“Illegal migration via the US-Mexico border to the United States is dangerous and expensive. We strongly condemn the actions and caution Uzbeks not to fall prey to the lies of criminal smugglers who regard persons as commodities. US borders are not open to illegal migration. We urge citizens of Uzbekistan to use a safe and legal pathway to travel to the United States,” the US Embassy in Tashkent said.

The diplomatic mission added that the United States is working closely with the Government of Uzbekistan to remove Uzbeks who have no legal basis to remain in the United States. 

“Uzbekistan’s partnership to facilitate the return of its nationals subject to removal from the United States shows its commitment to international obligations,” the report says.

According to the US Embassy, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to expand safe and orderly pathways for migrants to lawfully enter the United States. Safe and legal pathways, including through the Diversity Visa program, offer opportunities for individuals to live and work in the United States while abiding by US immigration laws.

“Persons who cross the US border unlawfully will be barred from legal re-entry for a minimum of five years. Family members and others who assist persons to illegally migrate may also be found permanently ineligible for a visa. While the United States works with foreign partners to advance secure, orderly, and humane migration processes, it will swiftly remove under Title 8 authority all irregular entrants and non-citizens who have established no legal basis to remain in the United States,” the embassy concluded.