On September 2, the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan's independence was solemnly celebrated in the US capital, Washington. The event was attended by officials from the US government, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and compatriots. According to Ambassador Furkat Sidikov, who spoke with Kun.uz, Washington views Tashkent as a key partner in Central Asia, and current ties will continue under subsequent administrations.
This year, Independence Day is being widely celebrated not only in Uzbekistan but also in the republic's partner countries and in places where Uzbeks live. For example, various events were held in more than 10 US states. On September 2, the main celebration was organized in Washington, attended by American officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and our compatriots living in America.
Ambassador Furkat Sidikov delivered a speech and congratulated those gathered on the holiday. Additionally, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapoor and representatives of the Chamber of Commerce were present. They called Uzbekistan a necessary partner.
According to Furkat Sidikov, Uzbekistan's Ambassador to the USA, Washington recognizes Tashkent as a key partner in Central Asia. So, are the current contacts only with the Trump administration, or will they continue in the future?
Our relations have been institutionalized, and the United States has seen how Uzbekistan is opening up to the world and renewing itself. Therefore, we have built our current cooperation on a long-term foundation," the ambassador said.
Furthermore, the diplomat added that President Mirziyoyev's gift of two terraces for the "American Heroes" park, which is being built at Trump's initiative, is also a major event.
In spring, the sakura tree blooms beautifully in that garden; it is a gift from the Emperor of Japan. "Now, the ayvans gifted by our president are also located next to it," the ambassador said.
Also, the Consul General in New York, Jamil Sharapov, who spoke with Kun.uz, said that today Uzbeks are united only by love for the Motherland.
Another Uzbek entrepreneur noted that in recent years, many concerts have been organized for our compatriots, but due to difficulties in obtaining visas, plans do not always go smoothly.
According to Farkhod Inogumbaev, head of the capital markets department of the investment company Oppenheimer, today Uzbekistan needs the USA, and the USA needs Uzbekistan.
Look, the population of Uzbekistan is growing, it is a big market. "Furthermore, rare mineral resources and natural minerals, as well as the mining industry, are of more interest to the US government today than ever before," he said.