Mirziyoyev: Turkic World Cultural Capital Status Reflects Andijan's Rich Heritage

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, sent a welcoming message on 24 June 2026 to the participants of international events organized to celebrate Andijan being declared the "Cultural Capital of the Turkic World — 2026."

The head of state congratulated the forum participants, heads of international organizations, ambassadors of foreign countries, and prominent figures of culture, literature, and art of the Turkic world, while expressing sincere gratitude to the leadership of TURKSOY and its member states for this decision.

Mirziyoyev emphasized that granting this honorary status to Andijan is viewed as international recognition of Uzbekistan's rich historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage, the country's major contribution to the development of Turkic culture, and the results of the large-scale reforms being carried out in the republic.

In his message, the president recalled that Andijan has served as one of the centers of culture, literature, art, and craftsmanship for centuries. This land raised great statesmen, scientists, thinkers, poets, and artists. He specifically highlighted the scientific and literary heritage of Babur Mirzo, the immortal works of the classical poet Abdulhamid Cholpon—who sang of freedom and independence—as well as the "Andijan Polka" dance and the art of witty banter known as askiya, which the president described as the shared property of all peoples who revere culture.

Mirziyoyev highly appreciated the cooperation with TURKSOY in preserving and enriching cultural heritage and introducing it to the younger generation. Among the joint achievements, he named the publication of the unique 100-volume collection "Masterpieces of Turkic Literature," the organization of scientific conferences, forums, and cultural events, as well as the opening of a TURKSOY office at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan in April 2026.

The president also noted with satisfaction that Uzbek children's dance and instrumental ensembles won the Grand Prix at the TURKSOY international festival in February of this year.

Concluding his message, Mirziyoyev expressed confidence that the festivals, scientific conferences, artistic evenings, and creative meetings to be held throughout the year under the "Andijan — Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" project, both in Uzbekistan and fraternal nations, will become unforgettable events, strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity among peoples, and open broad opportunities for the younger generation.