Uzbekistan's Geological Exploration Hits 200,000 Sq. Km, Coverage Reaches 45%

Uzbekistan has expanded its geological exploration coverage to 200,000 square kilometers, reaching 45% of its territory by 2025, officials announced. The milestone marks a significant step in the Central Asian nation's efforts to map its mineral wealth and attract investment in the mining sector.

The increase in studied area comes as Uzbekistan seeks to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on traditional sectors. According to Uzdaily, the coverage rose to 45% by 2025, with the studied area hitting 200,000 square kilometers. Officials did not specify the previous coverage level or the exact timeframe for the expansion, but the figure underscores a sustained push to unlock untapped resources.

The expanded exploration could lead to new discoveries of gold, copper, uranium, and other minerals, potentially boosting government revenues and creating jobs. However, challenges remain, including the need for modern technology and foreign expertise. The next steps likely involve publishing detailed geological data to attract international mining companies and further increasing coverage in under-explored regions.