The Days of Russian Culture were opened at the Palace of International Forums “Uzbekistan” in Tashkent. One of the central events was the Fifth Meeting of the Subcommission on Culture of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation.

The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, and the Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation, Olga Lyubimova, attended the meeting. The parties discussed the current state of cultural cooperation between the two countries and outlined promising directions for its development. Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to strengthen the partnership in a spirit of mutual trust and tolerance.

The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, noted that ties between the two states are developing particularly actively in education, with the Russian side providing significant support.

“We truly feel the support of the Russian side, one vivid example is the only branch of the All-Russian State University of Cinematography in Uzbekistan. Being well acquainted with this teaching school, one can confidently say that it has always been and will remain fundamental and foundational. This is a significant institution, and its presence in Uzbekistan is, in a sense, a sensation”, Mr. Ozodbek Nazarbekov emphasized.

According to him, establishing the All-Russian State University of Cinematography branch became possible thanks to the decisive political will and the friendship between the two countries’ presidents.

One of the event’s most significant moments was the presentation of the state award of the Russian Federation – the Order of Friendship – to the artistic director of the legendary Uzbek ensemble “Yalla”, Farrukh Zakirov. This prestigious award was granted for his years of fruitful work contributing to the rapprochement and cultural enrichment of the peoples of Russia and Uzbekistan.

The Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation, Olga Lyubimova, noted that during the meeting, many pressing issues related to cultural cooperation were discussed, including common challenges faced by Russia and Uzbekistan. One of the key topics was the shortage of qualified specialists capable of professionally working in such vital areas as the restoration of cultural heritage sites and the tuning of musical instruments. According to the minister, it is crucial to engage not only staff from capital cities but also from the regions. This would help expand educational opportunities and foster a stable professional environment.

“Both in Russia and Uzbekistan, unique cultural heritage sites must be preserved and protected for future generations. Restoration work must be carried out with high quality and at a high professional level. For this, we need to train young specialists and attract them to professions such as restorer or musical instrument tuner, which are in demand among our national and classical music ensembles”, emphasized Ms. Olga Lyubimova.

Alongside this, the prospects for joint projects in cinematography were discussed. The minister highlighted the strong interest of audiences in both countries in this sphere. The Days of Uzbek Cinema are warmly welcomed in Russia, while Russian filmmakers gladly present their films to Uzbek audiences.

“There is virtually no area left that has not been addressed within the framework of joint programs between our ministries”, added the head of the Russian Ministry of Culture.

Aziza Alimova, photos by Asliddin Alijonov, UzA