Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- A cultural event was held at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Beijing on the occasion of the celebration of the spring holiday Navruz.

It was attended by representatives of the public, analytical, scientific and academic circles and the media of China, the leadership of the SCO. Among the participants were also our compatriots studying and living in China.

The main theses of the speech of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at Tashkent celebrations dedicated to the Navruz holiday on 21 March were brought to the attention of the participants. 

Information was provided on the processes of modern development of Uzbekistan and current trends in Uzbek-Chinese cooperation.

Separately, the goals and objectives of the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 were noted.

The participants also received detailed information about the ongoing activities under the chairmanship of Uzbekistan in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

As part of the event, with the participation of distinguished guests, a tree-planting ceremony was held in the courtyard of the Embassy in support of the nationwide project "Yashil Makon" in Uzbekistan.

There was also a presentation of the illustrated magazine in Chinese "Visit Uzbekistan", dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and China, materials of bilateral cooperation, the activities of the SCO and others.

Along with this, the attention of the participants was turned to exhibition works of folk art, exposition stands, literature dedicated to the achievements of the Uzbek national culture.

The participants were able to enjoy Uzbek songs and music, taste traditional national dishes such as sumalak, pilaf, samsa and others.

The event was widely covered in China’s leading media.

SCO Secretary General Zhang Ming congratulated all Uzbeks on Navruz holiday.

“Today, together with Uzbek friends, I celebrate this beautiful day. May Navruz bring well-being, prosperity and progress to the whole of Uzbekistan, as well as to the entire “Shanghai family,” said the SCO Secretary General.

Zhang Ming said that Uzbekistan, as one of the founders of the Organization, continues to make a great contribution to the development of its activities. "The chairmanship of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the SCO will undoubtedly become an important stage for further strengthening the international authority of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization."

Head of the Central Asia Department of the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Zhang Ning:

- Navruz is a symbol of the rebirth and renewal of nature, new energy, friendship and a creative beginning.

“I congratulate all Uzbeks on Navruz holiday. Taking this opportunity, I would like to note the great success of interstate relations between Uzbekistan and China, which this year celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. During this short historical period, our countries have reached the level of comprehensive strategic partners. I am watching the reforms in Uzbekistan with great interest. This process simultaneously creates new opportunities for further expansion of multifaceted cooperation between our countries.”

Sarah Chen, General Manager of China’s Minyoun Hospitality Group:

- I am very glad to be present today at the Navruz celebration at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Beijing. Our company "Minyoun Hospitality" cooperates with the Samarkand Tourist Center and helps to manage two high-class hotels. Your country is an important center of the Great Silk Road with a rich historical and cultural heritage that attracts people from all over the world.

Uzbekistan has huge opportunities in the field of tourism. Thanks to the favorable business environment, we are confident in doing business in your country. We plan to further expand our business in Uzbekistan.”