President Mirziyoyev urges global cooperation to preserve Islamic scholarly legacy

In a message marking the opening of the inaugural International Forum on Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, the president stressed the importance of studying and safeguarding the rich legacy of Islamic civilization while expanding international academic and cultural cooperation.

The forum, which has brought together scholars and experts from more than 40 countries, is being held at the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. Shavkat Mirziyoyev said the institution is intended to serve as a platform for research, intercultural dialogue, and the exchange of knowledge.

According to the president, the modern world is facing increasingly complex challenges, including armed conflicts, growing intolerance, the spread of extremist ideologies, and attempts to pit cultures and religions against one another. In such circumstances, he said, education, science, culture, and spiritual values play a vital role in strengthening mutual understanding and lasting peace.

President Mirziyoyev also recalled the "Enlightenment against Ignorance" initiative, which Uzbekistan presented at the United Nations in 2017. He said the concept is based on the conviction that knowledge, education, and scientific progress provide the strongest foundation for sustainable social development.

In his address, the president highlighted Central Asia's historic contribution to world civilization, paying tribute to renowned scholars and thinkers including Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, Ahmad al-Farghani, Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, Abu Ali ibn Sina, Mirzo Ulugbek, Alisher Navoi, Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, and Imam Maturidi.

He noted that Uzbekistan continues to expand efforts to preserve its Islamic scientific and cultural heritage, train specialists, support research, and strengthen humanitarian cooperation with international partners.

Mirziyoyev placed particular emphasis on the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, describing it as an international academic platform that brings together researchers, scholars, and experts from around the world.

He expressed hope that the forum would open a new chapter in international cooperation by fostering closer ties among research centers, universities, museums, and scientific institutions in different countries.

As part of the forum, additional events will be held in Samarkand and Termez, focusing on the legacy of prominent historical scholars, the preservation of spiritual values, the promotion of tolerance, and the strengthening of intercultural dialogue.

Concluding his message, the president wished the participants every success and voiced confidence that the discussions and meetings held during the forum would lead to new academic, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives.