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President of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj, and his wife, Armanda Begaj, visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan as part of their official visit to the country. The distinguished guests were accompanied by the Speaker of the Legislative Chamber, Nuriddin Ismoilov.

The delegation was welcomed by the Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, who provided a comprehensive overview of the complex’s concept, exhibitions, and educational and research activities.

During the visit, President Bajram Begaj toured the Center’s impressive architectural structure and modern exhibitions, noting that it was the first time he had encountered a cultural and educational complex of such scale.

The guests began their tour in the Gallery of Great Figures. The interactive panels, multimedia technologies, and multilingual presentation of information attracted considerable interest from the Albanian delegation.

The exhibitions dedicated to pre-Islamic civilizations showcased the history of ancient cultures and statehood that developed in the territory of present-day Uzbekistan. In particular, the special exhibition based on the archaeological site of Kampyrtepa, unique artifacts related to the Bactrian civilization, and information highlighting the close connection between the Great Silk Road and the country’s history left a strong impression on the visitors. Rare ceramic artifacts decorated with bird motifs in the hall dedicated to the Sogdian civilization, as well as virtual technologies illustrating the lives of ancient civilizations, were highly appreciated.

In the section devoted to the First Renaissance, the guests paid special attention to the history of the Magoki Attori Mosque, rare Seljuk-era jewelry, rings, and bracelets. President Bajram Begaj praised the exceptional craftsmanship and intricate artistry of these objects, noting that it was remarkable to see such sophisticated works produced during the medieval period.

The exhibited samples of the sacred Kiswah, the covering of the Holy Kaaba, also attracted great interest from the visitors.

In the section dedicated to the Second Renaissance, visitors viewed chess pieces dating back to the era of Amir Temur, examples of miniature art, and works by European scholars about the great statesman. During the visit, discussions were held on Amir Temur’s role in the development of world civilization and the history of statehood.

The model of Mirzo Ulugbek’s observatory and the great scholar’s contributions to astronomy also drew significant interest. Exhibitions reflecting the scholarly, spiritual, and cultural relationship between Sultan Husayn Bayqara and Alisher Navoi were recognized as vivid examples of the high value placed on knowledge and enlightenment.

A rare historical garment inscribed with verses from the Holy Qur’an, ancient manuscripts, and exceptional examples of calligraphy also left a profound impression on the Albanian delegation. The guests particularly noted the preservation of these treasures through the centuries and the rich spiritual heritage they embody.

“Visiting the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan has been a great pleasure for me. This magnificent center, established through the visionary initiative and foresight of your President, is an invaluable treasure not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire world. Many guests and tourists will visit this place. Most importantly, the younger generation will have the opportunity to learn about your country’s rich history and civilizational heritage firsthand,” said the President of Albania.

The Head of State also shared his impressions of the Fifth Tashkent International Investment Forum.

“Participating in the Tashkent International Investment Forum has been an important experience for me. This was my first time attending the forum. It serves as a valuable platform for our entrepreneurs to find new partners, expand economic ties, and strengthen opportunities for cooperation. At the same time, such meetings help our peoples and countries better understand one another,” said Bayram Begaj.

During the visit, the guests also explored the exhibition “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of the Third Renaissance,” which highlights the large-scale reforms being implemented in the country and showcases modern urban development projects.

The mapping show presented in the Hall of the Holy Qur’an, along with rare manuscripts and information about the history of the Mushaf of Caliph Uthman, attracted special interest from the visitors.

At the conclusion of the visit, Director Firdavs Abdukhalikov presented plans to further expand educational and scholarly cooperation between Uzbekistan and Albania, strengthen ties between researchers of the two countries, and involve Albanian scholars in the activities of the Center.

President Bajram Begaj highly praised these initiatives, emphasizing that the Center’s activities and the extensive work being carried out there play an important role in promoting Uzbekistan’s rich history and civilizational heritage on the international stage.

The visit concluded in a warm and friendly atmosphere.