The parties discussed the state and prospects of expanding Uzbekistan – British relations, a number of international and regional problems, including issues of cooperation in the fight against modern security challenges and threats.

Gavin Williamson positively assessing the level of Uzbekistan – British cooperation in the military sphere, expressed the interest of the British Ministry of Defence to intensify cooperation in this area. The British side is ready to render all possible assistance to the reform process in the system of the Ministry of Defence of Uzbekistan, including improvement of the Armed Forces and advanced training of military personnel.

Special attention was paid to the Afghan problem. The British Secretary of State for Defence emphasized London’s support for the outcome of Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan in March 2018, at which consensus was reached in the international community on the need to help launch the peaceful political process in this country.

In addition, Gavin Williamson called the Uzbekistan – British consultations on Afghanistan an important mechanism of bilateral relations and noted the readiness of the United Kingdom for closer cooperation in this area.

At the meeting, views were also exchanged on supporting by the British side of major socio-economic and infrastructure projects initiated by Uzbekistan in Afghanistan.