The message reads:
“His death is a great loss for the people of Uzbekistan, the entire Commonwealth of Independent States and the partners in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Islam Karimov was a most reputable statesman and a true leader of his country. Major landmarks in the history of the Uzbek state are linked with his name.
Under Mr Karimov’s leadership, Uzbekistan pursued a peace-loving foreign policy that facilitated the consolidation of security and stability in Central Asia and the development of multilateral cooperation of the region.
It is difficult to overrate Mr Karimov’s contribution to the development of relations of strategic partnership and alliance between our countries. I am convinced that jointly we will further enhance Russian-Uzbek cooperation for the benefit of our fraternal nations.”
Mr Putin asked that his sincere sympathies and support be conveyed to the family and friends of the deceased, the Government and all the people of Uzbekistan.