From August 26 to 30, Samarkand is hosting the 13th International Music Festival "Sharq Taronalari." Culture Minister Ozodbek Nazarbekov explained the purpose of these festivals.

"People often say: 'You hold festivals like 'Maqom,' 'Bakhshichilik,' and 'Hunarmandlar,' why do we need them? Maybe it would be better to spend the money on improving street infrastructure?' There are differing opinions on this matter. But, excuse me, at this moment, such festivals are more important than paving streets," the Minister of Culture said.

According to him, given the looming threat to human culture, allocating 3-5 billion UZS for such festivals is extremely important for preserving humanity's future.

"As the Minister of Culture, I believe that this is more important than asphalt laying and other similar issues," Ozodbek Nazarbekov stated.