In his speech on August 31, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of the cotton policy on the country. He regretted that this policy led to the drying up of the Aral Sea, destroyed the economy, caused a severe crisis in the country's ecosystem, and resulted in irreparable damage to the environment.
'Looking back, we have to admit the bitter truth: previously, the word 'Uzbek' was associated only with those who work day and night on the cotton fields. Unfortunately, it was then.
The cotton monopoly has become a yoke to our people. Cotton policies have dried up the Aral Sea, caused a crisis in our ecosystem, and crippled our economy, our education system. Because of this, several generations have not received full knowledge. We are still struggling with these consequences.
As a result, several generations have grown up illiterate. We are still dealing with the consequences of this. Today, the principles of a market economy have been introduced in cotton production, and the industry has found its owner.
As a result, the teachers returned to school, the doctors returned to the hospital, the entrepreneurs were freed from cotton 'tribute', and forced and child labor was ended. Uzbekistan is excluded from the international 'blacklists'.
Thanks to our people's dedication, New Uzbekistan's dream is becoming a reality. In the international arena, respect and attention to our Motherland is growing',
the President said.
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