India, May 2 -- The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday said it sent 131 migrants to Uzbekistan as part of a deal with the nation.

The DHS said the deported people belong to Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

The DHS said the operation, in which Uzbekistan fully funded the deportation of their own nationals, underscores the deep security cooperation between the nations and sets a standard for U.S. alliances.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reacted to the development and said the US is looking forward to continuing to work together with Uzbekistan on efforts to enhance mutual security and uphold the rule of law.

Noem said in a statement: "We commend Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for his leadership...