CITIC Construction, a Chinese enterprise, shows interest in the road construction industry of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Transport reported.

On March 27, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport, Ilkhom Makhkamov, welcomed a delegation from the Chinese company for negotiations. The sides discussed joint work on projects aimed at the development and improvement of the road network.

CITIC representatives expressed their intention to participate in the reconstruction of the Pungan—Namangan and Tashkent—Chinaz roads. Further, the company plans to construct new toll roads in Uzbekistan.

The company is conducting a thorough examination of the projects to develop proposals that meet all quality requirements and global standards, with promises to present these proposals in the coming days.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev spoke about approving the reconstruction project of the highway from Namangan to the Pungan settlement on March 25, during a trip to the Namangan region. He stated that he personally leads the discussion of major projects with investors.

"For years, the people of Namangan, and the entire Fergana Valley, have been suffering, especially during winter. After constructing the Kamchik pass, this road also needed to be continued, but as they say, 'if you want to go to the mill, wait your turn.' The time has come. We will undoubtedly build this new road for the New Uzbekistan," Mirziyoyev remarked.

In 2013, Uzbekistan received $220 million from the Asian Development Bank for the reconstruction and expansion of the 4P112 "Fergana Ring" road section between Pungan and Namangan. Project work was suspended three years later.

According to the presentation, the resumption of work is planned for April 25, with completion slated for the end of 2025. Upon completion of the reconstruction, the maximum speed on the highway will be 120 km/h.