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On the eve of their departure for the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, 100 citizens selected for the first time as the “President’s Pilgrims” at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev were ceremonially seen off. Prior to the journey, spiritual and educational events were organized for the pilgrims in Tashkent. As part of the program, they visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, where they became closely acquainted with the rich history of the Uzbek people, their significant contribution to Islamic civilization, and the legacy of their ancestors. The guests were welcomed by the Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov.

The visit was attended by representatives of government and public organizations, officials from the religious sphere, respected elders, and the “President’s Pilgrims.”

Muzaffar Kamilov, Head of the Department for Religious and Educational Affairs of the Presidential Administration, described this initiative as a historic event in the life of the country.

“Today we are witnessing a noble initiative being implemented for the first time in our nation’s history. We do not call it a historic event without reason. Perhaps over the past several centuries, there has not been another example of a head of state personally initiating such exceptional care and attention by sending a distinguished group of citizens on the Hajj pilgrimage,” said Muzaffar Kamilov.

According to him, the fact that 100 citizens are being sent on the Hajj pilgrimage through the personal initiative and support of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is a practical expression of the profound respect and care shown to the people.

“These individuals are being sent off with the intention of offering prayers in Mecca and Medina for the peace of our country, the prosperity of our people, and the continued development of our nation. Among them are devoted individuals who have served their communities for many years, citizens who have worked in the social protection and healthcare systems, and humble people who have sincerely served in the religious and educational sphere. The inclusion of those who have served in mosques selflessly and solely for spiritual reward clearly demonstrates how people-centered and just this initiative is,” he said.

Muzaffar Kamilov noted that many elderly citizens had dreamed of performing the Hajj for years but had not had the opportunity to do so, emphasizing that the fulfillment of their long-cherished aspirations is deeply moving for everyone.

During the visit, the guests explored the Center’s exhibitions, rare manuscripts, historical artifacts, and the centuries-old spiritual heritage of the Uzbek people.

The exhibitions drew particular interest for their comprehensive presentation of the civilizations that flourished in present-day Uzbekistan before Islam, the legacy of First Renaissance scholars such as Imam al-Bukhari and Imam al-Tirmidhi, as well as the outstanding contributions of Second Renaissance figures such as Amir Temur and Alisher Navoi to statehood, science, and enlightenment.

The pavilions dedicated to the ideas of the Third Renaissance, the reforms being implemented in New Uzbekistan, and the country’s ongoing development projects also left a strong impression on the visitors.

The most moving part of the visit was the Hall of the Holy Qur’an. The rare Samarkand Kufic Quran preserved there, together with the unique atmosphere of the hall, left an unforgettable impression on the pilgrims. Special prayers were offered for the peace of the nation, the well-being of the people, and the continued progress of the country.

Homidjon Ishmatbekov, First Deputy Chairman of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, also highlighted the conditions created for the pilgrims.

“Beginning yesterday, the fathers and mothers selected as the President’s Pilgrims arrived in Tashkent from all regions of the country. Today, ahead of their sacred Hajj journey, they visited the Islamic Civilization Center, established at the initiative of our esteemed President. The Qur’an Hall and the rare Uthman Mushaf preserved there inspired great amazement and emotion among our pilgrims. They expressed profound gratitude to our President for the extensive efforts to preserve our sacred heritage and offered heartfelt prayers,” he said.

Ozoda Murodova, Head of the “Grandmothers’ School” under the Bukhara City branch of the Nuroniy Foundation, also shared her impressions.

“We came from noble Bukhara to Tashkent as ‘President’s Pilgrims’ through the initiative of our esteemed President. Today, we were blessed to visit the Center for Islamic Civilization, which we had long dreamed of seeing. The majestic atmosphere here and the harmony of history and spirituality left an extraordinary impression on us. The ideas of the Third Renaissance and the development projects being carried out in New Uzbekistan filled us, the elders, with great pride. The large-scale educational and constructive projects being implemented by Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev are truly historic undertakings that will serve our people and future generations,” she said.

Teacher Dilmurod Xolov emphasized that this initiative is a vivid example of honoring the dignity of the people.

“The recognition of our many years of service and the opportunity to perform the Hajj have filled our hearts with profound gratitude. Seeing the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan today has once again inspired our admiration. This place brings together the priceless history, scientific achievements, and spiritual heritage created by our people and our great ancestors. Establishing such a magnificent and meaningful center is no easy task. Even around the world, few institutions combine historical depth and educational scope on such a scale.

The manuscripts, historical artifacts, and scholarly heritage displayed here serve as a powerful source of inspiration and a spiritual school for today’s youth. Every exhibition vividly demonstrates the greatness of the civilization created by our people,” he said.

Matluba Qahhorova, Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Religious Affairs, noted the initiative’s significant educational importance.

“Today, our respected elders embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage set a high moral example for the younger generation through their life journeys, devotion, and exemplary service. This will further strengthen the values of patriotism, gratitude, and national pride in our society,” said Matluba Qahhorova.

At the conclusion of the event, the pilgrims offered prayers for the peace of the country, the prosperity of the people, and the continued development of the nation before departing on their sacred journey.