Vladimir Putin sends birthday message to President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov
The message reads, in part:
"Under your leadership the Republic of Uzbekistan has become a prosperous state, achieved great success in the socio-economic and other areas, and strengthened its positions in Central Asia and in the world.
"It would be hard to overstate your contribution to the development of multidimensional cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan and to the advancement of large joint projects in various fields. I appreciate your political wisdom and foresight, and your ability to get to the core of the most complex problems. I am sure that your vast experience in government service will continue to strengthen bilateral cooperation. I hope to continue our substantive and confidential dialogue."
