The draft of the state program on action plans was elaborated for “2018 – the year of Support of active entrepreneurship, innovative ideas and technology” within the framework of Action Strategies on the five directions for the development of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021.
According to President’s degree dated November 28, 2017 public discussion is going to be taken into account until January 15, 2018.
The fifth direction of Action strategy of the State Program Draft is “Provision of security, international harmony and religious tolerance with priorities on deeply-well-thought, mutual and practical foreign policy.” There are a number of articles related to religious sphere. Here is the one related to organizing international Qur’an festival:
Article 219. Organition of the 1st International Festival on Qur’an reading. The deadline is July 10, 2018 and will be in Bukhara region.
Organizational acitivies:
- promotion of pure essence of Islam in the world community;
- rewarding Qur’an reciter in various nominations;
- support of society and youth in enlightenment;
- promotion of rich historical, religious and cultural heritage to tourists.
Press service,
Muslim Board of Uzbekistan
Saudi Arabia has implemented a ban on tobacco shops operating within 500 meters of mosques and schools, according to new guidelines from the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.
The measures aim to safeguard public health, ensure legal compliance, and maintain orderly business environments in urban areas.
The regulations affect all stores selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, shisha, and e-cigarettes. Shop owners must possess valid commercial registration, Civil Defense approval, and full compliance with municipal licensing laws.
Stores must occupy at least 36 square meters within commercial buildings, with additional local municipality conditions possible.
Exterior signage cannot display logos or promotional materials - only the store name. Operations require security cameras indoors and outdoors, adherence to hygiene standards, electronic payment options, and prohibited sidewalk use.
All tobacco products must meet Saudi Food and Drug Authority standards, feature clear warning labels, and be sold in sealed packages. Vending machines, price reductions, gifts, and product testing are forbidden.