SHYMKENT, October 13. /Dunyo IA/.  A festive event dedicated to the Uzbek language, culture, national traditions and spiritual heritage has taken place in the Kazakh city of Shymkent, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Event brought together representatives of state bodies, public organizations, ethno-cultural associations and educational institutions, as well as art figures, artisans, local residents and guests of the city.

Primary objective of the celebration was to preserve the national and cultural heritage of the Uzbek people, develop the native language, pass down traditions to the younger generation and strengthen friendship and good-neighborly relations between the Kazakh and Uzbek peoples.

Speakers at the event included Sarsen Kuranbek, Deputy Akim of Shymkent; Marat Azilkhanov, Chairman of the Committee for Public Accord and National Unity of the People's Assembly of Kazakhstan; Abdulla Ismatullaev, Chairman of the “Dustlik” Association of Uzbek Ethno-Cultural Associations of Kazakhstan and Raushanbek Matchanov, Consul General of Uzbekistan in Almaty.

Exhibitions of folk crafts, decorative applied arts and fine arts held a prominent place in the festive program. Visitors were presented with samples of national embroidery and handiwork, paintings and traditional decorative items.

Expositions reflected the richness of the artistic heritage of the Uzbek people, the craftsmanship of artisans and the continuity of national values passed down from generation to generation.

Presentation of national dishes also generated great interest among the guests. Traditional treats and sweets demonstrated the distinctiveness of Uzbek cuisine, family values and centuries-old traditions of hospitality.

Participation of educational institutions, including schools with Uzbek-language instruction, highlighted the importance of preserving the native language and national identity. Showcased developments in the field of robotics demonstrated the possibilities of combining national traditions with modern education and innovation.

Within the framework of the concert program, national melodies and songs were performed, alongside Uzbek dances. The performances by creative collectives revealed the authenticity of Uzbek art and united representatives of various ethnicities.