MOSCOW, September 2. /Dunyo IA/. More than 10,000 people took part in a ceremony marking the 35^th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence at the “Uzbekistan” pavilion at VDNKh, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event brought together Uzbek nationals working and studying in Russia, representatives of 52 Uzbek diaspora, public and cultural organizations from different regions of the country, artists, creative groups, as well as Moscow residents.

The programme featured musical and dance performances, presentations of traditional crafts and cultural heritage, and Uzbek cuisine. Guests were also served three varieties of plov – Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara.

The event at VDNKh was also covered by “MIR 24,” which published a video report featuring the national concert programme, traditional crafts, the Khorezm Lazgi dance and the preparation of more than 1,000 portions of Uzbek plov.

Later in the day, the Embassy of Uzbekistan hosted a meeting attended by Deputy Foreign Minister Olimjon Abdullaev, Director of Migration Agency Behzod Musayev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Russia Botirjon Asadov and heads of 52 diaspora associations.

Participants discussed support for compatriots in Russia, including employment, legal assistance and improvements to migration procedures. Particular attention was paid to the work of the 24-hour operational headquarters and call centre at the Migration Agency’s representative office in Moscow.

The meeting also addressed the protection of Uzbek citizens’ rights and legitimate interests in Russia, including timely notification of detentions, observance of their rights during migration operations and prompt coordination on emerging issues.

Diaspora representatives were congratulated on the 35^th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence and thanked for helping fellow citizens find employment, resolve problems and return to Uzbekistan. Their role in promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential and the country’s positive image in Russia was also recognized.

The event concluded with awards presented to the heads of the most active diaspora organisations.