Historical ties between Uzbekistan and the Iberian Peninsula discussed in Madrid

A representative academic conference dedicated to analyzing Uzbekistan’s relations with the countries of the Iberian Peninsula was held in Madrid.

The conference was organized with the support of the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), the University of Cádiz, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Spain and the Centro Riojano de Madrid, in cooperation with the Government of the country, with the aim of studying current developments in Uzbekistan and Central Asia and promoting their ties with Spain, Portugal and the countries of Latin America. During the session, participants discussed the history, current state and prospects of relations between Uzbekistan and the Iberian region.

As part of the event, three round tables were held with the participation of experts and scholars from the University of Lisbon and the University of Cádiz. The discussions focused on the following topics: “Between Eurasia and the Atlantic: the potential of relations between Uzbekistan and Spain”, “Portugal and Uzbekistan: three decades of diplomatic relations”, and “Cultural diplomacy: relations between Uzbekistan and Spain”.

The delegation of Uzbekistan presented reports at the conference on reforms in the country, the development of regional cooperation in Central Asia, and measures aimed at promoting gender equality and youth participation. Among the participants were Eldor Tulyakov, Executive Director of the Development Strategy Center, his deputy Nilufar Doniyorkhodjaeva, and Shahnoza Amirova, Associate Professor at the Department of International Relations of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy.

The conference also highlighted the historical connection dating back to the 14th century, when King of Castile Henry III of Castile sent the ambassador Ruy González de Clavijo to Samarkand, where he was received by Amir Temur.

“In the 21st century, Uzbekistan has become a gateway to Central Asia for Spain, Portugal and Latin America, strengthening its role in the modernization and international positioning of the region,” the participants noted.

Diplomatic and public officials also took part in the conference, including the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Spain, Farrukh Tursunov, reflecting the importance of the event and the growing interest in developing ties with Uzbekistan.