Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 11 September, the President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov met with Uzbek boxing coach Akmal Khasanov and, in recognition of his contribution to Munarbek Seyitbek uulu’s success at the Paris Olympics, gifted him a car.

During the meeting, the President emphasized that Khasanov’s gesture symbolized the friendship and unity between the peoples of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

"Your example has shown the world that the people of Central Asia support each other, demonstrating solidarity and friendly relations. Sport is indeed called a messenger of peace. Your contribution to strengthening mutual understanding is important. May our unity only grow stronger," said Sadyr Japarov.

The President also highlighted the successes of Uzbek athletes at the Paris Olympics and noted that Uzbekistan is seriously supporting sports.

"Uzbekistan is actively developing sports, while we have only started paying serious attention to this area in the last three years. Previously, there were difficulties with funding our athletes’ participation in competitions. Now, the government is creating all necessary conditions, including providing vitamins," added Japarov.

The President particularly praised Akmal Khasanov’s heroic act of supporting Munarbek Seyitbek uulu in a challenging moment.

"Our ancestors rewarded heroes with horses. Nowadays, it is customary to give cars, but the essence of the tradition remains the same — it is an expression of deep respect and recognition of merits," noted the President.

Akmal Khasanov, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the warm words and shared that he had met Munarbek many times during training camps and had readily agreed to be his second when needed.

He also congratulated the Kyrgyz people on their well-deserved victory and wished that Kyrgyzstan’s athletes would win gold medals at the next Olympics.

It is worth noting that at the Olympics, Akmal Khasanov served as a second for Munarbek Seyitbek uulu from Kyrgyzstan, as the official coach could not attend the Paris Games due to accreditation issues. Under the guidance of the Uzbek coach, the boxer reached the finals and won a silver medal.

In the final, Munarbek Seyitbek uulu faced boxer Abdumalik Khalokov, who was also coached by Akmal Khasanov.

Kyrgyzstan’s residents on social media are highlighting Akmal Khasanov’s actions as an example of fraternal support and solidarity between the peoples of Central Asia.