August 20, 2015 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan held a meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, George Edgar, who is completing his diplomatic mission in our country.
Following the meeting, the correspondent of IA “Jahon” spoke with the British diplomat about the results of his work in Uzbekistan.
-1 worked as Ambassador of the United Kingdom in Tashkent for three years. Of course, it is a short period, but I am very glad that for the last period I have made a modest contribution to the consistent development and strengthening of the British-Uzbek friendly relations.
In recent years, there has been significant progress in bilateral cooperation. This applies, above all, the political sphere. In particular, a number of visits made at the governmental level. During the meetings, the sides discussed issues of further expansion of relations in various spheres, including in the fight against transnational crime. It is expected to sign a memorandum on cooperation in this area, including trafficking in human beings, arms and drug trafficking.
It should be emphasized that Uzbekistan plays an important role in ensuring peace and stability in Central Asia, making a big contribution to the socio-economic reconstruction of Afghanistan. Stabilization of the situation in this country is important for both Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom.
We actively carrying out trade-economic cooperation. Only in the last 2-3 years several major British companies came into the market of Uzbekistan, a number of other companies are now expressing interest in establishing production in the country.
Speaking of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, especially I would like to mention effective activity of the British Council in Uzbekistan. Over the years, the British Council has established and maintains a very fruitful relationship with the Ministry of National Education, Higher and Secondary Special Education of your country. The ongoing work of the organization is of particular importance against the background of Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On measures to further improve the learning of foreign languages” of December 10, 2012, which provides for the extension and improvement of teaching and learning of foreign languages in schools. It is encouraging that the British Council to give all possible assistance in successful implementation of the policies and plans outlined in this important document.
Also cooperation in vocational education and cultural exchange being conducted. We are grateful to the Uzbek side for support of the initiative to hold the exhibition of works by the famous British artist and sculptor Henry Moore. The exhibition, which lasted more than three months, was visited by over 10 thousand people in Tashkent and foreign visitors. At the same time judges of high art have been able not only to familiarize with the work of Henry Moore, but also to gain new knowledge through training activities.
This year, the British musicians will take part in the X International Music Festival “Sharq taronalari” in Samarkand. The next major project will be a trip to Tashkent, the world-famous theater “Globe Theatre” in November this year with the production of Shakespeare’s work “Hamlet”.
In my opinion, the development of cultural and humanitarian tics, not only helps to strengthen bilateral relations, but also serves for the rapprochement of two peoples, a better knowledge of the culture, history and traditions of each other.
In general, for me it was a great honor to work in Uzbekistan – in this great country with ancient history, rich culture and centuries-old traditions. From the first days I was struck by the hospitality of the Uzbek people, their generosity and responsiveness. Atmosphere of ethnic harmony and religious tolerance, reigning in the country, is commendable.
I take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Uzbekistan with the upcoming 24th anniversary of Independence, I wish you new successes in building a prosperous state with a developed democratic system!
