The Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov spoke to the U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo Monday. The U.S. Secretary Pompeo reaffirmed U.S. steadfast support for Uzbekistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence, and for President Mirziyoyev’s reform agenda. The Foreign Minister and the Secretary reflected on the progress of human rights reforms, including broadening religious freedom, combatting trafficking in persons, and expanding space for civil society and journalists, and also discussed opportunities for U.S. exporters and investors as Uzbekistan pursues market-oriented policies and privatization.
Reflecting on the growing Uzbekistan – U.S. partnership and strategic alignment, Foreign Minister Kamilov and Secretary Pompeo lauded the Uzbek governments’ decision to elevate annual bilateral political consultations to a Strategic Partnership Dialogue. Within this Dialogue, the United States and Uzbekistan will pursue closer cooperation across political, security, economic, and human dimensions.