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	<title>Last news - Сentralasianlight.org</title>
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	<description>Culture</description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 04 Apr 2026 21:16:42 +0600</pubDate>
	<copyright>centralasianlight.org</copyright>
	<ttl>60</ttl>
	<item>
		<title>Innovations in Turkmenistan Open New Opportunities for Central Asia&apos;s Agricultural Sector</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The International Science and Technology Park of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan presented an innovative technology for the reclamation of degraded lands. It is based on a complex biopreparation based on microscopic fungi isolated from the country's extreme salt marshes, Orient.tm reports.

Unique development: The product contains strains that remain active at salt concentrations above 10%. Its mechanism of action involves bioprotection of the root system: microorganisms absorb sodium ions, neutralizing their toxic effects on plants.

Proven effectiveness:


	Wheat seed germination increases from 42% to 78%;
	Root biomass increases by 35% under salt stress;
	Crop yields increase by 25–30%;
	Requirement for mineral fertilizers decreases by 15%.


The technology is adapted to extreme temperatures (over 45°C) and is recommended for protecting cotton and grain crops from phytopathogens.

Global Significance: Secondary salinization affects over 20% of the world's irrigated land.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:46:38 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/innovations-in-turkmenistan-open-new-opportunities-for-central-asias-agricultural-sector/</link>

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		<title>Dimash Kudaibergen&apos;s Show Conquered World: 1.5 billion Views and 100% Audience Approval</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The musical reality show "Voice Beyond Horizon," produced by People's Artist of Kazakhstan Dimash Kudaibergen, has become one of the most talked-about cultural projects outside of Kazakhstan in its two months on air, Zakon.kz reports, citing data from analytics platforms.

The project, aimed at supporting young vocalists and promoting Kazakh culture, has already garnered over 1.5 billion views on digital platforms. The show's approval rating reached 100%, and it has taken top positions in the ratings of Dengta, Vlinkage, and Endata.

"For the eighth consecutive week, the program has held the top spot in four ratings among regional satellite channels in China. According to Kuyun Data and Huanwang Data, the show has also become the leader in real-time views," the report notes.

Individual performances by the participants have garnered over a million views, and experts praise the format's cultural value. The project received over 500 mentions in leading Chinese media outlets,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:39:00 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/dimash-kudaibergens-show-conquered-world-1.5-billion-views-and-100-audience-approval/</link>

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		<title>Tajikistan Hosts World Navruz Youth Festival and SCO Youth Forum</title>
		<description><![CDATA[DUSHANBE — The Second World Navruz Youth Festival and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Youth Forum have opened in the capital of Tajikistan. The events, supported by the Committee on Youth and Sports, will run until March 26, Avesta.tj reports.

Over 200 young people from 30 countries are participating in the festivals. The program kicked off with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Ismoili Somoni monument and a ceremony at the National Library. Participants also joined an environmental tree-planting campaign.

Goals and Objectives: The festival aims to unite young people based on the values ​​of peace, friendship, and cultural diversity. Key objectives:


	Support cultural dialogue and exchange of ideas;
	Promote the legacy of Navruz as a symbol of renewal;
	Create a platform for youth initiatives to address global challenges.


The SCO Youth Forum, initiated by Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon at the Tianjin Summit,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:50:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistan-hosts-world-navruz-youth-festival-and-sco-youth-forum/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan to Cultivate Ginseng for the First Time</title>
		<description><![CDATA[During a visit to South Korea, a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan met with the head of the Korean company "FDfive," which specializes in developing agrotechnological and biotechnological solutions for agriculture, as well as producing organic fertilizers, as reported by Daryo.uz.

The parties held detailed discussions on improving the fertility of saline soils in the country's regions and introducing crop varieties adapted to local climatic conditions with high economic efficiency.

In particular, they explored the potential for cultivating salt-tolerant plants, including Melilotus officinalis (yellow sweet clover), Echinochloa esculenta (Japanese millet), Lolium multiflorum (Italian ryegrass), Sorghum sudanense (Sudan grass), Medicago sativa (alfalfa), and Sesbania bispinosa.

