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A delegation led by Zou Jiayi, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan and closely got acquainted with its exhibitions. The Center holds particular significance as it was established at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The visit clearly demonstrated the close connection between economic development and spiritual heritage. Infrastructure development is not based solely on investment and modern construction, but also on the historical experience, scientific achievements, and civilizational legacy of nations.

The delegation first toured the “Hall of Honor,” where the images of great scholars and statesmen who emerged from Central Asia are embodied through architectural and artistic solutions. The space provided the guests with a comprehensive understanding of the continuity of scientific thought and statehood traditions.

In the Pre-Islamic Period section, the cultures of ancient Khorezm, Sogd, and Bactria, the heritage of the “Avesta,” and archaeological discoveries sparked deep interest in the region’s millennia-old civilizational roots. Interactive presentations, models of ancient cities, and multimedia solutions were viewed with particular attention.

While exploring the “Great Silk Road Map,” the guests emphasized that Uzbekistan’s historical position at the crossroads of trade and cultural exchange is in harmony with today’s processes of international economic cooperation. This once again highlighted the close link between historical heritage and modern economic relations.

In the First Renaissance section, the scientific environment formed in the 9th–12th centuries and the contributions of scholars such as al-Khwarizmi, al-Biruni, and Ibn Sina to global scientific progress were brought to life through modern museum technologies, leaving a strong impression on the delegation. The interactive presentation of scientific heritage further enhanced the exhibition’s impact.

In the Second Renaissance section, it was clearly demonstrated — through manuscripts and visual installations — how science and architecture were elevated to the level of state policy during the Timurid era, and how Samarkand and Herat gained prominence as scientific centers. The delegation reviewed these exhibitions with great interest.

The multimedia presentations in the section “New Uzbekistan — The Foundation of a New Renaissance,” reflecting the country’s recent reforms, directions of international cooperation, and infrastructure projects, were also highly appreciated.

Zou Jiayi, President of AIIB:

The exhibitions presented are extremely rich in information and have great educational value. We have gained a great deal of new knowledge about your remarkable culture, rich traditions, and scientific heritage. We have seen that your history and culture are closely linked with science and knowledge. I am deeply impressed and highly value this.

According to the delegation members, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is a vivid example of advanced practice in preserving historical heritage and presenting it to the global community in a modern format.

Thus, this meeting in Tashkent once again demonstrated the principles of openness, cooperation, and spiritual development of New Uzbekistan through the harmony between an international financial institution and civilizational heritage.