Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has congratulated serving and retired Interior Ministry personnel on the 35th anniversary of the ministry’s establishment, praising their contribution to public safety and the protection of citizens’ rights.
In a congratulatory message published on 24 October, the president said public trust in law enforcement officers was the most important measure of their performance.
He highlighted the role of Interior Ministry personnel in maintaining peace in mahallas and ensuring the safety of children and families.
Over 35 years, the ministry has accumulated considerable experience and developed traditions of courage and service to the people, Mirziyoyev said. The current generation of officers must build on these traditions by applying modern knowledge and approaches.
The president said that no crimes had been recorded in nearly half of Uzbekistan’s mahallas this year. He attributed the result to joint efforts by law enforcement agencies, mahalla activists and local residents, calling for successful practices to be expanded as the country continues to create safer communities.
Mirziyoyev also emphasised the introduction of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in public safety, as well as the early detection and prevention of cybercrime and the protection of citizens’ property.
Among the key priorities, he identified combating drug addiction and organised crime, particularly protecting young people from their harmful effects. Improving staff training, strengthening links between theory and practice, expanding dual education and drawing on domestic and international expertise were necessary to make these efforts more effective, he said.
The president urged officers to take the initiative in preventing crime, maintain discipline and carry out their duties conscientiously. He stressed the importance of treating citizens with respect, strictly observing the law and upholding professional honour.
Attentive consideration of every appeal and assistance in resolving problems through lawful means help strengthen public confidence in the law enforcement system as a whole, Mirziyoyev said.
He expressed particular gratitude to veterans of the internal affairs bodies for their contribution to the ministry’s development and for mentoring younger officers.
The president also thanked the families of Interior Ministry personnel for their support. He stressed the importance of honouring officers who had died protecting the peaceful lives of citizens and providing care for their families and children.
Mirziyoyev concluded by wishing serving and retired personnel good health, well-being for their families and success in their service.
