EU condemns attempts to destabilize situation in Uzbekistan

In a phone conversation with the president of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Michel condemned the “attempts to destabilize” the situation in Karakalpakstan, according to TASS.

Michel also supported the reforms “aimed at the formation of a strong civil society and the creation of the rule of law” carried out by the Uzbek authorities. The head of the European Council also expressed his condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed in the unrest.

According to preliminary data, at least 18 people were killed during the protests that began on July 1 and another 243 were injured. The disturbances began due to the decision of the country’s authorities to reform the Constitution, which deprives the region of the status of autonomy and the right to secede from the republic. On the fact of the protests in Nukus, the capital of Karakalpakstan, a criminal case was initiated under the article “Violation of the constitutional order”. On July 1 and 2, 516 demonstrators were arrested.