Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The Uztekstilprom Association, together with the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the Republic of France and The Union des Industries Textiles - The French Textile Industry Association held a press briefing on lifting the boycott on Uzbek cotton and new prospects for the domestic textile industry.

The statement made on 10 March 2022 by the Government of Uzbekistan together with the international coalition Cotton Campaign to lift the boycott of Uzbek cotton proved the quality and progressive implementation of reforms in the field of labor law and social development, the recognition of the fact of the complete absence of child and forced labor in the cotton harvest in Uzbekistan.

The briefing discussed social and legal aspects and issues of their protection, which are key elements of the strategy to promote human development, decent work, political stability and inclusive sustainable growth. It is known that legal and social aspects create a favorable environment for the development of sustainable enterprises.

The briefing participants were given information about the growing interest of French companies in cooperation with Uzbek textile enterprises. It was noted that at the moment Uzbekistan is actively working on social dialogue in the textile industry and the establishment of constructive production relations between suppliers. An agreement was reached on the need to develop relations with European brands.

The President of The Union des Industries, Norbert Blank, noted that Uzbekistan actually demonstrates its readiness and openness to cooperate with the international community. French companies are also considering the possibility of expanding cooperation with Uzbekistan. In June of this year, a delegation of the Association will be in Uzbekistan to get acquainted with the potential of the textile industry.

Jonas Astrup (International Labor Organization) noted that, first of all, international organizations recognized the absence of forced labor in Uzbekistan and called on international brands to work closely with Uzbek manufacturers, the press service of the Uztekstilprom Association reports.