Amr Yehia
People-to-People Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange as Bridges Between Europe and Central Asia
Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions were at the center of a cross-cultural gathering held Saturday in Veldhoven, Netherlands, under the title „Uzbekistan Day – Wellness & Uzbek Cooking Experience.”
The event, organized by Shoira, representative of Uzbek tourism and life coach, together with Ronny, sports coach at Moves & More, brought together around 20 participants from different countries, cultures and professional backgrounds, including six participants who travelled from Brussels.
The program included a comprehensive presentation on Uzbekistan’s history, traditions, hospitality and tourism potential, shedding light on the legendary cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, and the country’s enduring legacy as a crossroads of the ancient Silk Road connecting East and West.
The cultural discovery was complemented by a culinary experience featuring traditional Uzbek plov prepared in the style of Bukhara, a dish that embodies the values of hospitality, generosity and sharing central to Uzbek culture.
Combining gastronomy with wellness, physical activity and personal motivation, the event demonstrated how culture and healthy living can reinforce mutual understanding.
Participants included karate champion Jeannot Mulolo, CEO and strategic advisor on EU-MENA, Africa and Asia relations Awad Chamas, journalist Kadir Duran, BJacht representative Lilija Geisler, and Social Attaché at the Consulate General of Tunisia in Brussels Monia Ben Amor.
The gathering underscored that international relations are built not only through official channels, but also through people-to-people diplomacy, human connections and shared cultural experiences.
