Due to the lack of rainfall during this year’s autumn season and the absence of precipitation expected in the coming days, the initiative of the Chairman of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, Mufti Shaykh Nuriddin Kholiqnazar, has designated 28 November 2025, Friday, for performing Salat al-Istisqa (the prayer for rain) in all mosques across our country after the Friday prayer.
On this occasion, sacrificial animals will be slaughtered at regional, district, and city central mosques, as well as at pilgrimage sites, and the meat will be distributed to families in need, orphans, and the elderly.
On the same day, before the Friday prayer, teachers and students of higher and secondary specialized Islamic educational institutions will complete a full reading (khatm) of Imam al-Bukhari’s Sahih al-Bukhari.
Imams currently performing the ‘umrah pilgrimage in Makkah al-Mukarramah and Madinah al-Munawwarah are encouraged to perform the Salat al-Istisqa together with their groups in the Noble Harams.
Muslim Board of Uzbekistan Press Service
A press conference dedicated to the “Friendship” Festival, timed to the Day of Friendship of Peoples celebrated on July 30th, was held at the National Press Center of Uzbekistan, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was attended by the leadership of the Committee, representatives of national cultural centers, friendship societies, Brother Cities Alliance, as well as media representatives.
During the press conference, information was presented on the primary goals and objectives of the festival, as well as on the cultural, educational, scientific, practical and public events planned within its framework.
Special attention was paid to one of the key events of the festival — the First International Brother Cities Forum. It was noted that the forum will take place on July 24-25 in the ancient yet contemporary city of Samarkand. Around 100 foreign guests from nearly 30 states, including scholars, representatives of international organizations and other foreign participants, are expected to attend.
Press conference especially highlighted the significance of the festival as an important platform for strengthening interethnic harmony, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance and promoting public diplomacy in Uzbekistan.
It is worth recalling that by decision of the UN General Assembly, July 30 is designated as the Day of Friendship of Peoples. In this regard, this date is celebrated annually worldwide as International Day of Friendship.