The European Union congratulates the Republic of Uzbekistan on the 25th anniversary of its declaration of national independence.

The European Union strongly supports the transformation process in Uzbekistan, for the benefit the Uzbek people. The EU is committed to a long-term relationship with Uzbekistan for the development, stability and security of the country, on the basis of our Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and the EU's Central Asia Strategy.

On 4 October, the European Union will host in Brussels the annual EU-Central Asia Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Chaired by the High Representative/Vice-President, Federica Mogherini, the meeting will provide an opportunity to demonstrate our strong and enduring ties with our Central Asian partners.