Uzbekistan Launches Investigation Into U.S. NGO
May 25, 2006
May 25, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- Pro-government media in Uzbekistan report authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the U.S.-headquartered Counterpart International nongovernmental organization.
Press-uz.info today quotes the Tashkent prosecutor's office as saying the organization is accused of carrying out illegal publishing activities.
An Uzbek court on May 4 already ordered the closure of a number of Counterpart International offices in the country.
In a press release issued on May 7, the group said it had no option but to abide by the court’s ruling and begin dissolving its programs in Uzbekistan.
Counterpart International says that, since it began operations in Uzbekistan in 1995, it has delivered over $100 million worth of assistance in support of government efforts to develop health care, build new infrastructure, and improve access to drinking water.