Washington, DC - The United States welcomes the release of former member of parliament and human rights activist Murod Juraev after 21 years in prison.

We regard Mr. Juraev’s release as a positive step and urge the Government of Uzbekistan to build on it by making it a prelude to the release of other long-held journalists, activists, and religious prisoners of conscience. During his recent visit to the five countries of Central Asia, Secretary of State Kerry underscored in his engagement with government leaders the importance of doing more to protect civil liberties, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.