Uzbek Ambassador Presents Credentials to Pope Leo XIV

On December 15, Uzbekistan’s ambassador to the Vatican, Farrukh Tursunov, presented his credentials to Pope Leo XIV, the news agency Dunyо reports.

Tursunov also oversees Uzbekistan’s embassies in Spain and Andorra. He has worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since the early 1990s, holding roles from attaché to department director. He previously led diplomatic missions in Kazakhstan (2008–2012) and Japan (2012–2017).

During the meeting, the ambassador briefed the Pope on Uzbekistan’s reforms. On behalf of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, he conveyed greetings and best wishes to the pontiff.

Pope Leo XIV expressed deep respect for the president and the people of Uzbekistan. He noted that the 33 years of diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Uzbekistan have built a strong foundation for cooperation.

Diplomatic ties between Tashkent and the Vatican were established on October 17, 1992.

Kursiv also reports that on December 11, Saida Mirziyoyeva, First Assistant to the President of Uzbekistan, met Pope Leo XIV during a session of the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity jury.