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The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan welcomed a delegation led by former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, Tony Blair.

The distinguished guests were received by Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. During the visit, the delegation was introduced to the vision behind this major educational and cultural complex, established at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as well as its scholarly and cultural concept and international significance.

Sharing his impressions of the Center, Tony Blair highly praised President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s initiative and strategic vision in bringing this landmark project to life:

“A project of this scale, impact, and intellectual depth requires exceptional vision, imagination, and courage. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has created an institution that will stand the test of time and continue to grow in significance with every passing year.

This Center is not merely about a particular historical era or cultural heritage. It embodies a broader vision of civilization, dedicated to the principles of enlightenment and tolerance that unite people. At the same time, it is a powerful reflection of the President’s leadership, determination, and ability to transform ambitious ideas into reality.”

The museum’s exhibitions presented the civilizations of the pre-Islamic period, the First and Second Renaissances, Uzbekistan’s historical development throughout the twentieth century, the concept of “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of the New Renaissance,” and the lives and achievements of great scholars who made outstanding contributions to world civilization. These themes were brought to life through advanced multimedia technologies, rare manuscripts, and priceless historical artifacts.

One of the most significant aspects of the visit was the delegation’s introduction to rare artifacts belonging to Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage that have been repatriated from foreign collections and international auction houses. Particular attention was given to items returned from the United Kingdom, highlighting the ongoing efforts to preserve, study, and restore cultural heritage to its historical homeland. It was emphasized that these initiatives are closely linked to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s policy of safeguarding the nation’s heritage and preserving it for future generations.

Tony Blair also visited the Center’s Qur’an Hall. The Uthman Mushaf, historic Qur’an manuscripts from different periods, together with the hall’s remarkable architectural design and spiritual atmosphere, left a profound impression on the distinguished guest.

Summarizing his impressions of the Center, Tony Blair described it as a truly unique educational institution of global significance:

“The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is one of the most remarkable places I have seen anywhere in the world. I have visited many countries and seen countless historical and modern institutions, yet this Center stands apart.

It offers a profound understanding of Islamic civilization, its rich heritage, and Uzbekistan’s Three Renaissances. The spirit of this place is built upon harmony, tolerance, peace, and the unifying values of humanity. In this sense, the Center is not simply a museum — it is a platform for dialogue between peoples and cultures. Uzbekistan should be genuinely proud of this achievement.”

Speaking about the prospects for scholarly and cultural cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom, Tony Blair commended the Center’s partnerships with leading academic institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge:

“I was delighted to learn that the Center is cooperating with Oxford and Cambridge. Such close academic and cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Uzbekistan are of great importance.

Some of the artifacts displayed here were once in the United Kingdom and have now returned to their historical homeland. I hope this will not remain merely a symbol of the past but will become an important sign of future cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom.”

At the conclusion of the visit, Tony Blair recorded his impressions in the Center’s Book of Honorary Guests. Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, presented the guest with a commemorative publication highlighting the lives and scholarly achievements of great scholars, the development path of New Uzbekistan, and the vision of the Third Renaissance.

The visit became yet another high-level recognition of Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural heritage, promote knowledge and enlightenment, and strengthen international cooperation.