Additionally, the sides agreed to launch Uzbekistan's first experimental ginseng cultivation project. The perennial plant is planned to be grown in the Bostanlik district of the Tashkent region,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:24:49 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-to-cultivate-ginseng-for-the-first-time/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan фтв UNICEF Outline Education Cooperation Strategy for 2026–2030</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Jalpa Ratna, the UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, met with Minister of Education J. Gurbangeldyev on February 17 to discuss the strategic roadmap for bilateral cooperation over the next five years. The meeting focused on aligning the 2026–2030 agenda with national development goals, Turkmenportal.com reports via the Ministry of Education.

The dialogue centered on several critical pillars of the upcoming partnership:


	Early Childhood Development (ECD): Progress on the drafting of the National Strategy for ECD.
	Inclusive Education: Expanding pilot initiatives to ensure broader access for children with diverse needs.
	Climate Resilience: Integrating disaster risk reduction and environmental sustainability into the national education system.


The parties reviewed the status of ongoing and upcoming initiatives,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:28:35 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-ftv-unicef-outline-education-cooperation-strategy-for-2026-2030/</link>

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		<title>Water is returning to Kazakh part of Aral Sea</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The volume of the Small Aral Sea in Kazakhstan has increased to 23 billion cubic meters, according to Zakon.kz.

As reported by Almaty.tv, 50 cubic meters of water per second are currently flowing into Small Aral through the Aklak Dam.

They promise to strengthen the protective dam and begin a new phase of the Northern Aral Sea rescue project by the end of the year.

"The water salinity has increased significantly. Now there's a chance for fish to survive. I hope the water inflow will continue and remain as stable," Azimbay Zholmyrzayev, a resident of the village of Karateren says.

Another resident, Torekhan Dilzhanov, notes that the well-being of the villagers directly depends on the sea.

"Everyone is hopeful that the Aral Sea will continue to fill," Dilzhanov said.

It's worth noting that up to 8,000 tons of fish are caught in the Small Aral Sea annually.

Experts believe this result was achieved thanks to years of work to preserve the sea. For example, reconstruction of the Kokaral Dam began in 2022.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:07:23 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/water-is-returning-to-kazakh-part-of-aral-sea/</link>

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		<title>Record Number of Flamingos Recorded on Turkmenistan’s Caspian Coast</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Ornithologists at Turkmenistan's Khazar State Nature Reserve have completed their annual waterfowl census in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea. The study, which coincided with the 60th anniversary of the international census, yielded impressive results comparable to those from 20 years ago, reports Turkmenportal.com.

In total, specialists counted 405,595 birds of 43 different species. The main sensation of the season was the number of pink flamingos:


	2026: 33,373 individuals (an all-time record);
	For comparison (2007): only 313 birds.


The coot remains the most common species (approximately 180,000), followed by the red-crested pochard (87,000) and the mallard, whose numbers have increased sevenfold since 2007.

Despite the positive statistics, experts are sounding the alarm over the falling Caspian Sea level. Experienced ornithologist Alexander Shcherbina notes that entire bays (Tarta, Keski) are disappearing due to shallowing, reducing the "biological capacity" of these wetlands. In some places,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:23:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/record-number-of-flamingos-recorded-on-turkmenistans-caspian-coast/</link>

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		<title>Number of Marriages Declining in Uzbekistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In Uzbekistan, 267,100 marriages were registered from January to December 2025, according to a report from the National Statistics Committee of Uzbekistan, as reported by Uznews.uz.

The marriage rate was 7.1 per 1,000 people – the average number of marriages per 1,000 people.

The number of marriages has been declining for the fourth consecutive year. In 2021, 305,200 marriages were registered, 296,700 in 2022, 283,800 in 2023, and 271,800 in 2024.

The decline was particularly noticeable in 2022–2024, after which the decline continued in 2025, albeit at a slower pace.

Against the backdrop of declining marriages, the country has seen an increase in divorces. In 2021, 39,300 divorces were registered in Uzbekistan. In 2022, the number sharply increased to 48,700, and in 2023, it reached 49,200. Afterward, the figure dropped to 45,100 in 2024, but increased again to 46,900 in 2025.

Of the total number of marriages, 134,500 (50.3%) occurred in rural areas, and 132,600 (49.7%) in urban areas.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:54:25 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/number-of-marriages-declining-in-uzbekistan/</link>

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		<title>Three Golden Horde Settlements and 250 Artifacts Discovered in Kazakhstan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[During excavations at the Saraishyk Museum-Reserve in Kazakhstan's south, archaeologists discovered three new settlements and 250 artifacts from the Golden Horde era. This was reported by the Kazakh television channel 24KZ.

