AGP Executive Report

India–Uzbekistan Cultural Diplomacy: PM Narendra Modi’s Tashkent visit is bringing arts to the front row—Tashkent landmarks lit in tricolour and the Indian diaspora welcoming him with music, dance and child performers singing “Udi Jab-Jab Zulfein Teri,” while a yoga session with the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan adds a softer cultural layer. Community Arts Moments: Modi also praised Indian-Uzbek fusion performances (Kathak with local rhythms, Tabla with Uzbek instruments) and shared the “diaspora as a living bridge” theme after rakhis were tied during the reception. Islamic Heritage & Calligraphy: Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center announced an international calligraphy competition to create a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an, aiming to unite major Arabic calligraphy traditions into one work. Film Industry Links: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a film cooperation deal tied to Lachin International Film Festival, with Uzbek studio films planned for cinemas across Uzbekistan. Independence-Season Entertainment: Uzbekistan marked 35 years of independence with a large New Tashkent spectacle—live music and dance, international stars, and a drone show over the city.

Cultural Diplomacy in Tashkent: PM Narendra Modi joined a Yoga session hosted by the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan, visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument, and met the Indian diaspora—calling it a “living bridge” between the two countries as welcome performances mixed tabla with Uzbek instruments and even rakhi moments set a warm tone. Independence Celebrations, Big Stage Energy: Uzbekistan marked 35 years of independence with a New Tashkent spectacle of live music and dance, international stars, 3D projections, robotic performances, and a drone show lighting up the night sky. Islamic Arts Spotlight: An International Media Forum in Tashkent and Samarkand brought global journalists and creative-industry voices together, while the Islamic Civilization Center announced a worldwide calligraphy competition to create a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an. Museum-to-Museum Exchange: Qatar Museums detailed “Ektashif: Uzbekistan,” opening Sept 3 at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, featuring new works by seven Qatari artists inspired by craft and architecture across Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. Film Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a film-industry deal tied to the Lachin International Film Festival, with Uzbek productions planned for cinemas across Uzbekistan. Music on Record: Uzbek musicians Sayyod Mirzomurodov and Mariya Akhadjanova released a landmark album, “Contemporary Uzbek Music for Clarinet and Piano,” aiming to bring Uzbek compositions to a wider audience.

Uzbekistan Independence celebrations: Uzbekistan marked its 35th anniversary ahead of Sept 1 with a big show in “New Tashkent,” featuring laser effects, national music, and performances by well-known artists. Islamic arts spotlight: The Islamic Civilization Center announced an international calligraphy competition to create a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an, bringing together global calligraphers and schools of Arabic calligraphy. Media & culture forum: Tashkent hosted an international media forum on Islamic civilization, with nearly 300 participants from 43 countries discussing journalism ethics, AI’s role in media skills, and how to present heritage to modern audiences. Qatar-Uzbek museum tie-up: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha on Sept 3, running to Nov 28, showcasing 1,000+ years of Uzbek art through 146 objects. Photography for heritage: The ECO International Mobile Photography Festival 2026 “Our Heritage” invited participants from ECO member states, including Uzbekistan, to submit mobile-shot images of traditions and cultural knowledge. Film cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a film-industry deal linked to Lachin International Film Festival, with Uzbek films planned for cinemas across Uzbekistan. Youth arts: A gala concert in Jizzakh highlighted winners of a piano competition, backing young talent with classical and contemporary performances. Regional cultural diplomacy: Pakistan-Uzbekistan friendship was celebrated through a music-and-culture concert in Pakistan, with Uzbek artists showcasing musical traditions.

