“In the context of the aggravation of numerous threats and challenges, a confidential dialogue and mutual understanding between the countries of Central Asia and Russia is of particular importance. Russia is the closest friend, partner and ally of the countries of our region.

Over the past period, we have managed to significantly expand cooperation in the political, trade, economic, investment, cultural, humanitarian and other fields, Uzbekistan and Russia have always been together, our countries remain reliable allies and strategic partners,” Saidov said at a meeting in Samarkand within the framework of the dialogue "Central Asia + Russia".

Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Russia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan had made progress in discussing the tripartite gas union project, and there would be benefits for each side.