The Uzbek leader expressed his belief that under Xi's strong leadership, China will enjoy an even brighter future.

He said the bilateral relations under Xi's leadership have been full of vigor and reached an unprecedented height.

Xi said that the conferring of the honor on him showcased the strong priority that Uzbekistan has given to bilateral relations and the strong emotional attachment that the Uzbek people have for the Chinese people.

The medal was the second honor that Xi received during his three-day trip to Central Asia beginning on Wednesday. He was awarded the Order of the Golden Eagle, the highest honor of Kazakhstan, on Wednesday.