12 October 2001

U.S., Uzbekistan Cooperate to Aid Afghan People, Fight Terrorism

The United States and Uzbekistan have agreed to cooperate closely in the struggle against terrorism and in the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan, according to an October 12 joint statement.

Following is the text of the joint statement, as released by the State Department:

Following is the text of a joint statement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

"The Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan recognize international terrorism as a serious threat to peace and to global and regional stability. To this end, they signed an agreement October 7 that establishes a strong basis for bilateral cooperation in the struggle against terrorism. Our countries will work closely to create a safer future not only for the people of Central Asia but for people throughout the world.

Our common struggle is against terrorism, not against the Afghan people, and we will work together to support delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan. We also commit ourselves to eliminate international terrorism and its infrastructure. For these purposes, the Republic of Uzbekistan has agreed to provide the use of its air space and necessary military and civilian infrastructure of one of its airports, which would be used in the first instance for humanitarian purposes.

Our two governments have decided to establish a qualitatively new relationship based on a long-term commitment to advance security and regional stability. We recognize the need to work closely together in the campaign against terrorism. This includes the need to consult on an urgent basis about appropriate steps to address the situation in the event of a direct threat to the security or territorial integrity of the Republic of Uzbekistan."