The 10th European Film Festival has begun in Tashkent.

At a press conference held to mark the opening of the festival, the Ambassador of the European Union to Uzbekistan, Toivo Klaar, expressed his pleasure at welcoming attendees to the festival’s 10th anniversary edition. He said he was convinced that the 12 films produced in European countries would touch the hearts of the audience.

Toivo Klaar noted that, over the years, the festival had become one of the most popular cultural events in Uzbekistan, serving as a bridge of friendship and artistic dialogue between the peoples of Europe and Uzbekistan.

He recalled that the festival, first organized in 2013, had presented more than 110 films from 22 European countries to the audience. According to him, it had been held in 9 regions of the country and had reached more than 30,000 viewers. He added that screenings were taking place in Navoi, Fergana, Urgench, and Bukhara, thereby expanding the audience and encouraging creative exchange.

The Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the Director of the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan, Shukhrat Rizayev, for his contribution to the festival’s development. He mentioned that this year the embassies of EU member states, the Goethe-Institut, and the Alliance Française were participating in the festival.

Toivo Klaar explained that the festival would feature events showcasing Europe’s cultural heritage. He said that the Aire Nuevo Danza troupe would present the full spectrum of Spanish dance on the stage of the State Academy of Choreography, from traditional to modern forms, and that the performers would also hold a masterclass for students.

In conclusion, he emphasized that the festival would help strengthen cultural ties between Europe and Uzbekistan and serve as a platform for the exchange of cinematographic experience.

Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA