The head of the Center invited the guests of the ICESCO forum to the opening of the Islamic Civilization Center

On May 26–27 of this year, the international forum titled “Spiritual Heritage and Cultural Expressions of the Islamic World: Calligraphy, Music, Poetry, and Harmony” was held in the city of Samarkand. Distinguished guests from more than 20 member countries of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – ICESCO – took part in the event.

During the 12th Conference of Ministers of Culture of the Islamic World, held in Doha on September 25–27, 2023, Samarkand was declared the “Cultural Capital of the Islamic World” for 2025. This prestigious event was also organized under that title.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov, head of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, who participated in the forum, provided information about the work being carried out within the framework of the mega project initiated by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev:

“The content development of the unique mega project in the Islamic world — the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan — is in full swing. The main section of the Center, which is expected to feature five major exhibitions, will house the Mushaf of Uthman and some of the oldest Qur’anic manuscripts in the world. The first floor will include exhibitions such as “Civilizations of the Pre-Islamic Era,” the First and Second Renaissances, and “New Uzbekistan – Foundation of the New Renaissance”. Additionally, the Center will include a conference hall with a capacity of 500 seats, a library, and study rooms. The second floor will be allocated to offices for international organizations such as ICESCO, UNESCO, TURKSOY, and IRCICA in Uzbekistan.

The opening ceremony of this majestic center is expected to take place in a few months. Ahead of the ceremony, an international global exhibition titled “Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan – Property of All Humanity” is planned. I invite all of you to the Ninth International Congress titled “Heritage of Great Ancestors – Foundation of an Enlightened Future,” which will be held at the end of this August, as well as to the opening ceremony of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan!” said Firdavs Abdukhalikov.

During their visit to Tashkent, the delegation led by ICESCO Director General Salim bin Mohammed Al-Malik visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan.

Samarkand’s attainment of this prestigious status is considered a result of both national efforts and international cooperation. Today, Uzbekistan maintains steady collaboration with ICESCO in the fields of education, science, and culture. At the international forum titled “Spiritual Heritage and Cultural Expressions of the Islamic World: Calligraphy, Music, Poetry, and Harmony”, held with the participation of Ministers of Culture from the Islamic world, discussions were held on areas such as history, art, and culture.

ICESCO was established in 1979 and currently has 54 member states. The organization plays a significant role in restoring historical monuments, preserving museums and manuscripts, and organizing cultural events.