies, such as: Hаier, Foxconn, Flextronics are used. Qualcomm Company acts as the strategic partner for this project. Technological sector, as a whole, is one of the largest segments of the Uzbek-Indian cooperation. Leading Indian IT companies take an interest in co-developing of software products of extensive use. In May, 2011 the Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology of the Republic of India and Uzbek Agency of Communication and Informational Support, later renamed the State Committee of Communication, Informational Support and Telecommunication Technologies. The Document highlighted the directions of cooperation of the two countries in the sphere of information technologies. Since then it has been a good tradition to hold meetings in the relevant ministries and institutions of Uzbekistan, during which businessmen, as well as representatives of government institutions share their opinions on prospective ways of partnership, negotiate introduction and usability of the advanced Indian technologies and innovations in real sector of economy. In addition, since 2006 under Tashkent University of Information Technologies Uzbek-Indian Center of Information Technologies named after Jawaharlal Nehru operates. Thousands of specialists have received training in the Center; a number of advanced developments was made for enhancement of efficiency of the education system operation and government authorities. India is also one of Uzbekistan’s leading partners in tourism. The tow parties signed a special plan of cooperation on the development of that sector in 2011. Today the tangible results of that plan’s execution are visible: tourism has become more energetic between the two countries, foundation of new travel joint ventures is negotiated, and information cooperation extended and representatives are inaugurated. Sharing experience on personnel training is carried out, tourism infrastructure, souvenir making, as well as mutual activity on advertising and promotion of the two counties as touristic routes is developed. Ecological tourism is one of the contemporary spheres of tourism, which promotes a stable development, socio-ecological improvement, increasing of population employment on account of creation of new jobs, as well as contributes to a preservation of environmental and cultural heritage. These are considered leading countries in other sphere: they are serious players in the export markets of cotton and textile products. Early in the last year Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the NSC Uzbekyengilsanoat and the Council on Support of the Silk Production Manufacturers of India. Joint working group on cooperation in the textile industry operates. Indian companies take a great interest in execution of common projects, particularly in Navoi and Angren special zones. This is accentuated by business forums and cooperation exchanges that are held in both countries, where not only Uzbek representatives, but also Indian businessmen, who do business in Uzbekistan, tell about favorable investment climate and a wide range of benefits to foreign investors. The parties are also interested in the expansion of trade relations that have been steadily increasing within the last few years. Summarizing the results of the last year, one can see that commodity turnover between the two countries increased by 29% and was in excess of US$259 million. Volume of attracted Indian investments in the economy of Uzbekistan for the last decade made about US$77 million. Today 65 companies in partnership with Indian businessmen operate in Uzbekistan, and also representatives of 19 firms and companies accredited. These figures can be sufficiently increased, taking into account economies of the two countries, as well as the wish of business circles. Expansion of mutual delivery by means of implementation of mutually beneficial projects using the capacity of the intermodal hub in Navoi that carry out scheduled cargo flights to the international logistic centers in Europe and Asia, including Delhi and Mumbai, is one of the growing points. India is one of the global production centers and development of pharmaceutical products. Over the period of the Independence Uzbekistan has developed its domestic pharmaceutical industry. Owing to favorable investment conditions Uzbekistan attracted more than US$130 million in the pharmaceutical industry, a part of which was invested by Indian companies. A number of agreements reached in participation of Delegation from Uzbekistan in the International Pharmaceutical Forum BioAsia-2014 in Hyderabad, India. It was decided, for example, to stage an information visit of Indian pharmaceutical companies to Uzbekistan, holding of meetings with local companies to build up joint production, visit of territories of FEZ Angren and Jizzakh. Participation of Indian manufacturers in the International Pharmaceutical Exhibition is projected to be staged in Tashkent as well, as is the signing of Memorandum of Understanding between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan and the Council on Support for the Export of Pharmaceutical Industry of India. This is only a part of the examples of a wide range of bilateral cooperation. The main thing in this process is that the both countries go in parallel towards consolidation of situation in the global market by means of rapid increase the middle class, increase of the home consumption level and a skilled labor force. Uzbekistan and India look into future with certainty, knowing that there is a long-term partner. cyan magenta yellow black 4 Regions’ Economy Exhibition presents modern machinery from leading manufacturers [1] Today large-scale programs on development of transport and communication infrastructure implemented in Uzbekistan; industrial modernization is carried out, innovative technologies introduced. This requires drawing of not only the cutting edge equipment, but also the experience of foreign companies, which perform projects in those areas. In this connection, such exhibitions facilitate delivery of new technologies in Uzbekistan. It helps, in prospect, to enhance the quality and an assortment of commodities manufactured by domestic companies. On the other hand, participating in these exhibitions, enterprises take the unrivalled opportunity to recommend their own products to foreign companies and trade houses. “Our company has developed its own software for work process automation at the factory,” Akmal Payziev, head of Newmax, told a correspondent of Uzbekistan Today. “We purchase modern equipment abroad and provide it with domestic software. We are here to present our know-how, software system that allows transforming any data tablet to a terminal for the work process automation. Now the employer may know from anywhere the location of their employee by means of the Internet. Companies from the Near East took interest in our development. Our company has already made first delivery of our software to those countries and look forward to new contracts.” Entrepreneurs and Benefits The policy of attraction of investments and innovative technologies at the expense of the benefits and promotions has effect: hundreds of projects in small business are implemented annually, the production of the new product line is mastered, and enterprises introduce quality control systems that meet the requirement of the international standard. In this connection they strive not only for creation of demand in domestic market, but also expansion of their presence abroad, development of new niches for sales of production. Tax remissions granted to natural persons is one of the key factors in this process. However, it is very important that backwarders should know of those Major Deal of the Year The reputable international publication Infrastructure Journal adjudged recently a prestigious prize Major Deal 2014 in Petroleum to the project of building the Ustyurt Gas and Chemical Plant. The project carried out under the largescale program on the modernization of industry of Uzbekistan. This is the first program of such a scale in petrochemical industry, which is implemented according to a long-term project financing not only in Uzbekistan, but also in CIS. The implementation of the program will give an opportunity to do production of 4.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas, 400,000 tons of high-density polyethylene, 100,000 tons of polypropylene, 110,000 tons of pyrolysis naphtha and create more than thousand new jobs at the plant. The total cost of the project stands at US$3.9 billion. Founding parties are such companies as the South Korean Kogaz, Lotte, STX Energy and Uzbekneftegaz National Holding Company, and they are also the source of funding for the project that made direct investment at the rate of US$1.4b., including credit resources for an overall amount of US$2.5b. The Asian Development Bank as well as leading European and Asian commercial banks also finance the project. Infrastructure Journal Prize ranks among other most prestigious awards. Screening committee that consists of the heads of leading investment banks, legal firms, and experts in project financing; they evaluate the winner by their uniqueness, innovativeness and novelty of technologies considered the basis. Except the project of building of the Ustyurt Gas and Chemical Plant in contest for the Infrastructure Journal Prize were competing projects such as building of the Petrochemical Plant Sadara in Saudi Arabia for an overall amount of US$20 billion, US first Terminal of Condensed Natural Gas Sabina Pass with the amount of financing at the rate of US$5.9b., Condensed Gas Carriers “Bonny Gas Transport” as well as the building of the pipe line from Texas (USA) to the Mexican Border. Highest evaluation of the Infrastructure Journal Prize relies on authority of the publication in the business world, which acts as a reliable source of analytical information for 60 % of the largest financial institutions worldwide, 90% of leading legal firms, as well as 85% of the investment banks leading in the sphere of the project finance – financial consultants. preferences, especially in province. For this purpose different activities between the representatives of enterprises and government authorities are held. State