Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 25 June 2025, the State Museum of Applied Arts in Tashkent hosted the grand opening of an exhibition dedicated to traditional Romanian costumes infused with modern design elements inspired by Uzbek traditions. The display, which brings together the cultural codes of both nations, will be open to visitors until 2 July 2025.

The event was jointly organized by the Embassy of Romania in the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Museum of Applied Arts, with the active participation of renowned Uzbek fashion designer Markhamat Umarova. This marks the second collaborative project between the Romanian diplomatic mission and the talented designer—the first exhibition, held in June 2024 at the Gallery of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan, garnered widespread public interest.

The opening ceremony featured welcoming remarks by museum director Ismat Yusupov, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Romania to Uzbekistan, Daniel Cristian Ciobanu, and designer Markhamat Umarova. In their speeches, they emphasized the importance of cultural dialogue built on mutual respect for traditions and a shared pursuit of artistic synthesis.

The exhibition is timed to coincide with the International Day of the Romanian Blouse—a unique element of the national costume officially recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Celebrated annually on June 24, in accordance with a decree by the President of Romania, the day symbolizes the deep generational connection expressed through the art of embroidery and ornamentation.

In his address, Ambassador Ciobanu noted that the traditional Romanian blouse, handmade from natural materials, has served for centuries not merely as a garment but as a bearer of cultural identity. The intricate embroidered patterns vary by region and carry ancient meanings and symbolism.

Daniel Cristian Ciobanu also highlighted the high level of trust and the dynamic development of Uzbek-Romanian relations. According to him, culture serves as a reliable bridge of friendship, bringing nations closer together and laying the groundwork for strong cooperation across various fields.