Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 8 December 2021, in Dubai (UAE), within the framework of the EXPO Dubai 2020, the National Day of Uzbekistan was held at the Al Wasl Plaza exhibition hall - a large-scale solemn event dedicated to the history, modern development and the potential of our country.

The event began with a solemn raising of the national flags of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sardor Umurzakov and member of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak al-Nahyan. 

During the welcoming addresses, the heads of the delegations emphasized the high level of relations between Uzbekistan and the UAE, the successes achieved in bilateral cooperation in the investment, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

“Expo is a unique platform for public diplomacy and national branding. The participating countries demonstrate technological innovation and national cultures, interact with civil society to form a positive and distinctive national identity. Uzbekistan has been participating in International Exhibitions, as well as in Specialized Exhibitions Expo since 1993, but this is the first time that we represent our country with a national pavilion, which, I believe, is a good sign reflecting the seriousness of our intentions to strengthen ties with the UAE,” Umurzakov noted during his speech.

After the opening ceremony, the heads and officials of the delegations of the two countries took part in a familiarization tour of the national pavilion of Uzbekistan. The pavilion of Uzbekistan is located on an area of 1,739 square meters and under the motto "Mobility" conceptually represents a journey along the Great Silk Road, clearly reflects the historical milestones in the development of our country, as well as the achievements of recent years and strategies for further development. Every day the pavilion "Uzbekistan" is visited by an average of 2.5-3 thousand people.

The program of the event included a rich concert program with the participation of masters of the arts of Uzbekistan, who presented to the public the national culture and classical works. Interesting excursions around the Uzbekistan pavilion were also awaited for the guests of the evening. National Uzbek cuisine has also become an integral part of the celebration in the best traditions of the hospitality of the Uzbek people.

After that, the event participants visited the national pavilion of the United Arab Emirates, where a tour of the exposition dedicated to the history of development and modern achievements of the UAE in the fields of economy, science, art and other fields was held.

The main task of the country's participation in "EXPO-2020" is to demonstrate the appearance of modern Uzbekistan, the reforms taking place in the country, a dynamically developing economy, significant investment opportunities, cultural and historical heritage and tourism potential. It will also certainly contribute to strengthening foreign trade and economic ties, attracting investment in promising industries, increasing tourist flows, developing cooperation in the scientific and cultural spheres and further integrating the country into the world community.

Within the framework of participation in the exhibition, a number of events have already taken place here, introducing the heritage, culture and potential of our country. In particular, on 27 November, the premiere of the ballet performance "Lazgi - Dance of Soul and Love" was presented at the Dubai Opera. On 29 November, a session of Uzbekistan was held on the topic: "The role of women in the modernization of the social life of society." On 30 November, on the stage of Jubilee Park EXPO 2020, the brilliant Uzbek pianist Behzod Abduraimov demonstrated his skills to a huge international audience.

The World Expo Dubai 2020 will run until 31 March 2022.