Washington DC, 13 December 2022 (TDI): The United States (US) Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, met with the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Vladimir Norov, on Monday.
The meeting took place ahead of the US and Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership Dialogue in Washington DC. Both dignitaries spoke about the long-standing bilateral relationship.
They discussed the support for the peoples of Ukraine and Afghanistan, and the partnership within the context of Central Asia’s shifting geopolitical landscape.
Also read: Uzbek President receives US Delegation
Secretary Blinken praised the reforms that Uzbekistan had promised and urged the government to put them into action. He stressed the implementation of rights including civil society, media freedom, and preventing gender-based violence.
In this vein, Blinken stressed, “There is a necessity for thorough, open investigations and just criminal trials in light of the disturbances in Karakalpakstan earlier this year.”
“America is committed to Uzbekistan as a trustworthy partner and will help foster a thriving, safe, and democratic Central Asia.” Secretary reaffirmed.
US & Uzbekistan bilateral relation
The United States established diplomatic relations with Uzbekistan in 1992 following its independence from the Soviet Union.
Since then, the relationship has thrived in the fields of security, economy, and politics. The US maintains an Embassy in Tashkent. Similarly, Uzbekistan has an Embassy in Washington DC.
Uzbekistan and the US are a member of various international organizations including the United Nations (UN), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Moreover, both are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NAT) Partnership for Peace and the World Bank.
In order to maintain stability, prosperity, and security in the larger Central Asian region, Uzbekistan is crucial to American interests. Regional dangers include terrorism, violent extremism, human trafficking, and illegal drugs.
Also read: Uzbekistan: torch bearer of regional connectivity, Speakers
The US is providing humanitarian aid, technical assistance, military-to-military funding, and micro-credit support in Uzbekistan.
It is pertinent to note that in 2021, Uzbekistan’s trade with the US grew from $277 million to $424 million. This makes the US the 16th largest trade partner of Uzbekistan.
