Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev is the current President of Uzbekistan

Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev is the current President of Uzbekistan, having assumed office on December 14, 2016. He succeeded Islam Karimov, who had been in power since Uzbekistan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s presidency has marked a significant shift in Uzbekistan’s domestic and foreign policies. Here is everything you need to know about President Shavkat Mirziyoyev:

1. Early Life and Career:
   • Shavkat Mirziyoyev was born on July 24, 1957, in Zaamin, a small town in Uzbekistan.
   • He holds a degree in mechanical engineering from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Melioration.
2. Political Rise:
   • Mirziyoyev’s political career began in the 1990s when he served as the governor (hakim) of Jizzakh Province.
   • He then held various positions in the central government, including Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources and Deputy Prime Minister.
   • Before becoming president, Mirziyoyev served as the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan from 2003 to 2016.
3. Presidential Election:
   • Shavkat Mirziyoyev became president following the death of President Islam Karimov in September 2016.
   • He was elected as president in a special presidential election held in December 2016, winning with an overwhelming majority.
4. Domestic Policy:
   • Mirziyoyev’s presidency has seen significant reforms in Uzbekistan’s domestic policies. He has focused on improving the economy, healthcare, education, and social services.
   • His government has also undertaken measures to reduce corruption and increase government transparency.
   • Under his leadership, Uzbekistan has implemented a more open and inclusive approach to governance, including seeking input from civil society and the public.
5. Economic Reforms:
   • President Mirziyoyev has initiated economic reforms to attract foreign investment and modernize the country’s economy.
   • Uzbekistan has opened up to foreign investors and has undertaken measures to improve the business climate.
   • The government has also implemented currency exchange rate liberalization and privatization of state-owned enterprises.
6. Foreign Policy:
   • Mirziyoyev’s foreign policy approach has led to improved relations with neighboring countries and the international community.
   • Uzbekistan has sought to strengthen ties with neighboring Central Asian states, resolve regional disputes, and promote regional cooperation.
   • The country has also become more engaged with international organizations and has been working to diversify its foreign relations.
7. Human Rights and Political Reforms:
   • While there have been some improvements in human rights and political reforms during Mirziyoyev’s presidency, challenges remain.
   • Uzbekistan has released some political prisoners and taken steps to address issues such as forced labor in the cotton industry.
   • However, there are ongoing concerns about the pace and depth of political reforms and the state of civil liberties in the country.
8. Legacy and Future Outlook:
   • Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s presidency has brought significant change to Uzbekistan, both domestically and in its foreign relations.
   • His government has focused on economic development, regional cooperation, and greater openness.
   • As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, it is important to note that political situations can change, and the trajectory of his presidency may have evolved since then.