The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) does its work through a global network of 261 Embassies, High Commissions and other diplomatic posts.

The British Embassy in Tashkent represents the British Government in its relations with the Uzbek Government. It promotes the full range of British interests in Uzbekistan through mutually beneficial co-operation.

Her Majesty’s Ambassador, Mr Rupert Joy, directs the work of the Embassy. He is the representative of the UK in Uzbekistan.

The Political Section of the Embassy seeks to develop constructive co-operation with Uzbekistan in order to promote the four policy goals of the FCO:

• counter terrorism and weapons proliferation, and their causes;

• prevent and resolve conflict;

• promote a low-carbon, high-growth global economy;

• develop effective international institutions, above all the UN and EU.

These goals are pursued through dialogue with the Uzbek government, media, civil society and NGOs. The Embassy funds a number of projects each year with a particular focus on promotion of good governance and human rights, sustainable development, environmental protection, counter narcotics and counter terrorism.

Building educational links is another important area of our work. The Westminster International University in Tashkent, in partnership with Westminster University in London, is the only university in Central Asia to offer a UK degree. The Embassy administers scholarship programmes in conjunction with the British Council, allowing young Uzbeks to experience the British educational system and to gain understanding of life in the UK.

The Press and Public Affairs Section (PPAS) is responsible for presenting and promoting the UK and British Government policy. PPAS co-ordinates all media operations for the UK and is responsible for public diplomacy events, including press conferences and interviews. A key aspect of the work of this section is to increase awareness of the UK, including its unique and rich democratic, cultural and arts heritage and our current experience as a modern, vibrant, multicultural society. The section is also responsible for managing and editing the Embassy website.

The Consular Section provides advisory services and help to British and Commonwealth citizens in Uzbekistan. It facilitates issuing British passports through British Embassy in Moscow and registers births and deaths of British subjects in Uzbekistan.

The Visa Section issues entry clearances for foreign nationals wishing to travel to the UK. It provides advice on all aspects of UK immigration requirements.