On 28 April 2021, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulaziz Kamilov received a delegation of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR) led by its Director Matteo Mecacci.

During the conversation, the sides discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the Bureau for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.

The ODIHR visit, it was noted, is taking place in the context of profound political, social and economic transformation taking place in the country, resulting in the renewed image of Uzbekistan.

A high evaluation was given to the effortsundertaken in the country to comprehensively protect the rights and freedoms of citizens, ensure gender equality, raise the quality of education, and bolster the role of mass media. Uzbekistan’s election to the UN Human Rights Council in October 2020 was indicative of the international acknowledgement of successes secured by the country.

The parties confirmed their interest in continuing constructive cooperation to improve the electoral legislation and practice in Uzbekistan, including in the context of the forthcoming presidential elections.

At the meeting, the sides exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.