Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Today, on 15 August, the official opening of the Samarkand-2022 International Sculpture Symposium took place. The symposium was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, the Khokimiyat of Samarkand region and the Creative Union of Artists of Uzbekistan.

The event was opened by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage Aziz Abdukhakimov.

"This sculptural symposium was organized at the initiative of the President of our country Shavkat Mirziyoyev," said the Deputy Prime Minister. "Its goal is for representatives of the SCO member states during the summit, discussing geopolitical issues, to enjoy the special spirit of Samarkand, embodied in the works of art of modern masters.

In addition, thanks to this symposium, young sculptors have the opportunity to observe the work of experienced foreign colleagues, improving their skills. I think that the works of art created during the symposium will remain in history and will be a reminder that such a historical event as the SCO summit took place in Samarkand."

Aziz Abdukhakimov also thanked foreign sculptors for their visit to Samarkand.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the chairman of the Creative Union of Artists of Uzbekistan, Ibragim Valikhojaev, noted the importance of the symposium and highly appreciated the work of domestic and foreign sculptors.

Also, Uljan Djugasheva, a sculptor from Kazakhstan, shared her impressions of the event.

“The stones embody all the mystery, beauty and history of the universe. And we must bring this beauty to the surface. I want to show people through my work at the symposium what a wonderful world we live in,” she said.

For reference, the symposium is attended by sculptors from Uzbekistan, Iran, India, Russia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. They will create their masterpieces for three weeks on the square in Vatanparvar park. Then these works of art will decorate the streets of Samarkand.

Recall that foreign artists also visited Samarkand in preparation for the SCO summit and the international exhibition.