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Some got it, some did not: "Uzbekistan Airways" holiday discount faced criticism. The company announced a 30 percent discount on tickets for all destinations yesterday, on the occasion of its 33rd anniversary, but according to reports circulating on social media, the 30 percent discount was raised with the arrival of January 28. This situation caused objections from many. To clarify the situation, Kun.uz conducted a survey with those who visited the central cash desk of "Uzbekistan Airways." While some claimed they were purchasing tickets at the discounted price, the majority of citizens stated that they did not notice the announced 30 percent discounts in ticket prices. According to the press secretary of "Uzbekistan Airways," tickets are sold worldwide for 24 hours. If they were sold at one price yesterday, it is natural for them to be at a different price today. As cheaper rates sell out due to purchases, tickets at higher rates are put on sale. After that, some passengers do not see discounts. "This is a process related to the fluctuation of rates; the rates are entered into the system, and it is difficult to change them within 1-2 days. Employees act 2-3 months in advance, so we cannot deliberately raise prices to enter them into the system," says the company's press secretary.

On January 28, a press conference was held with the participation of the leadership of "Uzbekistan Airways" JSC and representatives of the media, marking the 33rd anniversary of the company's establishment. According to officials, in the spring of 2025, 5 new aircraft will be brought in, and new flights will be launched in 4 directions. This was reported by Kun.uz. They are: - Tashkent – Madrid; - Tashkent – Shenzhen; - Fergana – Urumqi; - Fergana – Delhi routes will be operated. The opening of flights to China is also noted to coincide with the expected introduction of a visa-free regime between Uzbekistan and China in March-April. The company also announced that it will purchase 14 Dreamliners from Boeing in 2029-2032. Currently, there is no additional information regarding their prices. Furthermore, it was added that flights to Europe are being carried out only through Turkey and Azerbaijan, not through Russia.

Tashkent ranked first among the world's major cities in terms of air pollution levels on January 28. The IQAir portal provided information about air quality. The ranking changes in real-time. As of 13:22, Tashkent is leading among polluted cities. The concentration of fine PM2.5 particulate matter in the capital's air reached 193.5 µg/m3. Currently, the air quality in the capital is classified as "extremely harmful." If the IQAir index is above 100, it is considered harmful to health, and above 200, it is rated as very harmful. According to the World Health Organization, among the indicators of air pollution, PM2.5 particulate matter poses the greatest health risk. Unfortunately, this is not the first time Tashkent has topped this ranking. According to the Ministry of Ecology, air pollution in Uzbekistan is related to natural (dry climate, sandy and loamy soils) and anthropogenic (transport, industrial, construction waste) factors. Weak winds, temperature inversions, and atmospheric stability create conditions for natural air pollution. Due to the country's natural characteristics (dry climate, sandy and clay soils), the concentration of suspended particles—dust—is high in the atmosphere. Currently, industrial enterprises and vehicles release more than 2 million tons of pollutants into the atmosphere annually. Especially in Tashkent, Almalyk, Nurafshon, Ohangaron, Angren, Bekobod, and Quvasoy, the amount of pollutants in the air is significantly higher compared to other regions. As a point of information, a ranking is established in Uzbekistan based on the level of air, water, and environmental pollution in each region. What to do in dusty air? The recommendations from the Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee for dealing with dusty air are as follows: Go outside as little as possible; Wear a medical mask when going out for work, study, or shopping, and change it every 2 hours; Take a shower after returning home (wash hair and face thoroughly); Wipe keys, glasses, phone, and bag with a damp cloth; Wash clothes worn outside; Shake out outerwear (suit, coat, raincoat, etc.) while wearing a mask; Gargle and rinse the nose frequently with saline solution; Drink more fluids (warm), preferably green tea or herbal infusions; Limit fatty, fried, smoked, salted, and spicy foods; Consume liquid vegetable dishes, dairy products (yogurt, kefir, etc.), and greens; Prevent dust accumulation and clean the house and surfaces properly; Keep doors and windows of homes, offices, and vehicles tightly closed; Clean everything that can accumulate dust with a vacuum cleaner (carpets, rugs, soft furniture, soft toys, etc.). It is recommended to cover soft furniture with a damp cloth before shaking it out. Wipe all surfaces that can accumulate dust (floors, cabinets, work surfaces, etc.) several times a day with a damp cloth; Leave shoes at the entrance and wash them as soon as possible; Ensure optimal humidity in the room: hang wet towels in the rooms, place water in larger containers.

