Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented state awards to entrepreneurs who made a significant contribution to the country’s economic development and strengthening of its export potential.

The official ceremony took place on 20 August in New Tashkent, in accordance with the presidential decree dated 18 August.

In his speech, the President congratulated attendees on Entrepreneurs’ Day and the upcoming Independence Day, emphasizing the pivotal role of business in advancing large-scale reforms.

“Today I am glad to see among us leading entrepreneurs — the most progressive representatives of our society. At the start of reforms, both economists and businesspeople had certain concerns. But we moved forward, creating conditions with confidence in success. This has borne fruit — trust between the state and business has strengthened, and society as a whole has become an ally of entrepreneurs,” Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated.

He stressed that over the past 4–5 years, 7.5 million people in Uzbekistan have been provided with employment, while in 2025 alone more than 3 million jobs have been created.

According to him, entrepreneurs today are the driving force of the economy, especially in the regions and rural areas, where jobs are generated and stable incomes ensured. A key achievement has also been the preparation of hundreds of thousands of young people and women for entrepreneurial activities.

“The formation of a new generation of businesspeople is our great wealth and achievement. Every entrepreneur leads dozens of people, teaches them the trade, creates jobs and income. You can rightfully be called the heroes of New Uzbekistan,” the President underlined.

This year, special emphasis was placed on awarding entrepreneurs who not only achieved outstanding results but also became role models for the business community and made a notable contribution to the development of regions and the country as a whole.

As tradition dictates, the best representatives of business were honored with distinguished titles, orders, and medals. The laureates expressed gratitude to the President for his continued attention and support.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of government and public organizations, scholars, and intellectuals.