11.06.2021

The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev together with the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon visited the Arbob Cultural Palace near Khujand. The meeting was held with the representatives of the older generation, as well as the creative and scientific intellectuals of the Sughd Region.

The Leader of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon noted that friendship and mutual trust between our countries have become stronger thanks to the political will of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

«Could we even imagine that the accumulated problems will be solved in such a short time? Even international organizations did not believe in this. Today, there are no unresolved issues between our states; an atmosphere of mutual trust has been established. The initiator and architect of these relations is distinguished Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev», - said Emomali Rahmon.

It was emphasized that in recent years, 17 checkpoints have been opened on the Tajik-Uzbek border and the people of Tajikistan are very grateful for this.

Our President expressed deep respect to the audience and made a speech about the importance of appreciating the relations of friendship and good-neighborliness of our peoples, and developing cultural and humanitarian ties.

«In recent years, due to good neighborly relations and eternal friendship between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, we are achieving colossal results. Of course, you, dear members of the public and the intellectuals of the two countries, are also making an invaluable contribution to these success; we are well aware and highly appreciate it», - said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

It is no coincidence that an important part of the events envisaged by the Uzbek leader’s program of visit takes place in Khujand. This ancient city is equally dear to the peoples of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Indeed, it was the most important center on the Great Silk Road for centuries and played a big role in the cultural life of the entire region.

History cherishes the memory of the feats of the great commanders - the famous son of Khujand Temur Malik and the Khorezmshah (Ruler of Khorezm) Jaloliddin Manguberdy, who stood against the conquerors shoulder to shoulder. The city continued to play an important role, growing and developing during the rule of Temurids, Sheibanids and during the period of the khanates.

The fact that the Public Uzbek Center of Spirituality and Enlightenment, a scientific school for training specialists in Uzbek philology at the local university, are actively working in Khujand merits special attention.

Uzbekistan attaches great importance to the creation of favorable conditions for the preservation and development of Tajik culture, as well as the culture of other nations and nationalities. Over 1,6 million Tajiks live in our country - our fellow citizens who make a worthy contribution to the development of Uzbekistan. These are talented scientists, entrepreneurs and farmers, teachers and doctors, cultural and art workers, heads of different levels.

Fifteen Tajik national cultural centers make an important contribution to the strengthening of interethnic harmony. Newspapers and magazines are published in the Tajik language, television and radio broadcasts go out. In Uzbekistan, there are 255 schools with the Tajik language of study, faculties and departments in a number of universities in the republic. In the current academic year, admission to these institutions has doubled.

In recent years alone, more than 130 of our fellow citizens of Tajik nationality have been awarded high state awards of Uzbekistan.

Our countries pay great attention to the study and mutual enrichment of the literature and art of the two peoples. A solid package of documents signed during the visit of the President of Uzbekistan is facilitating this process. In particular, agreements on cultural and humanitarian cooperation provide for a number of projects designed to strengthen the spiritual connection of our peoples, to put together our youth around common interests.

During the meeting, it was noted that the modern world is changing rapidly, new challenges and threats to security are emerging, including in our region.

«We must peculiarly value and enhance our great legacy - peace and stability, friendship and cooperation, imbue the minds of youth with respect for national and universal values», - said the Leader of Uzbekistan. «Only by combining efforts, we will be able to achieve common goals - to ensure our peoples peace and prosperity, well-being for future generations. I am convinced that you, our distinguished representatives of the creative and scientific intellectuals will make your worthy contribution to strengthening the Uzbek-Tajik friendship thanks to your immense knowledge, life experience and innate energy and enthusiasm. In addition, I am sure that such a lofty and noble mission is within your scope of abilities».

The Presidents saw over the Arbob Cultural Palace. This complex was established in 1959. It has historic significance for the Tajik people. In the early 90s of the last century, number of important decisions related to the country’s independence were made here. Here, in 1992, was a landmark event for Tajikistan - Emomali Rahmon took office of the President of the country.