Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  The Embassy of Switzerland has announced the Switzerland Days 2024, which took place from 23 to 27 November 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Tashkent Hotel and Tashkent City Mall.

The events, aimed at strengthening business ties between Uzbekistan and Switzerland, as well as supporting culture, arts, and education, were held for the third time in Tashkent with the participation of over 30 Swiss companies.

"Breathe With Me": A Unique Art Installation at Tashkent City Mall

The official opening of Switzerland Days began with the immersive art installation BREATHE WITH ME by Swiss artist Annabelle Schneider. Previously showcased at design weeks in New York and Barcelona, the installation explored themes of mindfulness and sustainable development, offering a unique artistic perspective on sustainable living. The installation was organized by the Embassy of Switzerland in the Republic of Uzbekistan in collaboration with curator Inessa Boltyanskaya and was held from November 23 to 26 in the atrium of Tashkent City Mall.

Originally created for NYCxDESIGN, the installation gained global recognition for its ability to create spaces for tranquility and reflection. BREATHE WITH ME offered a calming atmosphere, complemented by the soundscapes of Swiss musician Luc Augier.

Schneider’s work held special significance for Uzbekistan, addressing critical environmental issues such as air quality and the consequences of the Aral Sea’s drying up. The installation organically incorporated poufs inspired by traditional Uzbek ikat patterns, created by the La Maison Du Tchapan workshop, which successfully fused ancient cultural traditions with contemporary design.

"This installation emphasized the universal need for moments of calm, particularly in regions facing environmental challenges," explained curator Inessa Boltyanskaya. "It demonstrated how thoughtful design can bridge global and local contexts, creating spaces for reflection and action."

Visitors to the installation could become part of its constantly evolving space, embodying the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and relaxation. This "living" environment served as a timely reminder of the power of art in responding to modern challenges. During the five days, visitors could participate in sound therapy sessions, meditative practices, and immersive experiences that fostered mindfulness and inner unity.

"Switzerland: Quality. Innovation. Reliability"

The Switzerland Days continued on November 26 with a series of workshops and business sessions aimed at strengthening ties between the business communities of Uzbekistan and Switzerland.

This year’s business program focused on topics such as "Water Resources and Agricultural Development," "Healthcare," "Education," and "Urban Infrastructure Development." Representatives of the Swiss private sector, including around 20 companies, many of which are world leaders in their fields, shared valuable experiences and solutions that could support the continued development of Uzbekistan.

Also, on 26 November, an exhibition titled "Against the Current" was opened at Hyatt Regency, showcasing Switzerland’s contribution to sustainable water resource management and offering innovative solutions to ensure water security and agriculture in Uzbekistan and broader issues in Central Asia.

Swiss industry has long been associated with precision, quality, innovation, and reliability. For 13 consecutive years, Switzerland has ranked first in the global innovation index.

According to Konstantin Obolensky, the Ambassador of Switzerland to Uzbekistan: "I am convinced that in the fast-developing environment of Uzbekistan, where significant investments are being made in public services and infrastructure, it is essential to choose solutions that will not require significant changes in the near future. Swiss quality can ensure just that."