On September 14, Kokand hosted the opening ceremony of the first International Festival of Handicrafters.

The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev sincerely congratulated the participants and expressed gratitude to foreign guests for their attention and respect for the country, for this event.

"Folk-applied art, being an integral part of universal human culture, has a special place in the life of every nation, the formation of its mentality and values. Indeed, the emergence of crafts became an important historical step towards civilization", the Head of the state noted.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev in his speech quoted the sayings of the great ancestor – the saint and artisan Bahouddin Naqshband. The President noted that works of masters of applied art are highly appreciated in Uzbekistan, great opportunities are created for young people to master crafts, and this festival will play an important role in further development of the sphere.

"I think that this international festival is a great holiday not only for the multinational people of Uzbekistan, but also for artisans and craftsmen around the world. This is a forum of true friendship and cooperation, where the distant past and present, traditions and values of different nations are harmoniously combined, hearts close in spirit are united", the President emphasized.

The festival is held in accordance with the resolution of the Head of the state of November 1, 2018. On the eve of this holiday, an important event took place in the life of Kokand – the World Crafts Council awarded the city the high rank of the World Crafts City.

President of the World Crafts Council Rosy Greenlees delivered a speech at the opening ceremony.

The square where the festival takes place is festively decorated. Exhibitions of artisans from Karakalpakstan and all regions are organized here.

The International Handicrafters Festival will be held every two years. The event is attended by over 370 artisans, art historians and journalists from 78 countries.

UzA