| Press Statement Richard Boucher Washington, DC July 13, 2004 Secretary of State Decision not to Certify UzbekistanSection 568(a) of the FY 04 Foreign Operations Appropriations Act requires the Secretary to determine that Uzbekistan is making substantial and continuing progress in meeting its commitments under the 2002 Strategic Partnership Framework, including respect for human rights, establishing a genuine multi-party system, and ensuring free and fair elections, freedom of expression, and the independence of the media before any Fiscal Year 2004 assistance may be made available to the central government of Uzbekistan. Up to $18 million in FY 04 assistance may be affected. Uzbekistan has made some encouraging progress over the past year with respect to human rights. We are, however, disappointed by lack of progress on democratic reform and restrictions put on U.S. assistance partners on the ground. On balance, therefore, the Secretary has decided that, based on Uzbekistan 's overall record of reform, he cannot make the determination required by Section 568(a). Uzbekistan is an important partner of the United States in the war on terror and we have many shared strategic goals. This decision does not mean that either our interests in the region or our desire for continued cooperation with Uzbekistan has changed. We want to continue to work with Uzbekistan to pursue our common goals and to implement the standards and ideals in the Strategic Partnership Framework. Enhanced progress in democratization, respect for human rights and economic reforms are essential for Uzbekistan 's security and long-term prosperity, as well as to reinforce a solid and enduring relationship with the United States . ### 2004/766
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