Ceremony devoted to the 2200 anniversary of Tashkent city was organized in the Palace of International forums «Uzbekistan». It was attended by President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov.

As reported by the Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, independence has provided immeasurable benefits to Uzbekistan people. The international community celebrated deeper study of the priceless scientific, spiritual heritage of our great ancestors, the study of the rich history of our ancient cities under the leadership of President Islam Karimov.

Among the cities that have made a huge contribution to world civilization, Tashkent has a special place. The city with 2200 years of history has always been a major socio-political, economic, scientific and cultural center. Located at the crossroads of the Silk Road, is of great geopolitical importance, Tashkent rightly called the «Gate of the East», it truly became a city of peace and friendship.

On the eve of the double holiday – Independence Day and the 2200 anniversary of the city in the center of Tashkent, put magnificent structure, the Palace of International forums «Uzbekistan» was built. It embodies the best traditions of national and modern architecture.

It brought together members of the Government and the Senate, deputies of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis, representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, representatives of the general public, science, culture and art.

The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov congratulated the participants of the ceremony and all the people of Uzbekistan with the 2200 anniversary of Tashkent city, stressed that the independence provided ample opportunities for the growth of self-awareness, and building a legal democratic state, free and prosperous life. Our capital has an important place in the history of national statehood and political life of the people.

Tashkent is a highly developed socio-political, economic, spiritual and educational center of not only our country but the entire region. It is one of the most beautiful capital cities of the world. Tashkent is the pride and honor of our multinational country, a symbol of peace and stability.

Decision of the 34th session General Assembly of UNESCO to celebrate the 2200 anniversary of Tashkent city, adopted November 2, 2007, is a kind of recognition of the rich history of our country, the contribution of Tashkent in the development of world civilization. In accordance with the decree of the President on April 2, 2008 «On the preparation and conducting of the 2200 anniversary of Tashkent city» extensive work was carried out, which contributed to further enhancing the capacity of the capital, its credibility and status in the international arena.

As a result of a profound work in the years of independence, view of the city changed beyond recognition. Every significant building reconstructed in accordance with historical traditions. 

The first Central Asian university had been opened in Tashkent. Today there are dozens of universities, colleges and high schools. They make a great contribution to the development of science and education.

Tashkent represents the high prestige of independent Uzbekistan in the international arena. There are dozens of foreign embassies, representative offices of international organizations. If the caravans passed in ancient times through the 12 gates of the city moving along the Great Silk Road, now the Tashkent became one of the major international transportation centers.

Beautiful gardens and parks of Tashkent have always attracted the attention of travelers. Many poets and writers, artists and composers dedicated their works to the beauty and charm of Tashkent! Today Tashkent is a modern city with developed tourism infrastructure.

In accordance with the Decree of President Islam Karimov on 20 August 2009, for its great contribution to the formation of national statehood, the legal construction of an independent democratic state, the strengthening of peace and stability and development of interstate cooperation and friendship between nations, for its outstanding services to maintain the good traditions, enhancing cultural and spiritual life, upbringing of the young generation in the spirit of love for the motherland, national and universal values and in connection with the 2200 anniversary, Tashkent city was awarded with the Order «Mustakillik».

President Islam Karimov solemnly handed this high award – the Order of «Mustakillik».

Speakers at the grand meeting, UNESCO Assistant Director-General Hans d’Orville, Rector of the National University of Uzbekistan named after Ulugbek Abdugafur Rasulov, chairman of the Tashkent city branch of the National Fund «Nuroniy» Mukhammadjon Zufarov noted the historic significance and the modern potential of Tashkent. 

At a solemn meeting was continued with a big concert program of singers and young performers.