Center for Islamic Civilization presented in Beijing
A cultural, educational and media event titled “Uzbekistan - China: Dialogue of Civilizations and Shared Heritage” has been held at the Embassy of our country, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was attended by the leadership of the SCO Secretariat, representatives of the diplomatic corps in Beijing, ministries and agencies, leading think tanks, scientific, academic and cultural circles, as well as Chinese media.
Delegation of Uzbekistan, led by Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center for Islamic Civilization, participated in the forum.
A comprehensive presentation on the activities of the Center for Islamic Civilization was delivered to the participants, highlighting its unique concept, key expositions, scientific and educational dimensions, as well as its international mission to study, preserve, and popularize the rich heritage of our people. The event also featured the screening of a documentary film on the operations of the Center for Islamic Civilization.
An exposition of over 100 video and photo works reflecting the rich history, culture and modern development of Uzbekistan was also organized for the attention of the participants. The exposition was harmoniously complemented by an exhibition of applied arts and craftsmanship.
Participants expressed a unanimous opinion that the Center for Islamic Civilization, established on the initiative and under the authorship of the President of Uzbekistan, is a spiritual and cultural masterpiece of global significance. The creation of such a unique Center, which has no analogues in the world, reflects the Leader of the country's profound dedication to the history and cultural heritage of his people, and clearly demonstrates the high place of Uzbekistan at the crossroads of civilizations.
As part of the event, permanent expositions were set up within the Embassy building, including a book exhibition dedicated to the history and rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, as well as a photo exhibition of the Center for Islamic Civilization.
SCO Deputy Secretary-General Janesh Kain:
- Today, we have been presented with a unique opportunity to become living witnesses to a historic event – the presentation of the majestic building of the Center for Islamic Civilization constructed in Tashkent, which has already acquired global and worldwide significance.
Realization of this cherished goal of the esteemed President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has demonstrated to the entire world the essence and vision behind building the New Uzbekistan, which embodies the spirit of great civilizations.
Uzbekistan has always been a center of education. Great minds of humanity lived and created their works here. Today, we are witnessing the revival of history through this Center, which will play an important role in disseminating information to the world about the wisdom of the Uzbek people.
Han Hua, Co-Founder and Secretary-General of the Beijing Club for International Dialogue:
- Uzbekistan is one of the important centers of world culture and art. In the New Uzbekistan, this manifests itself with particular clarity, thanks to the wise policy of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who, with profound dedication, glorifies to the entire world the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of not only his country but the entire Eastern civilization. Representatives of the Uzbek people have made a powerful contribution to the development of world science and enlightenment.
Country is implementing historic reforms recognized by the global community. The Center for Islamic Civilization strengthens the spiritual foundations of society and this stands as one of the key parameters of Uzbekistan's development.
Erhan Afyoncu: Uzbekistan is the land of the most magnificent cities of the Turkic civilization
Prominent Turkish historian, Rector of the National Defense University, Professor Erhan Afyoncu, speaking on the analytical program “Circle of Thought” (Akıl Çemberi) on the leading Turkish television channel “CNN-Türk”, shared his assessments regarding the rich historical heritage and tourism potential of Uzbekistan, reports Dunyo IA.
In his speech, Professor Afyoncu characterized Uzbekistan as a unique geography home to the most magnificent cities of the Turkic civilization. “Uzbekistan represents a distinct geography. It is the land where the most beautiful cities of our civilization are located. Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent are situated precisely on this soil”, he noted.
Addressing the youth, the Turkish historian emphasized that in an era characterized by vast opportunities for international travel, it is vital to first discover the countries of the Turkic world and connect with the land of their ancestors. “My advice to the youth: since convenient opportunities for traveling abroad exist today, begin by traveling across the Turkic world. Go, see and connect with the ancestral soil. Only then should you visit the lands where the Seljuk state was established, the professor said, adding that such journeys are deeply beneficial for young people, enriching their historical memory and worldview. The level of beauty found in Samarkand cannot be encountered in many places around the world. It is exceptionally important for Turkish youth to see their own geography and their historical cities”, Erhan Afyoncu noted.
Professor also specifically highlighted Uzbekistan as one of the primary cradles of the Turkic civilization and a center of science, emphasizing that the country is highly attractive not only from historical and cultural perspectives but also from a geographical standpoint. Answering the question of the program host, Fulya Ozturk: “So for you, among the countries of the Turkic world, Uzbekistan comes first, correct?”, Professor Erhan Afyoncu stressed: “Naturally, Uzbekistan holds a special place...”.
This presentation by the professor will further contribute to the growing interest of the Turkish public in the historical cities, rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of Uzbekistan.