Uzbekistan does not recognize Donetsk and Luhansk

Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov has announced the country's official position regarding the conflict in Ukraine, during his speech at the 24th plenary session of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, stating that the Central Asian State has long and multifaceted ties with both Russia and Ukraine and does not recognize self-proclaimed The Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics.

“Uzbekistan is for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We do not recognize the Luhansk and Donetsk People’s republics,” Kamilov said. 

“We will continue our mutually beneficial cooperation with these two countries based on our national interests. On the one hand, Russia is Uzbekistan's leading trading partner. It’s our strategic partner and ally. On the other hand, we are cooperating with Ukraine in many areas, including trade, economic, cultural, educational, and agricultural fields,” the head of the Foreign Ministry emphasized.

“Last year, our bilateral trade with Ukraine had reached $704 million, which is 60% more than in 2020. This year we were planning to organize various events in Tashkent and Kyiv when we have relaunched the air communication in 2021 with 4 flights every week,” the minister continued.

“In these difficult days, we will definitely provide. Amid this difficult situation, we will continue to provide this assistance by upscaling humanitarian assistance to Ukraine nation” Foreign Minister concluded.