APPENDIX 13
Memorandum submitted by British American
Tobacco
In reference to your letter of 18 January 1999,
I am happy to advise you on the following:
British American Tobacco, one of the leading
cigarette manufacturers in the world, has substantial business
interests in the area of Central Asia and Caucasus.
Primarily they are concentrated in Uzbekistan,
where we have invested USD 300 million. Specifically, we have
built a state-of-the-art factory in the city of Samarkand where
we manufacture cigarettes both for the domestic market and for
exports to the wider region.
In other countries you have mentioned, our business
is mostly limited to imports. In these countries we have representative
offices.
We are happy with FCO's assistance to our business
in Uzbekistan. In fact, we would like to compliment the Foreign
Office on having a wonderful ambassador in that country—Ms
Barbara Hay.
She is very active in promoting British business
interests.
On a number of occasions the Ambassador has
helped us in raising serious issues relating to our investment
with the Uzbek Government, including the President. She has also
been instrumental in facilitating meetings with important Uzbek
officials.
As to the other countries of the area, our representatives
on the ground regularly liaise with the respective Embassies,
receive invitations to functions etc. However, we would be happy
to see more proactive support to and promotion of British business
interests.
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