Uzbekistan–Qatar Friendship Society Established: A New Chapter in People’s Diplomacy
2025-10-29 13:50:00 / News
Chairman of the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Relations with Compatriots Abroad Kahramon Sariev emphasized that the newly established society would play a vital role in strengthening cultural, economic, and humanitarian ties between Uzbekistan and Qatar.
“This initiative represents a new stage in people’s diplomacy and mutual understanding between our nations,” Sariev stated in his address.
Friendship Societies — Bridges of Diplomacy
Currently, 43 friendship societies operate in Uzbekistan, serving as bridges for cultural and social cooperation with foreign partners.
In 2024 alone, these societies organized around 180 events — including exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and delegation exchanges — widely covered by over 200 local and international media outlets.
Notable examples include the Uzbekistan–Vietnam Friendship Society’s publication of Ho Chi Minh’s “Diary of a Prisoner” in Uzbek and the Uzbekistan–Germany Society’s student competition on bilateral relations.
Uzbekistan–Qatar Partnership Expands
Economic and cultural cooperation between Uzbekistan and Qatar has grown steadily. In 2024, bilateral trade reached USD 7.7 million, with Uzbekistan exporting food products and copper goods, and importing chemical and fuel products.
Cultural collaboration has also intensified — Weeks of Culture, tourism fairs, and design exhibitions have been held in both countries. Notably, the “Qatar Culture Week” took place in Tashkent in October 2024, attended by Qatar’s Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Thani.
Ravshan Irmatov Appointed as First Chairman
During the event, Ravshan Irmatov, a globally recognized sports figure, was announced as the first chairman of the Uzbekistan–Qatar Friendship Society.
Sariev described Irmatov as “a person who proudly represents Uzbekistan internationally and embodies the nation’s progressive civic spirit.”
“Under his leadership, the society will expand cooperation in culture, sports, tourism, and education,” Sariev said.
The establishment of the Uzbekistan–Qatar Friendship Society marks an important step toward deeper mutual understanding and long-term partnership between the peoples of both nations.