Uzbek national values celebrated at “Charity Bazaar” Festival

Representatives of Uzbekistan’s Embassy in Pakistan took part in the “Charity Bazaar” festival, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan.

The festival is regularly organized in Pakistan to strengthen cultural and humanitarian cooperation with the diplomatic corps and international organizations, while promoting the rich history, cultural heritage, and tourism potential of diverse nations.

This year’s event in Islamabad featured participation from the accredited diplomatic corps, offices of international organizations, non-governmental and non-profit organizations, as well as local artisans showcasing their exhibition corners.

The Uzbekistan pavilion captivated attendees with its distinct national style and artistic decorations, offering a rich display of traditional cuisine, sweets, handicrafts, folk art, musical instruments, and national costumes. Signature Uzbek dishes such as plov, manti, somsa, and lagman, along with sweets including halva and chak-chak, were highly praised by festival guests.

The Uzbekistan corner was further enlivened by the sounds of traditional Uzbek music, adding a unique splendor to the event. Performances of Andijan polka and Lazgi dances mesmerized both the residents of Islamabad and visiting guests.

The event, attended by nearly 15,000 guests including organizers, diplomatic mission staff, and representatives of local media, highly praised the Uzbekistan pavilion. Attendees specifically recognized the uniqueness of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage, the exquisite craftsmanship of artisanal products, and the unparalleled taste of traditional Uzbek cuisine.

The event was honored by the presence of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mr. Ishaq Dar, who attended as the chief guest and toured the Uzbekistan pavilion.

The Pakistani Foreign Minister highlighted the profound impression made by the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Uzbek people, as well as the uniqueness of their traditional cuisine. Mr. Ishaq Dar also emphasized the significance of such events for cultural diplomacy and the enhancement of bilateral cooperation.

Ambassadors of Turkey, China, Malaysia, Tunisia, Azerbaijan, Vietnam, Turkmenistan, the Czech Republic, Indonesia, Palestine, Syria, Japan, the Philippines, Morocco, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries accredited to Pakistan, along with officials from the host country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives of international organizations, visited the Uzbekistan pavilion. They were able to experience the nation’s cultural heritage firsthand and expressed high appreciation for the richness of Uzbekistan’s traditions.

Uzbekistan’s Tourism Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamid Mahmud, underscored that the “Charity Bazaar” festival not only promotes the diverse national values, traditions, cuisine, and folk games of various peoples, but also serves as a platform for comprehensive support to those in need.

– Uzbekistan’s participation in this initiative, along with the presentation of our people’s rich traditions, history, lifestyle, values, and most importantly – our national cuisine, was of particular significance, he said. – The people of Pakistan and the festival’s guests expressed great delight at Uzbekistan’s showcase. As Tourism Ambassador, I must emphasize that today’s participation provided an excellent opportunity to highlight Uzbekistan’s tourism potential. Such events strengthen cultural exchange, promote tourism, and foster deeper bonds of friendship between our nations.

As part of the event, a creative group composed of children of embassy staff performed the Andijan Polka during the "Parade of Nations" and the accompanying concert program. The young performers delighted the audience with their spirited presentation. Notably, many spectators joined in dancing to the sounds of Uzbek music, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Uzbekistan’s participation in the "Charity Bazaar" charity festival served to widely promote the country’s culture in Pakistan and further enhance public awareness of Uzbekistan through cultural diplomacy.