CNN World: "The shared heritage of Central Asia paves the way for development"

 

CNN has published an article about the Islamic Civilization Center being established in Uzbekistan and its significance in restoring the spiritual and educational heritage of Central Asia. The material highlights the Center’s role in preserving and widely promoting the scientific and intellectual traditions formed in the territories of present-day Uzbekistan and surrounding regions during the 8^th-13^th centuries, its unifying impact during the First International Congress that brought together regional scholars, researchers, and cultural figures, as well as Uzbekistan’s efforts to enhance its global reputation through rare manuscripts and priceless artifacts.

 

 

Participants of the First International Congress, held at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, reflected on the legacy of the region’s spiritual and educational traditions and expressed a strong sense of optimism about the future.

 

Home of foundational ideas

 

During the Abbasid Caliphate, spanning from the 8th to the 13th centuries, the Islamic world in what is today Uzbekistan and the surrounding regions was one of the most important centers of knowledge. The groundbreaking ideas that emerged in science, mathematics, astronomy, and geography during this period laid the foundations of the modern worldview.

 

The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is dedicated to preserving and presenting these outstanding achievements through its extensive collections of global artifacts, manuscripts, and educational multimedia exhibitions.

 

In November 2025, the Center hosted the First International Congress, bringing together scholars, researchers, cultural figures, and representatives of the business community from the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan to reflect on their shared heritage and to foster dialogue in the interest of a sustainable future.

 

“The choice of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan as the venue for this Congress is no coincidence,” noted the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in his welcoming address. “In this majestic and unique intellectual and spiritual complex, you have the opportunity to engage with a glorious history spanning more than three millennia, while also becoming acquainted with the exhibition that reflects the contemporary achievements and future of the New Uzbekistan.”

 

The Center is an intellectual space housing a history that spans more than three millennia

 

Education and enlightenment

 

Within the framework of eight thematic sessions dedicated to issues of historical and cultural heritage, the development of libraries and archives, as well as regional art, literature, and cinema, Congress participants also discussed educational challenges and the prospects of youth in the digital age.

 

Uzbekistan is implementing consistent reforms in the field of education aimed at raising the level of knowledge and awareness of the younger generation, equipping them with the skills necessary to build the country’s future.

 

A spiritual and symbolic layer was added to the Congress by the placement of one of the most ancient handwritten manuscripts of the Holy Qur’an – the Uthman Qur’an – in the Center’s main hall. This historic moment was perceived by participants as an act of continuity and reverence for the sacred heritage of Islamic civilization that unites millions of believers.

 

Dated to the 7th century, the Uthman Qur’an is considered one of the few surviving copies of the original canonical text and now occupies a central place beneath the Center’s majestic 65-meter dome, surrounded by unique artifacts reflecting the region’s spiritual and intellectual wealth.

 

“In these extremely challenging times, when confrontations and conflicts are intensifying in various parts of the world, the preservation of peace and stability remains our most vital task,” expressed President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. We must draw lessons and approach every issue guided by knowledge and enlightenment, strengthen harmony among peoples, and expand dialogue between cultures and civilizations.

 

The Uthman Qur’an is exhibited in a dedicated hall to honor the sacred heritage of Islamic civilization

 

Collaboration for future resilience

 

On the eve of the summit of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, President Mirziyoyev called for support of a special UN resolution devoted to the region’s contribution to global education, science, and culture.

 

Against the backdrop of a complex international agenda, the Congress acquired diplomatic and political significance, demonstrating how cultural cooperation can become an effective instrument for strengthening trust in the region, in which Uzbekistan plays an important role. The forum, which brought together hundreds of delegates, once again highlighted the history of the region in the development of world civilization.

 

“Central Asia is not merely a region. It is the cradle of great ideas and creativity,” revealed Director of the Islamic Civilization Center and Chairman of WOSCU, Dr. Firdavs Abdukhalikov. “The initiative of the President of Uzbekistan is aimed at reviving, preserving, and glorifying the cultural and historical heritage not only of our country, but of the entire region and the Islamic world. Our Center will create all the necessary conditions to realize this noble mission.”

 

The Islamic Civilization Center, initiated by the President in 2017, is currently under preparation and is scheduled to open in March 2026.