DUSHANBE, 22.05.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – On May 21, Rustam Emomali, Speaker of the National Assembly of Tajikistan, Mayor of Dushanbe, and President of the Football Federation of Tajikistan, attended the opening ceremony of the digital exhibition «Threads of Tradition: Celebrating Tajikistan’s Cultural Heritage» at the renowned Artechouse in New York City.

The exhibition was presented as an interactive digital experience, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Tajikistan.

Guests entering Artechouse were greeted by the enchanting sounds of the traditional Tajik instrument chang and introduced to a diverse array of displays showcasing the craftsmanship of Tajik artisans. These included traditional attire such as chakan embroidery, intricate wood carvings, artisanal breads, historical household items, paintings, and other handicrafts.

During the official opening, Rustam Emomali delivered a keynote address, emphasizing Tajikistan’s historical role as a crossroads of civilizations, a birthplace of poetic genius, and a custodian of enduring cultural traditions.

He proudly highlighted that Tajikistan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient settlement of Sarazm, Tajik National Park in the Pamirs, the Tigrovaya Balka nature reserve, and the Zerafshan-Karakum corridor.

Rustam Emomali also noted that due to the government’s active cultural policy in recent years, many elements of Tajik culture—such as chakan embroidery, Falak music, rubab craftsmanship, atlas and adras weaving, as well as the celebrations of Sada and Mehrgon—have been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Tajik people also take great pride in other national treasures and traditions, including the ancient monuments of Takhti Sangin and Hulbuk, the traditional dish Oshi Palav, and the International Day of Navruz.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Achim Steiner, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Following the formal program, Rustam Emomali toured the exhibition, which provided an immersive journey through Tajikistan’s ancient history, cultural achievements, traditional crafts, and spiritual values. The exhibit served as a testament to the creativity, diligence, and cultural refinement of the Tajik people.

The event was attended by representatives from over 50 countries, leaving a lasting impression on the guests of Tajikistan’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.