Islamic Arts & Media: Uzbekistan hosted an International Media Forum in Tashkent and Samarkand on “Islamic Civilization: New Perspective – New Discoveries,” bringing together nearly 300 participants from 43 countries to discuss journalism, documentary work, publishing and the role of AI in culture. Qur’an Calligraphy: The Islamic Civilization Center announced a global calligraphy competition to create a unique Qur’an manuscript, uniting major Arabic calligraphy traditions under a project presented during the forum. Museum Spotlight: Qatar Museums confirmed “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, running Sept 3–Nov 28, featuring 146 objects spanning more than 1,000 years of Uzbek Islamic-era art and craft. Film Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a film-industry cooperation document during the Lachin International Film Festival, including plans to screen Hoçazfilm productions across Uzbekistan; Uzbek historical drama “Rise of the Conqueror” was also screened in Azerbaijani. Music & Talent: A gala concert in Jizzakh showcased winners of a piano competition, supporting young performers with classical and contemporary pieces. Cultural Exchange: UiTM Malaysia sent students on a 14-day mobility in Uzbekistan to create creative media promoting tourism, blending art, film and entrepreneurship. Arts Loss: Chuck Pennington, founder of The Verandas in Wilmington, died at 75, remembered for restoring a historic mansion and building a community hub.

Islamic arts & media: Uzbekistan brought together nearly 300 journalists, scholars and creative-industry figures from 43 countries for the International Media Forum “Islamic Civilization: New Perspective – New Discoveries,” with sessions on responsible reporting and how AI can support, not replace, journalists. Qur’an calligraphy: The Islamic Civilization Center announced a global calligraphy competition to create a unique Qur’an manuscript, uniting major Arabic calligraphy traditions into one work. Museum spotlight: Qatar Museums confirmed “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” will open Sept 3 at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, featuring 146 objects spanning more than 1,000 years of Uzbek artistic heritage. Film cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a film-industry deal during the Lachin International Film Festival, including plans to screen Hoçazfilm productions across Uzbekistan; Uzbek historical drama “Rise of the Conqueror” also screened in Azerbaijani. Music on record: Uzbek musicians Sayyod Mirzomurodov and Mariya Akhadjanova released a landmark album, “Contemporary Uzbek Music for Clarinet and Piano,” the first commercial recording devoted entirely to the genre. Young talent concert: A gala concert in Zaamin showcased winners of a piano competition, spotlighting Uzbekistan’s push to nurture young artists.

Islamic Arts & Heritage: Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center announced an international calligraphy competition to create a unique copy of the Holy Qur’an, bringing together calligraphers worldwide to unite major Arabic calligraphy traditions into one work. Museum & Exhibitions: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha on Sept. 3, running to Nov. 28, featuring 146 objects spanning 1,000+ years of Uzbek art, from manuscripts and ceramics to Timurid fragments and textiles. Music Spotlight: Uzbek musicians Sayyod Mirzomurodov and Mariya Akhadjanova released a landmark first commercial album, “Contemporary Uzbek Music for Clarinet and Piano,” aiming to put Uzbek contemporary sounds on the global map. Film & Cultural Exchange: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan expanded film cooperation around the Lachin International Film Festival, including screenings of the Uzbek historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” (Amir Temur) dubbed into Azerbaijani. Arts Education & Youth: A gala concert in Jizzakh’s Zaamin district celebrated winners of a piano competition, highlighting Uzbekistan’s push to nurture young artistic talent ahead of the independence anniversary. Calligraphy Meets Media: The International Media Forum in Tashkent is also set to showcase projects on Qur’an heritage, manuscript preservation, and AI reading of ancient texts.

Islamic Arts & Heritage: Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center has announced an international calligraphy competition to create a single, unique copy of the Holy Qur’an, bringing together calligraphers from around the world and uniting major Arabic calligraphy traditions into one work. Cultural Diplomacy Through Exhibitions: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha on September 3, running to November 28, featuring 146 objects spanning centuries of Uzbek Islamic art, architecture, crafts, and manuscripts. Music From Uzbekistan to the World: Uzbek musicians Sayyod Mirzomurodov and Mariya Akhadjanova, studying in Iowa, have released a landmark album—“Contemporary Uzbek Music for Clarinet and Piano”—the first commercial recording devoted entirely to contemporary Uzbek music. Film Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are expanding film ties via agreements signed around the Lachin International Film Festival, including screenings of Uzbek historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” (Amir Temur), dubbed into Azerbaijani. Young Talent Spotlight: A gala concert in Jizzakh’s Zaamin district celebrated winners of a piano competition, highlighting Uzbekistan’s push to nurture young artists ahead of the country’s independence anniversary.

