In a significant bilateral agreement, Uzbekistan has agreed to accept and pay for the return of 131 Central Asian illegal immigrants from the United States, marking the first such arrangement since President Trump took office. This agreement, involving citizens from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, is seen as a model for future immigration deals and highlights the deep security cooperation between Uzbekistan and the U.S. The flight, carrying the immigrants, departed without any cost to American taxpayers, showcasing Uzbekistan's commitment to enhancing mutual security and upholding the rule of law. The agreement follows similar arrangements with Colombia and El Salvador, where the U.S. has managed to return nationals with suspected criminal ties. This development underscores a broader strategy by the Trump administration to manage illegal immigration through diplomatic channels and international cooperation.

Uzbekistan has agreed to accept 131 illegal immigrants from Central Asia, marking the first such cooperation with the U.S. under the Trump administration, with the flight costs covered by Uzbekistan.

The deportation includes individuals from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, reflecting broader regional involvement in the agreement and highlighting Uzbekistan's leadership in accepting nationals from neighboring countries.

This agreement is considered a model framework by the Trump administration, emphasizing months of diplomatic efforts involving the State Department, DHS, White House, and National Security Council to strengthen international immigration collaboration.

The deal underscores the deep security partnership between the U.S. and Uzbekistan, with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem praising Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for his leadership in facilitating the return of these individuals.

Similar diplomatic efforts have been made with Colombia and El Salvador, where the U.S. negotiated the return of nationals, including those with criminal backgrounds, demonstrating the administration's focus on reducing illegal immigration through international agreements.

The deportation effort aligns with broader U.S. immigration policies aimed at reducing border crossings, with a significant reduction in daily border encounters since the beginning of Trump's presidency compared to the previous administration.

Uzbekistan, situated near Iran, China, and Afghanistan, serves as a key security ally for the U.S. in Central Asia, further solidifying its strategic importance in regional and international security dynamics.