President Shavkat Mirziyoyev congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin on his 74th birthday during a telephone call today, the president’s press service said.

Mirziyoyev wished Putin good health, happiness and success, and prosperity to the Russian people. Shavkat Mirziyoyev highlighted Putin’s historic role in building modern Russia and his personal contribution to strengthening comprehensive strategic partnership and allied relations between Uzbekistan and Russia.

They commende that bilateral ties were advancing rapidly across all areas and outcomes of a recent meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission in Fergana, as well as the third meeting of the Council of Provinces.

Cultural and humanitarian exchanges were also discussed. A Russian arts festival titled “World of Arts” was recently held in Uzbekistan, while the Days of Uzbek Culture are currently taking place in Moscow.

The two leaders also exchanged views on pressing international and regional issues and discussed plans for upcoming events, the press service said.

The call came two days after Mirziyoyev congratulated Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on his birthday.

Bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Russia were described during the call as comprehensive strategic partnership and allied relations, with cooperation continuing across multiple areas.