Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 1 May, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Khorezm region for a working visit, during which he reviewed the region’s socio-economic development, living conditions of the population, and outlined future priorities.

Khorezm, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, is becoming increasingly attractive to both tourists and the business community. However, the existing infrastructure of Urgench International Airport no longer meets modern standards. Its current capacity is limited to 400 passengers per hour, which hinders the development of air connectivity and tourism.

During the visit, the president was briefed on the airport modernization project and the results of an international tender for transferring the airport’s management. The winner of the tender, which included eight companies from various countries, was South Korea’s Incheon International Airport Corporation — the operator of one of the world’s largest airports.

The president held a meeting with the company’s management. The head of Incheon International Airport Corporation noted that Urgench would become the second international airport under their management and shared plans for its redevelopment. President Mirziyoyev expressed satisfaction with the partnership with such a highly professional global operator and emphasized the importance of increasing tourist arrivals to 5 million people annually, which will require matching infrastructure.

Discussions included expanding air connectivity, attracting foreign airlines, applying South Korea’s service experience, and training local specialists.

The modernization project, with an estimated cost of US$223 million, includes the construction of a new runway, passenger and cargo terminals, the installation of modern ICAO-standard lighting systems, and the acquisition of special equipment. The work is expected to be completed between 2025 and 2027. The new terminal, with an area of 39,000 square meters, will be capable of handling up to 1,300 passengers per hour and accommodating aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A350.

The president was also presented with the terminal’s design concept, and he recommended incorporating elements of national identity into its architectural style.

Speaking with journalists, the head of state emphasized that the main goal of the visit to Khorezm was to set new development benchmarks, improve the quality of life for more than 2 million residents, create new jobs, and increase household incomes.