Uzbekistan Roundup: Electric Buses, Prison Incidents, Tourism Growth and Trade Opportunities

Uzbekistan is making strides in environmental sustainability with the procurement of 200 electric buses. On a concerning note, two inmates died in custody, prompting investigations. Concurrently, tourism from Germany has significantly increased. The country has also reopened work visa opportunities for Pakistanis and identified $60 million in export potential to Kuwait in agriculture and food sectors.

Uzbekistan has launched a significant project to procure 200 electric buses along with charging infrastructure as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability under the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and address climate change. After evaluating proposals from three Chinese manufacturers, Yutong Bus was chosen as the supplier that best met the project requirements according to Daryo reports.

In a concerning development, Uzbek authorities reported two inmate fatalities within one week in penal facilities near Tashkent. One victim was a 21-year-old who succumbed to a heart attack and acute pancreatitis, while the second, a 41-year-old, suffered fatal injuries during prison maintenance work. Following these incidents, the Chief Prosecutor’s Office has initiated investigations into both cases as reported by VOA.

Uzbekistan has recently experienced a surge in tourism, welcoming over 37,000 visitors from Germany in 2024—an increase of nearly 8,000 compared to the previous year. The majority of these tourists traveled for leisure, bolstering cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Germany. This positive trend highlights the growing interest in Uzbekistan as a travel destination amid a backdrop of expanding international relations.

In a notable policy shift, Uzbekistan has reopened its work visa program for Pakistani nationals following a recommendation from the Pakistan Embassy in Tashkent. Previously, work permits for Pakistani workers were suspended due to concerns over working conditions. This development comes just ahead of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Uzbekistan in February 2025, according to ARY News.

Lastly, Uzbekistan perceives a $60 million export potential in agricultural and food sectors with Kuwait. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s recent visit to Kuwait has sparked discussions regarding trade opportunities, emphasizing the need for enhanced economic collaboration. As analyzed by the Centre for Economic Research and Reforms, there remains significant potential for further bilateral trade, particularly in previously untapped markets.

The recent developments in Uzbekistan encompass a range of significant actions and observations, including the initiative for electric bus procurement, tragic inmate deaths prompting investigations, a surge in German tourism, the reopening of work opportunities for Pakistanis, and burgeoning trade potential with Kuwait. These factors cumulatively illustrate Uzbekistan’s dynamic response to environmental, economic, and social challenges, aiming for sustainable growth and international partnerships.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com