Shavkat Mirziyoyev becomes one of the “Asians of the Year” 2018

Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been selected as one of the “Asians of the Year” for 2018 by the Asia Journalist Association.

He was named to this award in the politics category for his endeavors to settle peace and continue interaction between the countries of Central Asia. Since he became president in December 2016, he has reformed the internal and foreign policy of the country, boosted the economy, released political prisoners, thus, ensured human rights. 

Along with Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the association selected Koo Bon-moo, the late former chairman of LG Group, as one of the other 3 “Asians of the Year” in the economic category. Koo, who died in May, received the award for leading the conglomerate to make rapid growth and become a global company. The group also set up an award to recognize people who have sacrificed themselves for social justice.

Park Hang-seo, the Korean coach of the Vietnam national football team, was selected for the society and culture category, as he led the Vietnamese team to consecutive victories. With humble leadership, he contributed to Vietnamese people’s unity.

Magdi Habib Yacoub, an Egyptian thoracic surgeon, was picked for the society and culture category as well. He saved many children's lives in Africa by giving free heart transplants through his own foundation Magdi Yacoub Institution.

“Those people were selected after final deliberation by the AJA leaders and each country’s representatives’ evaluation,” said Ashraf Dali, president of the AJA. “I send my greatest respect to those selected.”

The awarding ceremony will be held at the AJA general assembly in spring 2019.