After 18 matches held simultaneously on the night of January 30, the final table of the Champions League group stage, consisting of 36 clubs, was formed. The teams occupying the top eight positions immediately advanced to the Round of 16 and will wait for their next opponents until spring, while teams ranked from 9th to 24th will participate in the knockout matches in February. The last 12 teams exited the tournament. On January 31, at 16:00 Tashkent time, the draw for the knockout matches will take place. The main principle: every second position in the table is significant. For example, the team in 9th place can play against a team in 23rd or 24th place (the potential opponents for the team in 10th place will also be these teams). It is certain that they will play against 'Atalanta' or Dortmund's 'Borussia', or 'Sporting', or 'Brugge'. The 11th club will play against a team in either 21st or 22nd place (if the representative of 21st place falls to the 11th club, then the representative of 22nd place will naturally be an opponent of the team in 12th place), and so on. According to the UEFA website, this format has been developed over six years. During the draw, the balls representing the 23rd and 24th teams will be drawn first. The first ball drawn will be sent to the upper part of the bracket, and the second to the lower part. In UEFA's official graphics, this will be the left part of the bracket (silver) and the right part (blue). Then the positions of the teams in 21st and 22nd places will be determined. This process will continue until the balls representing the 9th and 10th clubs are shown. That is, at this moment, we know that there are only two potential opponents among the teams ranked from 9th to 24th. For example, according to the draw results, 'Manchester City' will face either 'Real' or 'Bavaria' (these giants are also potential opponents of 'Celtic'). There are no restrictions during the draw – representatives from the same country can meet in the knockout matches. For example, 'PSG' (15th place) can play against 'Monaco' or 'Brest' (respectively 17th and 18th place teams), while 'Milan' may face 'Juventus' (or 'Feyenoord'). If teams have played against each other in the group stage, this does not prevent them from meeting again in the knockout matches. For example, Dortmund's 'Borussia' has a 50 percent chance of facing 'Brugge', even though they played against each other in the Champions League in September. Teams ranked from 9th to 16th are not only considered seeded teams, but they also have the opportunity to host the second leg of the knockout matches at their home ground, which can be considered an advantage. This kind of scheme is also planned for the Europa League and Conference League, apart from the Champions League. After the knockout matches, there will be another draw in all three European cups. At that time, teams will find out their opponents from the top 8. There, each club will also have two potential opponents. At this moment, it can be said that either 'Atletico' or 'Bayer' will face one of the following four: 'Bavaria', 'Manchester City', 'Real', 'Celtic'. The potential opponents for 'Liverpool' and 'Barselona', who secured the 1st and 2nd places in the overall table for the Round of 16, are as follows: 15th, 16th, 17th, or 18th teams: 'PSG', 'Benfica', 'Monaco', or 'Brest'. After the knockout matches, two of them will leave the tournament, and only two options will remain during the final draw (February 21). That is, if 'Monaco' and 'PSG' survive the knockout matches, they will face the two best teams from the group stage in the next round. The two winners from the 2nd knockout matches ('Sporting' / 'Brugge' – 'Atalanta' / 'Borussia' D) will face 'Lille' and 'Aston Villa' in the quarter-finals. The two winners from the 3rd knockout matches ('Celtic' / 'Manchester City' – 'Real' / 'Bavaria') will face 'Atletico' and 'Bayer' in the quarter-finals. One of the two winners from the 4th knockout matches ('Feyenoord' / 'Juventus' – 'Milan' / PSV) will play against 'Arsenal', while the other will face 'Inter'. The initial knockout matches will be held on February 11 and 12, with the return matches on February 18 and 19. The Round of 16 matches are scheduled for March 4, 5, 11, and 12. The quarter-finals are set for April 8, 9, 15, and 16, while the semi-finals are scheduled for April 29 and 30, as well as May 6 and 7. The final will take place on May 31 in Munich. There is another nuance unrelated to the draw process. New players can be registered for the knockout matches, and this must be done by February 6. If a player has already played for another team in the group stage of the Champions League, this does not prevent him from playing for another team in the playoffs, specifically, Abduqodir Husanov can participate in the Champions League with 'City'.

The traditional Tata Steel Chess 2025 tournament is ongoing in the Netherlands. Two chess players from Uzbekistan are competing for victory. Photo: Chess Yesterday, on January 29, in the 10th round, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, who is among the leaders of the Masters group, defeated Serbian Aleksey Saranani playing with white pieces. The chess player had not lost in the tournament until now. After this victory, Abdusattorov increased his points to 7 and is currently in second place in the tournament standings. Photo: Chess Indian Gukesh Dommaradju is at the top of the tournament standings. Despite being the reigning world champion and playing with black pieces, he outperformed Dutch Maks Varmerdam. Gukesh is leading with 7.5 points. Another Indian grandmaster, Rameshbabu Pragnanandha, also secured an important victory for himself in this round, defeating Slovenian Vladimir Fedoseyev and finishing with 6.5 points in the strong trio. In the Masters group, three chess players remain unbeaten — Gukesh Dommaradju, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, and Wei Li. The Chinese grandmaster has recorded 1 victory and 9 draws. Gukesh has 5 victories and draws. Abdusattorov has 4 victories and 6 draws. Photo: Chess Nodirbek Yakubboyev (2659), participating in the Challenger group, drew with Dutch Benjamin Bok in the 10th round while playing with white pieces. Yakubboyev has accumulated 5 points with 3 victories, 4 draws, and 3 losses, placing him in 9th position in the tournament standings. Photo: Chess Czech Van Nguyen is leading the Challenger group with 7.5 points. Dutch Ervin L'ami has gathered 7 points, securing 2nd place, while Azerbaijani Aydin Suleymanli finished with 6.5 points based on additional criteria to complete the strong trio. Benjamin Bok also has 6.5 points. For your information, according to the tournament regulations, the chess players will compete in 13 rounds.

