Politicians from Germany, businessmen and scholars from Portugal, Japan and Singapore praise the election results, the report said.

The co-chairman of the Uzbek-British Trade and Industry Council and the chairman of the British-Uzbek Friendship Society, Dr Hartley Booth:

"The presidential election in Uzbekistan is an extremely important event due to a number of reasons. We consider the election results as an opportunity to embrace new directions for cooperation in the future and to maintain and further continue the rapid pace of market reforms started by the current government of the country. We look forward to further developing and expanding business relations between our country and Uzbekistan.

"It is evident that the election will play a key role in our efforts to expand bilateral trade and economic relations. We are confident that following the election of the head of state the country will continue its policy aimed at furthering liberalization and progressive development of the legislation.

"Statistical data show that Uzbekistan has succeeded in lowering the inflation rate and achieving a significant economic growth. I observe a splash of interest towards Uzbekistan among British companies here in London. In my opinion, this is an important factor for Uzbekistan’s economic success."