Samarkand official who threatened to give farmers' land to Chinese investors promoted

Amonov, who served as the deputy governor for agriculture and water management in Urgut district, has been appointed to his new role. He was officially hired as the head of the Samarkand region's Veterinary and Livestock Development Department under an order from the chairman of the Veterinary and Livestock Development Committee. This was confirmed by the committee's press service to Kun.uz.

The appointment took effect on June 10, 2025. The order grants Amonov the authority to be the primary signatory on all bank and financial documents of the department.

Amonov has been relieved of his duties as deputy governor for agriculture and water management in Urgut district. The district governor's document regarding this matter has been concealed on the e-qaror.gov.uz platform due to restricted information.

Previously, Amonov gained media attention by stating that the lands of farmers unwilling to cultivate would be given to Chinese investors. In his video address, he said:

"Dear agro-firm heads, dear officials! We mentioned our visit to China, and now Chinese investors have started studying the lands. We will begin transferring the lands of those who refuse to cultivate, fail to meet grain quotas, or do not pay taxes. The Chinese are eyeing fertile, irrigated fields. We are showing them 2,000 hectares of land and will allocate more."

The Ministry of Agriculture sharply condemned the official's statements, noting that relevant authorities were assessing the situation legally.