The Head of State’s message to the people of Uzbekistan on International Day of Friendship goes beyond simply expressing gratitude. It represents the unity and harmony within our society.

The President emphasized that “our strength lies in unity and solidarity”. This meaningful principle is not just a slogan but a daily reality for millions of our fellow citizens and serves as the core driving force of our society.

Uzbekistan has long been a crossroads of civilizations, where a mix of cultures and beliefs coexist. The values of our people, who have historically shared their homes and the last piece of bread with others of different nationalities in difficult times, are now upheld as official policy. In New Uzbekistan, interethnic harmony is maintained through formal institutions. Legal regulations and the Concept of State Policy in the Sphere of Interethnic Relations create a strong framework that protects the rights and freedoms of over 130 nationalities and ethnic groups, as well as 16 religious communities.

People of various nationalities residing in Uzbekistan regularly experience this atmosphere of mutual respect in their daily routines. A Russian-origin teacher notes: “I was born and raised in Uzbekistan. Here, all the conditions are in place to communicate effortlessly in Russian, observe our cultural holidays, and ensure our children access quality education in their native language. The existence of 157 national cultural centers and the provision of education in seven languages at schools clearly demonstrate the country’s high regard and respect for different nationalities”.

Broadcasting programs in various languages and publishing newspapers and magazines play a key role in preserving each people’s culture. The Pavilion of National Cultural Centers in Tashkent, the Garden of Tolerance in New Uzbekistan Park, along with ethnic and tourist villages in different regions, highlight the diverse cultural fabric of our society.

Reforms here go beyond cultural shifts, affecting social and political areas as well. A diverse range of our compatriots, such as deputies, senators, public figures, scholars, artists, and entrepreneurs, have gained prominence. The presentation of nearly two thousand high state awards and medals to these people highlights the value placed on individual achievement.

Art serves as a powerful tool for uniting diverse cultures. The Head of State’s initiative to create the professional Do’stlik (Friendship) Ensemble, which includes members from various nations and ethnic groups, marks a significant creative step toward fostering universal unity and solidarity. Uzbekistan’s model of interethnic harmony significantly contributes to cultivating an environment of good-neighborliness, openness, and mutual trust, not only within the country but across the entire Central Asian region. The easing of travel restrictions and the broadening of economic, cultural, and humanitarian connections reflect the realization of the region’s long-held aspirations.

An ethnic Kazakh acquaintance of mine discussing regional friendship and prospects observes: “We are well aware that the peoples of Central Asia have historically shared common goals. Recently, the opening of borders and easier travel have deepened the bonds between our families and communities. A shared future and common objectives connect us”.

People’s friendship is more than just a celebration. It is a sacred human value and a dependable assurance of peace, freedom, and national prosperity. The unity among all nations and ethnic groups, united around a common goal and a shared homeland, will remain a crucial factor in helping New Uzbekistan achieve its highest milestones.