At a meeting on energy supply, Mirziyoyev emphasised the need to reduce and optimise costs, accelerate reforms in the gas sector, and expand exploration efforts by engaging leading foreign companies, according to the president's press service, Xinhua news agency reported.

Though gas losses have decreased due to "the modernisation of industries" and improved energy efficiency, "there is still a lot of work ahead," the press service said.

Uzbekistan plans to supply 21 billion cubic metres of gas to consumers this winter, though demand could rise if temperatures drop sharply.

A separate reserve will be provided to guarantee "uninterrupted power supply" for social institutions and enterprises, it added.