TURKPA attended Forum within International Cultural Heritage Week in Uzbekistan

On 24 October 2024, Secretary General Mehmet Süreyya Er took part in the international forum “Reforms in the field of culture and art in new Uzbekistan”, hosted by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan as a key highlight of the International Cultural Heritage Week titled "The phenomenon of the Eastern renaissance: states, religions, and civilizations". This landmark event gathered prominent scholars, experts, and representatives of cultural institutions, with over 100 international participants from 20 countries to delve into transformative cultural and artistic reforms that are set to shape the future of Uzbekistan. The forum was attended by the heads of international organizations, including the Secretary General of TURKPA Mehmet Süreyya Er, Secretary General of the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) Sultan Raev, President of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation Aktoty Raimkulova, along with poets, journalists, historians, publicists and other influential figures representing various institutions. The forum commenced with an introductory address by the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan Ozodbek Nazarbekov. Minister Nazarbekov noted that Uzbekistan was reviving its legacy of enlightenment inspired by great minds as Khorezmiy, Fergani, and Alisher Navoi, who thrived in a rich scientific and cultural environment. Today, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country is focused on advancing science, culture, art, and literature, aiming to strengthen spiritual and ideological resilience, particularly among the youth. The Minister especially emphasized that the efforts to promote “Enlightenment against ignorance” were crucial in fostering a peaceful and stable society. Secretary General Mehmet Süreyya Er also delivered a speech at the Forum. He highlighted the event’s importance and stated that Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage reflected the centuries-old traditions and history of Central Asian, shaped by its position along the Great Silk Road. This heritage includes architectural landmarks, ancient fortresses, and natural monuments, many of which were recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. These assets, alongside rich folklore, highlight Uzbekistan’s historical role as a center of cultural and commercial exchange throughout the centuries. Secretary General emphasized that under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan was revitalizing and preserving this heritage through various initiatives. He mentioned the 80-volume project “Cultural heritage of Uzbekistan in the world’s collections” documenting Uzbek arts and manuscripts, shared globally to honor and showcase the nation’s cultural wealth. At the same time, Secretary General Mehmet Süreyya Er touched on the important role of Uzbekistan in the cooperation processes taking place in the Turkic world. He expressed belief that full-fledged membership of Uzbekistan in TURKPA could further strengthen the parliamentarism and parliamentary diplomacy in the Turkic world, and open new horizons for the development of relations among the Turkic states. The event also featured the presentation on the “Living history” project proposed by the President of Uzbekistan, as well as the presentation of the book “National musical instruments of Turkic states”. Further an enriched exhibition of Uzbek national instruments coupled with a compelling performance of the rhetorical play “Cholpon”, captivated audience and celebrated Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage.