Uzbekistan opens consulate general in Seattle, first in Pacific Northwest

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Uzbekistan formally opened its Consulate General in Seattle, Washington, on September 4, marking its first consular mission in the Pacific Northwest. Ambassador Furqat Sidikov called the opening a new platform for strengthening bilateral cooperation, while Consul General Ahror Burhonov said ties with Seattle date back 50 years.
Key Facts
- The Consulate General in Seattle is Uzbekistan's first consular mission in the Pacific Northwest.
- The mission began operations in March 2026 and was formally opened on September 4.
- Ahror Burhonov, a career diplomat and former MFA press secretary, heads the consulate.
- More than 3,000 Uzbeks live in Washington state, according to Burhonov.
- Uzbekistan also operates a consulate general in New York, headed by Jamil Sharapov.
Opening Ceremony
The formal opening ceremony took place on September 4 in Seattle, Washington state. Attendees included Ambassador Furqat Sidikov, the consul general in New York, the permanent representative to the UN, U.S. officials, Washington state leadership, and members of the Uzbek community. Ambassador Sidikov said the two countries are in the best period of their relations. Komil Allamjonov, minister-counselor of the Uzbek Embassy and presidential administration representative in the U.S., called the opening an important step in developing relations.
Consular Mission
The consulate began operations in March 2026, before the formal opening. Ahror Burhonov, a career diplomat who previously served as MFA press secretary, was appointed to lead the mission. Burhonov said ties with Seattle go back 50 years and that opportunities in the region are like an ocean. More than 3,000 Uzbeks live in Washington state, according to Burhonov.
Regional Significance
Seattle is one of the largest cities in Washington state and a major hub in the Pacific Northwest. The city hosts offices of major companies and has achieved strong results in IT, engineering, manufacturing, and services. Ambassador Sidikov called Seattle a world leader in technology, innovation, and industry, and an optimal place for future cooperation. Consulates are also expected to open in Philadelphia, Chicago, and Orlando.