"The sides will discuss at talks the present state of bilateral relations and their future, pressing regional and international issues as well as cooperation within the framework of international organizations," a press service report said. According to the press service, Karimov’s visit is scheduled for February 5-6.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said ahead of a visit by Uzbek President Islam Karimov that he valued strategic partnership and allied relations with Uzbekistan.

"I value our sincere trust-based dialogue, which helps to promote mutually-advantageous Russian-Uzbek cooperation, strengthen strategic partnership and allied relations of our countries," the Russian leader said in a telegram with congratulations on the 70th birthday of the Uzbek president on Wednesday.

"I am confident that your upcoming visit to Moscow will give a powerful impetus to a further development of bilateral relations, and will visibly increase practical effect from cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan," the telegram stressed.