Earlier, Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting in Termez on the topic of socio-economic development of the Surkhandarya region.

The President gave instructions for the development of mineral reserves in Surkhandarya, the press service of the head of state reports.

Mirziyoyev set the task of attracting investments to the region worth $1.5 billion, and production of goods worth 12 trillion soums. It is expected that exports of the Surkhandarya region will reach $500 million, and imports will decrease by $100 million.

The head of state instructed the governors of regions and districts to employ 400 thousand people.

The region’s potential in the field of mining was also noted. For example, Chinarsay polymetallic ores contain lead, zinc and gold. There are reserves of white marble in Sariosiyo, coal in Baysun and Sariosiyo, and raw materials for potash fertilizers in Sherabad.

In addition, it is planned to expand geological exploration work in the mountainous areas of Surkhandarya. Separately, the president focused on the possibilities for gas and sulfur production in the Baysun district for 6 trillion soums per year.

According to him, this area has up to 100 billion cubic meters of gas, as well as an oil reserve that can ensure the independence of Uzbekistan in this field. Thanks to their development, the region’s export volume will reach $120 million annually.

On November 16, Shavkat Mirziyoyev ordered a fourfold increase in coal production in the Surkhandarya region – from 540 thousand to 2 million tons per year. In total, 82 million tons of coal reserves have been discovered in the region.