Today, the Tashkent House of Photography hosted the official opening ceremony of the photo exhibition “Uzbekistan – Pakistan: Shared Cultural Heritage”.

The project was organized by the Academy of Arts, the Uzbekistan National News Agency, the diplomatic corps of Uzbekistan and Pakistan, as well as the Tashkent House of Photography.

The opening ceremony was attended by officials from both countries, embassy staff, figures from the fields of culture and art, experts, historians, and media representatives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Uzbekistan, Ahmed Farooq, stated: “This exhibition is not merely a display of photographs, but a bridge connecting our hearts and minds. Despite the absence of a common border, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have shared similar values, as well as spiritual and cultural traditions, for centuries. Today, we once again reaffirm our readiness to strengthen these ties and pass them on to future generations. Such events not only contribute to expanding cultural contacts, but also stimulate the development of cooperation in tourism, education, science, and the economy. We are confident that the partnership between our countries will continue to grow, based on mutual respect and trust”.

The Chairman of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan, Akmal Nur, emphasized the importance of bilateral cultural dialogue: “Cooperation between the embassies of various states operating in Uzbekistan is established at a high level, and we are pleased to implement joint projects. Today’s exhibition holds special significance, as it is dedicated to the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Looking at the works presented here, I can feel how much our countries have in common. We share common historical roots, which are also reflected in architecture. One can see traces of the heritage of Babur, Shah Jahan, and Akbar Shah. Forts similar to those in Delhi or Agra, Moorish elements, and even features reminiscent of the Alhambra – all of these can be traced in the architectural monuments captured in the photographs. This exhibition is especially engaging for those involved in creative work. Architecture inspires new ideas and artistic creations. I admire each work and dream of visiting these places in person, as they can become a source of unique inspiration. In congratulating the people of Pakistan on their Independence Day, I wish them peaceful skies and stability. I am confident that relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan will continue to develop successfully. It is important that in the future the younger generation appreciates and enhances the rich cultural and historical heritage that unites our countries. This is the foundation for further bringing our peoples closer together and strengthening mutual understanding”.

The exhibition features dozens of unique photographs reflecting the rich historical and cultural heritage of the two countries. The images showcase the grandeur of Islamic architecture, views of ancient cities, rare manuscripts, monuments of science and culture, as well as scenes related to the life and work of outstanding scholars who played a significant role in the development of Islamic civilization.

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Aziza Alimova, photos by Oybek Pardayev, UzA