A literary and artistic conference dedicated to October 21^st – Uzbek Language Day was held in the capital of Afghanistan, with more than 300 people in attendance, reports Dunyo IA.

Event was attended by representatives of the Government of Afghanistan, officials from the ministries of higher education, education, information and culture, the Academy of Sciences, members of Uzbek public organizations, poets, writers, journalists, as well as professors and students of higher educational institutions.

At the opening ceremony, Afghan scholars, linguists and educators expressed their satisfaction that Uzbek Language Day is being widely celebrated in the country. They also highly praised the efforts of the Government of Uzbekistan to elevate the international status of the Uzbek language and popularize national traditions and customs.

Afghan poet and writer Ahmad Javid Farhad noted the growing significance of the Uzbek language on the international stage, including in Afghanistan. He emphasized that Uzbek Language Day is an official holiday in the country, and that the language represents a crucial wealth and national value for every people.

Poet and journalist Sebghat Safer highlighted the role of the Uzbek language in strengthening social unity in his speech. According to him, the language not only unites and educates the people but also helps preserve their customs and traditions.

“Today, the Uzbek language is inextricably linked with the name of the great statesman and thinker Alisher Navoiy. Language unites the people, educates them, teaches them, and preserves customs and traditions. If we celebrate the richness of our mother tongue before the whole world, our nation and our unity will become stronger”, he stated.

He also noted the necessity of continuing practical work on the scientific development of the Uzbek language in Afghanistan, while simultaneously revealing its beauty and expressiveness.

Diplomats of Uzbekistan in Kabul congratulated the participants on Uzbek Language Day and briefed them on the measures being taken in the country to support and develop the state language. Particular attention was paid to the large-scale reforms implemented on the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to raise the younger generation in the spirit of respect for and devotion to their mother tongue.

In addition, the participants were provided with information on educational opportunities for Afghan youth. In particular, it was noted that the Termez Education Center operates in the Surxondaryo region, where Afghan students can study in various fields and receive preferential grants.

The cultural program included the recitation of poems dedicated to the Uzbek language and excerpts from the gazels of Alisher Navoiy, as well as performances of national dances.

Within the framework of the celebration, a presentation of books published in the Uzbek language and exhibitions of national clothing, fine arts, and Uzbek national cuisine were also held.