Uzbekistan to Celebrate 35th Independence Anniversary in 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a resolution to organize and conduct nationwide celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence.

The main theme of the celebrations is encapsulated in the motto: “With a united homeland and a united people, we will build a new life, a new future!”

The resolution establishes the concept and program of anniversary events and approves the composition of the Republican Commission, chaired by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, responsible for overseeing all planned initiatives.

Festivities will span the entire country — from the Republic of Karakalpakstan to regional centers, districts, villages, and mahallas. Priority areas include showcasing the achievements of reforms in the New Uzbekistan, highlighting improvements in citizens’ well-being, promoting interethnic harmony and religious tolerance, and actively engaging youth in nation-building initiatives. Special attention will be given to senior citizens, women, and socially vulnerable groups.

From April to September 2026, Independence Festival events will feature prominent figures from science, culture, literature, arts, and sports. The main celebration will take place in Tashkent, organized by the Ministry of Culture, involving renowned scriptwriters, directors, poets, composers, and young performers. Ceremonies will also mark the inauguration of major industrial, cultural, educational, and sports facilities.

The resolution provides for the creation of a symbolic monument, Vatan Fidoyilari, representing national independence and sovereignty. Design proposals by the Academy of Arts, Ministry of Culture, Writers’ Union, and the Republican Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment are expected by 1 June 2026, with plans to install monuments in national unity parks across all regions between 2026 and 2030.

A commemorative album, Mustaqillik Zafarnomasi, documenting reforms and achievements since independence, will be published by 1 August 2026. Simultaneously, nationwide social media campaigns under the hashtags #Mustaqillik35 and #Uzb35 will include flash mobs, podcasts, and quizzes. Television channels will broadcast a series of documentaries and programs under the rubric “Chronicle of 35 Years of Independence.”

In August 2026, Tashkent will host the international scientific-practical conference Independent Uzbekistan — 35 Years of Development: Reforms, Results, and Prospects, with participants from the Oliy Majlis and relevant legal institutions. Cultural and educational events for overseas Uzbeks and the diaspora are planned from August to September under the slogan “My Pride — Independent Uzbekistan.”

Memorable initiatives include the minting of a commemorative gold coin marking the 35th anniversary, to be prepared by the Central Bank by 1 September 2026, and naming a new mahalla and railway station in honor of the milestone.