"In addition to the 250 artifacts, we were able to uncover the remains of walls from a residential building, a citadel, and a caravanserai. The finds date back to the early 14th century and belong to the Golden Horde era," the report stated.



The scientists reported their findings at an event summarizing the 2025 research at Atyrau University.



According to the television channel, archaeologists have discovered more than 7,000 artifacts at the museum-reserve, and restoration of the ancient structures is underway.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

January 29, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:54:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/three-golden-horde-settlements-and-250-artifacts-discovered-in-kazakhstan/</link>

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		<title>11 Cultural Sites From Tajikistan Inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajikistan's cultural heritage has received unprecedented global recognition. Eleven monuments of Ancient Khuttal and the national nomination "Culture of Sumanak Preparation" have been officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This was announced by the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan, Matlubakhon Sattoriyon, at a press conference on the 2025 results, reports Avesta.tj.

The past year was significant for the country's cultural diplomacy. In addition to expanding the World Heritage List, the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference adopted an important resolution regarding the Cyrus Cylinder as the original declaration of human rights.

The Minister also highlighted other significant achievements:

Panjakent has been officially recognized as the "World City of Suzani Crafts."

Robiya Balkhi's Anniversary: ​​A decision has been made to celebrate the 1050th anniversary of the great poetess at the international level in 2026–2027.

According to Matlubakhon Sattoriyon,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:21:42 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/11-cultural-sites-from-tajikistan-inscribed-on-unesco-world-heritage-list/</link>

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		<title>12-Year-Old Uzbek Player BecomeYoungest FIDE Woman Master</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbek chess player Sarvinoz Begmurotova, at the age of 12, has been awarded the title of Woman FIDE Master. This was announced by Alisher Sadullaev, First Deputy Chairman of the Uzbekistan Chess Federation, on his social media page, reports Daryo.uz.

With this achievement, Sarvinoz Begmurotova has made history in Uzbekistan as the youngest chess player to receive this title. She is a sixth-grader at a comprehensive school.

According to the FIDE rating list, Begmurotova is ranked 20th among Uzbek women chess players, with 1,967 rating points.

Meanwhile, another Uzbek woman, 16-year-old Afruza Khamdamova, currently ranked number one in Uzbekistan, is 41st in the world with 2,403 points, while Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova is 79th with 2,363 points.

Furthermore, the Uzbekistan women's team improved its FIDE ranking, moving up to 15th place with 2,258 points. A month earlier, the team had 2,228 points and was ranked 19th.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

January 12, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:30:07 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/12-year-old-uzbek-player-becomeyoungest-fide-woman-master/</link>

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		<title>A Kazakh Scientist Confirmed Antidiabetic Properties of Chicory</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Aizhamal Baiseitova, a senior lecturer at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and a young scientist, has completed a large-scale study of the medicinal plant chicory and scientifically demonstrated its pronounced antidiabetic and anti-stress properties. This was reported by Zakon.kz, citing data from the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan.

The study found that the biologically active compounds in chicory help lower blood glucose levels and have a positive effect on metabolic processes. Furthermore, thanks to their high antioxidant activity, the plant's components enhance the body's resistance to stress and strengthen the immune system, confirming chicory's significant health benefits.

"Our goal is to create biologically active supplements based on medicinal plants for the prevention and treatment of common diseases," explained Aizhamal Baiseitova. "We have already proven chicory's antidiabetic and anti-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:27:40 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/a-kazakh-scientist-confirmed-antidiabetic-properties-of-chicory/</link>

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		<title>In 2025, Uzbekistan Mainly Visited by Tourists From Three Neighboring Countries</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In 2025, Uzbekistan was most frequently visited by citizens of neighboring countries—Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan—whose combined number reached nearly 9 million people.

According to the National Statistics Committee of Uzbekistan, a total of 10.7 million foreign nationals arrived in Uzbekistan for tourism purposes between January and November 2025, Kun.uz reports.

This figure represents an increase of 3.5 million people, or 47.4%, compared with the same period last year.

