Russia Supports Creation Of Nuclear Free Zone In Middle Asia

Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov held a meeting with his Uzbek counterpart Abdulaziz Kamilov in Tashkent and voiced his support to the initiative of Uzbekistan about the creation of a nuclear free zone in Middle Asia. The Foreign Ministers of Russia and Uzbekistan also agreed on the coordination of their activities within the framework of international organizations, first of all the UN, aimed at disarmament and control over arms. The two officials also discussed joint measures on strengthening strategic stability in the world as well as the struggle against international terrorism and drug trafficking. The Ministers also exchanged their opinions concerning the military and political situation in Afghanistan and outlooks for the settlement of the conflict in this country. Russia and Uzbekistan confirmed their support to the establishment of peaceful and independent Afghanistan that would be free of terrorism and drugs. Ivanov and Kamilov stressed the importance of joint efforts of the world community in rendering humanitarian aid to residents of Afghanistan and in helping them with the post-war reconstruction.