Landmark opening highlights Uzbekistan’s commitment to knowledge, spirituality, and cultural heritage during the holy month of Ramadan
With the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the official opening ceremony of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan was held alongside an iftar gathering, marking a significant moment during the holy month of Ramadan. The event brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organisations, and diverse communities, including different nationalities and religious confessions, reflecting Uzbekistan’s policy of openness and inclusivity.
Through regional studio links, members of the public, including the older generation, also took part in the ceremony. At the beginning of the event, the President extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Uzbekistan on Ramadan, expressing gratitude for the peace, stability, and harmony in which the country continues to observe the holy month.
President Mirziyoyev emphasised that Ramadan is a symbol of compassion, generosity, and good deeds. He highlighted the ongoing efforts of governmental and non-governmental organisations, including the National Agency for Social Protection, the Mahalla Association, the Waqf Foundation of the Muslim Board, “Inson” centres, and entrepreneurs, in providing support to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income families. Medical teams were also noted for their outreach to remote areas, delivering healthcare services and life-saving interventions.
In his remarks, the President underlined the importance of peace as the greatest blessing in today’s turbulent global environment, stressing that the unity of Uzbekistan’s more than 38 million citizens is its greatest strength. He also described the inauguration of the Islamic Civilization Center as a historic milestone, fulfilling the aspirations of generations and symbolising a celebration of science, spirituality, and enlightenment.
The President further highlighted Uzbekistan’s national development vision of prioritising “science and education above all”, noting the symbolic inscription of the Quranic verse “Iqra!” (“Read!”) at the Centre. He explained that the complex reflects the country’s rich three-thousand-year history, cultural heritage, and intellectual legacy, while serving as a platform for education, research, and international cooperation in Islamic civilisation studies.
The Islamic Civilization Center, built on a site of nearly 10 hectares with a total area of 50,000 square metres, houses extensive exhibitions, including rare manuscripts, archaeological artefacts, and historical maps. Among its key exhibits is one of the world’s oldest Qurans, the Uthman Mushaf, displayed in the Hall of the Holy Quran. The Centre also features thematic halls dedicated to different historical periods, including the First and Second Renaissance and the vision of a Third Renaissance under “New Uzbekistan”.
The event also recognised the contributions of international experts, scholars, architects, and institutions involved in the project, alongside local professionals and sponsors. President Mirziyoyev announced plans for continued global research cooperation, including international expeditions to locate and preserve rare manuscripts, as well as partnerships with global organisations such as ICESCO, IRCICA, TURKSOY, and leading academic centres.
The ceremony concluded with prayers and recitations from the Holy Quran during the iftar, with supplications for peace, acceptance of fasting, and the wellbeing of the nation. The President expressed confidence that the Islamic Civilization Center would serve as a lasting platform for knowledge, enlightenment, and intercultural understanding, both for Uzbekistan and the wider international community.
Source: Uzbekistan Embassy in Singapore