Taxation Service plays a key role in this process; it holds seminars, “round tables”, meetings with the direct dialogue. In such activities entrepreneurs receive detailed information on the implemented reforms, oriented on the economic liberalization, further improvement of business environment, creation of maximally favorable conditions for business development. Participants receive comprehensive information on amendment made in the Tax Legislation, rate of tax, benefits provided to a private sector, including other successfully developing trends, such as family entrepreneurship and craftsman’s business. Particular attention is paid to a moving of entrepreneurs to electronic data reporting till the end of 2014. Speakers tell of measures implemented by the State Taxation Service Bodies in affiliation with the Public Authorities, which oriented to an improvement of knowledge and knacks of managers and accountants entrepreneurs as for the tax reporting in soft form, on the improvement of quality of provided information and consultative services. In the course of direct dialogues the participants receive answers to issue exercising directly from the tax authority experts. It enables for entrepreneurs to use with a maximum efficiency given benefits and preferences, build up new production lines, and create new jobs. Production Mix and Scope to Grow In 2013 along with such hightechnology industries as machinery manufacturing, and metalworking production, manufacturing of construction materials, food industry rapidly developed. C ontribution of UzvinosanoatHolding to the development of food industry is highly appreciated. Products and commodities manufactured in domestic enterprises at the cost of processing of 123.4 thousand tons of vine were in demand both in domestic and foreign markets. It was said at a press conference held in the National Press Center of Uzbekistan on the activity fulfilled by that company. Most important was that the enterprises owned raw-material base for a consecutive development of the industry. Last year 30.1 thousand tons of precious, commercial quality of vine grown and processed on vineyards. In case that this figure reaches 43 thousand tons, it is planned to process 63.5 thousand tons of vine by 2015. The Company carries out consecutive steps to diversification of manufacture; increase the range of production, innovative technology introduction. In the near future, in particular, a number of projects oriented to the manufacture of natural fruit and vegetable juices, canned foods, bakery, pastry and refreshment drinks will be implemented. Ample Opportunities for Young Farmers Every year more and more young people make full use of existing opportunities in Uzbekistan to show their knowledge and knacks, find their own place in society and succeed in study and work. Achievements of the youth in small business and private entrepreneurship and different spheres of agriculture take special place. A t present in Samarqand Region young people up to 30 years old run 132 farmer enterprises. “Young farmers differ with their vigor, neophilia, own ideas and initiatives,” says Avaz Hosilov, chair of the council of farmers of Samarqand Region. “Experienced farmers, dehkans, stockbreeders and gardeners assigned to them to give them recommendations and advice.” One of them is Alibek Abdurahimov, head of farmer enterprise Hudaikulov Alibek Dalasi in Bulungur district. After having graduated from the Academic Lyceum under Samarqand State Institute of Foreign Languages, 21-year old Alibek took a decision to establish farmer enterprise. This young man’s initiative met support and he was furnished with necessary facilities. “For the first time he faced particular obstacles,” says Alibek. “However, owing to my father’s and experienced dehkans’ advice, farmers’ state support, I managed to run the business. Now we grow agriculture products on 18 hectares irrigated and 40 hectares of rainfed land. Last year we overfulfilled contractual obligations on the storage of wheat grain and vegetables. We delivered more than 42 tons of wheat grain and 120 tons vegetables. “We make it aim to expand the irrigated land at the cost of development of rainfed area, transform our farmer enterprise to the diversified enterprise. According to the plan we intend to establish cattle and poultry farms. In this way, we will create seven new jobs. But besides, our plan for future is to obtain credit at preferential rate and build a vegetable processing workshop.” The system of granting preferential real estate loans to render practical assistance to young families in solving socio-economic issues, primarily in purchasing an owner-occupied dwelling, is introduced and operates well in Uzbekistan. Also tax remissions are granted on the income of the young family members, who receive real-estate loans for building and renovation of owner-occupied dwelling and purchasing of new dwelling. Completion of building of multistory apartment houses based upon the modern designs in Farghona, where 86 young families moved to new houses, is one of the latest examples of an effective action of the system. For the last three years in Farghona region, more than 30 multistory apartment houses were built for young families. *** A seminar was held in Qashqadaryo region on the development of fishculture, introduction of intensive technologies to business, making use of the opportunities. In Qashqadaryo region much work is in progress on development of the fish-culture, including comprehensive support of fish-farms and creating of new farms, guaranteed water supply and required technological tools, maintaining of food potential, grant of loans by banks, leasing of natural ponds and artificial lakes to local population on a tender base. Applying of contemporary intensive technologies has effect. This year, 20 new fish farms will be opened in Nishon, Qarshi, Ghuzor, Mirishkor and Shahrisabz districts. They will be basically breeding Chinese carp, silver carp and European carp. Upon completion of execution of new projects, the number of fish farms will reach 178, capture level increase to 2,400 tons. *** Integra DD commissioned in Samarqand to bolster the production of pharmaceuticals. “Enterprise was build promptly based in line with contemporary requirements with the assistance of founding parties – republican stock company DoriDarmon, Open Joint Stock Company Samarqand Dori-Darmon as well as subsidiary enterprise Uzbekiston Dori Ta’minoti. Production line is equipped with the cutting edge technology by the leading foreign companies,” says Anvar Haidarov, general manager of the enterprise. “Six types of pharmaceuticals is produced. By the end of the year another 4 types of pharmaceuticals will be commissioned, and another 25 types of pharmaceuticals – till 2017.” Upon bringing the new enterprise in operation more than 60 young specialists obtained an employment. They took training with the improvement of their qualification in the Chief Directorate on Control of Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment Tools of the Ministry of Health. *** Forty five entrepreneurs, farmers and craftspeople participated in Karakalpak Republican round of the show contest Tashabbus 2014. Today in Karakalpakstan there are about 20,000 small business entities as well as private enterprise entities. Owing to the universal introduction of cutting edge technologies, businessmen create new jobs and produce high qualitative products. The premier place in category of The Best Entrepreneur was given to head of an enterprise Stroyvector in Karauzak district Qutlimurat Panaev, the head of diversified farmer enterprise Amudaryo Sohili in Amudaryo district Islom Matkarimov was nominated as the best farmer, and Nargiza Daliboeva from Nukus nominated as the best craftswoman. “Last year we obtained 327 million soums of profit,” says Islom Matkarimov, head of diversified farmer enterprise Amudaryo Sohili. “Our enterprise employs 51 people. We plan to organize production of bakery and macaroni products and create another 10 new jobs.” 5 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday www.vk.com/ut_uz No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 OPINION With Diploma and Knowledge Ranking at the top Alisher Vakhabov, Rector, Tashkent State University of Economics: Eduniversitet, the Portuguese rating agency, rates one of the oldest universities in Uzbekistan among the world’s top 1,000 business schools. We do our best to provide our students with the best possible conditions for attaining a solid and substantial knowledge. The construction of a new academic building was completed several years ago; the overhaul of other educational buildings is underway. We attach great importance to equipping classrooms with up-to-date computer equipment and projectors. Today the university has a powerful and constantly updating information and resource center to provide our students with the most recent data on any topic of their interest. Established last year, the Research Center ‘Scientific foundations and problems of economic development of Uzbekistan’ promotes integration of education, science and technology. It is a concentration of all the experts who are involved in addressing relevant challenges of the economy. We signed cooperation agreements with foreign schools, in particular the Czech Higher School of Economics and Management and the University of Sorbonne. Under the document, our Masters will get two diplomas in two years of study: one is ours, and another is European. Today we train specialists to the programs that are maximally close to European standards. Moreover, since last year, the graduate course provides teaching of all specialization subjects in English. It allows students to better comprehend the professional English language, and opens vast opportunities. Traditional and advanced technologies are widely applied in modern universities [1] The higher education system was divided into two levels - undergraduate and graduate courses – after the approval of the National Specialist Training Program. In recent years the graduate courses have acquired a clear shape as one of crucial stages in training research and pedagogical staff. The requirements for writing and defense of master’s theses have been