The Presidents Of Russia And Uzbekistan: The Invasion Of Terrorists Into Central Asia Must Be Prevented

"There is no need to hot up the situation" in the Central Asian region in connection with possible actions on the part of international terrorists. At the same time it is necessary "to analyse the situation and be ready to any developments." This statement was made by Russian President Vladimir Putin in opening the negotiations with President Islam Karimov of Uzbekistan in an extended format. According to the head of the Russian state, during their tete-a-tete negotiations they paid special attention to the situation in Central Asia in connection with the danger of the terrorists' invasion of the region. In his turn, Uzbek President Islam Karimov agreed that "no hullabaloo should be raised in connection with the situation in Central Asia." However, he added, "we have no right not to react" to possible actions of terrorists and must prevent "a possible escalation" of their actions. The main reason of the migration of the Russian-speaking population from the territory of Uzbekistan is, according to Islam Karimov, "the fear connected with the escalation of terrorism." To prevent people from leaving the country, Karimov continued, it is necessary to ensure a situation of stability and safety for them. President Islam Karimov pointed out that "Russian people feel quite normal in Uzbekistan." He categorically does not agree with assertions that a great number of refugees are leaving Uzbekistan. "There are no refugees from Uzbekistan, and never will be," stated Islam Karimov. According to him, we can speak only about migration; last year the number of migrants amounted to 24,000; however, 8,000 returned to the republic.