The United States and Uzbekistan marked two developments in their security partnership during an event in Tashkent on July 30, 2025. U.S. Ambassador Henick attended the ceremony with officials from the Uzbek State Customs Committee, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the Office of Military Cooperation (OMC).
The first initiative involved a donation from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) program. The equipment, valued at about $1 million, includes Radiation Portal Monitors, Vehicle-Mounted Radiation Monitors, and Pedestrian Radiation Portal Monitors. According to officials, these technologies will help Uzbekistan’s customs personnel detect and prevent radioactive materials from crossing borders.
A second milestone was noted with the completion of a protective canopy at the “Gulbakhor” customs post. The project was requested by the Uzbek State Customs Committee and carried out by OMC’s Counter-Narcotics Office. The canopy is intended to provide shelter for staff, equipment, and vehicles so that customs operations can continue in any weather conditions.
“These initiatives underscore the shared commitment to enhancing border security, combating illicit trafficking, and fostering regional stability,” said organizers of the event.
For over three decades, diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the United States have included cooperation on security matters. Officials stated that these latest efforts reinforce bilateral ties and demonstrate ongoing U.S. support for Uzbekistan’s border management and counter-narcotics activities.