The topics to be discussed here today range from sustainable development and tackling the
effects of climate change to regional security and stability. I look forward to discussing these
issues with all of you.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Uzbekistan is undertaking far-reaching reforms aimed at achieving sweeping changes. I
would like to mention just a few examples that we regard as particularly important.
The planned judicial reforms will promote participation and the rule of law. We expressly
welcome the release of political prisoners, the efforts to end child labour in cotton harvesting
and the less complex legislation on NGOs aimed at strengthening civil society.
Progress is being made in Uzbekistan as regards working with neighbouring Central
Asian countries, opening the borders and including Afghanistan in regional cooperation.
The far-reaching reforms aimed at liberalising and modernising the Uzbek economy are
boosting market forces, fostering private enterprise and making Uzbekistan considerably more
attractive to foreign investors.
These steps are courageous. They express a policy shift and wide-ranging ambitions that
will bring great benefits and prosperity to Uzbekistan in the long run. This also creates
opportunities to further our cooperation, something I would expressly welcome.
But I am not the only one to welcome the fact that the country has become more open.
Many people are currently taking note of Uzbekistan. The outside world is becoming interested
in Uzbekistan and the opportunities it offers, particularly those of an economic nature.
Germany is following this process with great interest and attention and wants to do its
utmost to support it. The visit of a large trade delegation comprised of over 70 business people
this spring underlines what I am saying.
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