Officials now ride in "local" service cars

In Uzbekistan, state officials are transitioning to using cars sold by local companies as service vehicles under the president's directive.

Specifically, Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov has started using a Chevrolet Malibu instead of a Mercedes-Benz. This was confirmed by the government's press secretary Bekzod Hidoyatov.

According to him, Aripov held a video conference on March 7, instructing all officials to stop using foreign service cars. It is reported that the Prime Minister rejected a proposal from officials to implement this rule a few weeks later.

“We must unconditionally fulfill all the tasks given by our president; there is no room for discussion. They are suggesting that we implement this from March 20 or April 1. No, that won't work. If our president gives an order, we must execute it immediately. This is the main task of the government,” Aripov's words during the conference are quoted by his press service.

According to Bekzod Hidoyatov, the deputy prime ministers have also switched to using the Malibu. Governors of the regions will now be served by vehicles such as Tahoe and Traverse.

Additionally, Senate Chair Tanzila Norboyeva and Legislative Chamber Speaker Nuriddin Ismoilov are also riding in Tahoes.

The “foreign cars” previously used by officials are expected to be put up for sale through the E-auction platform.

It should be noted that President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated during the conference on March 5 that it is necessary to significantly reduce the use of service transport in state agencies and to transition to national cars and national furniture.