Uzbekistan, EU determine prospects of development of relations
TASHKENT. Jan 25 (Interfax) - Uzbek President Islam Karimov has discussed the development of relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union with European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and EU Energy Commissioner Guenther Oettinger.
"The meeting between Islam and Jose Manuel Barroso lasted much longer than it was expected to and had a frank and constructive atmosphere. The negotiations addressed the development of bilateral cooperation and also regional and international issues," the Uzbek media reported on Tuesday.
Jose Manuel Barroso thanked Karimov for his assistance in the implementation of the EU strategy in Central Asia and said he is hoping this visit will become a turning point in the development of bilateral relations between the EU and Uzbekistan, the Uzbek media have reported.
Jose Manuel Barroso said at the meeting the EU countries are ready to take part in the economic and structural reforms in Uzbekistan by providing high technologies for the implementation of priority projects, infrastructure development, personnel training, and expansion of technological ties.
Jose Manuel Barroso said the EU is ready to help Uzbekistan continue its democratic reforms and the formation of a civil society, specifically during the work on legislation aimed at promoting democratic development, the development of an independent media, and further liberalization of the judicial system.
"The parties have pointed out mutual interest in continuing dialogue on human rights and supremacy of law," the Uzbek media have reported.