Ozodbek Nazarbekov tries traditional Mongolian games during Naadam (video)

Uzbek Minister of Culture Ozodbek Nazarbekov took part in traditional Mongolian competitions as part of the “Naadam” festival. This was reported by journalist Aziza Kurbanova.

The competition was held during the state visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Mongolia, where the head of state, together with other high-ranking guests, attended the traditional Naadam festivities.

According to Kurbanova, following the concert program at the festival, several engaging traditional games were held. Minister Ozodbek Nazarbekov also tested his skills in these competitions.

“After the concert, a very interesting competition took place. A bone-throwing contest was held, similar to our traditional ashok game. Minister of Culture Ozodbek Nazarbekov participated on behalf of Uzbekistan. Although he was unsuccessful in the bone-throwing game, he managed to hit the target in the archery competition,” the report stated.

For reference, Naadam is the largest and most significant national festival in Mongolia, celebrated annually from July 11 to 13. Rooted in ancient traditions, the holiday reflects the historical heritage and national pride of the Mongolian people. The main feature of Naadam is the “three manly sports”: wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

Beyond sports, Naadam is a major cultural event featuring traditional music, dance performances, theatrical presentations, and participants in national attire. The festival traces its origins to the military drills and celebrations of ancient Mongolian and Turkic tribes. Its modern official form was established after Mongolia declared independence in 1921. In 2010, Naadam was included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Today, the festival symbolizes the unity, history, and national identity of the Mongolian people.

It should be recalled that on June 24, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Mongolia with his wife for a state visit. A guard of honor was held in his honor at Sukhe-Bator Square, accompanied by the national anthems of both countries performed by a military orchestra. Presidents Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh held talks in both narrow and expanded formats at the State Palace of Mongolia. At the end of the high-level discussions, both leaders signed a joint declaration on the establishment of comprehensive partnership relations. Additionally, President Mirziyoyev and First Lady Ziroat Mirziyoyeva attended a joint concert in Ulaanbaatar alongside the President of Mongolia and his wife.