Premier Li Keqiang mourned the death of Uzbek President Islam Karimov at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Beijing on Sept 4, 2016.

Accompanied by Uzbek Ambassador to China Daniyar Kurbanov, Premier Li laid a wreath and wrote a message expressing deep condolences over the death of President Karimov, adding that President Xi Jinping also sent a telegram of condolences over Karimov’s death.

President Karimov is an old friend of the Chinese people and he made important contributions to the development of China-Uzbekistan relations. His death is a huge loss to the people of Uzbekistan, and the Chinese people also lost a sincere friend. The Chinese government and people feel deep grief over his death and China is willing to continue joint efforts with Uzbekistan to safeguard and promote the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, the Premier said.

Ambassador Kurbanov thanked Premier Li for his special visit and condolences on behalf of the Chinese government, as well as China’s huge and sincere support for Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan is willing to make joint efforts with China to advance the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, Kurbanov said.

State Councilor and Secretary-General of the State Council Yang Jing also participated in the condolence ceremony at the Uzbek embassy.