President congratulates press and media workers

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev congratulated journalists, veterans, and all creative and technical workers who faithfully serve in Uzbekistan’s modern press, television, and radio channels, online publications, publishing and printing enterprises, and information services on the occasion of Press and Media Workers’ Day, celebrated on June 27.

“We all understand that in today’s extremely complex and turbulent world, where global socio-political processes are changing at an unprecedented pace, the role and influence of the media are more important than ever.

In this sense, I believe it is fair to compare the hard work of journalists—who, in the vast media landscape, not only disseminate objective and truthful information but also firmly safeguard our national interests—to the courage of the defenders of the Motherland, who stand guard over our sacred borders.

On this auspicious occasion, it is a great honor for me to express my highest respect and best wishes, on behalf of our people, to all media workers who, with their talent and professional skills, are making a valuable contribution to the historic transformations taking place in our country,” the President’s congratulatory message reads.

The President also quoted the famous Jadid thinker Haji Muin: “The history of the press is a part of the history of the Renaissance.” He emphasized that in recent years, following the exemplary traditions of great ancestors, Uzbekistan has prioritized the consistent development of the mass media as a fundamental condition for building a democratic society.

It was noted that as a result of this approach, advanced projects and technologies, along with new forms of property relations, are actively entering the media space. Currently, 65 percent of the approximately 2,400 media outlets operating in the country belong to the non-state sector. The number of users of private publications, television and radio channels, and online platforms has risen from 14.7 million to 32.7 million, while the number of content creators is steadily growing—significantly boosting the country’s media potential.

“In particular, supporting young creators, independent studios, and production centers in developing national media content forms the foundation for producing high-quality, competitive projects in the digital space.

Serious efforts are being made to ensure citizens’ constitutional rights to access information and to legally implement freedom of the press and speech. Special attention is given to protecting children from harmful information while providing comprehensive education. In this regard, tax exemptions have been introduced for national content intended for children: publishing products will be exempt from income tax until 2030, the social tax is set at 1 percent, and the procedure for value-added tax refunds has been simplified,” the message says.

The message highlights the establishment of the Center for the Development of Children’s Content, which has begun working to educate the younger generation in the spirit of national values and enlightenment. It is also noted that a draft law on protecting the rights of users of online platforms and websites has been submitted for public discussion.

“The rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies not only opens up new opportunities for journalism but also requires that our work in this area meets the demands of the times.

We are pleased that a new generation of passionate, patriotic journalists is emerging in our country—professionals who are mastering not only journalism but also foreign languages and information technologies.

At the same time, we still have important tasks ahead, such as ensuring impartiality and adherence to the rule of law in the media, enhancing professional skills, adopting modern methods of information dissemination, fostering a culture of debate and dialogue among the public, and continuing the fight against negative phenomena in society, including corruption,” the President added.

The President also announced that, based on proposals from journalists and media professionals, the "Oltin qalam (Golden Pen)" National Award will be presented for the first time this year on June 27, Press and Media Workers’ Day.

“Taking this opportunity, I sincerely congratulate all the winners of the competition and those who have received high state awards, who will be solemnly recognized today in your presence.

I believe that each of you will build your own school of experience and make an even greater contribution to the development of our national journalism.

Undoubtedly, appreciating the hard work of media professionals, supporting creative teams, and strengthening the material, technical, and human resources of the sector will remain a priority of state policy in New Uzbekistan.

Once again, I sincerely congratulate you on your professional holiday and extend my warmest wishes.

May you always be healthy, safe, and blessed in your responsible and honorable work, dear friends!” said the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.