Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 30 December, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a meeting on the implementation of administrative reform, changes in the structure and system of work of the Government, and the most important tasks of the country’s socio-economic development in 2023.

At the beginning of the meeting, new appointments to the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and ministers made in accordance with the decrees and resolutions of the President were announced. Before them are designated topical issues that need to be resolved in the spheres and industries under their jurisdiction, as well as their responsibility to the people.

It was emphasized that despite the difficult year, positive results were achieved in the economy. In particular, the gross domestic product has increased by more than 5 percent this year. The volume of exports increased by 14 percent and amounted to US$19 billion. About US$8 billion of foreign direct investment has been attracted to the economy.

In the social sphere, the goals of increasing employment and raising the standard of living of the population remain a priority. This year, for the first time in our history, the size of pensions and social benefits reached a level no lower than the minimum consumer spending. Significant funds were directed to improve the infrastructure of mahallas and solve problems that have been troubling the population for many years. Social assistance is provided to more than 2 million low-income families. Educational and medical institutions, drinking water supply networks, roads are being built in the regions.

The meeting discussed the tasks to ensure stable economic growth next year. In particular, the goal was set to increase industrial production by more than 5 percent, agriculture - by 3 percent, services - by 14 percent.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance was instructed to improve business conditions, expand the tax base, and increase the purchasing power of the population.

The Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade has been tasked with increasing labor productivity in large industries, exploring the potential of non-industrial areas and engaging their “growth points”. It is emphasized that only investment and exports are capable of driving the economy forward, and it is necessary to increase the volume of exports to more than US$23 billion next year. It was noted that more than 300 projects worth US$8 billion will be launched, and 40 new large projects have been launched.

In the field of transport, measures have been identified to improve passenger transportation services, develop a digital map of all roads, and improve road services.

Special attention was paid to the issues of improving the quality of education, the development of science, tourism, culture and sports. The need to eradicate corruption in the field of healthcare and pharmaceuticals, systematic work with patients in need of state assistance was indicated.

- Ministers must tirelessly work on themselves, change themselves and the whole system. We all need to work hard, selflessly with a sense of belonging and love for the people. Our ultimate goal is to make our people happy,” the President said.

At the meeting, which was held in a critical spirit, the shortcomings made this year were noted, and appropriate measures were identified.