Beijing (TDI): The Embassy of Uzbekistan in China organized an interactive photo exhibition at the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), on Tuesday.
The exhibition was held to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s Independence and the 25th anniversary of the SCO. Uzbekistan marks its independence day on September 1st every year.
Titled “The Development of Modern Uzbekistan,” the exhibition spotlighted the country’s achievements and development over the past 35 years.
It displayed 60 photographic works, tracing Uzbekistan’s history and cultural heritage alongside its contemporary development, including a dedicated wall on the “all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership” devoted to the Uzbekistan-China relationship and Tashkent’s role within the SCO.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, SCO Secretary-General, Nurlan Yermekbayev, noted that Uzbekistan has made significant contributions to the Organization’s development as a major organization over the past three decades.
“He highlighted Uzbekistan’s growing role in deepening transport and logistics cooperation, noting that the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects is broadening horizons for the Eurasian region,” according to information available on SCO secretariat’s website.
He also recalled the SCO Heads of State Council meeting in 2022, which Samarkand hosted, calling it a ” landmark event that charted a new course for multifaceted cooperation.”
The Ambassador of Uzbekistan to China, Farhod Arziev, in a message that was read by the embassy’s minister-counsellor, emphasized commitment to the “Shanghai Spirit” and the country’s continued support for initiatives promoting regional stability, economic cooperation and sustainable development.
The exhibition also featured a presentation by Eldor Tulyakov, Executive Director of the Development Strategy Center, who outlined the objectives of the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy, including economic modernization, private sector development, digital transformation, renewable energy expansion and enhanced regional connectivity.
Uzbekistan presented the SCO Secretariat with the publication “The Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan in World Collections” as part of the cultural program and screened a presentation on the Center for Islamic Civilization. Guests also experienced traditional Uzbek cuisine during a cultural reception.
The exhibition offered visitors an opportunity to learn about Uzbekistan’s history and development since gaining independence from the Soviet Union on September 1, 1991.
Uzbekistan has been a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization since its establishment in 2001. The photo exhibition drew participation from government representatives and heads of diplomatic missions.
Tayyaba Afzal
Tayyaba Afzal is an International Relations Graduate from Lahore College for Women University. Her research interests include Information Warfare, AI Governance and Digital Diplomacy. She can be reached at [email protected]
