ANKARA, September 9. /Dunyо́ IA/. A cultural event dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence was held in Ankara, reports Dunyо́ IA correspondent.

The event was jointly organized by the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Turkiye and the Agency for Migration under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan. More than 400 of our compatriots, temporarily residing and working in Turkey, participated in the celebration.

The solemn ceremony commenced with the playing of the State Anthem of Uzbekistan. This was followed by competitions in various sports disciplines, including mini-football, Uzbek national wrestling, relay racing, and tug-of-war. Medals, certificates of honor, and commemorative souvenirs were awarded to the winners in each sport.

The festive celebrations continued with a concert program featuring prominent Uzbek pop stars. Notably, patriotic songs performed by the celebrated artists Shakhnoza Otaboeva, Sharof Mukimov, and Izzatbek Kholikov brought joy and a spirited atmosphere to all participants of the event.

Guests attending the evening event were also offered a festive serving of plov, expertly prepared by the chefs of the culinary center "Besh Kozon."

Our compatriots, longing for their homeland, warmly expressed their appreciation that during the celebrations dedicated to the 34th anniversary of independence, they once again felt the care of the Head of State towards citizens abroad and a strong connection with their homeland, even from distant lands.

The organization of such events makes a significant contribution to strengthening the loyalty of our compatriots to their homeland, fostering their sense of involvement in the country’s destiny, and reinforcing the spirit of mutual solidarity.