President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the construction site of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, a monumental project that entered its final phase.
The center, initiated by a presidential decree on June 23, 2017, and officially launched with a foundation stone ceremony during Ramadan Eid in 2018, is set to become a landmark institution. The three-story complex, inspired by Uzbekistan’s rich architectural heritage, features a 65-meter dome and four 34-meter-high façades adorned with intricate patterns.
A key highlight of the center is the Hall of the Holy Quran, which will house the ancient Osman Mushaf alongside other rare Quranic manuscripts from the Samanid, Karakhanid, Khorezmshah, Uzbek Khan, and Timurid eras. The collection will also include translations into the old Uzbek language and some of the world's rarest handwritten Qurans.
During his visit, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the center’s role in preserving and promoting Uzbekistan’s historical and intellectual heritage.
“This institution should not only tell about the past but also be a center of thought that connects history, present, and future,” he stated.
The center will feature sections such as “Pre-Islamic Civilizations,” “The First Renaissance,” “The Second Renaissance,” “Uzbekistan in the 20th Century,” and “New Uzbekistan – New Renaissance.” The exhibition will showcase manuscripts, artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations about prominent scholars, including Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Biruni, Mirzo Ulugbek, and Alisher Navoi. It will also highlight the contributions of Islamic scholars like Imam Bukhari and Imam Termizi, as well as influential women in Uzbekistan’s history.
President Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of using the center’s resources for research, education, and countering misinformation about Islam. He called for stronger collaboration with international academic institutions, including UNESCO and ISESCO.
“Anyone who visits this center will understand that Islam is a religion of peace, progress, and tolerance,” he said.
The Center for Islamic Civilization has already established global partnerships, and in August 2024, it hosted the VIII International Congress in Tashkent and Samarkand, where experts from 35 countries contributed insights on historical and scientific advancements.
During his visit, the president also reviewed plans for enhancing Tashkent’s tourism infrastructure. Projects include the development of gastronomic and cultural streets, preserving the historical character of the Old City while boosting economic opportunities.
With these initiatives, the number of daily tourists in Tashkent is projected to increase from 4,000 to 11,000, creating 1,500 new jobs. President Mirziyoyev instructed officials to further improve tourism services and support local entrepreneurs.
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