USA to continue providing assistance to Uzbekistan in joining WTO

The delegations of the parties were led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Vladimir Norov, and the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Donald Lu.

In accordance with the agenda, views were exchanged on current issues of bilateral cooperation in the fields of politics and regional dialogue. Today, it was noted that Uzbek-American multilateral cooperation, based on open communication and mutual trust, is rapidly developing.

In addition, the American side once again confirmed its constant support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan. It was noted that despite serious threats, Uzbekistan is consistently moving towards large-scale and successful reforms under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The American side expressed its readiness to fully support the reform program in Uzbekistan in the fields of economy, education and human rights.

The delegations discussed the issues of dialogue and cooperation on security issues and paid special attention to the situation in Afghanistan.

The United States of America thanked Uzbekistan for its active participation in the C5+1 diplomatic platform. It was noted that this format is important for solving problems together, building a prosperous and safe Central Asia.

During the “Economic Development” session, the reforms implemented in Uzbekistan and the measures taken to create a favorable business environment were discussed. Initiatives to expand Uzbek-American cooperation in the fields of digital economy, agriculture, transport, water resources and environmental protection were considered. The participants also exchanged views on effective solutions to the problems faced by the companies of the two countries.

The importance of careful preparation for the meeting of the United States – Central Asia Trade and Investment (TIFA) in Samarkand in 2023 was emphasized. The parties agreed to establish a permanent working group with the participation of the offices of both parties to formulate the economic agenda of TIFA.

The American side reported that it is ready to continue providing assistance to Uzbekistan in the process of becoming a member of the WTO.

During the “Human Criterion” session, the US representatives positively assessed the achievements in strengthening democratic institutions, protecting freedom of speech and religion, ending forced labor and ensuring gender equality in Uzbekistan.

The sides discussed issues of activation of cultural and humanitarian exchanges. The US government welcomes the comprehensive reforms implemented in the country to improve the quality of education, improve the educational base and improve the professional skills of teachers. Interest was expressed in the implementation of joint projects in the field of education. The need to further deepen cooperation in the field of science was confirmed. The importance of continuing relations in healthcare, environmental protection, IT, agriculture, seismology and other promising areas was recognized.

A joint statement was adopted on the results of the meeting.