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Dialogue among civilizations serves as an important foundation for strengthening trust and cooperation between nations. In this regard, the visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and his wife, Elke Büdenbender, to the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan became another significant expression of the cultural and educational ties between the two countries.

The distinguished guests were welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, and the Director of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, Firdavs Abdukhalikov.

During the visit, the Federal President and his wife toured the Center’s main museum exhibitions as well as its modern conference hall with a seating capacity of 550. The guests were introduced to the Hall of the Holy Qur’an, the Civilizations of the Pre-Islamic Period, the First and Second Renaissances, the Uzbek Khanates, the History of the Twentieth Century, and the “New Uzbekistan – New Renaissance” exhibition. Through these displays, Uzbekistan’s rich historical and intellectual heritage is presented in a comprehensive and interconnected manner.

Throughout the tour, the distinguished guest showed particular interest in the content of each section. He was especially impressed by the authentic historical artifacts from the pre-Islamic era, the scholarly presentation of ancient cultural layers, and the use of modern digital technologies to showcase the country’s historical heritage.

Speaking about his impressions of the Islamic Civilization Center, established at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as well as Uzbekistan’s role in regional affairs and international dialogue, Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized:

“The Islamic Civilization Center is truly a scientific center that presents, in a highly impressive manner, the history of Central Asia’s pre-Islamic period and Islamic civilization. Here, we had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Uzbekistan’s rich culture, centuries-old history, and civilizational heritage.

From Germany’s perspective, this region serves as a unique bridge between vast areas of Europe and Asia. Uzbekistan, in particular, has consistently demonstrated this bridging role in Central Asia through its path of development and its policies.”

The President of Germany also highlighted his discussions with the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, noting that relations between the two countries have steadily grown closer in recent years. According to him, the reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan are creating new opportunities for political dialogue, economic cooperation, business development, and cultural exchange. Frank-Walter Steinmeier acknowledged that all the necessary foundations have been established to further strengthen cooperation between Uzbekistan and Germany on the basis of trust, mutual respect, and shared practical interests.

The visit once again demonstrated that the Center is not only dedicated to preserving historical heritage but also serves as a scientific and educational platform that presents this heritage to an international audience through modern museum practices, digital solutions, and academic approaches.

The Federal President further emphasized that relations between Uzbekistan and Germany have significantly strengthened in recent years and that solid foundations have been laid for cooperation in the fields of politics, economics, business, and cultural exchange.

The visit of the President of Germany to the Islamic Civilization Center became an important event showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich history, knowledge-based heritage, and modern path of development to the international community. It also demonstrated that dialogue between the two countries continues to deepen not only through political and economic cooperation but also through history, culture, science, and strong people-to-people connections built on mutual trust.