revised: they covered supervisors, the content, development of research skills in students aspiring for the Master’s degree, including enhancement of practical and scientific significance of research works. The period assigned for research work and writing a thesis was increased to 50 % of the curriculum. Today, there are 58 domestic higher educational institutions, 11 branches of central universities of the republic and six branches of foreign universities in Uzbekistan. Highly qualified staff for national economy and social sector gets education in six subject areas. Humanitarian workers study in 48 universities, experts in the social sector, economics and law - in 40, production and engineering – in 24, agriculture and water resources - ten, health and welfare - nine, services – in 26 universities. SUPPLY AND DEMAND Given the requirements of the time the basic standard documents have been revised. The classifier of subject areas and specialties was updated and approved as well. The number of undergraduate disciplines was cut from 1,265 to 228 as a result of merging allied specialties and elimination of idle subjects. The number of subjects in graduate courses was reduced from 1,200 to 447. And 22 engineering and technical subjects were added. In recent years, much attention has been paid to integrated training of the staff for certain sectors as demanded. For example, the Tashkent University of Information Technologies and its regional branches revised their training system last year. As of 2014, it has changed the list of subject areas and specialties and advanced the content of the educational process. At present, the University offers training in computer and software engineering, telecommunication and television technologies, economics and management in information and communication technologies, professional education in information and communication technologies, postal service technologies. The intake for engineering and technical areas is growing. For example, the percentage of students who learn ‘Production and engineering’ subject area has been increased in a total quota of bachelor intake from 23% in 2010/ 2011 academic year to 30.6 % in 2014/2015 academic year. Streamlining of state educational standards is underway. The accent is laid both on integrated and comprehensive development of the younger generation and their preparation for professional work. Meanwhile, staff training moves from the capital to the regions, making it possible to train specialists in close proximity and close cooperation with the client enterprises. The proximity of the educational process and a potential employer allows arranging the educational and practical training of students at the appropriate level. WITH FOCUS ON TEACHERS Despite technological progress, a teacher remains a key pillar. He organizes the educational process and defines its streams. He is a professional not only in terms of perfect knowledge of his subject, but also in terms of active application of advanced teaching and computer technologies. Reformation of the system of highly qualified research and pedagogical staff conditions the replenishment of the faculty with young professionals who handle the advanced fields of science well. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan has built a fundamentally new system. There is a synergy of head scientific and methodological center of retraining and advanced training of teachers and management staff of higher education institutions, 10 sector-based and five regional centers. A big part is assigned to enhancing the competence of teachers in application of computer technologies and knowledge of foreign languages . Teachers were advised to attend shortterm intensive courses, which covered almost all teachers. The new subjects ‘Epedagogy’, and ‘Designing of teacher’s personal electronic space’ were introduced in the curriculum of mandatory courses. It is noteworthy that the advanced training system for teachers is an example of active use of computer technologies in teaching. There is an electronic system to monitor the educational process, and an opportunity of distance on-line and offline advanced training. Development of a new range of measures on improvement of the current system is underway. It is planned to introduce a mandatory internship of teachers at enterprises to assure that specialists are aware of the main trends in the development of industrial technologies. OVERHAUL AND RECONSTRUCTION The logistical capacity of educational buildings, places of student residence, social facilities, land design and landscape of universities has significantly improved over the last decade. In this regard, the ongoing program under the Presidential Decree ‘On strengthening the logistical capacity of higher education institutions and radical enhancement of quality of training of highly-qualified staff’ is considered the most scaled one. The program envisages the construction of 10 educational and laboratory buildings for 8,600 seats, the overhaul of 98 educational and laboratory buildings including 63 buildings in the regions. It is projected to strengthen the logistical capacities of sports facilities at 34 universities and 48 student dormitories. A specialized fund is entrusted with the development of logistical capacity of higher education institutions. By the beginning of 2014, the scheduled works have been completed on 70 sites, including the building of the National University of Uzbekistan, Namangan and Bukhoro engineering and technology institutes, and other universities. In 2014 the builders have embarked on the upgrade of another 51 buildings. The list of higher education institutions, covered by construction works, is constantly expanding. For example, according to the instructions of the government, they are underway at the Tashkent State University of Law, and the Namangan State University is getting prepared for the overhaul. SCIENTIFIC COMPONENT Equipping of educational laboratories is allocated a great deal in the complex of measures dedicated to strengthening the logistical capacities of universities. By 2016 it is planned to update equipment at 296 educational laboratories in 63 natural and 233 technical subjects. The opportunities of researching on the cutting-edge equipment are expanding. It is very important not only in terms of enhancing the quality of staff training, but also for full employment of research capacity at the universities. Three-quarters of all country’s researchers are concentrated in colleges and universities. The amount of the funds for implementation of fundamental, cyan magenta yellow black 5 applied and innovation research is growing. There are innovation groups that are actively involved in solution of production and science intensive tasks as part of cooperation between universities and enterprises. Research centers open across the country to further enhance the integration of education, science and production. In recent years, the National University of Uzbekistan launched the Institute of Mathematics and a Philosophy Center, the Tashkent University of Information Technologies - the Software and Hardware Development Center, Samarqand State University - an Environment Laboratory, the Tashkent University of Law – a Center of Law, the Tashkent State Economic University established a research center ‘Scientific fundamentals and problems of economic development in Uzbekistan’. The work is underway on the establishment of 15 up-to-date intercollegiate laboratory complexes of joint use. Seven of them are located at regional higher educational institutions by field of science: energy saving and renewable energy, optics, chemical engineering and oil and gas processing, energy-saving building materials and many others. There are ultramodern projects on the launch of research and technology park at the Turin Polytechnic University in Tashkent and a training and experimental high-tech center in Tashkent. They provide the conditions for scholars and students to make their boldest ideas true on the latest equipment. COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIES Modern information and communication technologies are changing the academic reality. Today, the country’s universities are operated by over 28,000 computers, or 12.2 computers fall to 100 students. All educational institutions have access to the Internet and educational network ZiyoNET. All universities have official websites. Teachers actively create their own websites. Virtually all departments have their own computer centers. The number of classrooms equipped with modern projectors is growing. Educational institutions offer information resource centers switchable to electronic information sources. The introduction of information and communication technologies in the educational process is underway. The center for introduction of elearning in educational institutions under the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Special Education and the single highspeed corporate network of E-education has opened up new opportunities. These projects have empowered further projects requiring a high-speed connection. Today, the E-education network is actively used for intercollegiate videoconferencing. The new facilities are also used for introduction of distance learning in the education process. The list of big projects empowered by the network opportunities includes the e-learning, and creation of a single intercollegiate electronic library. The project is carried out by the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Special Education in collaboration with the Alisher Navoi National Library, the State Committee of Communication and Information and Telecommunication Technologies. The establishment of the information library system is underway. A composite electronic catalog, consisting of 450 thousand bibliographic records, has been already built. 