The award ceremony took place on October 8 during a meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council, where Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was also in attendance. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin personally presented the Order of Friendship to Nematov, recognizing his significant contributions to the development of the CIS and the strengthening of ties between Uzbekistan and Russia.

Putin highlighted Nematov’s vital role in enhancing bilateral relations, particularly during his tenure as Uzbekistan’s ambassador to Russia, where he worked diligently to foster cooperation between the two countries.