Young Musicians Spotlight: A gala concert at Zominsoy Complex in Zaamin (Jizzakh) celebrated winners of a piano competition, mixing classical and contemporary pieces to back talented youth ahead of Uzbekistan’s independence anniversary. Qatar–Uzbekistan Art Exchange: Qatar Museums revealed details for “Ektashif: Uzbekistan,” opening Sept 3 at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, featuring new works by seven Qatari artists inspired by visits to Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara (on view through Nov 28). Major Exhibition Announcement: “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” is set for Sept 3–Nov 28 at the Museum of Islamic Art, bringing together 146 objects spanning Islamic-era art, manuscripts, ceramics, textiles and more, curated with Uzbekistan’s Art and Culture Development Foundation. Media & Culture Forum in Tashkent: The international forum “Islamic Civilization: A New Perspective — New Discoveries” is underway, gathering journalists, scholars and filmmakers to discuss how heritage can be shared through modern media. Calligraphy for a Global Quran Manuscript: Uzbekistan will launch a worldwide calligraphy contest to create a unique Quran manuscript during the same forum, linking traditional scripts with future heritage preservation. Film Festival Crossovers: Uzbekistan’s historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” (Amir Temur) will screen at the Lachin International Film Festival on Aug 26, marking its first showing in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur.

Islamic Arts & Heritage: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha on Sep. 3, running to Nov. 28, with 146 objects spanning Timurid architecture fragments, scientific manuscripts, ceramics, jewellery and textiles—showcasing how Uzbekistan’s Islamic-era traditions still shape today’s art and craft. Media & Culture Diplomacy: An international media forum on “Islamic Civilization: A New Perspective — New Discoveries” is underway in Tashkent, bringing together nearly 300 media and experts from about 50 countries, with sessions linking journalism, documentary film, publishing and digital tools to Islamic heritage. Calligraphy Spotlight: Uzbekistan will announce a global contest to create a unique Quran manuscript at the forum, aiming to unite traditions from different calligraphy schools into one “Quran of the World” project. Arts Exchange: UiTM is sending 15 students from art, design, media and film to Uzbekistan for a 14-day mobility programme focused on creative tourism content. Film Festival Link: Uzbek cinema is set to appear at the Lachin International Film Festival, with “Rise of the Conqueror” (Amir Temur) screened Aug. 26 in Azerbaijani. Local Art Space: First ladies from Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan visited Tashkent’s “Okhun Gozar” art space, featuring ceramics, needlework, jewellery and woodcarving.

Islamic Heritage on Stage: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art from Sept 3 to Nov 28, featuring 146 objects spanning 1,000+ years of Uzbek Islamic-era art, architecture, crafts, and manuscripts. Tashkent Media Spotlight: An international media forum in Tashkent is exploring how Islamic civilization’s legacy can be communicated today through journalism, documentaries, publishing, and digital tools. Quran Calligraphy Drive: Uzbekistan will announce a global calligraphy contest to create a unique Quran manuscript at the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, with plans to unite traditions from different calligraphy schools. Cultural Diplomacy in Tashkent: First ladies from Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan visited the “Okhun Gozar” art space, showcasing ceramics, needlework, jewelry, and woodcarving. Film & Festivals: Uzbekistan’s presence is set to be felt at the Lachin International Film Festival, including a screening of the Uzbek historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” dubbed into Azerbaijani. Arts & Craft Spotlight: A profile highlights Bukharan jewelry traditions and how an Uzbek jeweler documented the craft for future generations. Global Entertainment Business: East West Barbershop expands its grooming model internationally, listing Uzbekistan among its overseas markets.

