Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan commented on reports of the cancellation of the international documentary film festival Artdocfest / Asia in Tashkent.

The department noted that according to the law, in order to display national and foreign films on the territory of Uzbekistan, private entrepreneurs must contact the Cinematography Agency, and the agency must consider this appeal within 10 working days.

At the same time, the festival organizers did not receive the necessary permission to hold a mass event in accordance with the legislation of the country.

The Ministry of Culture also emphasized that its powers do not include the suspension of public events, including festivals and film screenings.

The organizers of the event, despite warnings from law enforcement agencies, held it without the necessary permission, which is classified as an administrative offense.