Ambassador Henick: Now is the right time for a U.S. presidential visit to Uzbekistan

"Asylum will no longer be granted for illegal work"

Henick also touched on the new U.S. migration policy under the Trump administration. He clarified that America's doors are no longer as open as before for migrants. However, travelers, workers, students, and businesspeople arriving through legal means are welcomed.

"Access will now be significantly more restricted. Legal avenues to visit the U.S. still exist. Last year, we were pleased to learn that over a thousand Uzbek citizens were studying in the U.S., and we expect this number to grow. We would also like to see more Uzbek students working at the United Nations. However, opportunities for foreigners to work in the U.S. are now limited due to the large number of unauthorized border crossings. Under Trump, seeking asylum for the purpose of working will no longer be an option," Henick stated.

Uzbekistan delegation did not discuss trade tariffs in Washington

In early April, Donald Trump announced new trade tariffs applicable worldwide, including a 10% tariff on goods from Uzbekistan. While experts believe this will not severely impact Uzbekistan directly, it could affect its economy indirectly by influencing its major trading partners.

Ambassador Henick noted that Uzbekistan’s delegation did not raise the issue of tariffs during their meetings with U.S. officials.

"As far as I know, the tariffs applied to Uzbekistan are among the lowest imposed globally. This issue was not discussed at the meetings I attended in Washington. However, I know that Uzbek officials, including Minister Kuchkarov and Special Representative Urunov, were also engaged in negotiations with the IMF and the World Bank and held bilateral meetings with U.S. officials. I assume trade tariffs might come up as part of these discussions," Henick explained.

"Democracy and human rights policy will remain largely unchanged"

Amid concerns that a Trump return could push the U.S. toward authoritarianism — including speculation about constitutional changes allowing a third term — Henick stressed that America’s commitment to democracy and human rights remains a constant, regardless of the administration.

"I have served over 30 years as a diplomat in the State Department under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Throughout that time, support for human rights, including freedom of speech and press, has consistently been a core element of our foreign policy. These are fundamental American values that reflect who we are, not optional actions. I believe this commitment will continue, though its form may evolve. Trump and Secretary of State Rubio view human rights as an important part of our foreign policy, but they believe it should be more integrated with other areas like national security," said Henick.

U.S. has no plans to recognize Taliban government

Afghanistan remains a vital concern for Uzbekistan's security and the region’s stability. Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, no country has officially recognized their government, though dialogue continues. While Trump has announced plans to retrieve military equipment left in Afghanistan if re-elected, he has avoided commenting on Taliban recognition.

Henick confirmed that Washington’s position remains unchanged: the United States has no plans to recognize the Taliban government.