The European Union takes note of the Presidential elections held on Sunday 9 July. These elections were well prepared and took place in a calm environment with a high turnout.

The EU welcomes the invitation given to OSCE/ODIHR to deploy a full international election observation mission, and takes note of the Mission’s preliminary findings, in particular that the election took place “in an environment where fundamental freedoms and the right to stand remain restricted.” The EU regrets that a number of shortcomings undermined voters’ ability to make an informed choice. We also take note of the Mission’s preliminary finding that serious irregularities were observed by international observers during voting.

This election, which followed Uzbekistan’s national referendum on a new Constitution on 30 April, showed a clear support for President Mirziyoyev and the reforms. The EU remains committed to support Uzbekistan in its endeavour to carry out democratic reforms and, in particular, to fully implement the recommendations of  this and previous OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Missions.

Uzbekistan is an important and valued partner of the EU, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our cooperation as we prepare to mark in 2024 the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and Uzbekistan.