Today, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev spoke to the President of the European Council Charles Michel over the telephone, the presidential press service said.
The parties reviewed the ways to further expand the Uzbek-European multifaceted and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev reportedly expressed sincere gratitude for the all-round support to irreversible democratic and socio-economic transformations in Uzbekistan.
In turn, the President of the European Council spoke in support of Uzbekistan's efforts to continue the course of open reforms in the country, aimed at the formation of a strong civil society and the rule of law.
Charles Michel called for an open and independent investigation into the violent events in Karakalpakstan following the publication of the proposed amendments to Uzbekistan’s Constitution. We deeply regret the casualties and loss of human life and continue to follow developments closely.
He acknowledged the steps taken by President Mirziyoyev to respond quickly to public concerns over the proposed constitutional amendments. We call on all sides to show restraint in their actions, with a view to avoiding any escalation or further violence. The European Union urges the authorities to guarantee human rights, including the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, in line with Uzbekistan’s international commitments.
The European Union has a strong and growing partnership with Uzbekistan, he said. The EU remains committed to supporting Uzbekistan’s reform efforts, and call for it to continue this process in consultation with citizens and stakeholders, based on international norms and best practices.
During the conversation, the parties also focused on the issue of completing the preparation of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the EU.
The importance of increasing mutual trade and investment was emphasized, using the advantages of the Generalized System of Preferences Plus.
The parties dwelled separately on the promotion of specific programs and projects of practical cooperation, primarily in the field of "green economy", digitalization, innovation, logistics, agriculture, ecology, education and healthcare.
Charles Michel called for an open and independent investigation into the violent events in Karakalpakstan following the publication of the proposed amendments to Uzbekistan’s Constitution. We deeply regret the casualties and loss of human life and continue to follow developments closely.
He acknowledged the steps taken by President Mirziyoyev to respond quickly to public concerns over the proposed constitutional amendments. We call on all sides to show restraint in their actions, with a view to avoiding any escalation or further violence. The European Union urges the authorities to guarantee human rights, including the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, in line with Uzbekistan’s international commitments.
The European Union has a strong and growing partnership with Uzbekistan, he said. The EU remains committed to supporting Uzbekistan’s reform efforts, and call for it to continue this process in consultation with citizens and stakeholders, based on international norms and best practices.
