#Cultural Heritage #Uzbekistan #Tashkent #Central Asia

Congress on Spiritual Heritage in Central Asia

The city of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, is currently host to an influential gathering of scientists and historians focusing on the topic of spiritual heritage and enlightenment in Central Asia. With the event titled 'Central Asia Common Spiritual and Educational Heritage – Common Future,' this congress endeavors to address the rich cultural tapestry that shapes the identity of Central Asia.

Over 300 participants from various international organizations, diplomatic missions, academic bodies, and cultural institutions have gathered to discuss the essential role of Central Asia's spiritual legacy in facilitating unity, fostering collaboration, and ensuring sustainable development across the region. The congress prioritizes the preservation, study, and promotion of the region's shared cultural heritage.

One of the key highlights of the congress is the introduction of a historically significant manuscript, the Mushaf Uthman. This manuscript dates back to the time of Caliph Uthman and is regarded as a significant artifact in Islamic history. The manuscript has been transferred from the Muyi Muborak Madrasah Museum to the Center for Islamic Civilization, marking a pivotal moment in both the congress and the region's cultural narrative.

Organized by key establishments such as the Center for Islamic Civilization, the Committee for Religious Affairs, and the Spiritual Administration of Muslims in Uzbekistan, the congress is being held in a venue that symbolizes the historical depth of the area, reinforcing its legacy as a melting pot for scholarly exchange and cultural dialogue.

The event resonates with the ongoing transformations in education and science in Central Asia. New collaborative frameworks are emerging among researchers, leading to academic exchanges and scientific endeavors focused on safeguarding the region's cultural landmarks, as well as nurturing contemporary scientific thought. The atmosphere at the congress underscores the burgeoning partnerships and collective efforts from scholars worldwide.

Ministerial representatives from culture, as well as heads of national academies and religious institutions, are deliberating on enhancing historical understanding, cultural synergy, and addressing economic integration for sustainable progress. Discussion topics include the mutual influences among Central Asian cultures, historical narratives, and economic partnerships.

The congress schedule is embedded with plenary sessions examining crucial subjects such as ancient manuscripts, historical texts, digital archives, and technology's role in humanities studies, including the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the integration of Central Asia's scientific prowess into modern education is a focal point of these discussions, reflecting a commitment to developing cultural diplomacy and international educational strategies.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the enlightenment that historical figures from the region contributed to global knowledge and cultural development. He articulated the importance of learning from history to maintain peace and stability amid contemporary global challenges.

One of the crowning projects of President Mirziyoyev is the establishment of the Center for Islamic Civilization, which will officially open to the public in March 2026. This center endeavors to present the true essence of Islam and preserve Uzbekistan's historical contributions to global culture, setting forth as a pivotal global platform for multifaceted cultural dialogues.

The congress aims to unveil groundbreaking advancements across domains such as philosophy, mathematics, and broader scientific fields. It represents an inflection point for Uzbekistan's cultural and intellectual revival, serving as a beacon of dialogue that imparts values of peace, mutual respect, and human dignity to future generations.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center for Islamic Civilization, noted the extensive support for this initiative among cultural figures and government institutions, indicating a strong desire to showcase the region's invaluable intellectual heritage and engage in meaningful discussions around it.

The center is poised to host a variety of treasures from different historical periods and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the rich narrative of the Islamic world. With interactive exhibitions displaying key breakthroughs in fields such as algebra, astronomy, and medicine, the center will educate visitors on the phenomenal contributions made during the Islamic Golden Age.

In summary, the ongoing congress in Tashkent is not merely an event; it is a monumental acknowledgment of Central Asia's past, present, and future, shaping the region's scholarly landscape and cultural heritage for years to come.