United States to support Uzbekistan’s growth of economic opportunities for women

Uzbekistan Foreign Minister Vladimir Norov and US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu held the annual Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Washington on December 13. A joint statement on its results was issued by the US State Department.

Donald Lu, on behalf of the United States, thanked Uzbekistan for its key participation in the C5 + 1 diplomatic format.

Government representatives also discussed Uzbekistan’s reform agenda, and the US Assistant Secretary of State reiterated their support and stressed that the US government is helping to advance reforms, including in the areas of the economy, education, and human rights.

The delegations noted the determination to develop trade and investment partnership and maintain a favorable environment for business activity in both countries.

In addition, representatives of the governments of Uzbekistan and the United States discussed freedom of the media, protection of journalists and support for civil society.

The delegations raised the issue of cooperation on key security issues, such as strengthening border control and defense capabilities, as well as the fight against drugs and terrorism. Donald Lu stressed Uzbekistan’s commitment to peace and security in the region.

The United States applauded Uzbekistan’s willingness to forge new trade routes and diversify import and export markets, strengthen regional connectivity, its global commitment to reduce emissions and other efforts to combat the climate crisis, and the country’s commitment to advance economic reforms, including expansion economic opportunities for women. The US has indicated its readiness to support these efforts in the statement said.