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As Uzbekistan continues its efforts to harmonize its historical and cultural heritage with modern humanitarian diplomacy and enlightenment policies, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, established at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, hosted another significant event in the country’s intellectual life. The Center held the presentation of Selected Works and Shuur by renowned poet Farida Afroz, an Honored Cultural Worker of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Bringing together literature, national heritage, and contemporary enlightenment, the event became a platform for intellectual dialogue, once again demonstrating that promoting a culture of reading and fostering an intellectually vibrant society remain important priorities of the country's public policy.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has sought to establish itself not only as one of Central Asia’s leading economic and political centers but also as an international humanitarian platform dedicated to researching, preserving, and promoting the rich scholarly heritage of Islamic civilization. As a key component of this strategy, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan regularly hosts academic conferences, international forums, cultural events, and book presentations.

The presentation of Farida Afroz’s books, held in the Center’s innovative library equipped with modern facilities, became another practical expression of these noble objectives.

The event brought together distinguished writers and poets, scholars, literary critics, People's Artists of Uzbekistan, representatives of culture and the arts, university students, and members of the wider public. Participants exchanged views on the artistic and philosophical dimensions of Farida Afroz’s work, her contribution to the development of Uzbek literature, the promotion of reading culture, and the role of literature in the country’s ongoing spiritual and cultural reforms.

As participants emphasized, the Islamic Civilization Center has evolved beyond being a museum complex showcasing rare manuscripts, historical artifacts, and cultural treasures. Today, it is becoming a major humanitarian platform for intellectual dialogue, creative exchange, and academic collaboration.

People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Ra’no Yarasheva reflected on nearly four decades of creative collaboration with Farida Afroz, describing the poet’s works as poetry that speaks directly to the human soul, encouraging readers to reflect and pursue spiritual growth.

“The harmony of history, scholarship, and poetry within the Islamic Civilization Center is of great significance for the country’s spiritual life. Bringing together scholars, poets, and artists in such an environment creates broad opportunities for new creative dialogue,” said Ra’no Yarasheva.

Writer Shohida Isoqova highlighted the historical roots of Farida Afroz’s творчество in the literary traditions of Kokand, the legacy of Nodirabegim, and the national literary school.

“Holding this book presentation at the Islamic Civilization Center carries symbolic significance, demonstrating that the Center is becoming one of the country’s permanent intellectual platforms uniting scholars, intellectuals, and creative professionals,” she noted.

Botir Ergashev, an Honored Cultural Worker of the Republic of Uzbekistan, spoke about the spiritual and philosophical depth of Farida Afroz’s poetry, emphasizing that each of her verses contributes to nurturing the human spirit.

“The organization of book presentations at the Islamic Civilization Center demonstrates that the institution’s mission extends far beyond that of a museum. It is developing into a comprehensive educational and cultural center dedicated to shaping the spiritual values of future generations.”

People’s Artist of Uzbekistan Zulayho Boyxonova, after touring the Center’s exhibitions, noted that they present the nation’s rich history, scientific achievements, and civilizational heritage at an exceptionally high level through the use of modern technologies.

According to her, the Center inspires every visitor with a sense of pride in and responsibility for the nation’s history.

Farida Afroz, the central figure of the presentation, described the event as one of the most memorable moments of her creative career.

“To be honest, I never expected my books to be presented at the Islamic Civilization Center. This is a great honor and a profound source of happiness for me. As I entered through the Kokand Gate, I once again felt grateful that such a magnificent center of enlightenment had been established in our country. The attention our President gives to intellectuals, poets, and creative figures is a tremendous source of inspiration for all of us. For a poet, the greatest happiness is seeing a book reach its readers and touch their hearts. Today, I experienced that happiness once again,” said Farida Afroz.

She added that having her books presented at the Islamic Civilization Center was, for her, a mark of exceptional recognition of her literary achievements.

The presentation also featured musical performances and artistic compositions inspired by the poet’s works. Participants had the opportunity to engage with the author, explore her newly published books, and receive personally signed copies.