In the UEFA Champions League, "Brest" and "Real" faced off against each other. The "whites" celebrated a victory with a score of 3:0. Rodrigo scored a double, while Bellingham added his name to the scoreboard once. Brest – Real Madrid 0:3 January 30, 01:00, "Ruduru" Goals: 0:1 – 27 Rodrigo, 0:2 – 56 Bellingham, 0:3 – 78 Rodrigo. Brest – Bizot, Kulibali, Shardonne, Pereyra Laje, Lala, Manetti (Le-Melu, 61), Fernandesh, Kamara (Del Castillo, 70), Dumbiya (Fevr, 61), Balde (Sima, 70), Ajork (Sala, 79). Real Madrid – Courtois, Mendy, Rudiger, Tchouameni (Alaba, 82), Vasquez (Asensio, 83), Valverde, Modric (Endrick, 88), Rodrigo, Bellingham (Ceballos, 82), Brahim Dias (Güler, 72), Mbappe. Warnings: Pereyra Laje (10), Tchouameni (29), Rudiger (35), Ancelotti (64), Bellingham (74). You can watch the video review of this match below:

In the UEFA Champions League, "Barselona" faced "Atalanta". In this match, the teams signed a 2:2 draw. For the "Blaugrana", Yamal and Arauxo scored, while the goals for the guests were authored by Ederson and Pashalich. Barselona – Atalanta 2:2 January 30, 01:00, "Olympic Luis Companys" Goals: 1:0 – 47 Yamal, 1:1 – 67 Ederson, 2:1 – 72 Arauxo, 2:2 – 79 Pashalich. Barselona – Shchensni, Balde, Erik Garcia (Kubarsi, 69), Arauxo, Kunde, Pedri (Kasado, 80), de Jong, Rafinha, Gavi (Lopes, 69), Yamal (Viktor, 90+6), Lewandowski (Ferran Torres, 69). Atalanta – Karnezis, Kolasinac (Skalvini, 55), Xin, Djimsiti, Pashalich, Zappacosta (Ruggeri, 77), Ederson, de Roon, Bellanova (Cuadrado, 77), Retegui (Dzanolo, 77), de Ketelaere (Breshiani, 87). Warnings: Kolasinac (51), de Roon (90+3), Pashalich (90+7), Ederson (90+7). You can watch the video summary of this match below:

In the new year, Abduqodir Husanov, who moved to Manchester City, is in the spotlight not only of Uzbekistan but also of football fans from other countries. Our 20-year-old defender managed to make his debut in one of the most challenging competitions in the world – the English Premier League – just five days after joining the reigning champions of England. Although he made several mistakes at the beginning of the game against Chelsi in his first match after joining Manchester City, this situation was assessed as natural by experts, coaches, and players. Abduqodir was supported by head coach Josep Guardiola, the team's stars – Erling Haaland, Manuel Akanji, Josko Gvardiol, and many football specialists. Even football communities from other countries showed interest in his participation. Now Husanov may step onto the field in another prestigious competition – the playoff stage of the UEFA Champions League. The Manchester City players defeated Belgium's Brugge team 3:1 in the last match of the group stage. This victory gave the "Citizens" the opportunity to participate in the playoff match for a quarter-final spot. Considering that Manchester City finished 22nd in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, which is being held in a new format, experts announced that they would face either Real or Bayern in the playoff match. Thus, we are also looking forward to Abduqodir Husanov's debut in the UEFA Champions League as a Manchester City player. It is worth noting that Abduqodir Husanov has already celebrated his debut in the most prestigious competitions organized by UEFA. During his one and a half years at Lens, he participated in matches held within the framework of the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League.

Pep Guardiola spoke about how important it is for the new arrivals to help the team in the playoffs after the match against "Brugge" (3:1). "Of course, this is very important. We faced difficulties throughout the season without players. With them, we will have many options. I hope Doku returns as well. Kovacic is an experienced player. He scored a fantastic goal. Kova is capable of changing the game in such crucial moments. We managed to do that, and now it's time to enjoy. Because the Champions League started very tough. But in the end, we were able to take a step forward. As for the draw... We'll see," said Guardiola. For your information, "Manchester City" will face either "Real" or "Bayern" in the playoff stage.

