Uzbek president calls country's referendum - historic

Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev called the constitutional referendum in the country a "historic event".

He made the remarks at a meeting with the heads of the chambers of the Oliy Majlis (Uzbek Parliament), political parties, judicial and executive authorities, Anadolu reports.

“For the first time, we have adopted an updated Constitution on the basis of a popular referendum. The referendum showed in practice how much the political consciousness, legal culture and worldview of our people have grown,” Mirziyoyev said.

According to him, the people of Uzbekistan have once again demonstrated faith and support for the reforms launched six years ago with their historic choice.

Mirziyoyev noted that the decision of the people forms a solid foundation for the further stable development of the statehood and economy of the Central Asian country.

The opinion of the people expressed at the referendum "imposes a great responsibility on all of us," the president continued.

"A low bow to our multinational, brave and noble people, who sincerely fulfilled their civic duty, actively participated with their practical proposals and initiatives, ideas and opinions in the adoption of our Basic Law," he stressed.

He also added that the Uzbek people "once again demonstrated in practice devotion to the ideas of democracy, freedom and equality, social justice and unity."

Mirziyoyev said that the norm in the first article of the updated Constitution underlines that Uzbekistan is a sovereign, democratic, legal, social and secular state that "has historical significance."

According to him, these principles - the five foundations that determine the path of development and destiny, the future of the country, will never change.

Drawing attention to new challenges, risks and dangers in the world, the politician said that in such a difficult situation, only the interests of the Uzbek people and country should be a priority.

“Therefore, maintaining and strengthening peace and stability in the country will remain our most important task,” Mirziyoyev noted.

A referendum on the Constitution in a new edition was held in Uzbekistan on April 30. According to official figures, more than 90 per cent of the votes were cast in favour of amending the Constitution.