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Lavrov's visit to Uzbekistan shows Russia's desire to strengthen relations — top diplomat

Bakhtiyor Saidov stressed that he greatly appreciates and values the relations established with his Russian counterpart

SAMARKAND, April 23. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's visit to Uzbekistan demonstrates Russia's desire to bolster its strategic partnership, his Uzbek counterpart, Bakhtiyor Saidov, said.

"Your visit once again vividly demonstrates the firm commitment of the Russian state to further strengthen its strategic partnership and alliance with Uzbekistan," Saidov said at an official meeting with Lavrov. The top Uzbek diplomat stressed that he greatly appreciates and values the relations established with his Russian counterpart.

Lavrov arrived in Samarkand for a two-day official visit. He is scheduled to meet with the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and have detailed talks with the Uzbek foreign minister on Wednesday. Issues of bilateral relations, Eurasian integration and preparations for the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War are expected to be on the agenda.

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