Issue #30 — SPECIAL EDITION: Celebrating Independence & New Horizons

🎉 30 Years of Uzbekistan’s Independence

In this very special edition of Visit Uzbekistan, we celebrate three decades of independence, progress, and global partnership. This landmark issue is a tribute to the transformation of Uzbekistan, its dynamic tourism sector, and its evolving international relations — especially with Europe and the Benelux countries.

We begin with a diplomatic perspective: an exclusive interview with Ambassador Dilyor Khakimov (p.8), revealing how EU-Uzbekistan ties have matured into lasting friendships and forward-thinking cooperation.

Highlights of this celebratory issue include:

• 🇺🇿 30 Years of Progress — Reflections on democracy, transparency, and the path toward an open society (p.10)

• 🗺️ Tourism Outlook — An in-depth talk with Deputy PM Aziz Abdukhakimov on what lies ahead for Uzbek travel (p.12)

• 🎻 Culture in Motion — Meet Dilshod Narzillayev, a gifted young cellist inspiring audiences with Uzbekistan’s sound (p.20)

• 🚇 Tashkent Metro — Through the lens of travel writers: discover the art beneath the streets (p.28)

• 🌸 Uzbekistan in Four Seasons — A poetic journey through spring blossoms, summer harvests, golden autumns, and winter charm (p.34)

We then head east to the heart of Fergana Valley:

• 🏺 Kokand, Margilan & Rishtan — A trio of craft capitals where silk, ceramics, and heritage thrive (pp.22–28)

• 🍑 Fruits from Heaven — Discover the Valley’s juiciest treasures, grown under a generous sun (p.42)

Also inside:

• 🍽️ Uzbek Street Food — Explore flavors from the roadside stalls to city corners (p.34)

• 🍷 Wine Culture Revived — Samarkand’s Khovrenko Winery and the Silk Road’s forgotten vineyards (p.48)

• 🍞 Ancient Grains, Living Bread — The story of master baker Asliddin Khasanov in Samarkand (p.50)

• ⛷️ Off the Piste — A look at Uzbekistan’s growing interest in sports tourism (p.52)

• 📚 Bonus: “10 Reasons to Visit Uzbekistan” — the perfect travel teaser (p.41)

From legendary bazaars to historic hotels, ancient rituals to modern reforms, this anniversary issue offers a panoramic view of Uzbekistan’s past, present, and promising future.

Celebrate 30 years of independence by rediscovering Uzbekistan — bold, open, and ready to welcome the world.