The president of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, has died after suffering a stroke.

Mr Karimov, 78, has been in hospital since last Saturday, when his health sharply deteriorated.

He had ruled Uzbekistan since 1989, firstly as head of the local Communist party before taking over presidency in the newly-formed country in 1991.

Mr Karimov - who was criticised by Western countries for his authoritarian style of leadership and human rights record - did not designate a successor, and the transition of power could open up a confrontation within the country.

The Central Asian nation shares a border with Afghanistan and has been a target for Islamic militants in the past.