The USA is committed to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan – Blinken

The United States is committed to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan.  US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken spoke about this during a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Vladimir Norov, who is in Washington.

As we previously reported, yesterday, on 12 December, the delegation of Uzbekistan headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Norov left for the USA.   On the same day, Norov held talks with State Secretary Blinken.

During the meeting, Blinken expressed his pleasure to see Norov in the USA and noted that the dialogue on strategic cooperation on 13 December will be a very good and important opportunity for the two sides to compare notes on the many problems they face together.

“I, as always, once again emphasize the commitment of the United States to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan,” said Blinken.

He also applauded Uzbekistan for reaching an agreement on border demarcation with Kyrgyzstan.

“I think this sends a strong signal to many people in the region and beyond that diplomacy is important in solving these problems.  I also appreciate the ongoing work on reforms, including religious freedom and forced labor,” said Blinken.

The Secretary of State emphasized that among the topics he will discuss with Norov is the issue of Afghanistan.

In turn, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Vladimir Norov, expressed his gratitude to Secretary Blinken for the cordial reception of the delegation of Uzbekistan at the State Department.  This year, the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the USA and the 20th anniversary of strategic cooperation have already passed.

“Over the past years, our cooperation has significantly developed in all directions of our bilateral and regional cooperation within the framework of C5+1.   We appreciate the fact that the administration of the United States supports the reform agenda of the President of Uzbekistan aimed at ensuring effective governance,” says Norov.