The English Premier League matches may be broadcast on a local television channel in Uzbekistan. This was announced by commentator Otabek Jo'rayev on his Telegram page: “Zo'r TV will broadcast the games featuring Abduqodir Husanov within the APL framework! The channel will broadcast two matches in each round of the APL. The first game is, understandably, the "Manchester City" match. The second one will be a game involving "Liverpool", "Arsenal", "Chelsi", "Manchester United", "Tottenham", or another English brand,” wrote Sport TV and Futbol TV commentator Otabek Jo'rayev. Davron Fayziyev, who is currently commenting on the Spanish championship matches on the same channel, emphasized that this information is not official. “This information is not official yet. Yes, Zo'r TV is currently working to broadcast the games of "City" and other top clubs of the APL that all football fans want to see. We are also hoping for a positive resolution. This process is actually more complicated. Well, let's keep an eye on it,” said commentator Davron Fayziyev.

In the UEFA Champions League, "Bavaria" hosted "Slovan" at home. The Munich team won 3:1. Goals from Müller, Kane, and Coman provided the German club with 3 points. Bavaria – Slovan B 3:1 January 30, 01:00, "Allianz Arena" Goals: 1:0 – 8 Müller, 2:0 – 63 Kane, 3:0 – 84 Coman, 3:1 – 90 Tolić. Bavaria – Neuer, Stanisic (Gereyru, 84), Kim Min Jae, Boe (Gnabry, 62), Kimmich, Pavlovich, Tel (Coman, 62), Müller (Musiala, 62), Olise, Sané, Kane. Slovan B – Takach, Vimmer, Kashiya, Bayrich, Martelli (Medvedev, 62), Barsegyan (Mak, 70), Szoke (Mustafich, 77), Savvidis, Sharani (Tolić, 77), Blekmen, Streles (Metsoko, 70). Warnings: Blekmen (32), Savvidis (81), Bayrich (81). You can watch the video review of this game below:

In the final round of the UEFA Champions League, Stuttgart hosted PSG at home. The Parisians won with a score of 4:1. While Dembélé scored a hat-trick, Barkolya also got his name on the scoreboard once. Stuttgart – PSG 1:4 January 30, 01:00, "MXP-Arena" Goals: 0:1 – 6 Barkolya, 0:2 – 17 Dembélé, 0:3 – 35 Dembélé, 0:4 – 54 Dembélé, 1:4 – 77, own goal Pacho. Stuttgart – Bredlov, Mittelshtedt, Shabo, Al-Daxil (Cheyz, 71), Vagnoman (Stergiu, 61), Shtiller (Rider, 71), Karazor, Miyo, Fyurix, Leveling (Kaytel, 78), Undav (Demirovich, 60). PSG – Donnarumma, Luka Hernandez (Beraldo, 71), Pacho, Marquinhos, Hakimi (Fabian Ruiz, 71), Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, João Neves (Meyulu, 77), Barkolya (Gonsalu Ramush, 71), Dembélé, Due (Li Kan In, 60). Warnings: Shtiller (53), João Neves (66), Karazor (70). You can watch the video review of this match below:

In the UEFA Champions League, "Atletiko" traveled to the field of "Zalsburg". The "mattress makers" celebrated a 4:1 victory. Griezmann became the author of a double. Additionally, Simeone and Lorente each scored once against the opponent's goal. Zalsburg – Atletiko 1:4 January 30, 01:00, "Red Bull Arena" Goals: 0:1 – 5 Simeone, 0:2 – 13 Griezmann, 0:3 – 45+1 Griezmann, 0:4 – 63 Lorente, 1:4 – 90+1 Dagim. Red Bull – Schlager, Terzich (Morgalla, 85), Blank, Baydu, Dedich, Glux, Diambu (Kavamura, 58), Kapaldo (Baychetich, 85), Yeo (Ratkov, 67), Dorjeles (Klark, 58), Dagim. Atletiko – Oblak, Aspilikueta, Langle, Le Norman, Lorente, Lino (Lemar, 81), Koke, De Pol (Gallaxer, 67), Simeone (Molina, 59), Griezmann (Rikelme, 67), Alvares (Serlot, 59). Warnings: Kapaldo (57), Blank (66). You can watch the video review of this match below:

Last year, 10,842 Uzbeks moved abroad for permanent residence. This was reported by the Statistics Agency. Infographic: Statistics Agency In 2024, the majority of those who left Uzbekistan went to Kazakhstan (8,792 people) and Russia (1,601 people). Additionally, the share of those who left the country accounted for South Korea (96 people), Kyrgyzstan (73 people), Turkmenistan (39 people), and other countries (241 people). For comparison, in 2023, the number of Uzbeks who moved abroad for permanent residence was significantly higher than the previous year (17,336 people). Among them, 14,051 people moved to Kazakhstan, and 2,670 people moved to Russia. Fifteen years ago, in 2010, 44,420 people left Uzbekistan for abroad, 50,816 people in 2011, and 45,447 people in 2012. Since 2015, the trend of moving abroad began to decline significantly (31,765 people moved). Infographic: Statistics Agency In 2024, the number of people moving to Uzbekistan from foreign countries for permanent residence was 2,229. Of these, 813 were from Russia, and 539 were from Kazakhstan. Additionally, 241 people moved to the country from Tajikistan, and 153 people from Kyrgyzstan for permanent residence. For comparison, in 2023, 2,955 people moved to the republic from abroad. Of these, 1,175 were from Russia, and 726 were from Kazakhstan.

