On the eve of the greatest and dearest day, the 19^th anniversary of the republic’s independence, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov issued decrees to award a group of citizens of the republic for their remarkable contribution to its prosperity, for displaying an exemplary pattern in raising the country’s economic potential, strengthening the peaceful life of people.

An awarding ceremony took place at the Oqsaroy on December 7.

“Meeting you today, I would like first of all to congratulate you on the Constitution Day widely celebrated throughout the country,” President Karimov said.

“It has become a good tradition to congratulate our compatriots who are honored with high awards of our state these festive days.

I would like to say that I am quite pleased to meet you all, outstanding people who devoted themselves to fulfilling their duty before our people, who have become a model with their selfless work and whole-hearted service to the Motherland. I am happy to hug you and shake your hands.  

You remember well the unexpected freaks of nature we have faced this year. In spite of that, this year in general proved successful for us, because the country has achieved much success and progress. Thanks to the hard work and enterprise of our farmers, we managed to harvest seven tons of grain. All regions and districts fulfilled their contractual commitments with honor, while many farms achieved high yield indicators: 55-67 metric centners per hectare. A total of 3.4 million tones of cotton was harvested this year with 90 % of high grade cotton that added another remarkable page into the country’s cotton growing history.

Other sectors, including industry, building, road laying, small and entrepreneurial business bring a plenty of positive examples. Notably, in conditions of continuing global financial-economic crisis many countries report the decrease of economic growth rates while Uzbekistan is among the few states retaining the stable development rates. This is evidenced by the estimated gross domestic product’s rate 8.5% this year. I’m sure in the high growth rate in 2011 too.

Let’s address the education sphere”, the state’s leader said,” which is crucial for us. I think each of you can bring numerous facts of certain advance in strengthening the material and technical base in education institutions, building of schools, lyceums and colleges by the example of your native town of village.  

Over 1.7 trillion soums of budget funds was allotted to the health sector. This is 30% more than in 2009, and twice more than in 2008. This practically proves that human health is the primary value for us.

“We all realize,” noted Islam Karimov, “no figures can estimate the whole scope and significance of the work carried out on development of science, culture, art, sports, and spirituality.

Peace, tranquility and stability reign in each family, local community and the whole country thanks to fortitude and selflessness of our armed forces, defenders of the Motherland, and law-enforcement officers. The confidence in tomorrow gets strengthened in each compatriot, and this is our major achievement.

Every citizen regardless his nationality, language or religion is enabled to state proudly about his own contribution in the high progress. In this respect we mention with gratitude the managers of big and small enterprises who became a model thanks to their diligence, intelligence, knowledge, experience, and exemplary humanity. We highly appreciate their contribution into the republic’s prosperity.

Much can be mentioned regarding the merits and contribution into our common cause by our compatriots to whom we present the high state awards these days. Indeed, you have done much for the Motherland’s prosperity and you fully deserve the high honor and respect.

Awarding our compatriots I’m especially glad to note many representatives of youth full of energy and enthusiasm who displayed themselves in various spheres, achieved big results in their young life in the year 2010 dedicated to comprehensively advanced generation”.

President Islam Karimov presented high state awards in a solemn atmosphere.

“Today is a big holiday for us,” said the head of the state. “This is a happy event for you and members of your families, friends, and colleagues. While awarding you I noticed that you became taller, and your faces became lighter and happier. It seems to me that I am awarded too.  

As you gather with your families and friends to celebrate your awards, imagine that I’m with you, and I will be happy.

May these awards, the symbols of our people’s respect and attention, bring you happiness. I congratulate you on the Constitution Day, and wish all of you good health, happiness, and prosperity for your families,” concluded Islam Karimov.

Awardees expressed their sincere gratitude to the head of the state for his big concern and care.