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The Indonesian socio-educational publication Indonesia Inside devoted extensive coverage to the speech delivered by the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, Sheikh Mohammed Al-Issa, at the First International Islamic Civilization Forum, recognizing Uzbekistan as one of the most important scientific and spiritual centers of Islamic civilization. The publication noted that historic cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara have made immense contributions to the advancement of science, trade, and religious thought for centuries. Today, major initiatives such as the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan and the Imam Bukhari Complex serve to preserve this rich heritage and promote it to the international community. The forum was also described as an important international platform showcasing Uzbekistan’s initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance, dialogue among civilizations, and international scholarly cooperation.

In his address, broadcast on national television during the international forum titled “Islamic Civilization: The Path of Peace, Tolerance and Enlightenment,” held in Tashkent on July 8, 2026, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, Sheikh Mohammed Al-Issa, placed particular emphasis on Uzbekistan’s significant role in the history and development of Islamic civilization.

The Saudi scholar noted that historic cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara have served as major centers of science, trade, and the exchange of religious values since the era of the Great Silk Road. According to him, these cities have played an unparalleled role in the emergence and flourishing of Islamic civilization.

According to Mohammed Al-Issa, the rich intellectual heritage created in this region continues to play a vital role in fostering dialogue among civilizations, strengthening tolerance, and promoting peace throughout the world.

He also highly praised the Government of Uzbekistan for the ceremonial opening of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan in Tashkent this March. The complex encompasses cultural, educational, and scientific research activities and is regarded as one of the country’s largest centers for Islamic studies.

Mohammed Al-Issa also highlighted the Imam Bukhari Memorial Complex being constructed near Samarkand. According to him, the complex will preserve the scholarly and religious legacy of eminent figures closely associated with the land of Uzbekistan, including Imam Bukhari, Imam Tirmidhi, and the distinguished theologian Imam Maturidi.

In his view, such large-scale initiatives clearly demonstrate Uzbekistan’s firm commitment to reviving the intellectual, scholarly, and cultural heritage of Islamic civilization and presenting it as a source of inspiration for present and future generations.

The international forum was held under the patronage of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It was jointly organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan.

Over the course of several days, the forum brought together nearly 300 speakers from 40 countries. Participants discussed a wide range of pressing issues related to the contributions of Islamic civilization to science, education, tolerance, and the promotion of global peace.

The successful convening of the forum once again reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s status as one of the foremost centers of Islamic intellectual heritage. At the same time, it underscored the country’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation aimed at advancing the ideals of tolerance, dialogue, and the progress of civilizations.