“Oʻzgidromet” announced the weather forecast for Friday, January 31. According to it: In Tashkent city the weather will be slightly cloudy, no precipitation is expected. Fog may occur at night and in the morning. The eastern wind will change direction and blow from the west at a speed of 3-8 meters per second. The temperature will be 0-2 degrees Celsius at night and 6-8 degrees Celsius during the day. In the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Khorezm region the weather will be slightly cloudy, light snow may fall in some places, and fog may occur. The eastern wind will change direction and blow from the west at a speed of 7-12 meters per second. The temperature will be 3-8 degrees Celsius below zero at night, and during the day it will be 2 degrees below zero to 3 degrees above zero. In Bukhara and Navoi regions the weather will be slightly cloudy, and there may be light precipitation (rain, snow) towards the evening. Fog may occur in some areas. The eastern wind will change direction and blow from the west at a speed of 7-12 meters per second. The temperature will be between -2 to 3 degrees Celsius at night, and 5-10 degrees Celsius during the day; in the northern part of Navoi region, the temperature will be 3-8 degrees Celsius below zero at night, and 2 degrees below zero to 3 degrees above zero during the day. In Tashkent, Syrdarya, Samarkand, and Jizzakh regions the weather will be slightly cloudy, no precipitation is expected, but there may be light precipitation (rain, snow) towards the evening in Samarkand region. Fog may occur in some areas. The eastern wind will change direction and blow from the west at a speed of 7-12 meters per second. The temperature will be between -2 to 3 degrees Celsius at night, and 5-10 degrees Celsius during the day. In Kashkadarya and Surkhandarya regions the weather will be slightly cloudy, no precipitation is expected. The wind will blow from the east at a speed of 7-12 meters per second. The temperature will be 0-5 degrees Celsius at night and 7-12 degrees Celsius during the day. In Andijan, Namangan, and Fergana regions the weather will be slightly cloudy, no precipitation is expected. Fog may occur in some areas. The wind will blow from the east at a speed of 5-10 meters per second. The temperature will be between -3 to 2 degrees Celsius at night, and 4-9 degrees Celsius during the day. In the foothill and mountainous areas of the Republic the weather will be slightly cloudy, no precipitation is expected. Fog may occur in some areas. There is a risk of snow avalanches in the regions of Tashkent and Namangan. The wind will blow from the east at a speed of 7-12 meters per second. The temperature will be 0-5 degrees Celsius below zero at night and 2-7 degrees Celsius during the day. “Oʻzgidromet” also announced the weather forecast for February It was announced. According to it, the month will start with dry weather that will last for a week. In the second and third decades, precipitation (rain, snow) is expected for 2-3 days.

Runny nose and congestion due to allergies affect ear health. If the necessary measures are taken in time, this unpleasant condition can be eliminated in a short period. Today, we will provide information on how to help when your ears are blocked during a cold. Main causes of ear blockage during ARVI Before providing first aid and treating the ears, it is important to understand why a cold affects the ears. It is necessary to know whether there is inflammation in the nasal cavity and sinuses (sinuses are cavities around the eyes, nose, and the front part of the skull). Because colds in this area affect the Eustachian tube. In this case, its walls narrow, and the feeling of ear blockage arises. If not treated in time, inflammation of the Eustachian tube can lead to partial or complete loss of hearing. How to provide first aid if your nose is blocked during a cold? There are several methods in folk medicine that temporarily relieve ear blockage: First, clear the nasal cavity of excess fluid by simply blowing your nose and rinse with saline solution. If the ear blockage does not go away after that, temporarily stop clearing the nasal passages in this way and use special nasal sprays and drops that constrict blood vessels instead. Massage: Massage the ear and nose for 15 minutes, paying special attention to the ear canal and both sides of the nose. Treating blocked ears due to a cold with medical preparations If your ears are blocked due to a runny nose and the above methods do not help, you can switch to using medications. Instilling vasoconstrictor medications into the nose without a doctor's prescription: This method reduces swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, resulting in the pressure on the Eustachian tube being relieved. This creates a basis for improving the permeability in the sinus cavity. However, this method provides only temporary relief and cannot replace the treatment prescribed by a doctor. Special drops that reduce inflammation and swelling in the ear and have antimicrobial effects can be used. Heating the ear with an alcohol compress — a piece of gauze folded in several layers can be soaked in warm alcohol, placed over the ear, and wrapped with a cloth, leaving it for several hours. The above recommendations are first aid that can be performed until medical assistance or a doctor's examination is available. None of them can replace a complete course of treatment. Do not forget to visit an otolaryngologist in any case of nasal blockage. It is our responsibility to prevent serious complications.