Museum & Heritage: Qatar Museums will open “Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion” at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art from 3 September to 28 November 2026, bringing together 146 objects spanning 1,000+ years of Uzbek art and craft. Calligraphy & Faith: Uzbekistan will announce a global calligraphy contest on 26 August at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent to create a unique Quran manuscript, “Quran of the World,” drawing on multiple international calligraphy traditions. Bukhara Biennial Spotlight: Leyla Aliyeva toured works from the first Bukhara Biennial during Azerbaijan’s state visit to Uzbekistan; the next edition is planned for 2027. Film Diplomacy: The Lachin International Film Festival (LIFF 2026) runs until 27 August, with Uzbek participation including the Amir Temur historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” screened on 26 August in Azerbaijani. Arts in Tashkent: Azerbaijan’s and Uzbekistan’s first ladies visited the “Okhun Gozar” art space, featuring ceramics, needlework, jewelry and woodcarving. Fashion Opinion: A new opinion piece argues that sustainability in fashion is often overstated, shifting blame toward consumers while brands market “green” claims. Festival Winners: At the VII Lendoc Film Festival in St. Petersburg, Uzbekistan’s Ulugbek Kadyrov won Best Male Role for “Kazbek.”

Lachin International Film Festival: The first LIFF 2026 in Lachin (Garabagh and East Zangezur) has kicked off, running until Aug 27, with 38 films selected from nearly 300 submissions across 47 countries. Uzbek Screenings: Uzbekistan’s “Rise of the Conqueror” (dubbed into Azerbaijani) is set for Aug 26 at LaCinema—its first screening in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur. Cultural Diplomacy in Tashkent: Azerbaijan’s First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and daughter Leyla Aliyeva, alongside Uzbekistan’s First Lady Ziroatkhon Mirziyoyeva and daughters, visited the “Okhun Gozar” art space, featuring ceramics, needlework, jewelry, and woodcarving. Fashion & Sustainability Opinion: An opinion piece argues that sustainability in fashion is often more marketing than reality, calling out fast-fashion “green” claims. Tourism & Wellness: Hyatt’s Destination by Hyatt brand opened Beldersoy Resort and Spa in Uzbekistan’s Chimgan-Bostanliq mountains, with a thalasso-inspired spa and multiple pools. Craft Spotlight: A profile highlights Bukharan jewelry maker Zokir Negmatov and his handbook aimed at preserving traditional techniques. Sports Note: Uzbekistan’s youth handball team is in Group A action, with South Korea beating Uzbekistan 47-29 as the standings tighten.

Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan Cultural Diplomacy: First Ladies Mehriban Aliyeva and Ziroatkhon Mirziyoyeva visited Tashkent’s “Okhun Gozar” art space, highlighting ceramics, needlework, jewelry and woodcarving, plus lectures and workshops. Film & Heritage: Uzbekistan’s historical film “Rise of the Conqueror” (about Amir Temur) is set for screening at the Lachin International Film Festival (LIFF 2026), running through Aug. 27, with a lineup that includes Uzbek titles alongside major international entries. Regional Arts Spotlight: LIFF 2026 opened in Lachin with nearly 300 submissions from 47 countries and 38 selected films, plus panels—one focused on Azerbaijan–Türkiye cinema cooperation. Tourism Meets Wellness: Hyatt’s Destination by Hyatt brand debuted in Uzbekistan with Beldersoy Resort and Spa in the Chimgan-Bostanliq mountains, featuring a thalasso-inspired spa, multiple pools and fitness facilities. Craft Preservation: A new look at Bukharan jewelry-making spotlights Uzbek jeweler Zokir Negmatov’s handbook, aimed at preserving a tradition passed master-to-apprentice for generations. People-to-people Culture: Vietnam-Uzbekistan friendship groups marked 30 years in Hanoi, celebrating cultural exchanges and the co-publication of Ho Chi Minh’s “Prison Diary” in Uzbek.

