Artikhudjaev linked the proposal to the recent drone attack in Nizhnekamsk, Tatarstan, in which eight Uzbek citizens were killed. He said businesses should play a role in creating jobs for Uzbeks working abroad.
“AKFA Holding is ready to offer jobs for 10,000 of our compatriots living abroad,” Artikhudjaev said in remarks broadcast by Uzbekistan 24.
He said the company could set up a dedicated call center for Uzbeks who want to return from Russia and work in Uzbekistan.
“If you allow us, we will establish a separate call center as early as tomorrow and start employing our compatriots who want to return from Russia and work in Uzbekistan,” he said.
Artikhudjaev also called on other businesses to join the initiative. He noted that Uzbekistan has around 600,000 entrepreneurs and said that if each hired at least two Uzbek citizens currently abroad, more than 1 million people could find jobs.
Jobs abroad
Artikhudjaev said the construction company Discovery Invest had established a joint venture with a major US construction company.
According to him, the partners have begun negotiations on EPC contracts for the construction of a major petrochemical complex in Mexico and a mining complex in Saudi Arabia.
He said the company could send thousands of Uzbek citizens willing to work on these projects.
Artikhudjaev also said negotiations were under way on participation in the construction of a major tourism complex in Albania, which could create additional jobs for Uzbek construction workers.
President Mirziyoyev backed the proposals and instructed Artikhudjaev to develop a platform for employing Uzbek citizens abroad and those wishing to return home.
“Regarding all your proposals, including the return of our 10,000 compatriots, create a platform and submit your proposal to me within 10 days,” Mirziyoyev said. He also endorsed the proposal to arrange employment for Uzbek citizens in Mexico, Saudi Arabia and other countries.
The president again referred to the deaths of Uzbek citizens in Tatarstan and said the government should respond with concrete measures rather than statements.
He also pointed to the large number of vacancies available inside Uzbekistan and businesses’ plans to expand.
“Many jobs are available, and entrepreneurs have major expansion plans. So create such a platform,” Mirziyoyev said, instructing Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov to involve Uzbekistan’s ambassadors, starting with the ambassador in Russia, where the largest number of Uzbek citizens live.
President Mirziyoyev also suggested that business representatives travel to Russia if necessary and meet with Uzbek citizens there to explain the opportunities available to those who return to Uzbekistan.
He instructed entrepreneurs to submit proposals for the platform within 10–15 days.
