President Shavkat Mirziyoyev wished the people of Uzbekistan a Happy New Year. For the first time in many years, President’s New Year greeting both in Russian and Uzbek languages was aired on TV.

"I sincerely wish to our fathers and mothers, dear women, our wonderful young people, all the people of Uzbekistan a Happy New Year. I wish You all health, happiness and well-being", - the President said.

"In the past year we had a lot of bright, happy days, great successes and achievements. And unfortunately we had to go through some hardships as well. But those hardships have united us even more. We have overcome all hardships with dignity thanks to the courage and endurence of our people", - he stressed.

"No doubt, 2016 will leave a bright trace in our history as the year of the 25th anniversary of Uzbekistan's independence. In the past year, our farmers, workers, builders, teachers, doctors, soldiers, scientists and artists - representatives of all professions have achieved significant results. Especially our athletes who have achieved outstanding results this year at the Olympic and Paralympic Games brought glory to our country. In short, the past year was in many ways successful and prosperous "- he added.

"The year 2017, we declared in our country as the Year of Dialogue with People and Human Interests. This is based on an important principle - "Human interests - above all else." I'm sure that all of us, especially leaders, we will unite our efforts to achieve the program tasks for the new year", - Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

"Maintaining the atmosphere of peace and order and interethnic and civil unity in the country will remain our priority", - the President added.