10-07-202656
On 24–25 April 2026, the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences of Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhan Beruni, in collaboration with the Khorezm Regional Branch of the Centre for Sustainable Development, organised a national scientific-practical conference on the theme "Topical Issues of Implementing Structural Transformations in Regional Economies and Their Impact on Sustainable Development."
The conference served as a scientific dialogue platform aimed at ensuring sustainable economic growth through the modernisation of regional economies, the deepening of structural diversification, and the enhancement of resource efficiency. Plenary sessions and five thematic panels were convened, during which the institutional, innovative, and investment dimensions of structural transformations in regional economies were examined in comprehensive detail.
The principal objectives of the conference were defined as follows: improving the mechanisms for transforming regional economic systems, introducing innovative models of development, and formulating strategies for the sustainable development of regions in the context of prevailing global economic trends. In this regard, particular attention was devoted to the adaptation of advanced international experience to national economic conditions, the broad application of the cluster approach, and the promotion of "green economy" principles.
The conference was opened by Professor Alimardon Atamurotov, Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, and participants were conveyed the welcoming address of the University Rector, Professor Madrakhimova. The event was attended by scholars from higher educational institutions across the Republic, research scientists, practising specialists, and early-career researchers, whose active engagement lent considerable depth to the scientific exchange.
A series of presentations on significant and topical subjects were delivered at the plenary session. Professor B. Ruzmetov analysed the institutional mechanisms for poverty reduction in the region and advanced scientific proposals for improving the social protection system. Professor T. Dushchanov substantiated the potential for enhancing regional economic activity through the formation of tourism clusters. Professor V. Islamutdinov of the Yelabuga Branch of Kazan Federal University examined the mechanisms for accelerating regional development drawing on the experience of the Republic of Tatarstan. F. Abdullayev analysed the experience of foreign countries in transitioning to a "green economy" and identified the prospects for its application within the national economy.
In his address, Professor B. Ruzmetov emphasised that poverty reduction and improving the welfare of the population constitute one of the most pressing priorities in Uzbekistan's socio-economic development, and that institutional reforms are accordingly being carried out to raise living standards and ensure social stability. He noted in particular that state policy, the regulatory and legal framework, social assistance programmes, employment incentive mechanisms, and the effective functioning of the regional business and governance system — as well as the development of the creative economy — are of paramount importance in this process. Reducing poverty and improving welfare requires a comprehensive institutional approach that, through the harmonious integration of economic, social, and legal mechanisms, provides the foundation for the country's sustainable and inclusive development.
The conference continued its proceedings in the following thematic panels:
Panel 1. The socio-economic development of regions in implementing the "Uzbekistan — 2030" Strategy: achievements and objectives.
Panel 2. Methodological foundations for implementing structural transformations in regional economies.
Panel 3. Specific features of implementing structural transformations in the agricultural, industrial, and services sectors of the region.
Panel 4. International experience in implementing structural transformations in regional economies.
Panel 5. The role of innovative development, digital transformation, and human capital in implementing structural transformations in regional economies.
In the course of the conference discussions, the following priority directions for implementing structural transformations in regional economies were identified: diversification of economic sectors, development of innovative infrastructure, improvement of the investment climate, strengthening of human capital, and the broad introduction of digital economy instruments. The necessity of enhancing the effectiveness of local governance and deepening institutional reforms was likewise underscored.
At the close of the conference, it was noted that the scientific and practical proposals and recommendations elaborated therein are intended to contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of regions, stabilising economic growth rates, and improving the welfare of the population. The event proved to be of significance not only as a platform for scholarly dialogue, but also as an important forum serving the strategic development of regional economies.
Head of the Khorezm Regional Branch of the Centre for Sustainable Development, Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor B. Ruzmetov