Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Some external forces do not want Uzbekistan to join the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This was stated by the Russian Ambassador to Uzbekistan Oleg Malginov during a interview on the Rossiya-24 TV channel. 

“We see that there is some resistance from some external players who do not want Uzbekistan to move in this direction,” he noted.

The ambassador emphasized that Uzbekistan continues to adhere to its course on joining the EAEU, but did not specify how long this process might take. “This is an important goal, and it is still relevant for our relations, including Russian-Uzbek relations,” the diplomat added.

Oleg Malginov said that Uzbekistan, which has been an observer in the EAEU for three years, is actively participating in all events related to the union. He also noted that there is currently a working group between the EAEU and Uzbekistan that is developing draft changes to legislation, procedures and other aspects necessary for Uzbekistan’s full accession to the organization, taking into account its characteristics.

The Ambassador expressed hope that this process will be accelerated in the near future.