Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov in Washington today, reaffirming the US support for Uzbekistan's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The meeting came as part of efforts to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The Secretary welcomed Uzbekistan's decision to become a full member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, thanking the country for its efforts to facilitate the return of its deportees from the United States. This move is seen as a significant step towards enhancing cooperation on counter-terrorism efforts.
Rubio also expressed appreciation for Uzbekistan's commitment to modernizing safe nuclear energy technologies and enhancing investments between their two nations. The US looks forward to working with Uzbekistan in this area, aiming to promote cooperation in critical minerals and other sectors.
The meeting highlights the growing strength of the US-Uzbekistan partnership, which is focused on advancing strategic interests in key areas such as energy, trade, and security. By strengthening ties with Uzbekistan, the US aims to build a more stable and secure region, while also promoting economic growth and development.
In related news, the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS has welcomed Uzbekistan's membership, recognizing its critical role in the fight against terrorism. The coalition's efforts are supported by numerous countries, including the United States, which provides significant financial and military aid to support the fight against ISIS.