The Head of our state congratulated a prominent Swiss diplomat on his appointment to a high and responsible post, emphasizing the interest of Uzbekistan in more active interaction with the OSCE, strengthening of mutual understanding on all issues of the Organization’s mandate. 

In our country, the visit of the OSCE Secretary General and his participation in the forthcoming international conference in Samarkand is considered as confirmation of the interest of the Organization towards the cardinal changes in all spheres of life in Uzbekistan, including the process of democratization, ensuring human rights, freedoms and interests, improving investment climate, and other key aspects of large-scale reforms.

Thomas Greminger highly appreciated the consistent and constructive steps of Uzbekistan towards strengthening relations with neighboring countries, including with Afghanistan. The distinguished guest expressed his confidence that the results of the upcoming Samarkand forum, unprecedented in terms of the number of participants and representation, will make it possible to achieve new dynamics of regional cooperation, strengthen mutual understanding and trust in this strategically important region. 

The guest especially noted that the priority areas of the Development Strategy of Uzbekistan for the next five years are fully in tune with the goals and priorities of the OSCE in all areas: security, economic-ecological and human dimensions. 

The support and readiness of the OSCE and its office in Uzbekistan for joint work, exchange of experience and expert assistance in implementation of ongoing reforms in the country on a long-term basis was expressed. 

At the meeting, other issues on the OSCE agenda, including current regional and international issues were also discussed.