WARSAW, February 16. /Dunyo IA/. A cultural and educational event titled “Uzbekistan - yesterday and today” was held in Warsaw on the initiative of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Poland, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event aimed to promote Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and tourism potential, while also strengthening Uzbek - Polish cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

Participants included representatives of the Warsaw city administration, staff from local cultural and humanitarian institutions, masters of Polish applied arts, as well as members of the public and academic community.

The program opened with a presentation by historian Igor Stroetsky, who highlighted the historical monuments of Samarkand, Khorezm and Bukhara, their significance within the world’s cultural heritage and ongoing initiatives in ecological conservation, eco-tourism and tourism development projects in Uzbekistan.

An exhibition area showcased Uzbekistan’s cultural traditions and tourist opportunities. Guests were presented with examples of national applied arts, traditional painting, silk products and photographs illustrating Uzbek customs and daily life. Informational materials, including brochures, flyers and special publications on the country’s history, culture and tourism potential, were also distributed.

The event drew particular attention to the testimonies of guests who had recently visited Uzbekistan, sharing their firsthand impressions and experiences.

Historian Filip Sobianu shared his personal impressions:

-  My wife and I recently visited Uzbekistan. For Poles, it is truly a new and very exciting tourist destination. We were able to visit Samarkand, Bukhara and other cities - thanks to the advanced transport infrastructure and high-speed trains, traveling was very convenient. But what struck us most of all were the open and friendly people. Uzbekistan has taken a special place in our hearts and after today’s event, we have a strong desire to return there again.

Independent researcher Karolina Milak noted the informative nature of the meeting:

-  Today's event helped me form a more comprehensive picture of Uzbekistan. It was fascinating to see how culture, history and modern Uzbek-Polish ties intertwine and complement one another.

Agata Nowak, a lecturer at the University of Warsaw, emphasized the significance of such initiatives:

-  The event dedicated to the tourism and culture of Uzbekistan left me with very warm impressions. The program was extensive and provided a deeper understanding of the country's rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. I was particularly interested in the national music, traditions, and crafts. Such events promote intercultural dialogue and strengthen cooperation between our countries. I am delighted to recommend Uzbekistan as a unique cultural and travel destination.

At the end of the meeting, guests were served dishes of Uzbek national cuisine - somsa, pilaf and traditional sweets - which served as a vibrant final highlight of the event.

The organizers noted that such cultural initiatives contribute to strengthening Uzbekistan's international image, expanding tourism ties and developing cultural dialogue between Uzbekistan and Poland.