The last month of winter – February will be on average 2-2.5 degrees warmer than January, and 1-1.5 degrees warmer in the mountains. This was reported by Uzhydromet in the weather forecast for February. It is noted that this year February will start with dry weather that will last for 6-7 days. At the beginning of this period, the air temperature at night will be around -0 to -5 degrees, and during the day it will be around 3-8 degrees. By February 6-7, it will become relatively warmer, with daytime temperatures rising to 12-15 degrees, and in the north to 5-8 degrees. Later, by the end of the month, nighttime temperatures are expected to fluctuate from 2-7 degrees warmer to 3-8 degrees colder, while daytime temperatures will change from 10-15 degrees warmer to 0-5 degrees warmer, and in the north, nighttime temperatures will vary from 2 degrees colder to 3 degrees warmer to 8-13 degrees colder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5-10 degrees warmer to 0-5 degrees colder. In the first ten days of the month, there will mainly be precipitation in the form of rain. In the second and third ten-day periods, it is expected that there will be precipitation (rain, snow) for 2-3 days in each ten-day period. According to Uzhydromet, Februarys of 2004, 2016, and 2021 were the warmest months, with average monthly temperatures 3-6 degrees higher than the climatic norm. In those years, during the warmest periods, air temperatures rose to 22-27 degrees, and in the south to 28-30 degrees. Additionally, the coldest weather was observed in Februarys of 2008, 2012, and 2014, with average monthly temperatures being 4-8 degrees lower than the norm. In most parts of the republic, the minimum air temperature dropped to -12 to -17 degrees, and in the north to -24 to -29 degrees.

The Central Bank has set the new exchange rates for currencies starting from January 31, 2025. According to this: The exchange rate of the US dollar has decreased by 11.33 soums, setting it at 12,957.01 soums. The euro exchange rate has decreased by 6.60 soums, making it 13,485.66 soums. The pound sterling exchange rate has increased by 17.02 soums, reaching 16,125.05 soums. The Russian ruble is set at 132.13 soums (-0.19). The Kazakh tenge is at 24.95 soums (-0.14).

The current market is flooded with various quality products, and the issue of product authenticity is becoming increasingly urgent. Counterfeits not only undermine trust in brands but can also pose a real threat to consumer health. In this situation, digital labeling of products, which allows each buyer to independently verify the legality and origin of the product, plays a significant role. In Uzbekistan, the "Asl Belgisi" system has become a key tool in this area. It allows consumers to obtain information about a product by scanning the Data Matrix code on the packaging. This means that buyers can ensure the authenticity of medicines, beverages, household appliances, and other goods not only based on the seller's confirmation but also by verifying it themselves before making a purchase. How does public control work? The "Asl Belgisi" system makes the verification process transparent and understandable. After scanning the code in the mobile app (Android/iOS), detailed information about the product can be obtained: its manufacturer, production date, expiration date, composition, and even the availability of mandatory certificates. If the information on the packaging and in the app differs or if the scanning result is suspicious, the consumer can report it. To do this, it is enough to click the "Report Violation" button in the app and describe the issue. In fact, this creates a new form of public control, where the buyer becomes a participant in the fight against illegal products. The more people use the system, the more complicated the circulation of counterfeit products becomes, and the higher the demand for product quality in the market. How is a new consumer habit formed? In recent years, the number of users of the Asl Belgisi mobile app has been increasing, indicating a growing awareness among citizens about the importance of checking products. By the end of 2024, the app had been installed 785,000 times. This indicates the formation of a new consumer habit: people want to ensure the authenticity of what they are buying. Moreover, labeling is beneficial not only for ordinary citizens but also for businesses. The "Asl Belgisi.Business" special app helps entrepreneurs verify the authenticity of goods and protect against counterfeit supplies. Why is this important? Digital labeling and public control are not just a means of protection against counterfeit products but a tool that transforms the market. When consumers regularly check products, stores and manufacturers are forced to operate in a more transparent environment, while "hidden" businesses lose the opportunity to sell. Consumers who scan codes and report issues become part of a system that ensures: • transparency - access to information about the product and its origin; • safety - reducing the risk of purchasing counterfeits; • quality control - the ability to quickly report violations. As a result, digital labeling becomes not only a control mechanism but also an essential part of promoting responsible consumption. And in this system, the consumers themselves play a decisive role - they choose verified products and help create a market free of counterfeit goods. Source: Xabar.uz

