Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Hello, dear festival participants, esteemed guests, ladies, and gentlemen!

 

First of all, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each one of you on the inauguration of the II "Lazgi" international dance festival in Khiva, a city that beautifully blends the essence of antiquity with modernity, truly a gem of the East.

The presence of representatives from esteemed international and regional organizations such as UNESCO, TURKSOY, alongside cultural and art ambassadors from around the world, along with mass media workers, at today's conference, is indeed a moment of great pleasure for all of us.

 

Dear friends!

 

The timeless artistic and musical treasure, "Lazgi", which encapsulates three millennia of our country's history and culture, is a testament to the unique spirit and intellect of our people, serving as a beacon of humanist ideals for centuries. Preserving and enriching such invaluable art masterpieces and ensuring their widespread enjoyment by our younger generations and the global cultural community are central to the ongoing Third Renaissance that we are fostering today.

 

This conviction finds validation in the recent adoption of significant laws, decrees, and decisions aimed at the advancement of culture and art in our nation. We witness the restoration of classical national art, the construction of numerous educational and cultural institutions, including magnificent art palaces, concert halls, theaters, museums, and libraries. Across our country, 325 children's music and art schools teach choreography, 277 schools impart traditional singing, and 109 schools focus on the fundamentals of vocal performance.

 

"Lazgi", resonating with its life-affirming melody in the world of global music, along with the art of Bakhchik, has earned its place on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. Additionally, our country regularly hosts international festivals celebrating the arts and crafts.

 

Revitalization efforts are underway to revive dance schools specific to each region. We are enhancing the scientific study of dance art and refining the system for training qualified specialists and art historians. Uzbek dance masters have showcased concert programs and conducted master classes in over 60 countries.

 

We take immense pride in witnessing the rapid global acclaim attained by the international dance festival "Lazgi". It is becoming not only a distinguished hallmark of Uzbekistan but also a bridge fostering cultural exchange and understanding among diverse peoples and nations.

 

Foreign dance groups participating in this year's festival have also crafted choreographic programs inspired by the "Lazgi" dance. Undoubtedly, these noble endeavors, emblematic of our reverence for the Uzbek people, their unique culture, and cherished values, contribute significantly to fostering closer ties among nations.

 

The international conference held within the festival's framework serves as a crucial platform for in-depth discussions on theoretical and practical aspects of dance art.

 

Dear festival participants!

 

Khiva, renowned worldwide as an open-air museum, serves as the host city for this splendid art festival. In 2024, it has been bestowed with the title of "Tourism Capital of the Islamic World".

 

During the festival days, you will have the opportunity to explore this historic city, which embodies the rich heritage and culture of our nation, alongside its vibrant contemporary identity. I am confident that your affection for this enchanting country, Uzbekistan, will only deepen further.

 

Once again, I extend my sincere congratulations to all of you and wish you good health and continued creative success.

 

Thank you for your attention!