President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree Thursday aimed at improving the system of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and enhancing of its responsibility for implementation of foreign policy and foreign economic priorities.

The document has defined the main vectors for reforming the ministry.

First, revision of the legal framework of the activities and organizational-staff structure of the Ministry and diplomatic missions focusing on economic diplomacy.

Second, using public diplomacy instruments to improve Uzbekistan’s reputation.

Third, creation of mechanisms for ensuring real protection of the rights and interests of Uzbek citizens, maintaining contacts with fellow countrymen abroad, and actively attracting them in the implementation of projects in Uzbekistan.

Fourth, it is planned to review the recruitment policy in the Ministry and diplomatic missions through implementing of advanced and transparent mechanisms and creation of reserve of diplomatic personnel.

It is planned to improve the pay and social protection of diplomats and to create decent work conditions for them. In addition, it is planned to widely implement modern information and communication technologies to improve the provision of public services.

The following divisions are being formed within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

• Main Department for Foreign Economic Cooperation (in its structure - the Department of Foreign Investment and Financial -Technical Assistance, the Department of Export Promotion and Foreign Trade Relations, the Department of Coordination of Intergovernmental Commissions, the Department for International Cooperation in Tourism Development);
• Department of Public Relations and the Media – in place of the Press Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
• Consular and Legal Department - in place of the Consular Department;
• Department for Cooperation with Compatriots Abroad;
• Department for work with appeals of individuals and legal entities with call-center;
• Department for Servicing of the Diplomatic Corps - in place of the Diplomatic Service;
• Dunyo Information agency and media center - in place of the Jahon information agency;
• Bureau of Translators;
• Center for Analysis and Forecasting - in place of the Information and Analytical Center for International Relations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also open territorial offices in Karakalpakstan and regions.

A new practice of development of the priorities of foreign-policy and foreign economic cooperation requiring further approval by the President shall be introduces in the Ministry.

Road maps of diplomatic missions for cooperation with foreign states will be adopted annually.

The Foreign Minister will monthly hear reports of the heads of diplomatic missions over fulfillment of assigned tasks and road maps for cooperation with host states or international organization.

Until October 1, it is planned to draft the new edition of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy concept.

Until January 1, 2019, proposals should be prepared for improvement of the activities of diplomatic missions, including critical analysis with field visits.