27 thousand textbooks and teaching materials are currently being digitized. To date, more than three million pages have been digitized (9,600 resources), and it is planned to digitize about 23 thousand resources by 2015. Creating everything needed to boost education Abdurahim Mannanov, Board Director of the Council of Rectors of Educational Institutions of Uzbekistan: Over the years of independence Uzbekistan has carried out fundamental structural and substantive reforms, covered all levels and components of the education system, aiming at ensuring its compliance with the best international standards. There is a well-developed legislative framework of its reformation, which prioritizes investments in human resources and growing of educated and intellectually advanced generation as crucial values and a decisive force in achieving democratic development, modernization and renovation, stable and sustainable economic development. The framework includes the laws on education, on the national staff training program, and others. The management system of education, training, retraining and advanced training of teaching, research and pedagogical staff has been radically restructured, the content of the educational process has been revised, the market of educational services is dynamically evolving, there are social guarantees and state support, funding and logistical support of the education sector. All this is a solid foundation for the development of higher education school. A resource center and technology park Anvar Teshabaev, Rector, Andijon Machine Building Institute: Our Institute was established on the basis of Andijon Engineering and Economics Institute. In four years, the university has taken a worthy place among the higher technical educational institutions of the country, it is popular among young people. The measures on strengthening of logistical capacity of educational institutions have considerably contributed in its establishment. Last year we reconstructed the student hostel, other sites are currently reconstructed. We assign a big part to strengthening our laboratory facilities. For example, GM-Uzbekistan assisted us with equipping our design laboratory with modern computer equipment. We schedule another two projects on drawing foreign investment. One of the buildings will be occupied by an information and resource center for students, residents and guests of the city. The second building will house a technology park of laboratories on specialized subjects, which will provide all facilities for innovation activities, starting from designing software, and ending with the finished product. We are going to use these facilities both for educational and research purposes, and also for executing orders of enterprises. This way we will be able to train high-level professionals. Comprehensive development Ergash Soliev, Rector, Jizzakh Polytechnic Institute: We train specialists for road construction and transport sector, chemical, textile and light and electricity industries. Over the past years the university’s role in development of the regional economy has increased significantly due to the implementation of projects on establishment and development of high-tech industries in Navoi Free Industrial Economic Zone and Jizzakh special industrial zone. Development of new industries required raising quality of staff training. To address this problem, in 2012 the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan adopted a resolution on the integrated development of the institute. Strengthening of the logistical capacity was an important item of basic provisions of the document. Last year, the front of the head building of the institute was reconstructed with application of modern architectural design solutions. This year we intend to finalize the development of design and estimate documentation to start the construction next year. We want to not just build a building, but to create a campus, the original architectural ensemble taking into account the needs of the educational process and eventful leisure. A special attention will be paid to modern sports facilities. 6 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday www.vk.com/ut_uz No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 SOCIAL ORBIT KNOW-HOW Productive and Efficient A new technology of synthesis of superhard materials has been proposed. In fact, this is a technology for producing synthetic diamond powders and single crystals of the highest quality using highpressure apparatus for synthesis of superhard materials such as anvil with dimples. Their development the scholars of the Tashkent State Technical University plan to represent at the upcoming Republican Fair of Innovative Ideas, Technologies and Projects. Program for the Elders A computer control system ‘Mahalla’ has been developed It is created in the Qarshi Engineering Economic Institute and is applicable in both cities and rural areas. Using it is possible to create a database and process demographic data on the population. Compact Library Scholars have created an electronic library on DVD. The creators of the library from the Institute of Polymer Chemistry and Physics included in it the modern and fundamental books on chemistry and physics. CLOSE-UP YEAR OF HEALTHY CHILD Scholar and Practitioner The Expectant Mother Record helped to build and fit up the enterprise with necessary high-tech equipment. The first drug, developed and implemented by the laboratory specialists, was fermented therapeuticdietary product ‘Orom 1’ to combat dysbacteriosis and restoring the digestion at intestinal infections. Later in the laboratory were developed 17 kinds of bacterial concentrates - dairy starter cultures for the production of yogurt, sour cream, cottage cheese, cheese and other products. Today they all are manufactured in LLC Orombiopreparat and in demand by domestic manufacturers. The main activity of the company is the production of prebiotics - drugs that inhibit pathogenic bacteria and help to restore the normal microflora in the body. The products range of the enterprise includes bifidumbacterinum PL - for the normalization of intestinal microflora, bifikol - against chronic infectious diseases and inflammatory bowel diseases, colibacterine - against coliinfections and inflammation of the bladder. Last year the line of products replenished with bactosporulin, drug against gastrointestinal and skin diseases of fungal origin. Daria Ogay “Prebiotics is a replacement for antibiotics, they are Davron Mametov well suited for the treatment of chronic diseases, because they do not cause adverse reactions,” explained Daria Ogay. “Our drugs The microbiologist Daria Ogay is a person of science are made from local strains of bacteria, and therefore the most and practice. PhD, head of the Laboratory of Genetics of effective for people of Uzbekistan.” Lactic Acid Bacteria of the Institute of Microbiology of the Soon the product range of LLC Orombiopreparat is to be Academy of Sciences, she also directs LLC Orombiopreparat. replenished. Development of new kinds of drugs is in full swing in the laboratory of Genetics of Lactic Acid Bacteria. Laktopropolis “For that scientific achievements quickly find practical and laktropropioniks are undergoing preclinical trials. First results application, in 1992 I made possible the opening of the company. show that the new drugs are highly efficient in the treatment of It is not only located in the same building with the laboratory, various forms of gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer. but also works in conjunction with it,” says Daria Ogay. “In Medicinal properties of drugs developed under the direction the laboratory the specialists study microflora and develop the of Daria Ogay are studied in other medical centers as well. production technology of various drugs-prebiotics, and then best Thus, the Republican Cancer Research Center specialists practices transfer to specialists of the company.” explore the possibility of their use in the treatment of cancer as When founding the LLC Orombiopreparat, Daria Ogay immunomodulators and tumor suppressors. Effectiveness of their managed to join forces of leading domestic engineers who use in some forms of cancer has been proved. HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES Contrary to infection Sardor Bakiev Uzbekistan has held activities timed to the World TB Day. In this regard, the Uzbekistan Today correspondent talked to the chief phthisiatrician at the Ministry of Health, MD, Professor Nargiza Parpieva. - Please share with us the issues on agenda of the national TB service. - It is well known that TB is curable. Hence, our main objective: to identify all those who need skilled care. Moreover, in recent years, we have been making much effort in identifying the disease in its early stages, when it is better to treat. Medical facilities are equipped with modern digital fluorography apparatus. Each region has outreach teams that conduct surveys of the population living in remote and hard-to-reach areas. We strive to ensure that every citizen of the republic undergo medical examination once a year using fluoroscopy. In recent years, the Ministry of Health has procured modern diagnostic equipments, operating on the principles of molecular genetic technology. They allow within a few hours to make an accurate diagnosis and choose out effective medicine to a particular patient. We use this technology in the diagnosis of difficult cases. Previously, it took several weeks for this kind of examination. The country has created a system that allows to cover with complex preventive measures almost everyone who was in contact with newly diagnosed patient. This is an effective barrier to the spread of the disease. - Today, optimization of the network of TB facilities is continuing… - In fact, only institutions with extensive experience continue to work, as we count on them. Their buildings are getting renovated today, as well as fitted up with modern medical equipments necessary for medical care at the highest level. All other institutions’ equipment is good enough to render qualitative medical care. The Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center is among the first institutions of TB service underwent reconstruction. In the near future we plan to reequip it with modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipments. Today, this center treats patients with the most complicated cases. In their treatment we actively use modern hightech therapeutic and surgical methods. Major surgeries grow in number. Among other high-tech interventions are reconstructive surgeries on the replacement of the diseased bladder to artificial reservoir, the replacement of affected joints with implants, and other surgeries. - Of late, tuberculosis often occurs in combination with other diseases… - Indeed, it is. These patients are paid great attention. Confirmation of it is the recent order of the Minister of Health ‘On measures to improve the efficiency of cooperation of the AIDS and TB services.’ In fact, the entire document is intended to ensure that patients who are infected with both TB and AIDS can receive treatment in accordance with the latest recommendations of the World Health Organization and using the most modern drugs. QUALIFICATION FACETS OF LIFE Bakers to Undergo Retraining Destinies Differ Sanjar Anvarov This year, more than three and a half thousand employees of enterprises producing flour, pasta and bakery products undergo retraining courses. M ost of the specialists by tradition will learn in the training center of JSC Uzdonmahsulot, the largest branch association of enterprises - manufacturers of flour, pasta and bakery products. The center specialists are ready to help the employees of branch enterprises that are not the part of the joint-stock company. “In recent years, approximately 40 percent of the audience is the employees of enterprises outside the company,” said the director of the advanced training center of JSC Uzdonmahsulot, Zamira Nigmatova. “Enterprises after the transition to the market relations stand on their feet, go stronger. They are faced to modernize the production, increase the production of competitive products. All this requires constant work. However, only the branch center could help the specialist to learn how to use all novelties in enterprises of the sector.” Advanced training is voluntary, and each company is free to decide when and what specialists to send for retraining. Annually, the advanced training center send to all economic entities a questionnaire with a list of advanced training courses on the basis of which enterprises prepare applications. This year, over three thousand specialists are to undergo retraining. Zamira Nigmatova has analyzed the applications as well. JSC Uzdonmahsulot enterprises periodically send to study their specialists: administrative personnel, technologists, plant operators and others. Enterprises that are not the part of the company mostly send technologists. The package of applications is formed. The center specialists are busy with organizing training courses, which is not easy. To arrange the courses it is necessary to gather the faculty. Specialists from universities, ministries and departments, and those experts who participated in the development of legal documentation, as well as leading specialists of production are invited as teachers on hourly rate wage. The training is organized in close cooperation with companies of the sector, which allows to acquaint attendees with the most advanced equipment used in the country. cyan magenta yellow black 6 Namangan region begins to experiment on introduction of the home prenatal record. Pilot implementation is aimed at improving women’s reproductive health. It is expected that the experiment in Namangan region will subsequently be disseminated throughout the country. Home prenatal record is a kind of alert card, which contains all the important information for the doctor about a woman, while patient in it could be able to find the answers to all questions. “Home prenatal record will involve pregnant women and their family members in the process of monitoring the course of pregnancy and the puerperal period, the timely identification of deviations and seeking medical help,” said the chief obstetrician at the Ministry of Health, Saidazam Sultanov. “The main result that we expect from the introduction of home prenatal record is to reduce the number of women with admitted with neglected diseases, and reducing morbidity and mortality among infants and mothers.” Prenatal records to pregnant women will be given by general practitioners and obstetricians. Family Medicine The country continues to implement measures on the development of family polyclinics. Plan for the phased creation of 155 family polyclinics on the basis of 169 existing polyclinics has been approved by the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers ‘On measures on further strengthening the material-technical base and improvement in the organization of activities of medical institutions.’ The works are to be completed by 2017. By the end of this year it is projected to build and reconstruct the buildings of six family polyclinics in Samarqand and Khorazm regions and the capital. Personnel issues are to be continued. It is planned to train 300 general practitioners for family polyclinics on a 10-month courses at the Tashkent Institute of Advanced Training of Physicians and medical higher education institutions. At the advanced training courses the specialists will be trained in modern methods of rendering medical aid, diagnosis and treatment of patients. In parallel with this, the program will be implemented on transferring family polyclinics to capita funding. This will allow to increase the amount of funds allocated to medical care for women and children. Green Light to Entrepreneurs The country implements the project ‘Program to support young entrepreneurs.’ The project aimed at creating conditions for the wider involvement of young people in entrepreneurship and the development of family business, is getting implemented by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Central Bank, the Microcreditbank, the Ministry of Higher and Secondary Special Education, the Center of Secondary Special, Professional Education, and the Kamolot Public Youth Movement. Within the program much emphasis is placed on attracting young people, especially young families, in small business and learning of them the basics of business, and proper disposition of financial resources. Those wishing to become entrepreneurs will be assisted in obtaining loans and grants. Moreover, in the regions will be created counseling centers. According to experts, the bulk of the target audience of the program will make graduates of professional colleges and higher education institutions. For Disease Prevention The Ministry of Health is planning this year to cover 6.6 million children of preschool and school age with annual medical examinations. Medical examination includes all-round analysis, x-ray screening and examinations of pediatrician, dentist, neurologist, endocrinologist, ophthalmologist, and therapists of other specialties. The campaign helps to prevent disease among children, prevention and timely treatment of diseases in children and adolescents, as well as the reduction of infectious diseases among them. This kind of medical examinations will be held with visiting of specialists of kindergartens and general schools. Valentina Chikova has recently celebrated her 94th birthday Sharof Kuvvatov No one, never, and under any circumstances will be alone. So it is possible to sum up a set of measures getting implemented within the program of additional measures on further strengthening the social protection of lonely elders, pensioners and the disabled people for 2011-2015. H ow many people so many lives. Some reaching the old age remain lonely. The government takes care for such people, and each of them has the right to choose how to arrange their life. More than 20 thousand people want to live independently. To cope with daily cares they are helped by social workers. Specialists of this service could also help clean up the apartment, go shopping, and cook something to eat. But there is another category of the elders, who trust their custody to the government. They live in special institutions of boarding type. For example, 145 people live in the Republican guest house of veterans of war and labor. The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, under the jurisdiction of which the institution is, continues complete overhaul of the guest house. Two blocks have already been updated, and works on another two-storey building are in full swing. Here are created home conditions for wards. Everyone has his/her own cozy room with bed, chairs, TV and phone. Each floor’s lounge has sofas and large plasma TV, where people living in the guest house gather in the evenings. People in the guest house continue to live a full life. Here, for example, Leyla Yusupova made a family here. With her husband she spent seven happy years until he passed away. “We take special care of all wards,” tells the guest house director Tursunmurod Eshiev. “We basically receive old people with various chronic diseases.” In the guest house five meals daily. All wards are under around-the-clock medical supervision. Along with the therapist, neurologist and cardiologist are working in the house. The guest house has also its clinic, where medical aid is rendered when exacerbation. Close cooperation are established with all the major hospitals of the capital and republican medical centers. The guest house wards are provided with free stay in sanatoriums of the country. Greater support is provided by people with good heart. The number grows of those who come to the administration with the words: ‘How to help? And they help. Some of them provide with household items, hygiene products, clothing, and others help to organize various festive events, concerts. The guest house lives a rich cultural life. On the day of our arrival was organized a charity concert by students of the Glier Specialized Music Academic Lyceum. And here they also love to celebrate birthdays. Recently, the house has celebrated the 94th birthday of the eldest ward Valentina Chikova. 