U-S Undersecretary of State John Bolton is in Tashkent for talks with Uzbek leaders on ways to combat international terrorism.
A U-S Embassy spokesman says Mr. Bolton's visit is part of U-S diplomatic efforts to counter the threat of terrorism. He gave no further details.
The United States is seeking global cooperation as it tries to drive Saudi extremist Osama bin Laden out of hiding in Afghanistan. He is a prime suspect in this month's terrorist attacks in New York and Washington that left thousands dead or missing.
Uzbekistan borders Afghanistan. There has been much speculation it could serve as a possible base for a U-S retaliatory strike against the extremist.
Uzbek president Islam Karimov said Wednesday his country is prepared to offer airspace for U-S missions in Afghanistan but wants security guarantees from the United Nations in return.
Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier voiced Moscow's willingness to open Russian airspace for humanitarian flights by the anti-terrorist coalition led by the United States. He also said he would not oppose Central Asian governments doing the same or even offering the use of their air bases.