The top 10 countries by number of tourists are as follows:


	Kyrgyzstan — 3.0 million
	Kazakhstan — 2.5 million
	Tajikistan — 2.5 million
	Russia — 923.8 thousand
	Afghanistan — 429.4 thousand
	Turkmenistan — 341.4 thousand
	China — 250.5 thousand
	Turkey — 161.9 thousand
	India — 73.4 thousand
	Republic of Korea — 44.1 thousand


Overall,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Dec 2025 19:34:14 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/in-2025-uzbekistan-mainly-visited-by-tourists-from-three-neighboring-countries/</link>

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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Enters Financial Times’ Top 50 Tourist Destinations</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan has entered the Financial Times’ ranking of the world’s top 50 tourist destinations—a milestone confirmed by Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev during his address at a plenary session of the Jogorku Kenesh, according to a report by Economist.kg.

In his speech, Kasymaliev delivered a comprehensive report on current achievements and future prospects in tourism, culture, and sports. As noted by the Kyrgyz government’s press service, 2025 proved especially successful for the tourism sector: in addition to the Financial Times recognition, Kyrgyzstan was named one of the world’s best destinations for ethnic tourism by the British publication The Guardian.

A major infrastructure development is the launch of construction of the year-round “Ala-Too Resort” ski and tourism cluster in the Ak-Suu District of the Issyk-Kul Region. Spanning 3,916 hectares, the cluster integrates three zones—Jyrgalan, Ak-Bulak, and Boz-Uchuk—and is designed to become a year-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2025 20:50:26 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-enters-financial-times-top-50-tourist-destinations/</link>

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		<title>What Makes Travelers Truly Happy in 2026? Central Asia Tops G Adventures’ Happiness List</title>
		<description><![CDATA[What will make travelers genuinely happy in 2026? An answer to this question was offered by international travel company G Adventures, which has published its annual Happiness List. Central Asia—Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan—has been named one of the key destinations delivering “deep joy and cultural enrichment,” according to the Orient.tm portal.

Why Central Asia?

Unlike beach vacations, which G Adventures experts describe as “fleeting,” Central Asia earned its place on the list for its historical depth and layered heritage. Travelers from the UK, the United States, and Europe are drawn by authenticity—the chance to experience the living legacy of the Great Silk Road, the unique blend of futuristic architecture in modern capitals, ancient monuments, and the region’s majestic landscapes. G Adventures’ signature model of community-based tourism finds ideal conditions in Central Asia,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2025 18:43:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/what-makes-travelers-truly-happy-in-2026-central-asia-tops-g-adventures-happiness-list/</link>

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		<title>Turkmen Art Director Meylis Khudaýberenov Wins Eurasian “Diamond Butterfly” Film Award</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Art director Meylis Khudaýberenov has been named a laureate of the Open Eurasian Film Award “Diamond Butterfly” in the category Best Art Director for his work on the Turkmen film Composer. The award ceremony took place on November 27 at the “Workshop 12” theater of Nikita Mikhalkov in Moscow, Turkmenportal.com reports.

The film was produced by the Oguzkhan Turkmenfilm Association, written and directed by Maksat Gyllyjov, with support from the charitable foundation named after Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The story follows a young composer, Merdan, who continues his family’s musical legacy while discovering the healing power of art.

Students of the Turkmen National Conservatory named after M. Kulieva, pupils of the Special Music School of Ashgabat, and children from the Shukur Bakhshi School of Arts took part in the production.

Meylis Khudaýberenov received a cash prize equivalent to $250,000.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 20:42:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmen-art-director-meylis-khudayberenov-wins-eurasian-diamond-butterfly-film-award/</link>

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		<title>Tourist Flow in Tajikistan Iincreased by Almost a Quarter</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Around 1.4 million foreign tourists visited Tajikistan in the first nine months of 2025 — a 24% increase compared to the same period last year, Asiaplus.tj reported, citing the Agency on Statistics under the President of Tajikistan.

From January to September 2025, a total of 1,388,800 foreign nationals entered the country, up from 1,118,500 a year earlier. Of these, 1,258,100 visitors came from CIS member states, while 130,700 arrived from non-CIS countries.

Among neighboring countries, Uzbekistan remains the leading source of visitors, accounting for 835,800 tourists, or 55% of the total.


	
	Uzbekistan – 835.8 thousand
	
	
	Russia – 414.2 thousand
	
	
	Kyrgyzstan – 97.6 thousand
	
	
	Kazakhstan – 28.6 thousand
	
	
	Turkmenistan – 4.8 thousand
	


Tajikistan also welcomed visitors from Belarus (2.3 thousand), Ukraine (2.5 thousand), Azerbaijan and Moldova (1.4 thousand each), and Armenia (0.3 thousand).