7 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday A Rejuvenated Fairytale The world-famous tale ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ by Charles Perrault has turned the heart of the story of the ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. On the birthday of Princess Aurora at the magic castle gathered the guests from all around the kingdom. Insidious witch Carabosse, which they forgot to invite, promised to the princess a death by prick of magical flower. When Aurora turned sixteen, there was appeared an old woman with a magic flower to fulfill her promise. Taking the flower in her hands, Aurora fainted and fell asleep. Images of the tale characters on the stage of the Alisher Navoi Grand Theater were embodied by choreographer Ibrohim Yusupov, costume designer Lobar Polvonova and conductor Anvar Ergashev. The part of Princess Aurora is still considered one of the most difficult in the world of ballet. The Honored Artist of Uzbekistan Tamila Muhamedova has coped with this task. She managed to show her heroine light-heartedly playful, A World Where the Good Always Triumphs The history of the Republican Theater of the Young Spectator started in the far 1929. At that period a small troupe performed only a few numbers of plays quite often written by actors themselves. The first plays were mostly of educational character. But gradually they gave way to the heroes of fairy tales and adventures, giving kids the opportunity to learn not only the surrounding world, but to go on the road of their own imagination. Children’s drama is of special matter. It is impossible to make a mistake, because you do not be understood at best, or misapprehend at worst. But Uzbek playwrights and directors have long learnt to respect the laws of creativity corrected to age. In the children’s productions often used such popular genre as a fairytale. It educates young audience, provides guidance for the future, preparing for adulthood. Actors are well aware that their performances should convey those moral norms that form the future personality. The stage bears unobtrusive information that friendship helps, love ennobles, fidelity elevates. And, all this turns into the form of dialogue. Actors are constantly communicating with their young spectators, who become participators of the events. For example, recently there has been staged a play on Maciej Wojtyszko’s story ‘How the Princess Bun was Near to be Eaten.’ The Cowboy Jack, Khlopusha Petardovich, master Harakiri take to save The Embassy of Japan in Uzbekistan with the assistance of the Uzbekkino National Agency represents the Days of contemporary Japanese films, which will be held 27 - 30 March, 2014, in Tashkent. The program includes four feature films and one animation, which tell about the values of family ties, unfulfilled hopes, love stories, Japanese youth, and also demonstrate the scenic beauty of the island of Okinawa. Here Come the Tunes of Navruz The capital is hosting the 7th Republican Festival of Polyphonic Ensembles and Orchestras of Folk Instruments ‘Navruz Sadolari’ (Tunes of Navruz). Spring in Soul and on Canvases Flyura Sabirova Two exhibitions timed to Navruz open in the capital Tashkent. Young artists have put on display their skills on the traditional exhibition in the Kamoliddin Behzod Memorial Park Museum at the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan. The exhibition presents more than one hundred creative works of students of higher education institutions and students of colleges and lyceums. “Spring is a time of noble aspirations, and surge of energy,” said a student of the Kamoliddin Behzod National Institute of Arts and Design, In the Central Exhibition Hall of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan Uktam Saidov. “In the spring all celebrate the favorite holiday Navruz. I gladly presented my works dedicated to spring, happy childhood, and creative work sense of pride for the country with a rich spiritual heritage, but also being carried out in the country.” reminded that art should serve the people, humanism, formation of Within the exhibition there was held a fashion show by a comprehensively advanced personality. designer Olga Yaikova ‘Land of the Sun.’ The festive exhibition features works in applied art, including *** tapestry, woodcarving, ganch, batik, miniature, jewelry, Another exhibition was held at the Central Exhibition Hall of the decorative ceramics, and easel paintings. Visitors enjoyed Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan. The exhibition timed to the Navruz the works of famous masters: suzani by the Bukhoro master holiday, anticipated by the anniversary exhibition of monumental Rahmon Toshev, musical instruments by Takhtamurod Zufarov sculpture by the People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Jaloliddin Mirtojiev. and Umarjon Tohirov, woodcarvings by Abdulatif and Bahodir Images of Navoi, Nizomiy, Bobur, and Behzod not only evoked a Sultanovs. 7 Timur Soliev This week teams performing in the Asian Champions League got kind of a breather by tradition - completed the first round of group games. Bunyodkor approached this watershed with disappointing results - two draws, one defeat and just two gained points. The last game with Iranian Foolad was supposed to be a crucial test for the “swallows”. After a away draw with Al Fatekh and a home defeat by Al-Jaish, another home loss would be akin to a disaster. Mirjalol Kasymov knew it, noting at the pre-match conference that there is nowhere for the team to retreat. - “We must at all costs to win. We do not have a very long bench. In the offseason, the team left several leading players. Folk-tunes for the new composition takes time”, - stressed head manager of Bunyodkor, alluding to the fact that the team may well not have enough forces on the completion of the game, especially away. Head manager of the Iranians did not hide that playing with Bunyodkor for him is of no matter: “We will try to win. But based on the tournament situation, we are also ok with draw. Even defeat not be a tragedy. For us at the moment the most important thing to become champions of the country to which we came so close. And then we will think about the successful performance in the Champions League,” said head manager of Foolad Husain Faraki. Interestingly, the game was just contrary to wishes of managers: the Iranians were more active and on 74 minute scored. After passing the goal, the metropolitan players had nothing to lose, and they rushed to “compress” the opponent. Fortune smiled on our team - in extra time Vohid Shodiev head sent the ball into the net - 1:1. After the game Kasymov was categorical in assessing the game: “The team has come back to the old rake. As in the match against Al Jaish, one player beat a few of our players and scored. Individual players made elementary errors. If we want to progress from the group, we have no right to such errors. In the Champions League play only strong teams. However, all is not lost. Ahead is the second match. If we win, it will be possible to continue the fight.” said the Bunyodkor manager. After three rounds there is an extremely intriguing situation in the group has developed: Al Jaish and Foolad, scored five points, tied for first and second place, and Bunyodkor and Al-Fateh with two points - the third and fourth places. Prospects out of the group in metropolitan players now rather vague. They will have to beat away Foolad and Al-Jaish, which is hardly going to lose points. Iranians’ manager already warned “swallows” that they would have at a party is not easy. “We usually play at home more than away. We are supported more than forty thousand fans. This gives us additional strength,” said Husain Faraki. Upcoming match with the Iranians indeed will be a moment of truth for the Uzbeks. And winning - this is no guarantee out of the group, but only the door to the following tests. Even if Bunyodkor will take away points from Iran, whether it can withstand the leaders of Asian football after leaving the group with such a play? In the past in the capital’s sports complex Yoshlik a decisive round of the championship fought for victory ten teams. Following the meeting, the reigning champion - Sevinch from Qarshi - beat teams from Jizzakh, Farghona and Tashkent provinces and representatives of capital Bunyodkor-W, thus retaining his title. Shahrisabz’s Lochin also performed successfully in the tournament and took second place. In the fourth round, the team beat Chirchiq 5-1, Neftchi-W - 13:0, BunyodkorW - 8:0. Closed the top three winners of the team Chirchiq which completed during the tournament in its favor 14 meetings and scored 42 points. Strongest Go to Malaysia A national Muaythai championship among youth born 1995-1996 was held in Bukhara, young athletes fought for victory in 14 weight categories. In the weight category up to 45kg gold medal was won Fazliddin Hikmatullaev from the capital, 51kg weight turned consummate representative Behruz Mardonov owners. At the top of the podium also climbed Akobir Orifjonov, Qahramon Olloberganov, Alisher Norkuziev, Asror Normurodov from Tashkent, Odiljon Sotkinov, Mansur Tolipov from Andijon, as well as athletes from Bukhoro, Samarqand and Karakalpakstan. Winners in the youth team will participate in the Asian Championship among youth, which will be held in Malaysia. Anyone to Challenge the Favorites? Aleksandr Novickiy This year’s festival will feature over forty teams from Andijon, Bekobod, Bukhoro, Jizzakh, Navoi, Namangan, Samarqand, Termiz, Tashkent, Chinoz, and Chirchiq. This year there are lots of newcomers. For the first time in the festival as the official participants will perform the ensembles of the Glinka music school №1 of Navoi region, and orchestra of the arts college No.1 of Termiz, as well as ensembles of two preschools from Pakhtaobod and Jalalquduq districts of Andijon region. EXHIBITION cyan magenta yellow black The Qarshi team became the tenth time national champion on mini-football. Composer’s Creative Heritage Days of Contemporary Japanese Film NEWS Sevinch, Champions! NEWS Vera Plungyan PhD, Professor Emeritus at the State Conservatory of Uzbekistan, biographer and researcher to Suleyman Yudakov’s creativity, spoke about the life and work of the composer. For the young music specialists was demonstrated a documentary by filmmaker Sardor Iskhakov ‘Minion of Constellations of Music.’ It tells about the creative path and life of the composer, who created the first famous Uzbek national comic opera ‘Maysara’s Tricks’. Guests of the meeting were presented with the book ‘Suleyman Yudakov in the Memories of Contemporaries.’ the princess from the greedy dragon, but they fail at that. And then the only thing to do is to seek help from the audience. There are lots of those willing to help the heroes and punish the voracious reptile. Young bold spirits from the audience enter the cave, where a menacing roar is heard, and find there… a manuscript from the... the Forget-me-not sorceress. It is she who thinks up with the game to find true friends in the hall capable of the deed for the sake of friendship. Recently has been performed the play staged on the fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen ‘The Ugly Duckling’ called ‘My Duckling.’ In this play the audience participated in the swan ‘flights’, watching the movements of the majestic birds in the hall. Children could even touch them. Of course, the theater repertoire has topical plays as well. They frankly tell about the dangers of everyday life, and how to protect themselves from them. But always at the end of the play the audience is given the choice. After all, the play is not a teaching, but learning. “The basis of our creativity is built on the rule ‘children need in love.’ Without this, there is no the magic of the stage. Not every parent can be a good director, but every good director is required to be a great parent,” says head of the literary department of the Republican Theater of the Young Spectator, Nargis Mahkamova. Nargis is right: without love there is no good, there will not be magic on the stage. But the theater has a great creative team that loves and knows its business. Thus, when children enter the Theater of the Young Spectator the door in front of them will be opened every time, where the good always triumphs. No Margin for Error simply flirtatious, being in love and regally proud. Outstanding artistic makings and professionalism of the highest class ballerina amazed the audience. The part of Prince Desire was performed by the Honored Artist of Uzbekistan Timur Shangariev. Spiritual beauty, kindness, and fabulousness to the image of the part of Lilac Fairy gave the actress Margarita Avdeeva. Soloists of the Grand Theater demonstrated not only a brilliant and flawless classical dance technique, but also gave a special charm to the play. The House Museum of classic of the national school of composition Suleyman Yudakov has become the venue for a creative meeting. Anastasiya Yarushina No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 SPORT CULTURE AND ARTS Dilnoza Rahimova www.vk.com/ut_uz Uzbek soocer clubs continue to gradually “run into” the season. The second round of the national championship has brought if not intrigues in balance of power, but showed that the level and quality of play of many pretenders still far from perfect. A chief favorite of the tournament is Bunyodkor again, like a week ago, scored its points, not showing a play worthy of a champion. “Swallows” had to start an away game against Mubarak’s Mash’al on a field after heavy rain. As a result, the first half turned into a series of blows from outside the box and fussing with the ball in midfield. After the break Kasymov was able to make adjustments to the game, and replacements refreshed metropolitan players’ attack. At this, this team is not just played with combinations that were quite difficult on a wet field, but added in aggressiveness and ability to press. On 75 minutes in a commotion in front of the goal Dilshod Juraev scored. The home team rushed to recoup, but “swallows” remembering their bad experiences with Foolad in the Asian Champions League, played neatly into the defense and even managed to score another goal in the second minute of an extra time - 0:2. The match of the day fans had been waiting in the capital, where clashed last season’s silver and bronze medals winners. Lokomotiv thriftily started the match by taking the initiative in their hands. As for the play it was obvious that Abramov took into account past mistakes, and the team was gradually becoming more manageable. Already in the 13th minute goalkeeper Rahimov disappointed Nasaf. Those fans who waited bright game, miscalculated. Both coaches understand that the result of that match could play a significant role in determining the placings urged his players to play as accurately. Therefore, after the goal scored several “railroadmen” has lowered their ardor, and Nasaf for fear of being caught on the counterattack, played quite cautiously. However, this time the fortune did not turn away from Qarshi. In the second minute of the extra time Shomuradov equalized - 1:1. The second time was also marked by a kind of classic domestic football – a confrontation between Neftchi and Pakhtakor. The clubs are among the three teams that are involved in major league games of the Uzbek football since its inception. Another stimulus - this year Neftchi is managed by the former Pakhtakor manager Murod Ismailov. Apparently, so utterly motivated Farghona immediately rushed towards the goal, even a bit taken aback metropolitan players, and created some good chances to score. However, despite such a start, Pakhtakor players have solved all their problems already at the end of the first half - and Kozak scored on minute 13 and Andreev on 37 minute. The only thing that Neftchi players managed to make – response with one goal late in the game - 1:2. Tashkent’s club manager Samvel Babayan said after the game that it was a very difficult game. – Fans of Neftchi are the twelfth player of the team. But, despite this, the team has installed a game that allowed us to win”, - he stressed. In other matches of the tour Qizilum beat Andijon 1:0, Olmaliq defeated Sogdiana the with a big score - 4:2, Bukhoro yielded Navbahor at home - 0:2, and Dynamo prevailed over Metallurg 2:0. A Big Hope of Big Tennis Sherzod Akramov A traditional international tournament among juniors and girls entering the competition calendar of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) finished at the National Tennis School of Olympic Reserve. Annually, in Uzbekistan about twenty international tournaments are held. This season, in Tashkent, Namangan, Andijon, Farghona, Samarqand, Qarshi and Bukhoro there will be held international tournaments “Futures” (men), “Challenger” and an international tournament for juniors and women, which are part of the competition calendar of the International Tennis Federation. In the present international tournament held in Tashkent young tennis players from Australia, Belarus, Great Britain, Georgia, Israel, India, Portugal, Poland, Russia and Uzbekistan matched themselves. The nation’s champion Arina Foltz won the first prize in this season, delighted her fans and professionals of big racket. Played in doubles competition in a duet with Russian Anastasia Nefedova, Arina, winning three qualifying meetings in a row, received a ticket to the final. In the decisive final encounter pair FoltzNefedov defeated a duo sown by the first number - Russian Anna Yakovleva and Dariya Kruzhkova - 6:3, 6:2, and won the grand prize. This award is the sixth prize in sports career of Arina Foltz, who has been participating in international competitions for four years. A 17-year-old tennis player won main prizes at the prestigious competitions included in the calendar of competitions of the International Tennis Federation, which took place in Brunei and Kyrgyzstan. 8 www.ut.uz www.facebook.com/uztoday www.twitter.com/uz_today www.plus.google.com/+uzbekistantoday No. 13 (389) March 27, 2014 www.vk.com/ut_uz KALEIDOSCOPE New Riddle of the Ancient Khiva Gulchehra Tajieva Back in 2009 during excavation five kilometers north-west of the city of Khiva, closer to the Yangiobod suburbs, archeologists discovered site Ahunlar. According to local residents, one can meet various archaeological artifacts there, including pottery, burnt bricks and coins. I n 2010, as a result of the preliminary work on the grant “The history of the material culture of medieval towns of Southern Khorezm’ under Mamun Academy, scientists have found that the area of distribution of archaeological material covers about 20 hectares of land on both sides of a wide ditch, having a more recent origin. Along it were traces of cultural layers, covered with sand. In some places the walls could be seen to have been made of pakhsa. After cleaning, archeologists opened a part of construction. Its southern part were razed, and the walls were 1.3 meter thick. In the east wall there are small arched alcoves arranged in three rows. On the western bank of the ditch archeologists found remains of a second facility with square-shaped room form with thick walls up to 0.6 meters and two aisles inside. The interior consisted of two Sufas, ceramic and clay hearths. First sufa occupies almost the entire northern half of the room, the second was located in the south-east corner. On the south side there is a corridor with a large alcove with a raised floor. In the mid there is a septum of later origin made of pakhsa and guvala. In the pit of unknown purpose, archeologists found ceramic pieces and an iron sickle. Navruz celebrations in Mirzo Ulugbek Park in Tashkent Chang, a Singing Bride Tatiana Chmelevskaya Clear and muffed, proud and affectionate. So many sounds can be woven into one tone. That’s how the Chang, a string percussion instrument, sounds. Chang is a kind of cymbals, and is simple to manufacture: a flat wooden trapezoidshaped box, sometimes with legs and round sound holes in the upper deck. Metal triple strings, except single bass string, produce an amazingly bright sound, long decaying after the strike with two bamboo or wooden sticks. Modern Chang is often used in ensembles and orchestras of modern folk instruments. It has piccolo, prima, tenor, bass varieties. Chang can have five versions. Two of them are arched, like a harp. The remaining three are angled. Its arcuate version was widespread in the Middle Ages and in earlier epochs in the East. The origin of this handsome-voiced instrument dates back to at least 3,000 BC. Farabi once wrote that Hulays ibn Ahvas has invented a musical instrument Chang, which he first had seen on miniatures in Sughd. Alisher Navoi had many times wrote about this instrument in his works. Excited descriptions can be found in ancient manuscripts in Egypt. Thanks to them, the archaeologists were able to confirm the version of such an ancient appearance of Chang. And they called it konun (Arabs) and santur (Iranians). They all look like each other like brothers. And in the ancient city of Bukhoro in the 