On December 9, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev hosted the president of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Mohammed bin Sulayem, who arrived in Uzbekistan to attend the FIA General Assembly in Tashkent, the presidential press service said.
Mohammed bin Sulayem was also accompanied by the FIA Senate President Carmelo Sanz de Barros and FIA Vice President for Automotive Mobility and Tourism Tim Shearman.
Reportedly, Mohammed bin Sulayem highly valued the large-scale reforms in Uzbekistan aimed at developing professional and mass sports, promoting a healthy lifestyle, increasing physical activity, and raising a well-rounded generation.
He stressed to the importance of close cooperation in developing the entire spectrum of motorsports in our country – from karting to Formula One racing.
The parties focused on the federation's assistance in training Uzbek pilots, karting drivers, engineers, designers, and mechanics, utilizing the capabilities of the FIA University; the creation of a modern motorsports infrastructure in Uzbekistan; the implementation of programs to ensure the safety of people and vehicles; and the hosting of international competitions under the auspices of the FIA, primarily Formula 1 races.
At the end of the meeting, Shavkat Mirziyoyev awarded the FIA president with a high state award, the Dustlik (Friendship) Order, for his significant personal contribution to developing cooperation with the International Automobile Federation and promoting motorsport in Uzbekistan in line with the international standards.
