Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu will head a delegation, which will visit Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan from May 23 to 27, Interfax said with reference to the American State Department.
According to information, the purpose of visits is to “strengthen the relations of the United States with the region and promote joint efforts to create a more interconnected, prosperous and safe Central Asia.”
The delegation includes officials representing the National Security Council, the Pentagon, the International Development Agency and the International Financial Corporation United States. During his stay in Kyrgyzstan, a delegation is planned to meet with senior officials, representatives of civil society and business. The participants of the meetings will “look for ways by which the United States can better support the common values, local culture and economic development.”
In Uzbekistan, the delegation will meet with officials of the country’s government, businessmen. The parties will discuss “Strengthening the economic partnership, the common values and support of the United States in expanding the rights and capabilities of women.”
In Tajikistan, in addition to meetings with senior officials, American officials will take part in annual bilateral consultations “on the development of economic ties and strengthening cooperation in the field of security.” In addition, “issues of humanitarian assistance and other support of Afghan refugees, human rights and joint initiatives for food security and the role of women in society.
will be discussed.
In Kazakhstan, the delegation will meet with senior Kazakhstan officials and leaders of civil society to discuss the reform program in Kazakhstan, efforts to strengthen the protection of human rights and the expansion of women’s rights and capabilities.