Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- A delegation of the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) visited Columbia University in New York.

During the visit, negotiations were held, as well as a series of presentations on the issues of strengthening the social protection system, which were carried out by the teaching staff of this university. There was also an exchange of views on current issues of social protection.

The interest of Columbia University in studying the unique “mahalla” system of Uzbekistan, which provides basic social protection to citizens, was especially noted.

The Agency delegation also met with the President of the University, Minouche Shafik.

As a result, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the NSPA, the School of Social Work of Columbia University and UNICEF, stipulating the creation of a joint Center for promoting community strengthening and social well-being, which will play a key role in the development of the social protection system not only in Uzbekistan, but throughout region.