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President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the official opening of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan and a ceremony of Iftar. The event was joined via regional studios by esteemed elders, prominent scholars, and members of the general public. Representatives of various nationalities and religious denominations, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of international organizations were also in attendance.
At the beginning of the ceremony, the Head of State once again sincerely congratulated the nation on the holy month of Ramadan. Deep gratitude was expressed to Almighty Allah for the blessing of reaching these auspicious days in peace, harmony, and good health.
Ramadan is a symbol of compassion, kindness, and noble deeds. Today, state and non-governmental organizations, the National Agency for Social Protection, the Mahalla Association, the "Vaqf" Charitable Foundation under the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, "Inson" social service centers, and generous entrepreneurs are providing extensive material and spiritual support to the elderly, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and those in need of assistance. Mobile medical units are reaching out to remote and frontier regions to conduct health screenings for women, children, and the elderly, facilitating surgical treatments for those with serious illnesses.
It was noted that such noble initiatives serve to exalt human dignity and strengthen the atmosphere of peace and nationwide unity within our society.
The Head of State emphasized that in these increasingly volatile times, it is vital to deeply realize that peace is a supreme and priceless blessing. He highlighted that our greatest wealth is our population of over 38 million people, living as one nation and one harmonious family. The presence of the diplomatic corps at the event was regarded as a profound expression of respect for the humanist and tolerant values of our sacred religion, as well as for our country's policy of openness.
The day was marked as a historic milestone for our people-the official opening ceremony of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan.
"I sincerely congratulate you all on this unforgettable day, a true celebration of knowledge and enlightenment, where the dreams and aspirations of our great ancestors have finally come to fruition. May this unique and majestic complex, a vivid reflection of our country's three-thousand-year glorious history, rich culture, and the immense potential of New Uzbekistan, be a blessing to all our people," the President stated.
It was emphasized that to build the foundation of a developed state and a free society, the noble principle of "Education and Science First" is being implemented. Since the sacred religion of Islam always calls for enlightenment, it is profoundly symbolic that the first verse of the Holy Quran, "Iqra!" (Read!), is inscribed upon the pediment of the Center's Ulugbek Gate.
The initiative to establish this Center, first announced at the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, received widespread support from the international community, particularly the Islamic world. The project was executed through meticulous research and scientific inquiry, resulting in an oriental-style city near the Hazrati Imam complex that embodies a truly national spirit and architectural excellence.
A Hub of Intellectual and Cultural Potential In this unified educational space, one can witness the masterpieces of Uzbekistan's ancient history. The President noted: "Everyone who visits this place, especially our youth, will grasp the humanistic essence of Islam, feel the greatness of their heritage, and their hearts will be filled with pride."
To study and promote this invaluable spiritual wealth globally, it was unified under the title of "Islamic Civilization." International experts acknowledge that a unique scientific school for studying and promoting Islamic heritage is emerging in Uzbekistan, demonstrating the country's vast intellectual potential.
At the heart of the complex lies the Holy Quran Hall, where the venerable Uthman Mushaf which is one of the six oldest Quranic manuscripts in the world-occupies a place of high honor.
The President expressed gratitude to all architects, scholars, and international partners, including members of the World Society for the Study, Preservation, and Popularization of the Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan.
"When we began building this Center, I dreamed of finding even a single page of a manuscript or a single artifact related to our history, wherever it might be in the world, and bringing it back home. Today, we are gradually achieving this goal, and we will certainly continue this work," the Head of State remarked.
New international scientific expeditions will be organized to identify rare manuscripts kept abroad. Furthermore, the Center now houses offices for ICESCO, IRCICA, the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, and the Timurid Society of France, strengthening its role as a global academic bridge.
Addressing scholars, artists, and creative youth, the President concluded: "Inspired by this peerless wealth, let the scientific research, books, films, and theatrical works you create become the undying voice of three thousand years of history! Let them celebrate New Uzbekistan as a land of peace, goodness, and enlightenment!"
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Otabek Mukhammadiev is Deputy Director of Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
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