Renowned Omani writer Jokha Alharthi:

“We clung so tightly to the wings of the delicate bird of life that they melted in our hands. Then, having drunk the blood of the very bird we had destroyed, we told ourselves: ‘We will carry on regardless.’”

How profoundly true these words are. In her works, the writer explores universal human values. Indeed, as long as a nation has a true poet or writer, there is little reason to fear for its future. A genuine creator lives not merely with personal concerns, but with the aspirations and struggles of an entire nation.

In this regard, Jokha Alharthi is one of those writers whose work is imbued with a deep love for her homeland and people. In 2019, she was awarded the prestigious International Booker Prize. It would be no exaggeration to say that this was not only a personal triumph for the writer, but also a remarkable achievement for Omani literature as a whole.

The peoples of Uzbekistan and Oman share not only literary ties but also longstanding cultural relations. Both countries possess a distinctive historical experience, a rich spiritual heritage and ancient cultural traditions. On one side are the ancient civilisations of Central Asia, cities shaped at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, and the rich traditions of maqom music and epic storytelling. On the other are the historical heritage of the Arabian Peninsula, its rich oral literary traditions and distinctive artistic culture. I believe that the meeting of these two cultural worlds is particularly significant, as it creates new opportunities for mutual understanding, learning and appreciation.

Today, cultural cooperation between our two countries continues to develop steadily on the basis of a number of agreements signed at the governmental level. Another important dimension of these relations is cooperation within international platforms for cultural dialogue. In particular, collaboration within the framework of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) helps

integrate the cultural ties between our countries into broader international processes. After all, universal human values, the preservation of historical heritage and respect for cultural diversity are shared principles that bring nations closer together.

The international cultural events held in our country are a practical reflection of the positive relations between Uzbekistan and the Sultanate of Oman. Of particular note is the regular participation of Omani representatives in Uzbekistan's traditional international festivals, including Sharq Taronalari, the Maqom Festival and the Bakhshi Festival, as well as international handicrafts gatherings. These events are far more than platforms for showcasing artistic achievements. They reveal the musical traditions, creative perspectives and national identities of different peoples. The sound of melodies and songs from different countries on a single stage, and the presentation of diverse handicraft traditions at one exhibition, once again demonstrate the boundless nature of culture.

As you may know, on 22 June 2021, I held a meeting with the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Uzbekistan, during which we discussed the development of bilateral cultural relations. The meeting focused on the current state of cooperation in culture and the arts, its future prospects and emerging opportunities. The importance of such meetings lies not only in reviewing existing relations, but also in identifying new avenues for future cooperation.

At present, the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of culture between the governments of Uzbekistan and Oman is being explored. The essence of this initiative is to establish an even clearer and more sustainable legal framework for cultural relations between our two countries. The proposed document envisages the development of cultural events, programmes and projects; the establishment of information exchange between professionals, specialists, institutions and organisations in the sector; and the promotion of direct contacts between them.

Of particular importance is the organisation of Days of Culture between the two countries, which would provide an opportunity for our peoples to discover each other's customs and traditions. The role of such events is truly invaluable. In particular,

introducing the people of Oman to Uzbekistan's art and culture, while bringing Oman's rich cultural heritage closer to the people of Uzbekistan, will undoubtedly strengthen the spiritual bonds between our nations.

It is no coincidence that the draft Memorandum also devotes special attention to cooperation in the field of librarianship. Books and manuscripts are unique sources that preserve the historical memory of every nation. Their preservation, restoration, protection and digitisation through modern technologies are among the essential conditions for passing cultural heritage on to future generations. Therefore, establishing an exchange of experience and information between libraries and relevant institutions in the two countries is of great importance.

A vivid example of the practical dimension of cultural relations between Uzbekistan and Oman was the International Festival of Bakhshi Art, held from 26 to 30 April 2025 in Khiva, the ancient yet ever-young city of the Khorezm region. The participation of the Al-Shahba ensemble from the Sultanate of Oman demonstrated the genuine interest and attention that Omani representatives give to major cultural events in our country. It also reflects the warm attitude of Oman towards Uzbekistan.

I regard international cooperation in the field of culture first and foremost as an important spiritual process that serves to strengthen mutual understanding and respect between peoples. After all, the strength of relations between states is measured not only by official documents and meetings, but also by the trust and respect that people hold for one another in their hearts.

May the friendship between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Oman, whose literature and art are becoming increasingly intertwined, endure forever!

Ozodbek Nazarbekov Minister of Culture of the Republic of Uzbekistan