"Upon gaining freedom, artists have tarnished everything," said Ozodbek Nazarbekov.

At a press conference at the Information and Mass Communications Agency, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, addressed a long-standing question that has generated significant public interest: "Should the ministry be abolished since the government should not act as a regulator in the field of culture?"

"The roots of this idea come from America. Dear friends, follow the path laid down by your parents, and this question will not even arise. As I have already explained, the sphere of culture is like a bird. It needs to be held in your hands; there is no other way. If you let it go, it will bring no benefit, only destruction. Look at the world; you are sensible people.

Taking advantage of the freedom granted, artists are destroying everything around them and trivializing the essence of things. Therefore, I am not saying that freedom should not be given; I am categorically against prohibitions. However, the intellect of a free person must correspond to this freedom. Even within four walls, one should not commit crimes. When that day comes, we will confidently grant freedom if needed. And to those who do not want it, we will respond: "No, you must live freely." But today, we cannot say that society is ready for this. Let this question remain on our conscience," the minister emphasized.

It is worth noting that this summer, in one of the episodes of the "Lolazor" podcast, economist Behzod Khoshimov shared his thoughts on which ministries should be retained and which should be abolished to create a compact and efficient system of government in Uzbekistan. Among the ministries he mentioned that should be dissolved was the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.