On December 24, a press conference was held at the Agency for Information and Mass Communications to summarize the work done by the Ministry of Culture in 2024 and to discuss plans for 2025. The event was attended by Minister of Culture Ozodbek Nazarbekov, the leadership of the Ministry of Culture, central apparatus, and heads of system organizations.

At the beginning of the press conference, Minister Ozodbek Nazarbekov reported on the work done in 2024.

In particular:

• In the field of theater and circus, 10,479 performances were held, attended by 3.6 million viewers. Additionally, "O'zbsirk" organized 556 circus performances, which were attended by 150,000 people.

• In the concert and entertainment sector, 7,255 concerts and entertainment events were held in 2024, attracting 10,037,200 people.

• In terms of cultural centers and intangible cultural heritage, 837 cultural centers in the country organized more than 26,000 cultural, educational, and concert programs, attracting 2.5 million people.

• The activities of the Institute of Cultural Studies and Intangible Cultural Heritage were launched, with 13 local and one foreign folklore expeditions organized, resulting in the documentation of 250 intangible cultural heritage elements. Moreover, 50 audiovisual works promoting intangible cultural heritage were created. Additionally, the intangible cultural heritage of “Rubob making and performance traditions” was added to UNESCO's representative list.

• Regarding creative youth and competitions, 18 national contests and festivals were held, with over 10,000 creative youth participating. Furthermore, 14 “Leaders and Youth” meetings were held in the regions, involving more than 1,400 young people.

• In the education sector, the qualifications of 2,000 pedagogical staff, professors, and managers in cultural education institutions were enhanced, and more than 2,600 teachers from colleges underwent certification.

The press conference also covered the confirmation of President’s decrees, such as:

• The approval of the decree on improving the teaching of music culture in general education schools and the professional development of music teachers.

• The decree regarding increasing the salaries of directors, deputy directors, teachers, and concertmasters of children’s music and art schools starting from January 1, 2025.

Regarding international relations, new friendship societies were established with six countries, increasing their total to 42.

In the international sector, "Uzbekistan Culture Days" were held in nine countries, including China, Azerbaijan, Qatar, Tajikistan, the United Kingdom, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Russia. Additionally, cultural events were held in four countries including Azerbaijan, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, and Qatar. Furthermore, cultural events dedicated to Uzbekistan’s 33rd Independence Anniversary were held in eight countries.

Minister Ozodbek Nazarbekov also announced the plans for 2025:

• 3.8 million viewers will attend theater performances, and 10.2 million will participate in cultural events and festivals.

• Several international festivals will be organized, including the International Bakhshi Art Festival, the III International Handicrafts Festival, and the Silk Road Gem Toshkent International Film Festival.

• Cultural events will be held in 50 regions, with a focus on the principle of mutual cooperation.

• The Ministry plans to further develop music education in children's art schools and expand professional training for music teachers.

The press conference concluded with media representatives asking questions about the Ministry’s plans, and the officials provided answers.