On July 9, the US Ambassador to Uzbekistan Daniel Rosenblum met with media representatives of the country. During the meeting, he spoke about the main tasks that he planned to accomplish during his tenure, as well as answered numerous questions of journalists on bilateral relations.
- First of all, I have to say that I am glad that I have been appointed ambassador to Uzbekistan at the time when there is great changes and developments in the country. Now, I can say that relations between Uzbekistan and the United States have peaked since the period I have known it.
My main tasks as an Ambassador include five areas. According to their significance, they can be summarized as follows:
Firstly, strengthening security cooperation between Uzbekistan and the US. This includes not just the situation in Afghanistan, but also elimination of extremism and transnational crime, prevention of drug trafficking, and so on.
Secondly, supporting Uzbekistan's economic, political and social reforms. The development program proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proves fruitful. The United States is ready to assist Uzbekistan as a country that has experience in many areas, including judicial and legal sphere, as well as in education and healthcare issues.
Thirdly, focusing on protection of human rights. We assist in ensuring pluralism while forming freedom of speech, freedom of conscience and civil society. This is one of the priorities of the US foreign policy.
Fourthly, establishing direct contacts between citizens of Uzbekistan and the United States. This will help improve and strengthen educational, cultural and scientific relations.
Fifthly, assisting American companies to enter the market of Uzbekistan, help them offer their products and services, and also contribute to the attraction of effective investments. As the economic development of Uzbekistan has accelerated, there are many opportunities for both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors. Therefore, we must support them and create opportunities.
During the meeting with the US Ambassador, the sides exchanged views on the possibility of introducing a visa-free regime between the two countries, whether or not the US President would visit Uzbekistan, abolition of boycotting Uzbek cotton, and other issues.
