Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 6 September 2022, a meeting was held between the delegation of Uzbekistan, headed by acting. Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Norov with European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders.

A wide range of issues of further development of relations between Uzbekistan and the EU was discussed, including in the area of the rule of law.

The European side was informed about the large-scale transformations being carried out in Uzbekistan.

It is noted that due to democratic changes in recent years, such fundamental values as human rights and freedoms, the rule of law, freedom of speech, religion and conscience have become a reality in the life of society.

Special attention was paid to the ongoing constitutional reform in Uzbekistan. It was emphasized that the updated Basic Law will be aimed at creating a solid legal basis and guarantees for the country’s long-term development strategy.

Reynders noted that the EU is watching with great interest the dynamic development of Uzbekistan and supports the country’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, developing civil society, ensuring freedom of speech and religion.

The willingness of the European side to cooperate in providing practical assistance in the further implementation of the broad reform program in Uzbekistan, including through the implementation of joint projects in the field of the rule of law, was expressed.

The essence and significance of the draft law on amending the Constitution of Uzbekistan, which stipulates the promotion of the basic principle "Man - society - state" and the idea "In the name of the honor and dignity of man", was explained in detail. Among the most important proposals, attention is drawn to the prohibition of the death penalty, the application of the "Miranda rule", guarantees of the rights of the suspect, the accused or the defendant, the reflection of the "habeas corpus" institution, etc.

An agreement was reached to maintain regular contacts in all areas of cooperation.