TASHKENT, June 11 (RIA Novosti, Abu-Ali Niyazmatov) - Uzbek President Islam Karimov believes his country is currently under "information attack." He spoke on Friday at the meeting with a delegation of Russian politicians and journalists, headed by president of the Politika foundation Vyatcheslav Nikonov, at his Oskaroy residence. "Today, when Uzbekistan is under information attack, your position based on weighted approach and deep understanding of the situation is very important for us," the press service of the Uzbek president quotes Karimov who addressed the members of the delegation. "I am certain of your unbiased approach and objective evaluation of the issues that have serious importance for Uzbekistan," he added.
In his turn, Nikonov said, "The cooperation with Uzbekistan in all spheres occupies a prominent place in the Russian foreign policy," the press service quotes.
"Uzbekistan is a strong country with extensive experience of national statehood," the president of the Politika foundation added.
During the meeting, the sides emphasized that interests of various criminal groups involved in illicit arms and drug trade and forces striving to destabilize the situation are focused on Central Asia, the region of great geopolitical importance. By poisoning the minds of people with destructive ideas and creating public disturbances, they attempt to realize their villainous plans," the press release reports.
The May 13 events in Andijan (the fourth largest city in Uzbekistan) are a good example of such attempts.
On May 13, a group of armed individuals liberated hundreds of inmates from a prison in Andijan. Among the inmates were members of extremist organizations. The government troops squashed the rebellion. According to official data, 137 people died, including 36 Uzbek soldiers. Human rights activists believe more than 700 people were killed during the disturbances.
