Uzbek, German presidents set to continue cooperation on Afghan reconstruction

TASHKENT. Aug 29 (Interfax) - Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier have spoked by telephone to discuss further relations and cooperation in ensuring peace and the reconstruction of Afghanistan, the former's press service stated on Monday.

"The presidents of Uzbekistan and Germany expressed their support for broader practical cooperation and the promotion of joint programs and projects to deepen long-term partnership," the statement said.

"Special attention was given to regional cooperation, including in the framework of the efforts to develop a constructive dialogue with the European Union," it said.

The pair "noted the importance of continued active cooperation to help ensure a lasting peace and the socio-economic reconstruction of Afghanistan," the statement said.

Steinmeier congratulated Mirziyoyev and the people of Uzbekistan on the 31st anniversary of national independence (marked on September 1), the press service said.