Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A couple from Bukhara approached the Children’s Ombudsman of Uzbekistan requesting the return of their daughter, who had been left in St. Petersburg in April 2024.

After their stay in Russia, the couple left the country without managing to bring their child back with them.

The baby was born prematurely with a heart condition. She underwent surgery and received necessary care, but the parents were unable to cover the medical expenses. Part of the funds were raised by the Uzbek diaspora, while the remaining amount was provided by a businessman from Uzbekistan.

The Children’s Ombudsman of Uzbekistan reached out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Health to expedite the return of the child from St. Petersburg.

On 1 September, the baby was transported back to Uzbekistan and handed over to her parents.

The Health Department of Bukhara Region and the regional office of the National Social Protection Agency are taking measures to safeguard the child’s health and provide social assistance to the family.