17th century, the famous scientist and musician dervish Ali Changi, talking about musical instruments and performers, compares Chang with planet Zuhro (Venus), filled with tenderness and benevolence. There is an ancient legend about a magical sound of Chang: “In one palace there was king whose daughter-in-law fell ill. To treat her, the king invited the most famous doctors. But no one was able to cure the sick. Then they invited wellknown musicians and singers to entertain the young lady, and one of them was playing on Chang. As soon as he played, her cheeks flushed and she quickly turned the corner.” Since then Chang is called a bride of all instruments. Although, Professor Anvar Latfullaev from the Uzbek State Conservatory does not quite agree with this gentle name. “I think the sound of Chang is not quite feminine, and generally, it is one of the main Uzbek musical instruments,” says professor. “It is the soloist in any orchestra. It leads the others, takes a key place in the compositions. It is kind of a second conductor.” Years, centuries, millennia are passing by, the world changes with musicians and instruments. But to this day, the sounds of antique Chang delight us with ancient, but fresh beauty of its unique voice, the tone of the ancient East. NEWS Mercy Train on the Way The excavations have collected a significant amount of pottery, which was around the hearth and in the pit. Hearth itself was egg-shaped and made of good clay elutriated with smooth firing, coated with adobe clay, covered with various vessel pieces: grey pottery jug, a large bowl, glazed bowl, also covered with clay. Perhaps some time it has been used as a tandoor. Similar hearths were found on the Kyat-kala site in Shovot district. The monument, according to ceramic materials from the excavation refers to the 11-13 centuries. Possibly, during the time of the Golden Horde, it was reconstructed, as evidenced by the separation of the corridor and different finishing materials. Most likely, it was a country house or manor house with a well-designed plan, with rich household premises belonging to Khorazm Shah period. Scientists have repeatedly expressed the idea that honeycomb-shaped facilities were guestrooms, and the shelves, popularly known as pigeon houses (kaptarkhana) were used to store expensive dishes. The study of similar structures in other regions enabled the researchers to assume that these unusual houses were used for drying fruits. This idea is based on fruit pits and special bottomless vessels found there during excavations. However, without further work it’s impossible to prove any of the versions. Thus, according to archaeological evidence and written sources, in the medieval period the suburbs of large cities in Khorazm regions, including Khiva, were densely populated, as evidenced by the discovered settlement Ahunlar. Uzbek Culinary Success Cooks from Uzbekistan successfully performed at the World Congress of Culinary Traditions (WCCT), which recently took place in the Romanian capital Bucharest. In recent years our country have done a great job to preserve the culinary arts as a historical and cultural heritage, created the necessary conditions for the development of food service, taking into account national and historical traditions and modern trends in the food industry. Close attention is paid to the training of young highly skilled chefs and specialists in this sphere. Uzbekistan culinary success in the international arena was their participation in the first World Congress of Culinary Traditions, where more than 50 participating countries presented their national dishes, traditions and customs. The congress was organized by the World Association of Chefs Societies and other international organizations. It is noteworthy that young professionals from Uzbekistan were able to compete with experienced chefs from other countries. Shirin Alimov, Rajiv Zakirov and Abdulaziz Abdumavlonov are all graduates of the International Center of Uzbek Culinary Art founded under the Association of Chefs of Uzbekistan. “During the competition, our team cooked rice, fish dishes and traditional sweets – halvaytar and baked quince,” says participant Sh. Alimov. “We were very pleased to see delight on the faces of participants from other countries when they tasted our dishes. Our success also owes to the fact that all the ingredients were brought from our sunny land, which is famous for its unique taste of fruits and vegetables.” Uzbek chefs took third place in the Black Box competition. In this challenge they had to cook any dish from certain ingredients chosen by the jury. As a result, their culinary fantasies proved themselves in other categories. Students’ Art Zilola Zahidova The Tashkent House of Photography has launched a photo exhibition “A Creative Joy”. The audience were offered works by students of Kamoliddin Behzod National Institute of Arts and Design, studying computer graphics and art photos. For in-depth medical examination of the population in remote and inaccessible areas, providing targeted humanitarian and social assistance to residents, the national railway company launched a Health Train. The train headed from Tashkent to Navoi region. A team of professional doctors hold medical examination of the population, especially women and children. Particular attention is given to children with disabilities, families with many children and families who have lost their breadwinners. Needy children houses, boarding schools and social institutions in the region will be provided with humanitarian aid. Humanitarian cargo of food, clothing, medicines, vitamins, medical supplies was prepared by Soghlom Avlod Uchun Foundation. Music Draws the Young Together International non-governmental charitable foundation Soglom Avlod Uchun holds numerous cultural and educational activities. Gifted children regularly get supported through contest for young musicians Sanat Ghunchalari. The recent one brought together students of music schools and colleges of Karakalpakstan, regions and Tashkent city, who won the regional stage. The contest was held in two directions – wind and percussion instruments. All participants demonstrated their skills and talent, and the winners were awarded with diplomas and valuable gifts. Transformed Children’s Park Namangan is actively preparing for sports games Barkamol Avlod, which will be held here this year. construction and improvement works covered the entire city. For example, children’s park Kichkintoy is being significantly transformed these days. To date, all the attractions and rides in the park are repaired. Builders have updated artificial turf, fabulous towns, representing a miniature ancient and eternally young city of Samarqand and Bukhoro. In the coming days they plan to landscape the park, and already planted seedlings of flowers and ornamental trees. There will be an updated zoo, a bowling club and other facilities located on the territory of the children’s park. “During the games our city will be attended by more than 10 thousand guests from all over the country. They should see Namangan in all its glory, to see the sights and historical monuments, museums,” said Masjidkhon Muhiddinov, development project manager. “Among the guests there will be many children and young people, so the first thing for them is to create conditions in recreation parks. In addition, we are going to significantly transform the exterior facade of the Museum of Memory and Honor, which is also planned to be overhauled.” Registry Office Moves to a New Building On days when the nation continues celebrating Navruz holiday, Khorazm region commissions new modern buildings. Photo exhibition can be called a kind of report on the creative achievements of students. The exhibition includes works by young artists. Photos display the picturesque nature of Uzbekistan, national traditions and values, love of work and the eternal desire for beauty. One of the exhibitors, Bobur Alimkhojaev, working in portraiture, presented very peculiar works ‘Dance of the Books’, ‘Source of Inspiration’, ‘Conference of the Birds’, ‘Lonely Tree’. “Our country has all the necessary conditions for the full development of young people, including the realization of talents and abilities,” says Bobur. “I consider it my duty to be worthy of this high attention and trust, appreciate the opportunities created.” So, a new registrar building opened in the Khanka district. The modern twostory building that combines modern and national styles of architecture has all the amenities. Hall of Marriage, recordkeeping and other rooms are equipped in line with the time. Construction work was financed by private enterprise Noib Marmar who spent more than 531 million soums. “This modern building makes both the employees and guests feel happier,” says Darmonjon Zaripova, head of the district registrar office. “The conditions created here allow us and improve quality of service. We have allocated a large room for classes for the family university, which is popular with locals.” The newspaper is distributed through the diplomatic missions of the Republic of Uzbekistan in more than 45 countries around the world Acting Editor-in-Chief: Shakhnoza Turabekova Duty Editor: Ilshat Mustafin FOUNDER: NA “UZBEKISTAN TODAY” cyan magenta yellow black Day of issue - Thursday The newspaper is registered with Uzbekistan Agency for Press and Information. Registration number: No. 0008 of 04.10.2013 Volume - 4 printed sheets. Circulation - 6,358 copies. Paper size - A2. Offset printing. Price negotiable. Issued in Russian and English languages. Individual subscription code - 533. Institution subscription code - 534. The weekly is designed and laid out at NA “Uzbekistan Today”. Published in PPSC “Sharq”. 41, Buyuk Turon Str., Tashkent. 8 The publication also uses UzA and Jahon Information Agency materials. The Board opinion may differ from the opinions authors bring. The publication does not provide reviews on manuscripts. The editorial board is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising materials. The order № Г- 0347 41, Buyuk Turon Str., Tashkent, 100000 Tel.: 2331419 Fax: 2330741, Marketing and advertising department Tel.: 233-77-82 Web: www.ut.uz, e-mail: uzbekistan_today@inbox.uz Time of issuing: 05:30 27.03.2014 12345