Why is this important
Hakimov’s appointment (an expert economist, former head of CERR) signals a focus on analytics and reforms. Gulyamov’s transition to regional development reflects the priority of balanced growth of regions, not just the capital. Magrupov has relieved himself of his post for foreign investment — a change in capital attraction strategy is possible.
What happened
- Obid Hakimov has been appointed Presidential Advisor on Economic Policy;
- Ravshan Gulyamov was transferred from economics to regional development;
- Aziz Magrupov — Deputy Regional Advisor, has been relieved of his position as Foreign Investment Representative;
- All three received new positions after the July reorganization of the Presidential Administration.
Appointments
Obid Hakimov — Economic Policy Advisor
- Previously: Deputy Economic Advisor, Director of the Center for Reconstruction and Development;
- Profile: economist-analyst, reform specialist.
Ravshan Gulyamov — Regional Development Advisor (new position)
- Previously: Economic Policy Advisor since July 2023;
- Moving to the regional agenda is a shift in focus.
Aziz Magrupov — Deputy Advisor for Regional Development
- Previously: Presidential Representative for Foreign Investments;
- It frees up an investment post — restructuring is possible.
Context
Obid Hakimov is a well-known economist who headed the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) — a key analytical center under the government — for a long time. The SEIR prepares economic forecasts, proposes reforms, and evaluates the effectiveness of state programs. Hakimov’s appointment strengthens the analytical component of the economic bloc.
Ravshan Gulyamov has been overseeing economic policy since July 2023. Its transfer to regional development may be related to the task of balancing growth between the capital and regions. Tashkent and Tashkent region are developing faster than others, which creates an imbalance.
Aziz Magrupov was engaged in attracting foreign investment. Its transition to regional development frees up the post for foreign investment. It is possible that the function will be transferred to another agency or a new representative will be appointed.
The July reorganization of the Presidential Administration affected the structure of advisors. The creation of a regional development post indicates increased attention to the regions: the construction of infrastructure, the creation of industrial zones, and the attraction of investments in the region.
