The ancient and ever-youthful city of Bukhara has once again captured the attention of the world with its unique charm, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. The festive spirit in the streets of our city, the joy and pride on the faces of our people, are clear indicators of the great significance of the XXI International “Silk and Spices” Festival.
This prestigious festival, organized at a high level by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage and the Bukhara Regional Administration, plays an important role in the cultural policy of our country. The festival not only aims to revive the traditions of the Great Silk Road and showcase Bukhara’s priceless cultural legacy, traditional applied arts, and unique craftsmanship, but also contributes to enhancing the tourism potential of our region.
The presence of numerous craftsmen, artists, and tourists from foreign countries highlights the growing international prestige of the festival. This, in turn, provides a vital platform for strengthening intercultural dialogue, expanding international cooperation, and reinforcing Uzbekistan’s positive image on the global stage.
We have witnessed growing interest in the “Silk and Spices” Festival from many countries year after year. This year, the festival was held in an even more elevated and festive spirit, with new performances and a refreshed program. This is undoubtedly one of the key expressions of the modernizing spirit of Uzbekistan today.
It is with particular pride that I highlight the active contribution of the Bukhara State University community — our dedicated professors, knowledge-seeking students, and especially our proactive student volunteers — who played a significant role in the successful organization of the festival. As rector, I was proud to witness our team’s enthusiastic and meaningful participation in the opening ceremony and the celebratory parade through the city streets. Throughout the festival, our student volunteers demonstrated initiative and civic responsibility by supporting various organizational efforts and assisting guests. These experiences not only enhance students’ organizational skills but also enrich their spiritual and cultural worldview, deepen their respect for national values, and serve as an invaluable school of practical learning.
Bukhara State University fully supports this traditional festival and is always ready to collaborate in strengthening its academic and educational aspects and involving young researchers.
Taking this opportunity, I express my sincere gratitude to all the festival organizers, artisans, artists, and guests. I believe this tradition will continue and play an important role in further spreading the fame of Bukhara across the globe.
Obidjon Khamidov
Rector of Bukhara State University
Doctor of Economics, Professor