Among non-CIS countries,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:31:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tourist-flow-in-tajikistan-iincreased-by-almost-a-quarter/</link>

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		<title>Uzbek Scientists Discover Dozens of New Gene Mutations Unknown to Global Science</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbek geneticists have conducted the country’s first large-scale study of the human genome, discovering dozens of gene mutations previously unknown to global science. The findings were announced by the press service of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Uzbekistan, reports Avesta.tj.

The research was carried out by specialists from the Center for Advanced Technologies under the ministry as part of the national project “1000 Genomes of Uzbekistan.” The project aims to create a genetic map of the population and establish a national biobank.

The results are striking: mutations indicating hereditary predispositions to various diseases were found in every second child participating in the project. Moreover, 86% of those examined were carriers of at least one defective gene — a figure twice as high as the global average.

According to scientists, this situation is largely due to the high rate of consanguineous marriages,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 17:16:08 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbek-scientists-discover-dozens-of-new-gene-mutations-unknown-to-global-science/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan Becomes Central Asia’s Tourism Leader with Record Visitor Numbers</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan has recorded a stable inflow of over one million foreign tourists per month since April this year — a milestone in the country’s history, according to the Tourism Committee under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, reports Gazeta.uz.

During the first nine months of 2025, Uzbekistan welcomed 8.6 million foreign visitors, marking a 12.5% increase compared to the same period last year. For comparison, the country saw 10.06 million foreign tourists in 2024, 6.62 million in 2023, and 5.23 million in 2022, reflecting a strong post-pandemic recovery of the tourism sector.

According to the Committee, the number of visitors from several countries has grown particularly rapidly over the past three years: from the UK (2.6x), Qatar (6.2x), USA (3x), France (2.9x), Russia (2.1x), Hungary (3.3x), Germany (2.5x), and Poland (6.2x). The export of tourism services also reached a record $3.6 billion, surpassing the 2024 total of $3.4 billion.

With these achievements,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:26:49 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-becomes-central-asias-tourism-leader-with-record-visitor-numbers/</link>

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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Won Gold at EXPO 2025 in Osaka</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The national pavilion of Kyrgyzstan received the Gold Award in the “Empowering Lives” category at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, the National Investment Agency of Kyrgyzstan reported.

The gold medal was awarded for an exhibition that highlighted human potential, the power of education, cultural richness, and the nation’s contribution to sustainable development.

Among 169 participating countries, Kyrgyzstan was one of the 19 gold winners, alongside three other Central Asian states — Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.

The international jury praised the pavilion’s outstanding design, the successful blend of traditional values with modern technologies, and its strong humanistic message inspiring creativity and personal growth.

At the BIE Awards 2025, other Central Asian countries also gained recognition.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 17:26:09 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-won-gold-at-expo-2025-in-osaka/</link>

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		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Pavilion Awarded Gold at  World Expo in Osaka</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The Uzbekistan Pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka has been awarded the gold medal — the highest honor in its category — for “Best Interpretation of the Theme.” The announcement was made by Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration, reports Daryo.uz.

The pavilion’s concept, titled “Garden of Knowledge: A Laboratory for the Society of the Future,” reflects the harmony between tradition and innovation and has resonated widely with the global community.

“I sincerely thank the entire team and our international partners for their inspiration, professionalism, and belief in this project,” Mirziyoyeva wrote.

According to the Art and Culture Development Foundation, the International Exhibitions Bureau (BIE) has been presenting this award since 1928 to recognize outstanding achievements related to the central theme of each Expo. The prize honors innovative ideas, advanced technologies,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:06:51 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-pavilion-awarded-gold-at-world-expo-in-osaka/</link>

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		<title>Turkmenistan Adopts Cultural Diplomacy Strategy Through 2052</title>
		<description><![CDATA[President of Turkmenistan has signed a resolution approving the Strategy for the Development of Turkmenistan’s Cultural Diplomacy for 2026–2052 and the Action Plan for its implementation, the State News Agency TDH reported. The document was adopted during a Cabinet meeting on October 8.

According to the resolution, relevant ministries, state agencies, and administrations of the regions, as well as the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, are instructed to ensure the implementation of the measures outlined in the Strategy.

