Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 12 December 2022, a delegation of the Republic of Uzbekistan led by Foreign Minister Vladimir Norov held talks with United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The head of the US State Department noted the special significance of holding the second meeting of the Strategic Partnership Dialogue in the year of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, which, in his words, will allow not only to synchronize watches on the most pressing issues of bilateral cooperation, but also to determine further mutual priorities.

Antony Blinken positively assessed the ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan and assured of all support in the process of their implementation. The head of the State Department separately emphasized the progress of the republic in the field of human rights protection, incl. to ensure religious freedom, combat human trafficking and eradicate forced labor.

The Secretary of State highly appreciated the regional policy promoted by Uzbekistan, which contributes to strengthening the atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding in Central Asia. In this context, Antony Blinken welcomed the achievement by Uzbekistan of an agreement on the demarcation of the state border with Kyrgyzstan. "I think this sends a strong signal to many in the region and beyond about the importance of diplomatic capabilities to deal with issues like this," the head of the State Department said.

The interest of the parties in building up partnerships in trade, investment, science and education, transport and logistics was emphasized.

An exchange of views took place on the schedule of events both on a bilateral basis and within the framework of the C5 + 1 regional format and international organizations.