Shavkat Mirziyoyev: Central Asia Must Strengthen Its Role as a Center of Science and Enlightenment

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has sent a welcoming message to participants of the First International Congress “Central Asia: Common Spiritual and Educational Heritage – Common Future”, held at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent.

In his address, the head of state emphasized that the peoples of Central Asia and Azerbaijan are united by centuries-old bonds of friendship and brotherhood, a shared history, rich culture, and spiritual heritage.

“Throughout the centuries, our land has been home to great thinkers and scholars who illuminated the world with knowledge and enlightenment, making a worthy contribution to the development of global civilization,” President Mirziyoyev noted.

He stressed that holding the congress at the Center of Islamic Civilization is highly symbolic, as this unique intellectual and spiritual complex reflects the millennia-old history of the region, including the eras of the First and Second Renaissances, as well as the modern development and future of the New Uzbekistan.

The President also underlined the importance of preserving peace and stability in today’s world, marked by growing tensions and conflicts.

“We must learn from history, rely on knowledge and enlightenment, strengthen harmony among nations, and promote inter-civilizational dialogue,” he stated.

President Mirziyoyev noted that Uzbekistan continues to carry out large-scale reforms in education and culture. In recent years, the country has built about 500 new schools, increased the number of higher education institutions from 77 to 202, and established Presidential and Creative Schools named after great scholars and thinkers.

He proposed developing a special UN General Assembly resolution recognizing the contribution of the Islamic civilization of Central Asia to global science, culture, and education.

“The development of this resolution will be an important practical step. We plan to hold a separate event at the UN headquarters dedicated to the rich spiritual and scientific heritage of our great ancestors,” the President said.

In conclusion, Shavkat Mirziyoyev expressed confidence that the congress would become an effective platform for strengthening scientific and cultural cooperation in the region.

“We must work together to consolidate Central Asia’s position — a region with a glorious history — as a true center of science and enlightenment. And Uzbekistan stands ready to create all the necessary conditions for this,” he concluded.