MUSCAT, NOV 15
An evening of culture, music and traditional cuisine marked the official opening of Uzbekistan Cultural Days in Oman at Al Mouj Muscat, attended by Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidi, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, and Ozodbek Nazarbekov, Minister of Culture of Uzbekistan.
The event, aimed at strengthening cultural relations and promoting intellectual and artistic exchange between the two countries, featured a diverse programme, including an exhibition of Uzbek handicrafts, art workshops, drawing activities for children and musical performances by Uzbek artists.
The celebrations offered Omani audiences an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage, musical traditions and artistic expressions of Uzbekistan.
The opening ceremony culminated in a gala concert featuring renowned Uzbek performers. The programme showcased traditional maqom and folklore, folk melodies and songs, as well as national dances.
The musical compositions and vibrant choreographic performances gave the audience an insight into the distinctive character of Uzbek art and its rich performing traditions.
With their shared historical connections, rich heritage and longstanding traditions, Oman and Uzbekistan continue to strengthen cultural links, bringing their peoples closer and creating opportunities for greater bilateral cooperation.
The event was also part of Oman's broader efforts to promote international cultural dialogue. It followed the international symposium titled 'Cultural Ties between Uzbekistan and Oman', which brought together nearly 250 participants, including senators, ambassadors and scholars.
The symposium, an initiative of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to promote the heritage of Islamic civilisation internationally, also featured an exhibition of more than 150 publications, miniatures and sculptures highlighting Uzbekistan's cultural heritage.
Among the practical outcomes was the signing of memoranda of cooperation between the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, the Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science, and Bait Al Zubair Museum. The agreements are expected to pave the way for joint exhibitions and academic exchanges.
Nazarbekov and Al Busaidi also held discussions on expanding cultural cooperation through regular Culture Days, artist exchanges, educational initiatives and joint concert programmes.
Uzbekistan Cultural Days featured handicraft displays, Arabic calligraphy workshops and activities for children during November 13 and 14.
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