The headquarters of the European Parliament in Strasbourg (France) has hosted a “round table” dedicated to the upcoming elections of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the modern development of our state. The event was organized by the diplomatic mission of our country in Belgium, Germany and France, together with the office of MEP fr om Italy Fulvio Martusciello.

Deputies of the European Parliament, representatives of the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe and non-governmental organizations have attended the event.

The meeting participants have been informed in detail on the measures taken in Uzbekistan in connection with the December 4, 2016 early presidential elections, including the creation of equal conditions for all candidates in the election campaign and the organization of open and fair elections in accordance with international democratic standards.

MEPs have addressed at the event and stated that Uzbekistan has shown a high level of maturity and stable system of public administration, as well as the advancement of democratic institutions in the country.

In particular, Fulvio Martusciello has noted that in a short period of independent development of Uzbekistan passed through a difficult path, and today it is a modern, dynamic and self-sufficient state.

– The European Parliament highly assesses conducted political, social and economic reforms aimed at improving the welfare of the population and ensuring full implementation of the rule of law in the republic. We are closely watching the processes occurring in the country’s life which your country shows the maturity of the political system and continues to follow its own path of development.

Elections are an indication of the development of democracy in the country. In Uzbekistan important decisions are made on the basis of the will of the people and in the framework of the Constitution, and this indicates the maturity of the Uzbek model of reforms. Creation of equal conditions on the legal basis for the participation of all political parties in the presidential elections once again proves that in Uzbekistan in a short period of independent development the mechanisms of political pluralism which is fundamental element in the development of a democratic society, have been implemented, – said F.Martusciello.

As earlier reported, the President of the European Parliament Delegation for relations with the countries of Central Asia Iveta Grigule visited to our country as part of the European Parliament delegation in November wh ere she participated in a meeting of the Parliamentary Cooperation Committee “Uzbekistan-EU”.

– During the visit, the European Parliament delegation got acquainted with the preparations for the upcoming presidential elections. The importance of the reforms in the sphere of improving the electoral process, strengthening the constitutional status and independence of the Central Election Commission, as well as expansion of its powers should be noted.

I think of radical reforms in the field of election legislation implemented in recent years in the Republic will provide a solid basis for the conduct of elections in an atmosphere of equality, transparency, in full compliance with the country’s laws and fundamental norms and principles of international law. I am sure that this event will become a new impetus for Uzbekistan to further economic and social advancement as well as enhance international cooperation, since the republic has a worthy place not only in the region but also in the international arena, – said I.Grigule.

Eduard Kukan, Member of the European Parliament from Slovakia has expressed the opinion that measures adopted recently in Uzbekistan to improve the level and quality of life, as well as steps toward strengthening relations with neighboring countries show that the country adheres and remains loyal to its path of development and interests to ensure stability and prosperity in the whole region.

– We believe that Uzbekistan plays a significant role in maintaining peace and security in Central Asia, and we appreciate it. I am confident that the forthcoming elections which are momentous political event for your country, will take place in a spirit of openness and transparency, in accordance with the best international democratic norms and standards, as well as the Constitution. I am also convinced that the people of Uzbekistan will vote for a worthy leader who justifies their confidence.

We are ready to further deepen cooperation with your country in various spheres and wish the Uzbek people successes in the upcoming presidential elections and prosperity, – partially said E.Kukan.