"It is a mark of the highest contribution in strengthening the cooperation among UNICEF and Uzbekistan, and harmonious development of the young generation," said President Islam Karimov in a statement on the award.

"There are many international organizations working in the country, but only UNICEF is known by ordinary people in every corner of the republic due to its … presence on the ground," Prime Minister Shavkat Mirziyaev added at the award ceremony, noting that the government appreciated UNICEF’s collaboration in national policy and programme development.

Citing the results achieved by UNICEF in the past three years under the leadership of Mr. Hossaini, the Prime Minister underlined significant improvement in the lives of women and children in Uzbekistan. These results, he said, were possible because of professional teamwork and the best international experience being adapted to local conditions.

Upon receiving the presidential order, Mr. Hossaini thanked government ministries, civil society and partners at the national and local levels for their commitment and hard work. "Together we have achieved a great deal, and this order will further inspire us to do even more for women and children in the country," he said.

Since Uzbekistan’s independence in 1991, this is the only second time the National Friendship order has been awarded to an international organization.