OSCE hails strengthened cooperation with Uzbekistan

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe chairperson-in-office meets with Uzbekistan’s leadership

By Dilan Pamuk

ANKARA (AA) - The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) chairperson-in-office applauded the strengthened cooperation between the organization and Uzbekistan, a statement said on Thursday.

Ann Linde, who is also Swedish foreign minister, met Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, her Uzbek counterpart Abdulaziz Kamilov and Senate First Deputy Chair Sadiq Safaev as well as the representatives of civil society as part of her official visit to the country.

They discussed Uzbekistan's national program, Action Strategy for Further Development of Uzbekistan for 2017-2021, with Linde expressing the OSCE’s continued support for the implementation of the program, which had a series of comprehensive domestic reforms largely in line with OSCE commitments.

She also highlighted the OSCE project coordinator’s support in the implementation of recommendations such as fostering gender equality and assistance in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.

Linde voiced her support for the civil society.

“As Chair, Sweden will draw on the expertise of civil society to ensure that their contributions inform all aspects of security,” she said.

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