Nenad Lalović Awarded the “Dustlik” Order for Contribution to the Development of Sports in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 13 October, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with Nenad Lalović, head of the United World Wrestling, who is visiting the country on an official trip.

During the meeting, the parties discussed expanding practical cooperation with this prestigious international organization in the area of organizational and expert support, as well as further promoting martial arts in Uzbekistan. Special attention was given to the development of Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling, kurash, women’s wrestling, and mixed martial arts.

The President was briefed on the achievements of Uzbek athletes in recent years, including winning 45 major awards at prestigious competitions, such as Olympic Games and World Championship gold medals. The head of the international organization highly appreciated the large-scale reforms carried out in Uzbekistan in the field of mass sports, as well as efforts to engage youth through the creation of modern infrastructure, hosting prestigious tournaments, and regular competitions.

Discussions also covered hosting major continental and world championships in the country, establishing a Regional Wrestling Academy under the organization’s auspices, and partnership opportunities in sports medicine, nutrition, psychology, and other priority areas.

The President emphasized the importance of popularizing martial arts among children and youth, implementing modern talent selection and training methods, and improving sports infrastructure—from community halls and local clubs to specialized schools and complexes. According to him, these measures should contribute to new victories for Uzbek athletes at the Olympic Games and international tournaments.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented Nenad Lalović with a high state award—the “Dustlik” Order—for his significant personal contribution to the development of mass sports and support for martial arts in Uzbekistan.