The Strategy aims to strengthen Turkmenistan’s international standing as a permanently neutral state, promote national cultural heritage, traditions, and customs, and enhance the country’s image as a center of peace, harmony, and friendship.

The adoption of the document is also linked to the proposals put forward at the session of the Halk Maslahaty (People’s Council) of Turkmenistan held on September 24, 2024, chaired by the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Hero-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 19:02:28 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-adopts-cultural-diplomacy-strategy-through-2052/</link>

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		<title>Kyrgyz Cinema Conquers Busan International Film Festival</title>
		<description><![CDATA[From September 17 to 26, South Korea hosted the 30th Busan International Film Festival — the largest film forum in Asia and Oceania.

This year, Kyrgyzstan was represented in several sections of the event. The film Kurak by directors Erke Zhumakmatova and Emil Atageldiev received two awards — the Bangladesh July Memorial Prize and the Kim Jiseok Award.

Other Kyrgyz filmmakers also took part in different programs. Samara Sagynbaeva presented her film Koop konguroosu in the “Wide Angle” section, Tomiris Orozoeva’s project Ubakyt chölündö (In the Desert of Time) was accepted into the Busan Asian Film School, and Dastan Japar Ryskeldi showcased his work Böböktöy ileshkek (Clinging Like a Child) at the Asian Project Market.

In addition, the Bishkek International Film Festival partnered with the Asian Vision competition,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:30:24 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyz-cinema-conquers-busan-international-film-festival/</link>

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		<title>Drought in Kazakhstan Reveals Ancient Artifacts up to 10,000 Years Old</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education has announced major archaeological discoveries made possible by the extreme shallowing of the Bogen Reservoir in the Turkistan region, reports AzerTAg.az.

Within a week of intensive research, archaeologists uncovered a multilayered historical site containing artifacts dating from the Stone Age to the ancient period. Finds include stone tools from the Late Paleolithic and Mesolithic (8,000–10,000 years old), Bronze Age burials with unique ceramics and ornaments, and a warrior’s grave from the Kangly-Sarmatian period (1st century BC – 1st century AD) with a full set of weapons.

The most striking discovery was an undisturbed Sarmatian warrior burial with a complete weapon set: three iron arrowheads with preserved shafts, a combat knife with a bone handle, a belt buckle with ornamentation, and a red clay vessel for ritual libations. The preservation of organic materials (wood,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Sep 2025 19:31:40 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/drought-in-kazakhstan-reveals-ancient-artifacts-up-to-10-000-years-old/</link>

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		<title>Tashkent Center of Islamic Civilization to Showcase World’s Oldest Known Star Map</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent will present a facsimile of the Book of Fixed Stars, created in 960 by the renowned astronomer Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi, the Center’s press service reports.

Although the original manuscript has not survived, its copies are preserved in leading collections around the world, including libraries in Oxford, London, and Paris. According to experts, the work reflects the remarkable achievements of medieval astronomy and laid the foundation for the development of navigational instruments and modern technologies such as GPS.

The exhibition will also feature a multimedia installation, artifacts, and interactive materials illustrating the history of astronomy—from the works of al-Biruni to contemporary models.

Established on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:31:01 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tashkent-center-of-islamic-civilization-to-showcase-worlds-oldest-known-star-map/</link>

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		<title>Unique Fresco Depicting Zoroastrian Rite Discovered in Tajikistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Archaeologists have discovered fragments of a rare wall painting depicting a procession of fire-worshipping priests during excavations at the ancient Sogdian settlement of Sandjar-Shah near Panjakent. This was reported by the Telegram channel "Nauchny Reporter" citing the University of Cambridge, Avesta.tj writes.

The settlement, which flourished in the 8th century, was previously understudied — systematic excavations began only in 2001. The frescoes were found in the so-called Rectangular Hall, located in the former palace of the governor Nasr ibn Sayyar.





Among scenes of battles with demons, researchers identified a particularly significant composition: a procession of four priests and possibly a child approaching a large fire altar beneath an arch. Such a scene had previously been found only on ossuaries, but never in wall paintings.

The restored fragments have, for the first time, revealed the appearance of Zoroastrian priests: short hair, beards, long robes with a belt and bag,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:08:08 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/unique-fresco-depicting-zoroastrian-rite-discovered-in-tajikistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/unique-fresco-depicting-zoroastrian-rite-discovered-in-tajikistan/</guid>
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		<title>Uzbek Authorities Officially Recognize Samarkand as a 3,000-Year-Old City</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Authorities in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand region have officially increased the age of the ancient city of Samarkand from 2,750 to 3,000 years, according to the state news agency UzA.

