On February 19, CLDP participated in a networking luncheon, hosted by the Washington Intergovernmental Professional Group, to hear from Uzbekistan’s ambassador to the U.S. about Uzbekistan’s commitment to reform and openness. Ambassador Javlon Vakhabov provided an overview of Uzbekistan’s transition away from isolation, its program of reform, and its important economic potential and addressed questions from participants. Before and after the program, CLDP met with private sector participants to discuss their specific interests in Uzbekistan, including areas of optimism and of concern for needed additional reform. CLDP’s increased visibility with the Embassy of Uzbekistan and business community will contribute to CLDP’s overall work on Uzbekistan’s WTO accession, trade liberalization, and protection of intellectual property rights.