Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan through the eyes of world leaders

For many centuries, Central Asia has played an important role in the development of science, education, and spiritual culture, making a significant contribution to world civilization. To study in depth, preserve, and pass on this rich cultural heritage to future generations, the Islamic Civilization Center was established in Uzbekistan.

This center is not only a major architectural complex but also a unique space that brings together modern research infrastructure, advanced museum technologies, a contemporary library, a national and international archival system, and digital humanities platforms.

In September 2025, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, speaking from the high rostrum of the United Nations, announced the completion of the construction of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan and its imminent opening.

Since its establishment, the center’s exhibition has been significantly enriched and expanded. The Center has become a unique place attracting the attention of the international community. Today, it is visited by high-ranking guests from various countries, heads of state and government, and representatives of authoritative international organizations to become familiar with its unique scientific projects.

Prominent political and public figures emphasize the significance of the Islamic Civilization Center.

Santiago Peña, President of the Republic of Paraguay:

– To understand a nation, one must know its history, and here the history is exceptionally rich. Many scientific and cultural achievements that made a tremendous contribution to human civilization originated precisely on this land. Uzbekistan’s greatest wealth is its historical heritage, scientific achievements, and cultural civilization. For example, many people are unaware that the first comprehensive scientific foundations of algebra or medicine emerged from this region. Paraguay is ready for promising future cooperation with Uzbekistan.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan:

– At present, strengthening regional identity based on the unique historical and cultural heritage of our peoples is of particular importance. The Islamic Civilization Center is a grand and unique complex. Indeed, it is a scientific, touristic, and ethnocultural project. I agree with the opinion of the President of Uzbekistan that the Islamic Civilization Center can become here, in Tashkent, a common platform for conducting scientific research in a very important field.

Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia:

– This major scientific and educational institution is extremely important not only for foreign visitors but also for the younger generation, as it allows them to learn about the culture and history of the Uzbek people.

Alexander Stubb, President of Finland:

– Every exhibition, every hall, every detail is thoughtfully designed. Delivering three thousand years of history to today’s generation in such a modern form requires great artistry and mastery. This Center has not only revived the heritage of past centuries but has also become a source of inspiration for future generations. In particular, the interactive displays and innovative technologies captivate young visitors. Here, they do not merely read about history, they feel it.

Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan:

– The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, established on the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, is yet another vivid proof of the country’s leader’s commitment to Uzbekistan’s rich cultural values. At a time when attacks against our religion are intensifying in some countries, and Islamophobia is taking on a systemic character, the opening of the Islamic Civilization Center demonstrates to the entire world that Islam is a religion of creation, tolerance, friendship, and brotherhood. The great figures of the Islamic world have made an immense contribution to global science and culture, and the Islamic Civilization Center clearly reflects this. I am confident that the Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent, unique in its grandeur and exhibitions, will become a source of pride for the entire Islamic world.

Radiy Khabirov, Head of the Republic of Bashkortostan of the Russian Federation:

– Here, modern technologies harmoniously merge with classical museum art. The interactive tools created especially for children deserve special attention they are extremely important for the upbringing of the younger generation. I was particularly fascinated by the “Pre-Islamic Period” section. Preserving and displaying artifacts from that era is very difficult, but here, there are exhibits dating back millennia before our era. A true tourist jewel has emerged in Tashkent. Anyone visiting Uzbekistan must see this Center. Such institutions transform the human mind, and for the youth, they are an immense school.

Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia:

– It is difficult to single out any one particular aspect of this Center – everything is exceptionally beautiful and thoughtfully designed. The period from three millennia before is presented consistently and logically. This clearly and vividly demonstrates the profound transformations the country has undergone over time. It is no coincidence that this Center was established on the initiative of your President. He has undertaken an immense and highly responsible task. Preserving Islamic history and its rich heritage and conveying it to the wider public through modern, clear, and accessible visual means requires great effort and a high level of vision. This is a true place of learning and understanding. Every visitor can easily comprehend history and culture here. 

In conclusion, the Islamic Civilization Center plays a key role in showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich spiritual heritage, thereby strengthening international cooperation.

Utkir Alimov, UzA