As of January 1, 2025, the permanent population of Uzbekistan has reached 37 million 543 thousand people. This was reported by the Statistics Agency. Men make up 50.4 percent of the total population, while women account for 49.6 percent. As of January 1 of this year, there is an average of 83.6 people per square kilometer. Looking at the regions, the highest population density is in Tashkent city (6,948.1 people), Andijan (804.9 people), and Fergana region (613.1 people), while the lowest figures are recorded in Navoi region (9.9 people) and the Republic of Karakalpakstan (12.2 people). Last year, 926,400 births were recorded in Uzbekistan. This figure was 962,000 during the same period last year. During the reporting period, the number of births decreased by 3.7 percent. The highest birth rate is in Surkhandarya, but the birth coefficient has decreased from 30.9 per thousand to 28.9 per thousand. The region with the lowest birth rate is Karakalpakstan, where the birth coefficient has slowed from 22.1 per thousand to 20.7 per thousand. Death rates in the country have also increased compared to last year. In 2024, the number of deaths was 174,400. For comparison, in 2023, 172,800 people passed away. It has been reported that the main causes of death among the deceased were diseases of the circulatory system (57.6 percent), tumors (9.4 percent), respiratory diseases (6.3 percent), accidents (5.8 percent), and diseases of the digestive system (4.1 percent). During the reporting period, 271,800 marriages were registered. This is the lowest figure in the last decade. During this period, the average age of women who got married was 22.3, while for men it was 27.1. Last year, the number of divorces amounted to 45,100. Although this is 4,100 fewer than in 2023, it is 16,900 more than in 2020, or an increase of 59.9 percent.

Apple presented its new flagship smartphones, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models, in September. This was reported by Zamin.uz. These devices have been significantly updated not only in terms of internal capabilities but also in appearance. One of the biggest changes is that the rear camera module now spans the entire width of the body. The sensor layout remains the same as before, but the LiDAR and flash are now located on opposite sides. Apple has abandoned the titanium body and returned to an aluminum body. Aluminum dissipates heat 20 times more efficiently than before. The body is fully metal, with a Ceramic Shield glass area on the back for wireless charging. The front panel uses the new Ceramic Shield 2, which is three times stronger. Additionally, an anti-reflective coating has been applied to the screen surface. In terms of internal power, the new Apple A19 Pro chip is installed. It features a 6-core processor and a 6-core graphics processor, and with the second-generation Dynamic Caching technology, it operates 40% faster than before in long-lasting tasks. For the first time in Pro models, a vapor chamber cooling system has been introduced, with the aluminum body aiding this process. The camera system has also been significantly upgraded. Now there are full 48-megapixel main, ultra-wide, and telephoto cameras. The telephoto camera offers 8x optical zoom, as well as 4x mode and 3D stabilization functionality. The front camera is 18 megapixels and equipped with Center Stage technology. Additionally, video recording in ProRes RAW format has been added, which is an important innovation for those engaged in video editing. Regarding battery life, the iPhone 17 Pro model offers 33 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max works for 39 hours. Charging the devices from 0 to 50 percent takes only 20 minutes. The prices are set as follows: iPhone 17 Pro at $1099, and iPhone 17 Pro Max at $1199. The devices will go on sale from September 19. The color options include Silver, Deep Blue, and Cosmic Orange. New TechWoven cases and Crossbody Strap accessories have been introduced. Whether Apple has truly reached the “Pro” level with these updates is a topic of discussion among users. The new models offer high levels of power and quality, which will help strengthen their position in the market.

Amazing news is coming from Turkey. Euro-football.ru reported about this. According to the information, Zinedine Zidane may become the new head coach of the Fenerbahce football club. After the club management significantly strengthened the team in the summer, they reached an initial agreement with Zidane. The 53-year-old coach will move to Turkey after negotiations on salary and conditions are completed, reports Sabah Spor. It should be recalled that recently Fenerbahce parted ways with head coach Jose Mourinho. This decision was made after the Istanbul "Canaries" lost to Benfica in the Champions League qualifying round. Earlier, the media reported that Zinedine Zidane was planning to take over the position of the French national team head coach Didier Deschamps. Deschamps is expected to leave this position at the end of the 2026 World Cup. These news have sparked great interest among football fans.

Earlier, a report was made about a major road traffic accident that occurred in Angren. This was reported by Upl.uz. A traffic accident involving several vehicles occurred on the Tashkent–Osh international highway. The incident happened on September 7 at approximately 12:20. According to information obtained from the internal affairs authorities, a Shacman truck carrying cement, driven by a 44-year-old driver, lost control and collided with two trucks stopped at a railway crossing and five passenger cars. As a result of the impact, a fire broke out but was quickly extinguished by emergency services that arrived at the scene. The internal affairs authorities reported the number of fatalities and injuries. Seven people died at the scene of the accident. Five people were hospitalized, and another four participants received medical assistance and were sent home. Currently, the government has formed a commission to investigate the causes of the accident. Deputy Prime Minister Achilbay Ramatov was appointed to lead the commission.

