The Governor of the Samara Oblast, Dmitry Azarov, held a working meeting with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Russia, Botirjon Asadov. The parties discussed the strengthening of trade-economic, social, political and humanitarian cooperation, as well as ways to resolve the issue of the repatriation of Uzbek citizens awaiting return to their homeland at the border of Samara and Orenburg oblasts.

Uzbek citizens came to the Samara region due to false information about the opening of borders. In May and June, more than 1,500 Uzbek citizens had crossed the Russian-Kazakh border. 

However, owing to the deterioration of the epidemiological situation, Kazakhstan introduced additional restrictive measures on July 5, making it difficult for citizens to cross the border.

“We try to support them by setting up a camp on the territory of the Bolshechernigovsky District, and with a joint effort of states we do our best to send them to their homeland,” noted the head of the Oblast.

The Ambassador thanked Dmitry Azarov for the active involvement of the regional Government in this matter:  

“We appreciate your attention and value your friendship. I have already conveyed greetings from Uzbekistan for the efforts you are making to create proper conditions that prevent complications of the epidemiologic situation in the place where our citizens are gathered. I hope that together we can resolve all the issues that arise.”