The revision follows extensive archaeological work by a scientific team that conducted research at key sites, including Afrasiab, Kuktepa, and the former Amir Temur fortress near Kuksaroy Square. The most compelling evidence came from excavations at Kuktepa, which confirmed that Samarkand had already begun to take shape as a major urban center in the early 1st millennium BCE. These findings became the decisive factor in reassessing the city’s historical timeline.

Samarkand’s age has been revised several times over the past century. Initially believed to be about 1,500 years old, estimates were increased to 2,000, then to 2,500 years in 1970. In the 2000s, a joint Uzbek-French archaeological expedition updated the figure to 2,750 years. The latest discoveries made in 2024 now justify the new estimate of 3,000 years.

Dr.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:15:08 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbek-authorities-officially-recognize-samarkand-as-a-3-000-year-old-city/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbek-authorities-officially-recognize-samarkand-as-a-3-000-year-old-city/</guid>
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		<title>Uzbekistan Tops Ranking of Asia’s Most Valuable National Football Teams</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan’s national football team has been ranked the most valuable in Asia, according to Asiaplus.tj, citing data from Transfermarkt.

Following a strong performance in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Uzbekistan secured a historic spot in the tournament, which will be held in the United States and Canada, by finishing second in its group.

Transfermarkt’s latest ranking of Asian national teams by total market value includes 50 teams, but the biggest surprise is Uzbekistan taking the top spot.

According to the platform, Uzbekistan’s squad is valued at €69.58 million, the highest in Asia. The surge is attributed to transfers of Uzbek players to European leagues and their growing presence in the UAE and Saudi Arabian championships.

The United Arab Emirates ranks second with €50.90 million,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2025 18:58:56 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-tops-ranking-of-asias-most-valuable-national-football-teams/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-tops-ranking-of-asias-most-valuable-national-football-teams/</guid>
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		<title>2,000-Year-Old Burial Site Discovered in Southern Kyrgyzstan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Archaeologists have uncovered a burial site containing human remains and everyday artifacts estimated to be around 2,000 years old in the village of Kyzyl-Kushun, located in the Batken district of southern Kyrgyzstan, RG.ru reports.

The discovery marks a significant milestone in an ongoing archaeological excavation carried out through collaboration between Batken State University and the Institute of History, Archaeology, and Ethnology of the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan.

Excavations began in 2023, with the initial phase using drone technology to capture high-resolution images of more than 100 local burial mounds.

Previous archaeological work in the Batken region took place between 1954 and 1960. The new findings offer fresh opportunities for deeper research into the history of the region and Kyrgyzstan as a whole.

The site is open to the public, allowing visitors to witness the excavation process and explore ancient heritage firsthand. According to RG.ru,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2025 18:15:24 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/2-000-year-old-burial-site-discovered-in-southern-kyrgyzstan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/2-000-year-old-burial-site-discovered-in-southern-kyrgyzstan/</guid>
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		<title>Unique Dinosaurs Discovered in Kyrgyzstan Found Nowhere Else in the World</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Fossil remains of dinosaurs found in Kyrgyzstan have been identified as endemic species — meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world. This was announced by Ayzek Bakirov, Acting Director of the M.M. Adyshev Institute of Geology of the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan, 24.kg reports.

According to Bakirov, several expeditions were organized in 2025 in cooperation with researchers from Germany and the United Kingdom. As a result, new Jurassic-period sites, dating back around 165 million years, were discovered near the city of Tash-Kumyr, South Kyrgyzstan.

The site has been temporarily preserved due to a lack of funding for further excavations.

Bakirov recalled that last year, a new species of theropod - a group of predatory dinosaurs - was discovered in the same area, with the participation of German scientists from the Paleontology Museum in Munich.

"Excavations of dinosaur remains began in the early 20th century and continue to this day. New sites are being discovered,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2025 18:01:11 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/unique-dinosaurs-discovered-in-kyrgyzstan-found-nowhere-else-in-the-world/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/unique-dinosaurs-discovered-in-kyrgyzstan-found-nowhere-else-in-the-world/</guid>
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