"If some arrogant rich man appears, I will forgive no one" — President

"If some arrogant rich person appears, I will not forgive anyone" — President

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated at a meeting on September 11 that security directly affects the investment attractiveness of regions and business confidence.

According to him, economic work alone is not enough if the authorities cannot ensure order.

"Until we curb crime, there will be no return on our work, and entrepreneurs will not come. Remember this," the president said.

Mirziyoyev noted that investors evaluate not only the country's economic opportunities, but also the level of security.

"Every entrepreneur and every company knows the map of Uzbekistan, but they also take into account whether crime has been contained there. Therefore, you, the Minister of Internal Affairs [Aziz Tashpulatov], must set an example for everyone. All of you must understand this. You are not doing minor work. Do not think that this is a temporary task," he said, addressing the heads of law enforcement agencies.

The president emphasized that to maintain peace and tranquility, law enforcement agencies must work even harder.

"We must be grateful for peace. But for our people to live peacefully, we must work twice as hard. People should feel free and calm at home, fearing nothing and no one."

Separately, Mirziyoyev warned against the impunity of influential or wealthy people. "If some arrogant rich person appears, I will not forgive anyone. Everyone must know this. There must be a state. Then we will have unity and harmony, and people will trust us," the head of state said.

He also stated that attempts by criminal structures to place themselves above the law and exert pressure on businesses are being recorded in Uzbekistan. Athletes are also being involved in this. He warned that the state has enough power to put an end to the activities of such groups and called on parliament to tighten the laws.