Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 13 December 2022, the second meeting of the Strategic Partnership Dialogue between Uzbekistan and the United States of America was held in Washington.

The delegations of the parties were headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Vladimir Norov and US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu.

In accordance with the agenda, an exchange of views took place on topical issues of bilateral cooperation in the areas of politics and regional dialogue. The dynamic development of the Uzbek-American multifaceted cooperation, which today is based on open dialogue and mutual trust, was noted with satisfaction.

In addition, the American side reaffirmed its unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan. It was emphasized that despite serious challenges, Uzbekistan continues an ambitious and very successful course of reforms under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. In this context, the American side expressed its readiness to assist in promoting the reform program, including in the areas of the economy, education and ensuring human rights.

The delegations also discussed cooperation on key security issues and paid special attention to the situation in Afghanistan.

The United States of America expressed gratitude to Uzbekistan for its active participation in the C5 + 1 diplomatic platform and emphasized the importance of this format for jointly solving problems and creating a more prosperous and secure Central Asia

The session "Economic Development" discussed the progress of ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan and the measures taken to create a favorable business climate. Initiatives were considered regarding the expansion of Uzbek-American cooperation in the areas of digital economy, agriculture, transport, water resources and environmental protection. The participants exchanged views on the effective solution of the problems faced by the companies of the two countries.

The importance of thorough preparations for the meeting of the Council of the US-Central Asia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) in Samarkand in 2023 was emphasized. The parties agreed to establish a permanent working group with the participation of the departments of both parties to form a bilateral economic platform for TIFA.

The American side announced its readiness to continue providing assistance to Uzbekistan in the process of joining the WTO.

During the Human Dimension session, US representatives positively described the progress made in Uzbekistan in strengthening democratic institutions, protecting freedom of speech and religion, eradicating forced labor and ensuring gender equality.

The parties also discussed issues of enhancing cultural and humanitarian exchanges. The US government welcomes the ongoing comprehensive reforms in the country to improve the quality of education, improve the educational base and strengthen the professional skills of teachers. Interest was expressed in the implementation of joint projects in the field of education. The commitment to further deepen cooperation in the field of science was reaffirmed. Health care, environmental protection, IT, agriculture, seismology and others are designated as promising areas.

Following the meeting, a joint statement was adopted.