Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 6 February, the Minister of Justice of Uzbekistan, Akbar Toshkulov, met with Timothy Smart, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland to Uzbekistan.

The Minister highlighted the positive dynamics of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom, and provided an overview of the ongoing reforms in the areas of justice and human rights being implemented in the country.

The meeting also focused on the system of free legal aid and consultations on legal issues, based on the UK’s experience and organized with the support of the Embassy.

Collaboration between the UK Intellectual Property Office and the Ministry of Justice of Uzbekistan has also led to the harmonization of Uzbekistan’s legislation with the requirements of the TRIPS agreement, marking an important step in the country’s accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Timothy Smart praised the reforms taking place in Uzbekistan, particularly in the areas of protecting women from violence and persecution, gender equality, and the rights of persons with disabilities. He also commended the creation of favorable conditions for this category of citizens.

The Ambassador emphasized the significance of the International Commercial Court at the Tashkent International Center for Digital Technologies, noting that its activities would contribute to building trust among foreign investors.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for further cooperation, including in the areas of intellectual property protection, the return of unlawfully acquired assets, judicial and legal reforms, and supporting the establishment of large UK law firms in Uzbekistan.