A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Irina Zarutska, was stabbed to death on a train in North Carolina. This was reported by Zamin.uz. The police arrested 34-year-old Decarlos Brown, who attacked the woman, and charged him with murder. The incident was recorded on video and widely shared on social media, causing significant public outrage. The city mayor called the incident a failure of the judicial system and promised measures to enhance safety on public transport. Zarutska's family stated that she had fled the war in 2022 and come to the United States, quickly adapting to her new life. She was interested in art, loved animals, and lived happily with her family. The incident also sparked political debates. Some criticized that Brown, despite having been previously convicted of serious crimes, had been released. The state leader called for more effective measures against crime. This event once again prompted discussions in society about safety and justice issues.

Apple company recently introduced the new iPhone 17 smartphone. This was reported by Zamin.uz. As a result of conversations with sellers at the "Malika" market in Tashkent, approximate prices for these new models have been determined. It has been revealed that iPhone 17 smartphones will be available for sale in Uzbekistan starting from September 23. Prices vary depending on the memory capacity and device features. For example, the 256 gigabyte model of the iPhone 17 is estimated to cost around 16 million 250 thousand soms. Models with larger memory capacity are priced higher. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max versions have even more features and capabilities, with prices starting from 23 million soms and approaching 50 million soms. These new smartphones are expected to generate significant interest in the Uzbekistan market. Memory capacity and budget are important factors for buyers when choosing the most suitable option. Additionally, full warranty and service options are expected to be provided at official sales points. The release of the new iPhone 17 models in Uzbekistan will bring innovations and increase competition in the smartphone market.

Domenico Tedesco is one of the main candidates for the position of head coach of the Fenerbahce team. This was reported by Euro-football.ru. The Turkish club is searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho. The "Canaries" management has shortlisted Tedesco's name, and the Italian specialist has expressed his readiness to take this position, according to the well-known journalist Nicolo Schira. If everything goes according to plan, the 39-year-old specialist will sign a contract with the major Istanbul club until 2027. Domenico Tedesco's most recent job was with the Belgium national team, where he served as head coach from February 2023 to January 2025. Previously, he worked at major clubs such as RB Leipzig, Moscow Spartak, and Schalke 04. His coaching experience and work with big teams could be a great opportunity for Fenerbahce. The club aims to achieve future successes with the new coach.

Famous footballer Edgar Davids, who played for Juventus in past years, learned that his acquaintance Nabila Habibi committed theft. This was reported by Euro-football.ru. The ad.nl portal provided information about this. According to the publication, Davids found out several years later that his painting collection had been stolen. He had entrusted the collection to a trusted person. For a while, Habibi also lived in his house. While Davids believed the collection was kept in a safe place, Habibi stole 37 paintings, pawned them at various pawnshops, and received approximately 30 thousand euros. In 2017, when Habibi was unable to repay her debts, the pawnshops gained the right to sell the paintings. One of the buyers saw Davids' name on the back of a painting and contacted him through social networks. After that, Davids filed a lawsuit. Habibi admitted to the theft. Earlier, she had faced problems related to criminal cases and had left her acquaintance after taking 3500 euros from him.

The general secondary education system in Uzbekistan is undergoing fundamental changes. This was reported by Upl.uz. The country has officially begun implementing a 12-year education model. This was announced by the press service of the Ministry of Preschool and School Education. In the near future, a normative legal document confirming these innovations is expected to be signed. This decision was made as part of a comprehensive program to reform the education sector. The program was presented to the president on September 8 and envisions a systematic renewal of all stages from preschool to higher education. The transition to 12-year education is being carried out to align with international experience. The results of the PISA study conducted in 2022 showed that in 85% of countries considered leaders in education, the number of school years is exactly 12. The introduction of the new model will allow adapting curricula to international standards and also enable students to be well-prepared for subsequent stages of education and vocational training. The updated system structure will be as follows: the first year is designated as a preparatory stage for 6-year-old children, which is considered part of primary education. Primary education will last a total of 5 years, including 1 year of preparation and 4 years of primary school. The next stage is basic general secondary education, covering grades 5 to 9 and lasting 5 years. The final 2 years constitute complete general secondary education, which will be conducted in schools, academic lyceums, specialized military schools, or technical colleges. To ensure a smooth transition process and create the necessary infrastructure, about 3,600 new schools will be built and more than a thousand state kindergartens will be opened. It is precisely in these institutions that the updated preparatory program for the youngest students will be piloted. An interesting point is that information about the transition to 12-year education had been actively discussed on social networks since 2023. However, at that time, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education officially denied these claims, emphasizing that the 11-year education system was in effect. The current decision shows that approaches at the state level have been reconsidered and there is political will to implement large-scale reforms. In the history of independent Uzbekistan, a 12-year education system has existed before. From 2010 to 2017, education was organized based on a 9+3 scheme, where students who completed grade 9 were required to continue their studies at vocational colleges and academic lyceums.