On May 27, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received Catherine Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Childrenʼs Fund (UNICEF), who is currently on an official visit to Uzbekistan.

The meeting focused on strengthening multifaceted cooperation with UNICEF, a key UN agency dedicated to childrenʼs welfare.

At the start of the discussions, Catherine Russell conveyed warm greetings from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The UNICEF delegation praised the outcomes of ongoing reforms in Uzbekistan and expressed strong support for the national program aimed at promoting childrenʼs rights and expanding opportunities for young people.

Both sides noted with satisfaction that Uzbekistan–UNICEF cooperation has reached a new level in recent years.

With UNICEFʼs assistance, Uzbekistan has adopted strategic documents in key areas, including legislation on protecting children from violence, strengthening social protection for the population, and combating pediatric oncology. UNICEF also played an active role in supporting the countryʼs response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in developing its national vaccination system.

The importance of implementing joint initiatives in priority areas was emphasized. These include improving legislation, introducing new mechanisms for child care and support, developing the system of social work and personnel training, expanding access to and improving the quality of social services, developing national standards, broadening social insurance coverage, and advancing inclusive education.

It was agreed to adopt a new Country Program through 2030 and to jointly organize a series of international events focused on protecting and promoting the rights and interests of children.