Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The United States has deported more than 130 migrants from Central Asia who were residing in the country illegally, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The deportation, carried out on Wednesday, included citizens of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.

The agency highlighted that Uzbekistan fully financed the repatriation of its citizens, calling it a sign of strong bilateral cooperation in the field of security and a model for other U.S. allies.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem expressed gratitude to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan for his support.

“We highly value President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership in arranging the flight that returned 131 illegal migrants to their homeland,” said Secretary Noem. “We look forward to continued cooperation with Uzbekistan in strengthening our mutual security and upholding the rule of law.”