A session of the U.S.-Uzbekistan Security Cooperation Council was held on 14-15 April in Washington. During the meeting, U.S. representatives stated that Washington would like to expand defense and military cooperation with Uzbekistan. According to U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Reeker, in addition to security matters, the council discussed economic and democratic reforms in Uzbekistan and current international problems. The two sides intend to continue their cooperation in combating international terrorism and organized crime. The United States intends to offer Uzbekistan advice and assistance in implementing democratic reforms with the goal of strengthening the rule of law, developing civil society, independent media, an independent judiciary, a genuine multi-party system, a market economy, and an effective social safety net. The Uzbek side expressed interest in taking part in the postwar rehabilitation of Iraq. The Uzbek delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister Rustam Azimov, who is responsible for the economic sector, and included Foreign Minister Sadyk Safaev, Defense Minister Kadyr Gulyamov, and other officials. (uzreport.com)