Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Vladimir Norov met with United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussain.

The US side has been informed about the ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan, including in the field of protecting the religious rights and freedoms of citizens. It was emphasized that ensuring freedom of religion, creating favorable conditions for believers, protecting their legal rights and freedoms are an important part of the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan.

Rashad Hussain welcomed the results of the systemic measures taken in Uzbekistan to ensure the rights and interests of citizens in the field of religion, improve national legislation and law enforcement practice in this direction, strengthen the atmosphere of mutual interfaith harmony in the country, and fully support civil society institutions, including religious organizations.

The American side also noted that the creation of even greater conditions for the performance of religious rites and the expression of their beliefs by believers will counteract the narratives of radical groups. Hussein expressed hope for continued reforms in this area, as well as efforts to bring legislation in line with international standards.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain a permanent working dialogue to strengthen cooperation in the field of protecting religious freedom.