The European Union is closely following the trial taking place in Bukhara of 22 people accused of actions related to the tragic events in Karakalpakstan in early July. We commend the authorities of Uzbekistan for making the trial open to the public, including access to media as well as live broadcasting and we hope for a fair and impartial process. We encourage the government to live up to its obligations as far as freedom of expression and freedom of assembly are concerned, including in the framework of its GSP+ commitments. We also look forward to see soon the outcome of the investigative commission related to Karakalpakstan events and hope that the findings will be accessible to the public.