Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Yesterday, with the assistance of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in our country, the opening ceremony of a bust dedicated to the founder of the Uzbek language and literature and statesman Alisher Navoi was held in the city of Lakitelek, Hungary.

It is worth noting that this bust is the first cultural monument dedicated to Uzbekistan to be unveiled in Hungary, marking a significant milestone in the history of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Hungary. The project was executed by Hungarian sculptor Gyorgy Lantos.

The opening ceremony was attended by Avazhon Tadjixanov, First Deputy Minister of Culture of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Hungary O. Shakhavdinov, Uzbek poet Usmon Azim, Rector of the Tashkent State Uzbek Language and Literature University named after Alisher Navoi Sh. Sirojiddinov, People’s Artist of Uzbekistan I. Arabov, and other representatives of culture and art.

Over 100 guests participated from Hungary, including Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament Shandor Lejak, State Secretary for Security Policy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Staray, State Secretary for Culture of the Ministry of Culture and Innovation Magdolna Zavogya, as well as political, cultural figures, scholars, journalists, and diplomats.

The guests placed flower wreaths at the base of the Navoi bust.

In his speech, Avazhon Tadjixanov drew attention to the great work being done in recent years under the direct initiative of the President of Uzbekistan to deeply study Alisher Navoi’s rich creative legacy, promote his immortal works both in our country and abroad, and immortalize his memory.

It was noted that the Alisher Navoi Award, established by the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, aims to honor distinguished individuals who have contributed to the development of science, culture, and art in the Turkic world.

Sh. Sirojiddinov expressed pride and joy that, in addition to cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Washington, Moscow, Minsk, Astana, Baku, Ashgabat, Dushanbe, and Osh, Lakitelek now joins the list of cities with a bust of Navoi.

In his speech, O. Shakhavdinov noted that Navoi's exploration of themes like friendship and the human soul transcended time and borders, elevating him to the status of a universal figure in world literature. He also emphasized how Navoi’s contributions to the development of the Uzbek language, his patronage of art and science, enriched the cultural landscape of Central Asia.

"We are standing before a masterpiece of sculptor Gyorgy Lantos, whose artistic vision perfectly captures the essence and spirit of Navoi. Lantos’ work skillfully blends traditional and modern styles, reflecting a deep understanding of cultural narratives," Shakhavdinov said.

Sh. Lejak, in his speech, highly evaluated the political will and support of the two heads of state, which has led to the revival of the historical ties between Hungary and the Turkic world, including Uzbekistan.

"We are extremely pleased to have this bust dedicated to Alisher Navoi, son of the Uzbek people, placed in our homeland as a symbol of respect for our ancestors. This monument today lays the foundation for lasting friendship between the Hungarian and Uzbek peoples. On this historic occasion, I sincerely congratulate the peoples of both countries," said the Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament.

Hungary's State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade P. Staray emphasized that the unveiling of the Navoi bust is the result of the close friendship and brotherly relations between Prime Minister V. Orban and President Sh. M. Mirziyoyev. "We are keen to continue advancing strategic partnerships in all areas with your country," he said.

He also noted that the ancestors of both nations once shared a homeland, and this connection should never be forgotten. Hungary strives to develop relations with Turkic countries, especially Uzbekistan, based on equality and mutual respect.

Magdolna Zavogya, State Secretary for Culture, emphasized that the worldviews, history, culture, and traditions of the peoples of Hungary and the Turkic world share many similarities and common aspects. She also noted that Hungary’s "Eastern Look" policy is strengthening its cultural ties with Turkic states, and the bust of Alisher Navoi will serve as a cultural bridge between the Hungarian and Uzbek peoples for centuries to come.

During the event, an ensemble of artists led by People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Ilyos Arabov delighted the guests with maqom songs and national dances based on Alisher Navoi’s ghazals.

This cultural event was held in a friendly and festive atmosphere, in line with the spirit of strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Hungary.