Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, history and ongoing reforms were highlighted during an educational and cultural event held at the Openbare Bibliotheek Eindhoven on 30 June. The initiative, organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Benelux countries in cooperation with the Association of Uzbek Women in the Benelux, brought together members of the Uzbek diaspora, students and international guests for an evening dedicated to learning, dialogue and cultural exchange.

The centrepiece of the programme was the popular Zakovat intellectual quiz, designed to deepen participants’ knowledge of Uzbekistan while encouraging critical thinking and teamwork. Contestants from the Netherlands and Belgium competed in rounds covering the country’s history, geography, cultural heritage and contemporary development. Following a closely contested competition, the women’s team emerged as the winner.

The event formed part of broader efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy and increase international awareness of Uzbekistan’s historical legacy, tourism potential and the ambitious reform agenda being implemented under the New Uzbekistan strategy. Organisers also sought to reinforce ties with the Uzbek diaspora by creating opportunities for learning, networking and community engagement.

The programme was moderated by Gulbahor Djalilova, Chair of the Association of Uzbek Women in the Benelux, while representatives of the Embassy served on the judging panel throughout the competition.

As part of the celebrations marking Youth Day, diplomas and certificates were presented to young Uzbeks studying and living in the Netherlands in recognition of their successful participation in educational competitions and the Language Olympiad organised by the Vatandoshlar Public Foundation. The awards reflected Uzbekistan’s continued efforts to encourage academic excellence and maintain strong connections with its citizens abroad.

Visitors also explored a dedicated exhibition showcasing Uzbekistan’s cultural and tourism potential. The display featured publications on the country’s history and traditions, examples of traditional handicrafts, souvenirs and exhibits illustrating Uzbekistan’s centuries-old cultural heritage. Guests expressed strong interest in the exhibition and welcomed the opportunity to learn more about the country’s history, customs and national identity.

At the conclusion of the event, all participants received certificates and commemorative gifts. International guests praised the high level of knowledge, enthusiasm and active participation demonstrated by members of the Uzbek community. The evening concluded with the serving of plov, Uzbekistan’s iconic national dish, which offered visitors an authentic taste of Uzbek hospitality.

During the visit, the Uzbek delegation also met with representatives of the Eindhoven Public Library, where they were introduced to the library’s Uzbek-language collection. Library staff noted growing reader interest in Uzbek literature and welcomed the opportunity to further expand cultural cooperation.

The delegation presented the library with commemorative gifts and additional publications promoting Uzbekistan’s history, culture and tourism. Both sides concluded the meeting by reaffirming their shared interest in developing future joint initiatives aimed at promoting Uzbek literature, culture and heritage to wider international audiences.

The event reflected the growing role of public diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges in strengthening cultural ties between Uzbekistan and the Benelux countries while fostering greater international understanding of the country’s rich heritage and modern transformation.