Unique sources should not be kept as monuments but introduced into scientific use – Mirziyoyev

On January 29, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of actively utilizing books, manuscripts, unique information, and works of art related to Uzbekistan’s history for scientific research rather than preserving them solely as monuments. He made these remarks during a tour of the construction work at the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan.

This grand and unprecedented project is nearing completion, with a magnificent building already erected. The center was initiated under the President’s decree on June 23, 2017, and its foundation stone was laid by Mirziyoyev on Ramadan Eid in 2018.

The three-story center is designed in the style of Uzbekistan’s ancient architectural monuments, featuring a national dome and intricate peshtaks that enhance its beauty and grandeur. The complex includes four 34-meter-high peshtaks and a central 65-meter dome.

A hall dedicated to the Holy Quran is being built as the most significant part of the center, where the ancient Osman Mushafi, a spiritual masterpiece of the Muslim world, will be housed. Additionally, copies of the Quran from various historical dynasties—including the Samanids, Karakhanids, Khorezmshahs, Uzbek Khans, and Timurids—along with translations into the old Uzbek language, will be displayed. Rare manuscripts of the Quran from around the world will also be showcased.

“Unfortunately, many books, manuscripts, and unique works of art related to our people’s rich heritage have remained scattered and largely unknown. Thanks to this center, we have made significant progress in historical research, and new sources have emerged. However, their impact should not be limited to preservation alone; they must be actively used for scientific purposes, conveyed to our people—especially the youth—in an accessible manner, and widely promoted to the global community. This institution should not only recount history but also serve as a center of thought that connects the past, present, and future, shaping our developmental path,” Mirziyoyev stated.

The history of these periods will be presented through artifacts, manuscripts, photographs, and multimedia tools. The center will highlight the contributions of prominent scholars, including Khorezm, Ferghani, Forabi, Beruni, Ibn Sina, Burkhaniddin Marginoni, Mahmud Zamakhshari, Mirzo Ulugbek, Alisher Navoi, Babur Mirzo, and Ali Kushchi. Additionally, it will explore the work of Islamic scholars such as Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, Hakim Termizi, Abu Mansur Maturidi, Abu Muin Nasafi, Qaffol Shoshi, Abdulkhaliq Gijduvani, Najmiddin Kubro, Bahauddin Naqshband, and Khoja Ahrar Vali.

The center will also recognize the legacy of influential women in Uzbek history, such as Bibikhanim, Khanzodabegim, Gavharshodbegim, Gulbadan, Nodirabegim, Uvaysi, and Anbar Atin, acknowledging their contributions as patrons of knowledge and enlightenment. This exhibit aims to serve as an inspiration for future generations.

President Mirziyoyev underscored the broader mission of the center:

“The foundation of Islamic civilization is built on science, culture, education, and moral upbringing. This is the fundamental idea behind the center. It embodies several millennia of Islamic cultural history in Uzbekistan. Visitors will not only witness this history but also understand that Islam is, above all, a religion of peace, progress, and tolerance, and that the Uzbek people have made significant contributions to global civilization.”

To realize this vision, the President called for in-depth scholarly research into Uzbekistan’s historical legacy. He emphasized the need for systematic coordination between the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan and leading international institutions, such as the Imam Bukhari, Imam Termizi, and Imam Maturidi centers, to address contemporary challenges through knowledge and enlightenment.

“If fate allows, this complex will be remembered as a symbol of New Uzbekistan’s architectural mastery, intellectual legacy, and scientific progress. Each section must be designed with this goal in mind. Our primary objective is to define and express our national identity,” Mirziyoyev concluded.

The Center has established close collaboration with several international scientific institutions and organizations, including UNESCO and ICESCO. In August 2024, the VIII International Congress, themed *“The Heritage of the Great Ancestors – The Foundation of the Third Renaissance,”* was held in Tashkent and Samarkand. The event gathered approximately 200 foreign scientists from 35 countries, who contributed valuable insights and recommendations regarding the Center’s development.  

During his visit to the construction site and exposition, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev provided key directives on organizing the Center’s activities, further enhancing its content, and enriching its offerings. Additionally, he reviewed a presentation highlighting Tashkent’s tourism potential.  

Numerous tourism projects have been launched across the city, with 24/7 tourist destinations established in districts such as Bektemir, Mirzo Ulugbek, Mirabad, Yunusobod, Yakkasaroy, and Yangihayot.  

The historic Old City of Tashkent remains a major attraction, drawing large numbers of foreign tourists year-round. To enhance its appeal, the district is being developed as a specialized tourism hub. Last year, a dedicated tourist street was created in the Gulbazar neighborhood near Chorsu Market, and improvements are ongoing at the Abdulla Qodiriy Culture and Recreation Park.  

Building on these efforts, plans are now in place to introduce additional gastronomic and tourism streets. Seventeen streets and 32 alleyways have been selected for development, with infrastructure upgrades designed to preserve the Old City’s unique architectural heritage.  

These initiatives are expected to significantly boost local entrepreneurship and employment. The number of businesses in the area is set to increase by 250, creating 1,500 new jobs. Moreover, the daily influx of tourists is projected to rise from the current 4,000 to 11,000.  

Authorities have been instructed to enhance facilities for entrepreneurs and artisans while ensuring that tourist experiences remain engaging and well-organized.