The EU calls for an independent investigation into the altercations in Uzbekistan with at least 18 dead

BRUSSELS, July 4 (EUROPE PRESS) –

The European Union has called for an independent investigation on Monday into the violent altercations that have occurred in recent days in the city of Nukus, the capital of the Karakalpakistan region, due to the central government’s intention to end the political autonomy of the area.

“We deeply regret the human losses and continue to follow the episodes closely,” the community diplomacy led by the High Representative, Josep Borrell, said in a statement, calling for calm after the incidents that have left 18 dead and more than 200 wounded.

On the underlying issue, the EU has highlighted the steps taken by the president, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to calm things down and respond to concerns about the constitutional changes. “We ask all parties to show restraint in their actions, with a view to avoiding any escalation or further violence,” he said.

European diplomacy also urges the Uzbek authorities to guarantee Human Rights, “including the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, in accordance with Uzbekistan’s international commitments.” In any case, the EU shows its support for the reform process in the Central Asian country and defends the consultation process with citizens and the main actors.

The authorities of Uzbekistan have confirmed this Monday the death of 18 people and around 250 injured in the framework of the protests registered in the north of the country. The protests were unleashed after learning of a constitutional reform project that abolished the autonomy of the Karakalpakistan region.