Uzbek Language Not Restricted in Afghanistan, Says Uzbek Foreign Ministry

Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry has refuted reports circulating in media and social networks suggesting that the use of the Uzbek language in Afghanistan is being restricted. The statement was published on the ministry’s official Telegram channel.

«The Afghan authorities have strongly emphasised that these reports are false and that there are no limitations on the use of the Uzbek language in the country,» the ministry said.

Afghanistan’s foreign ministry highlighted that the facades of universities and schools across the country are being updated, with inscriptions in three languages — Pashto, Dari, and English. In northern regions, including schools and universities, Uzbek is included alongside Pashto and Dari. Authorities plan to open a faculty of Uzbek language and literature at Jowzjan State University this year.

The Uzbek population in Afghanistan is estimated at 3–5 mln people, though some sources suggest figures up to 7–8 mln. Accurate data is unavailable, as the country has not conducted a population census for around 40 years. Ongoing conflict and internal displacement have further complicated demographic assessments.

Kursiv also reports that Uzbekistan delivered 390 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan on December 29.