Former water resources minister passes away

Rim Giniyatullin, a statesman and veteran of labor, died on April 19 at the age of 83. Shavkat Mirziyoyev expressed condolences over his passing, according to the presidential press service.

Giniyatullin was born on September 18, 1943, in Zomin District. In 1963, he graduated from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers (now the National Research University “TIIAME”) with a degree in hydraulic engineering. He began his career as a worker in the construction sector and later held positions as foreman and chief engineer within the ministry.

Over the course of his career, he served in various senior roles, including deputy head of a department, head of a main department, and deputy minister at the Ministry of Water Resources. He also worked as deputy chairman of the State Planning Committee and deputy chairman of the State Agro-Industrial Committee, gaining extensive experience in public administration.

From 1989 to 1996, he served as minister of melioration and water resources, and from 1996 to 1997 as deputy prime minister of Uzbekistan. During this time, he contributed significantly to the development of the country’s water management and agricultural sectors, supporting broader socio-economic growth.

Giniyatullin also held leadership positions in the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, where he played an active role in developing measures to mitigate the environmental consequences of the Aral Sea crisis.

“In his later years, he actively participated in the process of building a New Uzbekistan, contributing to strengthening peace, tolerance, and social cohesion in our multiethnic society, supporting the elderly, and educating youth in the spirit of patriotism and respect for national and universal values,” the condolence message said.

He was awarded the honorary titles “Honored Irrigator of Uzbekistan” and “Honored Mentor of Youth of Uzbekistan,” as well as the “Mehnat Shuhrati” and “Dustlik” orders.

“The memory of Rim Abdulovich Giniyatullin, an experienced leader respected by the people, a caring mentor to the youth, and a sincere and modest individual, will remain in our hearts forever,” the statement said.

Earlier, Vyacheslav Golishev also passed away at the age of 75.