The Uzbek Foreign Ministry emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between media agendas and diplomatic agendas.
A video featuring nationalist and blatantly offensive remarks allegedly made by a citizen of Russia regarding Uzbeks has been circulated on social media. What actions have been taken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan concerning this video?
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Akhror Burkhanov, commented on several pressing topics in the media landscape, reports IA "Dunyo".
- Before I begin to respond, I would like to emphasize the importance of separating the media agenda from the diplomatic agenda. The media agenda occasionally experiences upheavals triggered by various events and statements. However, these may not accurately reflect reality and can sometimes distort it significantly.
In this regard, we urge media representatives and bloggers not to disseminate unverified materials. We remain open to cooperation.
Regarding the video itself, such statements directed at our people, regardless of their national affiliation, are absolutely unacceptable. Uzbekistan has always defended and will continue to defend the rights, honor, and dignity of its citizens, wherever they may be.
We consistently monitor the information landscape. As soon as this video was discovered online, we promptly contacted the Russian side through diplomatic channels. In such situations, it is crucial to identify the original source and verify the authenticity of the material.
Naturally, the Russian side immediately emphasized that "the mere fact of such offensive statements, regardless of their source, is deeply regrettable".
Following the conducted investigation, it was determined that the material is provocative in nature and was fabricated by destructive forces attempting to sow discord between our nations.
According to the Russian side, the individual mentioned in the video is not a citizen of the Russian Federation. This has also been reported by official Russian media.
We reiterate the necessity for everyone to approach the dissemination of any informational material responsibly. We consider it unacceptable to circulate content from unverified sources.
“On January 19, a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and a prisoner exchange came into effect. What is the position of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan regarding this issue?”
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan welcomes the ceasefire in Gaza and the prisoner exchange.
We view these agreements as a very important positive step towards de-escalating tensions and achieving the long-awaited peace in the region.
We highly appreciate the efforts of Qatar, the USA, and Egypt in reaching this agreement. We strongly urge all parties to adhere to the terms of the contract.
Uzbekistan remains committed to supporting international efforts aimed at ensuring stability and security in the Middle East.
“Uzbekistan became a partner state of BRICS on January 1. What benefits are expected from our country's participation in this association?”
- BRICS serves as a reputable and dynamic platform for multilateral cooperation and partnership. We believe that this model of interaction can provide a solid foundation for forming a new architecture of a more equitable world order while maintaining the central role of the UN.
Most of the BRICS participants are our traditional partners. Our primary focus is on economic interests. BRICS represents a vast market with significant opportunities. Comprehensive expansion of relations with the members of the association will play a positive role in ensuring the long-term prosperity of our people.
“How does Uzbekistan assess the trilateral cooperation platform with Azerbaijan and Turkey, the second meeting of which took place in Ankara? Is there a possibility of creating a similar trilateral format with other countries or expanding the Baku-Tashkent-Ankara format by involving other countries?”
- We view this platform as a very important venue for realizing the significant untapped potential between our countries.
The agenda of the meeting was quite rich and covered almost all areas of cooperation. Special attention was given by all participants to expanding collaboration on pressing regional and global issues. We agreed to make every effort to strengthen trade and economic interaction. The necessity of improving connectivity between our countries was emphasized.
As you know, the first meeting took place in 2022 in Tashkent, and this current one is the second, with the question of involving other countries not currently on the agenda of this format.