The forum, held on the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov since 1997, serves to promotion of the musical heritage of various nations and brings people with different language and culture closer.

President Islam Karimov greeted the participants and guests of the international festival - artists from 47 countries, which is being held on the Registan square of the 2,750-year-old city.

Head of the UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan Jorge Espinal noted that the traditional music festival had become one of the most prestigious musical forums of the world, and attracts artists and music fans not only from the Orient, but also from other continents.

The fact that festival is held in Samarkand has a deep meaning. This city is an embodiment of unique samples of ancient civilization, unique nature and centuries-old spirit of the Orient. Science, culture, art and music had developed here from ancient times.

For instance, a 3,300-year-old musical instrument nai was found in the Muminobod village of Urgut district. The rock carvings of the ancient Afrasiab depict musicians and singers. Great thinkers Abu Nasir Farabi, Ibn Sino, Alisher Navoi, Babur and others have left numerous works on the music.

In the period of ruling of Amir Temur, Samarkand became one of the largest centers of science and culture. The musical forums held here attracted singers and musicians from many other countries.

This festival has opened many new names and continues contributing to promotion of the music on the world scale.

According to the tradition, a scientific conference on the role of musical culture of the Orient in development of the world civilization will be held during the festival.

In addition to the main stage at Registan square, the festival participants will perform in the amphitheater Mujiza, Yoshlik and Sogdiana parks, as well as in Samarkand, Taylak, Urgut, Jambay, Akdarya and Payariq districts.