President Mirziyoyev congratulates journalists, announces new reforms for media sector

“First and foremost, I sincerely congratulate all of you — respected journalists, esteemed veterans, and all creative and technical staff — who are faithfully fulfilling their duties in the evolving press of New Uzbekistan, on television and radio channels, online publications, publishing houses, printing enterprises, and in information services and platforms, on your professional holiday.

“In today’s extremely complex and turbulent world, where global socio-political processes are changing at an unprecedented pace, we all clearly understand the growing importance and influence of mass media.

“In this regard, I believe it is quite appropriate to compare the hard work of journalists — who not only disseminate objective and truthful information but also firmly defend our national interests — to the bravery of border guards who vigilantly protect our sacred frontiers.

On this auspicious day, it is a great honor for me to express, on behalf of our people, deep respect and best wishes to all media workers who are making meaningful contributions with their talent and professionalism to the historic transformations taking place in our country,” said the president.

It was noted that nearly 2,400 media outlets operate in Uzbekistan, with 65% belonging to the non-governmental sector. The number of private publications, TV and radio channels, and internet platforms continues to grow, and the number of users has increased from 14.7 million to 32.7 million. This expansion of content creators is contributing significantly to the development of the nation’s media sector.

Particular attention is being paid to supporting young creators, independent studios, and production centers in their efforts to develop national media content. This support is laying the groundwork for the emergence of high-quality, competitive projects in the digital space.

“Our country is making significant progress in ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens in the information sphere and in guaranteeing the legal implementation of press and speech freedom. While we focus on raising a well-rounded future generation, we also pay special attention to protecting them from harmful information. In this regard, several important steps have been taken: national content aimed at children — including publications — is now exempt from value-added tax, subject to only a 1% social tax, and eligible for VAT reimbursement.

“As a continuation of these reforms, we recently established the Center for the Development of Children’s Content. This center has already begun practical work to raise our younger generation in the spirit of national values and to acquaint them with kindness and enlightenment.

“It is also worth noting that a draft law aimed at protecting the rights of users of online platforms and websites has been submitted for public discussion,” Mirziyoyev said.

The president emphasized that the rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies is creating new opportunities in journalism, but also requires that media-related efforts be aligned with modern demands.

“In recent years, we have seen the rise of a new generation of passionate, patriotic journalists who have mastered their profession along with foreign languages and IT technologies. This is a source of great pride for all of us.

“At the same time, we still have much work to do in ensuring impartiality and rule of law in the media, enhancing professional knowledge and skills, adopting modern methods of information dissemination, fostering a culture of information sharing, debate, and dialogue, and combating societal vices such as corruption,” said the president.

Taking into account proposals from journalists and media teams, this year for the first time the “Oltin Qalam” (“Golden Pen”) National Award will be presented on June 27 — the Day of Press and Media Workers.

“On this occasion, I sincerely congratulate all the winners of this year's competitions and those honored with high state awards.

“I firmly believe that each of you will continue to build your own schools of experience and excellence, contributing even more to the progress of our national journalism.

“Without a doubt, appreciating the hard work of media professionals, supporting creative teams, and strengthening the material-technical base and human capacity of the media sector will remain key priorities of state policy in the New Uzbekistan,” President Mirziyoyev stated.