Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Uzbekistan

As we know, our mother tongue is the soul of the nation, an expression of its national identity, a symbol of independence and an invaluable treasure.
The role of our mother tongue is particularly significant in raising the younger generation in the spirit of love for the Motherland, respect for our national values and a high sense of patriotism.
That is why, in recent years, at the initiative of the Head of our State, extensive reforms have been implemented to develop the Uzbek language and enhance its standing in society.
In particular, seven years ago, on 21 October 2019, a Decree of the esteemed President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, entitled “On measures to fundamentally enhance the role and prestige of the Uzbek language as the state language”, was adopted, establishing 21 October as Uzbek language day.
On 20 October 2020, Presidential decree No. UP-6084 approved the Concept for the development of the Uzbek language and the improvement of language policy for 2020–2030.
Undoubtedly, the signing of these important documents became a landmark historical event in the socio-political, cultural and spiritual life of our beloved country and its people.
At the same time, particular attention is being paid to providing the younger generation with a thorough knowledge of the Uzbek language, developing modern textbooks and electronic resources, and harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to further advance our mother tongue.
As a result of the implementation of concepts and programmes adopted in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the state language”, the position of our mother tongue continues to strengthen in education, science, medicine, law, defence and all other fields.
Extensive efforts are also being undertaken in this regard within the Ministry of defence. In particular, the practice of drafting, adopting and publishing all types of official correspondence and other documents in Uzbek using the Latin-based alphabet has been introduced.
Furthermore, candidates for appointment to leadership positions among military personnel are required to undergo testing to assess their proficiency in the state language.
Professional development courses have been organised for military personnel and civilian employees of the Armed Forces at the Centre for training in the fundamentals of state-language record management and professional development under the Tashkent state university of uzbek language and literature named after Alisher Navoi, as well as at its regional branches.
During these courses, participants study the Uzbek alphabet based on the Latin script, spelling rules and the fundamentals of conducting official business in the state language. They then apply the knowledge and skills they acquire extensively in their professional activities.
Dear friends and esteemed colleagues!
We must never forget that preserving our mother tongue, cherishing it and enhancing its status are our civic duty and a responsibility incumbent upon each and every one of us.
Indeed, respect for our mother tongue is a vivid expression of our respect for our beloved Motherland!
It was no coincidence that Abdulla Avloni, the great educator and enlightener of our people, once said: “The mirror of life that demonstrates the existence of every nation in the world is its language and literature. To lose one's national language is to lose the spirit of one's nation.”

Therefore, each of us must be proficient in the state language and recognise this as both a duty and an obligation.
Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributes to further enhancing the status of our mother tongue, preserving it, cherishing it and promoting its development.
Once again, I congratulate you on this significant and historic occasion and wish you every success in your honourable and responsible service!
May peace prevail in our country, may our people prosper, and may our national values endure for generations to come!

Minister of defence of the Republic of Uzbekistan
мajor general Botir Bakhromovich Kudratkhodjaev