February 19, 2009

Politics:
Uzbek Minister, Chinese Envoy Sign Exchange Notes in Tashkent
Economy
GM Uzbekistan car output down 50% on year in Jan

POLICY

Islam Karimov receives Commander of US Central Command

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov received General David Petraeus, the Commander of the US Central Command on 17 February at Oqsaroy residence in Tashkent, UzA reported.

“We believe that your visit is an important event in the relations between Uzbekistan and the United States, because it is the first visit of the representative of the new US administration,” said Islam Karimov. “The meeting is a good opportunity to exchange views on cooperation and on the situation in the region.”

Uzbekistan believes in cooperation with all countries based on principles of mutual respect and trust. Cooperation with the United States also meets the interests of Uzbekistan.

D. Petraeus thanked the President for a candid reception and said that the development of Uzbek – US relations not only serves the interests of both countries, but also helps to prevent threats and strengthens regional security.

During the meeting, issues representing mutual interest, on strengthening of regional security, stabilization of situation in Afghanistan, fighting against international terrorism, drug trafficking, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other threats were discussed.

ECONOMY

GM Uzbekistan car output down 50% on year in Jan

GM Uzbekistan, a joint venture of US$ automaker General Motors (GM) and Uzbek automaker Uzavtoprom, decreased its car output 49.8% on the year to 5,200 units in January, according to the State Statistics Committee.

Of the total, GM Uzbekistan produced 2,382 Nexia cars, down 53% on the year; 1,696 Matiz compact cars, down 52% on the year; 470 Damas minivans, down 65% on the year; 175 Epica cars, up 16.7% on the year, and 25 Captiva SUVs, down from 200 units in January 2008. GM Uzbekistan also produced 452 Lacetti cars in January 2009; it did not produce Lacetti cars in January 2008.

In 2008, GM Uzbekistan's car output increased 13.5% on the year to 195,038 units, it said earlier.

GM Uzbekistan was set up in 2008. GM holds 25% plus one share in the joint venture and has an option to increase its stake in the company to 40%. Uzavtoprom holds other 75%.