Okhun Gozar Spotlight: First Ladies of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, Mehriban Aliyeva and Ziroatkhon Mirziyoyeva, visited Tashkent’s “Okhun Gozar” art space, where exhibitions feature ceramics, needlework, jewelry and woodcarving, alongside lectures and educational events. Tourism & Wellness Push: Hyatt’s Destination by Hyatt brand opened “Beldersoy Resort and Spa” in Uzbekistan’s Chimgan-Bostanliq mountains, bringing a thalasso-inspired spa with seven pools and multiple thermal facilities. Charvak Resort Plans: Azerbaijani media toured the “Sea Breeze Uzbekistan” project on the Charvak Reservoir, a 527-hectare, 7-kilometer shoreline development planned in phases through 2035 with villas, hotels, beaches, sports, entertainment and a new boulevard. Craft Heritage: A profile on Bukharan jewelry maker Zokir Negmatov highlights how he documented traditional methods in a handbook to preserve a master-to-apprentice craft for future generations. Media Cooperation: Azerbaijani journalists visited Uzbekistan’s Center for Media Content Development, hearing about projects like “Aura.uz” and plans for the Tashkent Content Market 2027, plus joint TV and cinema work with Azerbaijan. People-to-People Diplomacy: Vietnam-Uzbekistan Friendship Association marked its 30th anniversary in Hanoi, celebrating cultural exchanges and renewed focus on engaging young people and entrepreneurs.

Tourism & Wellness: Hyatt’s Destination by Hyatt brand has opened its first Uzbekistan property, Beldersoy Resort and Spa in the Chimgan-Bostanliq mountains, featuring a thalasso-inspired spa with seven pools, thermal facilities, and fitness zones. Cultural Heritage & Media: Azerbaijani journalists on a Uzbekistan press tour visited Samarkand’s “Eternal City” cultural complex and the Amir Timur Mausoleum, while another group toured the Sea Breeze Uzbekistan project at Charvak Reservoir, including the “White Villas/Residences” concept and plans for year-round events. Arts & Craft Preservation: A Bukharan jewelry maker, Zokir Negmatov, is preserving traditional gold-and-stone techniques through a new handbook, spotlighting the city’s historic Jewelers’ Dome and master-to-apprentice craft culture. People-to-People Diplomacy: Vietnam-Uzbekistan friendship groups marked 30 years in Hanoi, highlighting exchanges and youth-focused plans to deepen ties. Regional Arts Spotlight: An Uzbek cultural evening for Uzbeks from Afghanistan was held in Frankfurt, featuring music and performances despite restrictions under Taliban rule.

UNESCO & Architecture: Tashkent’s 20th-century modernist “Tashkent Modernism/Seismic Modernism” has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, spotlighting Soviet-era earthquake-resistant design blended with Central Asian Islamic motifs. Tourism & Wellness: Hyatt’s Destination by Hyatt brand opened Beldersoy Resort and Spa in Chimgan-Bostanliq, featuring a thalasso-inspired spa with seven pools, mineral seawater therapies, and fitness zones. Resort Development: Azerbaijani media toured “Sea Breeze Uzbekistan” at Charvak, a 527-hectare, year-round resort plan with villas, hotels, beaches, a boulevard, and large-scale landscaping. Craft & Heritage: A Bukharan jeweler’s handbook preserves traditional gold-focused jewelry techniques, documenting skills once passed master-to-apprentice. Culture Abroad: In Frankfurt, an Uzbek cultural evening brought music and performances to Uzbeks of Afghanistan and other migrants, aiming to keep culture alive amid restrictions under Taliban rule. Media Cooperation: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan defense and culture officials discussed joint concert programs, while Azerbaijani journalists also toured Uzbekistan’s Media Content Development Center and its upcoming Tashkent Content Market 2027.