Uzbekistan, 25th anniversary | Page 39

native language, develop national culture and arts. Schools and universities offer teaching in seven languages. Large communities publish newspapers and magazines, broadcast radio and television programs in their native languages. The country provides all the conditions for the legal equality, economic and social freedom of all citizens regardless of their ethnicity or religion. According to statistics, over 2,224 religious organizations and 16 different confessions are currently officially registered in Uzbekistan. More than 2000 mosques currently operate across the country (against only 89 in 1980). Hundreds of churches, synagogues and prayer houses have been built and restored during the years of independence. 159 Christian organizations, 8 Jewish communities, six Baha’i communities, Krishna society and a Buddhist temple run their activities. The religious of Uzbekistan freely celebrate all theirs religious holidays. Thus, celebration of Eid-al-Adha and Ramadan-Eid among Muslims, Easter and Christmas - among Christians, Passover, Purim and Hanukkah – among the Jews is gaining scale from year to year. Besides, each year, the state supports the religious pilgrimage to the holy places. For many centuries of cohabitation in Uzbekistan Muslims, Christians and followers of other traditional religions have not only developed the culture and traditions of tolerance, but also learned understanding and cooperation. 39