Friendship day of peoples: “We are grateful to Uzbekistan”

On the occasion of the “Friendship Day” of the peoples, the traditional “Friendship” festival—dedicated to interethnic harmony and unity—is being held across Uzbekistan from July 25 to 31.

As part of the festival, the opening ceremony of pavilions representing the cultural centers of 22 countries took place in Tashkent. The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, members of the Oliy Majlis, committee officials, and individuals from various nationalities and ethnic backgrounds. QALAMPIR.UZ was present at the scene and asked several foreign diplomats about Uzbekistan’s current investment potential.

According to Gideon Lustig, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Uzbekistan, more than 250 Israeli companies are currently operating in the country, with bilateral trade growing by nearly 20 percent in recent years.

“At the same time, we are seeing broad cooperation in agriculture, green technologies, high-tech sectors, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. Israeli delegations continue to visit Uzbekistan to explore the opportunities available here. I believe Uzbekistan is a developing market offering a wide range of possibilities. Developed countries, especially Israel, have created new technologies based on experience and are ready to share them with Uzbekistan to help enhance local capabilities. Of course, doing business here can sometimes require more effort. Nevertheless, the Israeli embassy is happy to support and assist investors coming to Uzbekistan,” the ambassador said.

Aleksandr Nikolayevich, Belarus's acting representative in Uzbekistan, emphasized the deepening political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties between the two countries. He noted that a comprehensive legal and contractual framework has already been established and that economic cooperation is progressing dynamically.

“Priority is being given to projects in industrial cooperation, agriculture, and the food sector. At the same time, we are actively exploring opportunities for mutual development in tourism. Uzbekistan's current reforms are creating favorable conditions for business and investors. Several major Belarusian companies have already entered the market or are actively considering launching production facilities here. Those who want to work will find an opportunity—especially now, when the country's leadership is offering active support,” said Nikolayevich.

Today, more than 130 nationalities and ethnic groups, along with 16 religious denominations, live peacefully in Uzbekistan. To preserve and promote the cultures, languages, customs, and values of these groups for future generations, 157 national cultural centers operate across the country. Notably, 12.7 percent of the members of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis and 11.2 percent of local Kengash deputies are representatives of different nationalities and ethnicities.

Each pavilion at the festival featured exhibits showcasing traditional clothing, national dishes, cultural artifacts, and customs. During the event, we also spoke with various representatives to hear their impressions of the celebration and their views on interethnic harmony in Uzbekistan.

Zakir Ajiosman, the artistic director of the Crimean Tatar National Cultural Center, spoke about the Khan's Palace, highlighting that their pavilion was adorned with paintings of the Crimean Tatar people and a model of Bakhchisaray. He described the Friendship Days as a major holiday in Uzbekistan, celebrated for “seven days and seven nights.”

“Our khans were about 17 or 18—members of the Giray dynasty. They lived and ruled from this Bakhchisaray. Do you know? From July 25 to 31, we celebrate this festival. Seven days of celebration—it’s very important,” he said.

Ajiosman also emphasized the historical closeness between the Uzbek and Crimean Tatar peoples, noting their unity and mutual support.

“We share one language, one religion. That’s why, if something unfortunate happens, we will always stand up and help. The Uzbek people are hospitable and open,” he added.

Mehdi Mayisogli, a young and talented singer from Azerbaijan, expressed pride in being part of the event. He said he was happy to participate in the festival and perform the song “Uzbek Bolasi” in Azerbaijani.

“Uzbekistan is a country with deep historical roots and a rich culture. I’m always interested in learning more. I’m very glad to take part in this friendship celebration. Today, I will sing ‘Uzbek Bolasi’ in Azerbaijani—I hope you enjoy it,” he said.

Amangul Avezdurdiyeva, the head of the Turkmen Cultural Center, shared her happiness over the inclusivity in Uzbekistan, noting that all necessary conditions are in place for minority communities to live, study, and preserve their identities. She mentioned that 45 schools in Uzbekistan currently offer classes in the Turkmen language.

“Our President has ensured that we don’t forget our native language and traditions by creating various opportunities for us within our republic. May our friendship always be remembered. May Turkmen-Uzbek unity last forever,” said Amangul.

You can watch the full report in the video player above or on QALAMPIR.UZ’s official YouTube channel.