A delegation led by Stefano Berterame, Secretary of the International Narcotics Control Board, visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan. The guests closely familiarized themselves with all the exhibition halls of the Center's museum and highly appreciated the rich historical and cultural heritage presented there.
It was specifically emphasized that the main purpose of this center, established at the initiative of our country's leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is to deeply study and convey to the general public the rich three-thousand-year history of our people, our creative potential, our huge contribution to world civilization, and the cultural and educational heritage of our great ancestors. The delegation's visit was also highlighted as being in complete harmony with these lofty goals.
The guests showed great interest, particularly in the ancient Bactria section dedicated to the pre-Islamic period. This region is historically recognized as one of the centers of religious tolerance. According to sources, during the Kushan Empire, which ruled for nearly 400 years, a significant portion of the world's population lived in this very region.
During this period, places of worship belonging to various religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism operated side by side, showing that religious tolerance was already at a high level in this land two thousand years ago. The Buddha statues, models of ancient temples, and unique gold artifacts related to Bactria displayed in the exhibition left a strong impression on the delegation members.
The hall dedicated to the First Renaissance did not escape the guests' attention either. Models of architectural monuments such as the Samanid Mausoleum, Magoki Attori Mosque, Chashmai Ayub Mausoleum, and Qusamiya Madrasah are displayed here. In addition, exquisite jewelry from the Seljuk period and the state coat of arms depicting a double-headed eagle aroused great interest among the guests. It is worth noting that these unique antiquities were returned from foreign countries at the initiative of our country's leader and became an integral part of our national heritage.
The members of the delegation also familiarized themselves with the exhibition of the Second Renaissance period and the sections of "New Uzbekistan — the Foundation of the New Renaissance," receiving detailed information about the large-scale reforms and spiritual-educational growth processes being implemented in our country.
Stefano Berterame, Secretary of the International Narcotics Control Board:
“This center stands out for its uniqueness. Because it not only collects historical artifacts and exhibits, but is also aimed at providing visitors with deep knowledge about Islam, its history, and civilization on the territory of Uzbekistan.
Most notably, this museum is not limited to mere observation; there is an opportunity to directly familiarize oneself with certain exhibits and even touch them.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has a comprehensive strategic vision for the future of the entire country. I also participated in a conference in Samarkand dedicated to drug control issues. I also met with representatives of the Ministry of Health and got acquainted with the work being done to digitalize drug control. From this perspective, I believe this museum is a small yet important piece of the 'New Uzbekistan' mosaic being built by the President.”
The guest also emphasized that it would be appropriate to establish a similar modern and comprehensive museum dedicated to Italian and Roman civilization in the city of Rome as well. Expressing that he will certainly share his impressions of the Center with others, he noted that such projects can serve as an important source of inspiration for new initiatives and ideas.
At the end of the visit, Stefano Berterame left his warm thoughts and impressions in the Center's guestbook of honor. The guests highly praised the activities of this unique place and noted that they were deeply impressed by the organized exhibitions and the presented historical-cultural heritage.
