Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At the Kuksaroy Residence, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting with athletes who represented Uzbekistan at the Paralympic Games in Paris, along with their parents and coaches.

"Dear athletes, you have achieved record-breaking results at the 17th Summer Paralympic Games in Paris, France, bringing a spirit of celebration to our country. I sincerely congratulate you on your global achievements, both personally and on behalf of our nation," the President said in his opening remarks.

The participation of nearly 4,400 of the strongest and most qualified athletes from 168 countries at this international event speaks to its immense status and scale.

"In this context, the Paralympic Games are a true manifestation of willpower, courage, resilience, nobility, and humanism," the President added.

"You, our resilient and courageous children, reached great heights in fierce competitions and became true heroes of the tournaments," noted the President.

The Uzbek team won 10 gold, 9 silver, and 7 bronze medals, for a total of 26 medals, placing 13th in the overall team ranking, 3rd among Asian countries, and 1st among Turkic, Islamic nations, and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries.

It was noted that this record-breaking result had never been achieved at the Paralympic Games before.

"This is the result of your tireless work, unbreakable will, talent, and skill. It is also the result of systematic efforts to uphold the value of human life in our country. Only people who genuinely love their homeland, with iron will and passion in their hearts, can accomplish such great feats. Our nation is immensely proud of you. Thank you!" said the President.

Following the Tokyo Paralympic Games, a goal was set to rank among the top 15 teams, and considerable efforts were made toward achieving this.

Over the past few years, relentless work was carried out to meet this objective. All necessary conditions were created for the athletes, laying a strong foundation for achieving high results.

As a result, this year Uzbekistan participated in the Paralympic Games with its largest delegation ever — 65 athletes across 9 sports.

It was especially noted that for the first time, our athletes in para-cycling took part in these competitions.

"Undoubtedly, every achievement and result at the Paralympic Games is of immeasurable value. Since such major international competitions are held every four years, they give the global community an opportunity to evaluate how each participating country values the physical and spiritual potential of its people. Therefore, it can be confidently said that with your historic achievements, you have elevated the honor and prestige of Uzbekistan to the highest level," the President said.

The President highlighted the record-breaking results at the Games.

Special attention was given to the legendary athlete Husniddin Norbekov, who became a three-time Paralympic champion for the first time in the country’s history, setting a new record.

It was also noted that our powerhouses Bobirjon Omarov and Sherzod Namozov won gold medals for the second time in shot put and judo, respectively. Bobirjon set a new Paralympic record.

The President emphasized: "We can take pride and joy in the fact that our courageous women have also made a worthy contribution to Uzbekistan’s victory. This is underscored by the fact that 11 of the medals won by our team belong to our women athletes."

The remarkable feat of Asila Mirzayeva, who became the Paralympic champion in long jump, and Nurkhon Kurbonova, who became the javelin throw champion, breaking world records, were particularly highlighted.

Additionally, the achievement of 15-year-old Shakhinakhon Yigitalieva, who won a silver medal and made history as the youngest medalist at the Paralympic Games, was emphasized.

The President noted that Master of Sports Tolibboy Yuldoshev set two records, and two-time Paralympic champion Yerkinkbek Odilov broke the Asian record in javelin throw.

He also congratulated Kudratillohon Marufkhuzhaev, Elbek Sultonov, Asadbek Toshtemirov, and Sherzod Namozov, who won gold medals.

The achievement of Ruza Kuziyeva, who won a silver medal in powerlifting, was highlighted as a victory equivalent to a gold medal at the international level.

For the first time, our taekwondo team won three medals at the Paralympic Games, ranking third in the overall team standings.

Our representatives in athletics won 8 gold medals, accounting for 80% of all top awards, a feat deserving special attention.

"In short, you have emerged as the golden generation of Uzbekistan’s Paralympic movement and brought unprecedented achievements to our country. This is how we reach great heights when we truly strive for our goals! This is how, when united and acting together, we become a great nation and have a great homeland!" said the President.

The President expressed congratulations to those athletes whose luck did not fully favor them this time, appreciating their dedication and defense of the country’s honor. He acknowledged the achievements and experience gained by para-judokas Turgun Abdiyev, Ulzhon Amriyev, Shokhruh Mamedov, Feruza Ergashova, and para-canoeist Shakhzoda Mammadaliyeva. The President expressed hope for their future success and wished them victories in upcoming competitions.

In his remarks, the President underlined the significance of willpower and courage as decisive factors for success in life. He acknowledged the efforts required to cultivate such qualities in individuals, stating that not everyone is capable of such achievements.

"You had to work ten, maybe a hundred times harder than others and endure numerous challenges to reach your goals," the President added.

The President emphasized the importance of the support and encouragement provided by loving parents and family members, who play an undeniable role in athletes’ successes.

He also expressed deep admiration and respect for the parents and families of the heroic athletes, wishing them all the best.

During the event, the President extended his gratitude to skilled and dedicated coaches, as well as to all responsible individuals and specialists involved.

Particular recognition was given to the experienced athletics coaches Ibrohimjon Yusupov, Yakhyobek Yakubov, Sardar Khudayberganov, Grigory Kamula, Azizjon Normatov, Rakhmonberdi Khuzhamov, Galina Kazakova; judo coaches Makhmud Omonov, Muratboy Dusumbetov, Alfie Ibragimova, Fozil Karamatov; taekwondo coach Bobur Kuziyev; powerlifting coach Fazliddin Umirzokov; swimming coach Ravshanbek Amilov; shooting coach Natalya Yefimova, and psychologist Lola Agzamova.

"Today we can confidently say: New Uzbekistan has its own school of courage, its own school of glory. And if we say that you are the true builders of this school, it would be the truth," said Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The President noted the attention given to the development of sports and physical culture in the country, the growth of the Paralympic movement, and the support for people with disabilities, including the creation of inclusive environments.

Since last year, the National Social Protection Agency has been operating. The Adaptive Sports Association was established to develop adaptive sports and engage people with disabilities in this field.

The President acknowledged the significant contribution of these organizations to Uzbekistan’s historic victories on the global stage and expressed sincere gratitude to the National Social Protection Agency, the Adaptive Sports Association, and the leaders and activists of all sports federations.

It was emphasized that in the future, alongside the development of parasports, special attention will be given to expanding the types of sports accessible to people with disabilities.

The main focus will be on ensuring the social integration of people with disabilities into society.

The President pointed out that, after analyzing the results achieved in Paris, it is already necessary to begin preparations for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Our para-athletes actively competed in running, shot put, javelin throw, long jump, and high jump. It was noted that participation in such competitions should be expanded.

At the next Paralympic Games, along with the already successful sports like para-swimming and shooting, a precise strategy for preparation and achieving high results must be developed.

To achieve this, athletes will be provided with all the necessary conditions.

In particular, work on comprehensive medical examinations, pharmacology, and dietetics will be intensified.

A separate incentive system for sports psychologists working with para-athletes will also be introduced.

To achieve these goals, a special program will be developed based on the suggestions and comments from athletes, sports federations, and relevant ministries.

Recently, the President signed a decree awarding the winners and medalists of the 17th Summer Paralympic Games, their coaches, and members of the sports delegation.

During the ceremony, the President presented these high honors to the recipients.

Athletes, coaches, and parents who spoke at the event expressed their gratitude for the attention, conditions, recognition, and support provided.

The President wished them health, family well-being, prosperity, and continued success in their future endeavors.