By Rafael Nektalov

I regularly follow the democratic changes and socio-economic reforms being carried out in Uzbekistan. It is noteworthy that in the parliamentary and local council elections held on Sunday, people showed great activity and 74.72 percent of the total electorate participated in the voting. I was also pleased by the increased activity of women in the state, society, and political structures. It is important to note that the number of women elected to parliamentary and local representative bodies has increased even more compared to previous years, and this is very encouraging.

Although I live in America, my homeland is Uzbekistan. I was born in Samarkand, and I lived half my life in this country. Therefore, I love Uzbekistan very much.

Love for my homeland always draws me to my native lands. I like to walk around the cities and beautiful streets of Uzbekistan, observing the prosperity and well-being in these places. Previously, I came to Uzbekistan as an international observer, and this time I was in the cities of Kokand, Andijan, and Fergana, as well as in Syrdarya and Samarkand regions.

I was impressed by the modern conditions at the world-class level in the higher educational institution in the city of Kokand. In the new Uzbekistan, old obstacles have been removed. In the process of providing knowledge to students, young men and women were attracted based on positive approaches to the educational process.

On October 27th in Samarkand, on election day, I visited several polling stations. I participated as an observer in the voting at the 8th school in the city of Samarkand and was satisfied with the voting process.

Five years ago, as an international observer, I participated in the same school and expressed my thoughts about some shortcomings. This time, I was very glad that the shortcomings had been eliminated.

I highly appreciate and strongly support the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, for the interethnic consensus he is conducting with representatives of interstate structures.

It is especially necessary to note the opening of borders with the Commonwealth countries, and the procedures for crossing borders have been simplified.

The development of trade and cultural ties between the Commonwealth countries deserves special attention.

The Uzbek people, with their wise deeds and hospitality, adorn life and delight everyone.

As a journalist, I would like to express some opinions. As an international observer, I participated in several polling stations.

The Russian word «uchastok» [polling station] does not fit into the Uzbek lexicon and it is desirable to replace it.

I was upset that in many places large ancient trees had dried up. In my youth, we sat in the shade of these trees, and now they have dried up. I was very sad to see this sight.

Uzbekistan is a country that guarantees that all nations will live in peace and harmony. When I come to Uzbekistan, I am greeted as the dearest and closest person. I love this wonderful country.

Uzbekistan is my ancestral homeland. I rejoice at its every success. The fact that the elections were a great success is a great victory.

With this joyful news, I wish to congratulate all our compatriots.

This article from “Hurriyat” newspaper was translated from Uzbek to English. 

Rafael Nektalov, international observer of Uzbekistan’s parliamentary elections.