BRUSSELS, September 26. /Dunyo IA/. A reception marking the 35^th anniversary of state independence of Uzbekistan was held in the Belgian capital, bringing together more than 300 representatives of European political, expert, business and diplomatic circles, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event was attended by representatives of the Benelux countries and the European Union, diplomats, leading European media outlets and Uzbek citizens living in the region.

Guests were briefed on Uzbekistan’s large-scale reforms, socioeconomic development and growing investment potential, with particular attention given to priorities in education, entrepreneurship support, the judiciary, healthcare and environmental sustainability.

The reception highlighted the significant development of Uzbekistan-EU relations in recent years, including political dialogue, trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as cultural and humanitarian ties.

Particular importance was attached to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Brussels in October 2025, which resulted in important agreements with EU leaders and the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.

Participants also noted the results of the first Central Asia-EU summit, held in Samarkand, and the continued development of the strategic partnership between the sides.

Participants emphasized Uzbekistan’s interest in expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with the EU and the Benelux countries.

Representatives of the Benelux countries, the EU, NATO and foreign diplomatic missions congratulated the leadership and people of Uzbekistan on the 35^th anniversary of independence.

Guests also highlighted the country’s development since independence, particularly the large-scale reforms of the past decade, its open foreign policy and active participation in international cooperation.

The reception featured a photo exhibition dedicated to Uzbekistan’s historical and cultural heritage and its modern image, as well as an exhibition of works by national artisans.

Sergey Morozov, a representative of international company Solvay, said: “I regularly visit Uzbekistan, and each time I see new projects, production facilities and infrastructure. The pace of change is so rapid that it is particularly noticeable to someone who observes it firsthand.”

He said the modernization of the mining, metallurgy and chemical industries, the introduction of new technologies and industrial development were creating opportunities for long-term cooperation between international companies and Uzbekistan.

“New projects in Tashkent, the construction of New Tashkent and the Center for Islamic Civilization made a particularly strong impression on me. The center presents the country’s rich historical and cultural heritage using modern technologies,” Morozov said.

Antonio Buscardini, founder of Buscardini Communications and Travel Tomorrow, head of the Brussels Press Club and Uzbekistan’s honorary tourism ambassador, described his participation in the reception as a great honor.

“This evening was a vivid reflection of Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, traditional hospitality and increasingly active cooperation with Europe,” he said.

As Uzbekistan’s honorary tourism ambassador, Buscardini stated he intends to help promote the country among European tourists and increase interest in its cultural heritage, tourism potential and traditions of hospitality.