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<p>The UK is saddened by the loss of life that occurred during recent events in Karakalpakstan,
Uzbekistan. We understand that initially peaceful protests against plans to change
Karakalpakstan's autonomous status within Uzbekistan developed into violent unrest
with casualties among civilians and law enforcement personnel. The situation now seems
calm. Although there are reports of internet and telephone communications being blocked,
we understand that communications in Karakalpakstan have mostly been reinstated, and
international and local journalists have been given limited access to the region.
The Uzbek authorities have announced an official investigation involving Parliament
and civil society.</p><p>On 7 July, Lord Ahmad raised the unrest in Karakalpakstan
with the Uzbek Deputy Foreign Minister and the British Ambassador and his team in
Tashkent are also in contact with the Uzbek authorities. We have been clear in our
communications that the right to peaceful protest and respect for media freedom should
be protected. In discussion of these events in multilateral fora, we urged the Uzbek
authorities to adhere to their international commitments and due process, as they
seek to understand what happened. We will continue to monitor developments closely.</p>
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