President ties local officials' pay to results in employment, investment, and infrastructure

During a train journey to Shakhrisabz, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of infrastructure by declaring, “Without roads, there is no economy.” He instructed officials to begin negotiations with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on upgrading the internal road network in Kashkadarya. Additionally, the president promised a "double bonus" to regional governors who achieve measurable reductions in unemployment, poverty, and successfully attract investment.

On June 19, the president held an informal meeting with the local leadership of Kashkadarya region during his train ride from Karshi to Shakhrisabz. The conversation focused on regional development, public welfare, and ongoing reform efforts.

Mirziyoyev discussed living conditions in both cities and rural areas, stressing the importance of peace and stability for sustainable national development. He noted that real opportunities are being created for decent employment within the country. Among the key efforts: training young people and women in modern, in-demand professions and ensuring comprehensive regional development as part of the fight against poverty.

Agricultural reforms: Land for the people

The president proposed granting pasturelands and forest lands without trees to local residents for vegetable and fruit cultivation.

“We have 16 million hectares of pastures and 12 million hectares of forest lands. This is our support, our foundation, our future. We must increase vegetable and fruit production,” he said in a segment aired by Uzbekistan 24.

He suggested that these lands be divided and distributed among the population:

“Watermelons, bell peppers, tomatoes… If you dry tomatoes, their value increases tenfold. That’s added value through processing,” he explained, pointing to the fields visible from the train window.

Road infrastructure as a national priority

Presdent Mirziyoyev also highlighted the role of road infrastructure not only for economic development but also for public morale. He instructed officials to accelerate road renovation projects:

“Over the past two years, 40,000 km of roads and 540 bridges have been repaired. This year, another 100 km of highways are set to be upgraded in Kashkadarya,” he said.

He tasked Minister of Transport Ilkhom Makhkamov and Chairman of the Roads Committee Jamshid Tursunov with negotiating with ADB to modernize internal roads in the region:

“Review the road project we’re traveling on together with ADB. Consider how many kilometers and how much funding is needed. Without roads, there is no economy. Trees must be planted along both sides of the road.”

Incentives for governors: Bonuses for performance

President Mirziyoyev also announced a performance-based incentive scheme for regional leaders:

“If a governor, as a presidential representative, creates a 'reform headquarters', puts in some effort, and within three months turns the district into one free from unemployment, reduces poverty, and attracts investment, he will receive a double salary bonus,” he said.

This follows his earlier announcement that, starting August 1, all regional and district administrations in Uzbekistan will see an increase in salaries, along with the introduction of bonuses and additional payments. Furthermore, nine key ministries and agencies will transfer their district branches under the authority of local governors, and each district will establish a "Reform Headquarters".

However, the president emphasized accountability:

“Cotton requires two hands to harvest. Those officials who fail to fulfill their responsibilities will face consequences. Only then will everyone learn to work with discipline and according to plan,” he concluded.