The Presidents of Uzbekistan and Russia discussed issues of labor migration, reports Gazeta.uz.
"Special attention was given to such a sensitive issue as labor migration, noting the importance of organizing systematic interaction and implementing effective mechanisms. We focused very seriously on these issues. I am very pleased that Vladimir Vladimirovich supported my proposals on this sensitive matter. I believe that we will put the necessary order in place on this issue from both sides," Mirziyoyev told TASS.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the Russian authorities will do everything to ensure decent working conditions and social protection for labor migrants from Uzbekistan.
"I emphasize: the Russian authorities are doing and will continue to do everything necessary to provide Uzbek citizens working here with decent working conditions and social protection. We will continue to interact with the Uzbek authorities on all relevant migration issues," Putin said following the Russian-Uzbek talks.
He noted that more than 1 million Uzbek citizens live and work in Russia.
"Shavkat Miromonovich (Mirziyoyev) always pays special attention to this issue, and we are also discussing it now. We appreciate the significant contribution they make to the development of the Russian economy, especially in dynamically developing sectors such as construction, housing and communal services, and the transport and logistics sector," said the President of Russia.
Putin also noted that "their remittances home, I hope, are a significant support for Uzbekistan's economy and for families in various regions of the country."
In May, Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated that since the beginning of the year, about 115,000 labor migrants have returned to Uzbekistan, and by the end of the year, another 250,000-300,000 citizens are expected to return. The President emphasized the importance of their employment and assistance in solving social problems.
In the first quarter of 2024, the volume of cross-border remittances to Uzbekistan increased by 8.6% — from $2.3 billion to $2.5 billion. This is also higher than in the first quarter of 2022 ($1.46 billion) and 2021 ($1.41 billion). Russia's share decreased to 68% (in previous years it was 78-87%).
By a decree of the President of Uzbekistan, labor migrants will be reimbursed for expenses related to obtaining professional and language certificates. Those who find themselves in difficult situations abroad will be provided with assistance.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was on an official visit to Tashkent from May 26-27, 2024. As a result of the talks, more than 20 agreements were signed, and an agreement was reached to start the construction of a nuclear power plant in the Jizzakh region with a capacity of 300 MW.
Both sides intend to expand trade relations and increase the volume of bilateral trade from the current $10 billion to $20 billion in the near future.
Additionally, the leaders of the two countries signed a joint statement noting that the heads of Russia and Uzbekistan outlined areas for mutually beneficial cooperation.
"The heads of state agreed to develop and enrich interstate dialogue based on mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, support, and partnership between the two brotherly peoples," the statement said.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 28, 2024