Tashkent: The official opening ceremony of the Islamic Civilization Center and an iftar were held in Uzbekistan with the participation of the country's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the Uzbekistan National News Agency (UzA) reported.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Mirziyoyev highlighted the active involvement of highly qualified specialists from various countries, including France, China, the United Kingdom, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Trkiye, Germany, Spain, Italy, Malaysia, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, India, and Central Asian nations, in the design and construction of the Center. The President emphasized the incorporation of modern information technologies into the Center.
President Mirziyoyev shared his vision of retrieving manuscripts or exhibits related to Uzbekistan's history from around the world. He announced that new international scientific expeditions would be initiated to locate and study rare manuscripts globally. The project will involve both domestic and foreign scholars, alongside leading research institutions worldwide. The President also mentioned the establishment of offices for organizations such as ICESCO, IRCICA, the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, the Timurid Art and History Association in France, and TURKSOY to expand the Center's activities.
The Islamic Civilization Center spans nearly 10 hectares, featuring a building with a total usable area of 50,000 square meters. It houses exhibition halls such as 'The Pre-Islamic Period on the Territory of Uzbekistan', 'The First and Second Renaissance', and 'New Uzbekistan - the Foundation of the Third Renaissance'. In the past year, the museum's exhibitions have been enriched with over 1,500 new exhibits, which include around 800 ancient manuscripts, archaeological finds, and historical maps. The Center has collaborated with foreign auction houses, major collectors, and art dealers to acquire 743 original exhibits for the museum.
In conclusion, President Mirziyoyev expressed his confidence that the Islamic Civilization Center will serve as a perpetual platform for peace, kindness, knowledge, and enlightenment, benefiting both the people of Uzbekistan and the international community.