The Acting Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, on Friday (February 17), had a phone conversation with the Foreign Minister of Tajikistan, Sirojiddin Mukhriddin. Reportedly, Uzbekistan's top diplomat expressed his condolences in connection with the series of avalanches in the neighboring country, which caused human casualties and severe damage.

I'm saddened to learn about the many casualties caused by avalanches in the south-east part of #Tajikistan. Expressed my condolences to Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Mukhriddin (@MOFA_Tajikistan) during our phone call today. We also reviewed the agenda of our joint events for 2023.

— Bakhtiyor Saidov (@FM_Saidov) February 17, 2023

At least 20 people were killed in avalanches in Tajikistan, the Central Asian government said on Thursday (February 16), forcing hundreds of families from their homes. Most avalanches hit the Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous region, which borders China and Afghanistan, and where more than 400 households have been relocated away from dangerous areas. The government said avalanches had hit homes and roads and suspended all international traffic.

The mayor of the provincial capital Khorog, Rizo Nazarzoda, urged its 30,000 residents to stay at home as heavy snow and rain fell.