Odile Renaud-Basso at the Center for Islamic Civilization. Photo: CIC
A delegation led by European Bank for Reconstruction and Development President Odile Renaud-Basso has visited the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, the CIC press service reported.
The visit took place on the sidelines of the 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum.
The guests toured the Center's exhibitions, which showcase Uzbekistan's historical heritage through modern digital technology. The delegation learned about the key chapters of the country's history, from the era of Amir Timur and the Timurids to New Uzbekistan.
Renaud-Basso was especially drawn to the unique suzani embroideries, an interactive model of Mirzo Ulugbek's observatory, and the museum's digital displays. According to CIC representatives, the exhibits show how historical heritage can take on new meaning through modern technology.
At the close of the visit, the Center's director, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, presented the EBRD president with a book devoted to the theme of the Third Renaissance. The publication explores the achievements of prominent Uzbek scholars, the advancement of science and education, and the reforms underway across the country.
«This center is an impressive place where the country's rich past and its modern vision for the future come together in harmony. It helps you better understand Uzbekistan's role on the Great Silk Road, which connected East and West. What is particularly striking is how historical heritage is woven together with innovative technologies and artificial intelligence tools. A living dialogue between past and present has been created here. I see this Center as a place that vividly reflects the greatness of Uzbekistan's past and the opportunities of its future. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for this far-reaching initiative,» Renaud-Basso said.
The EBRD president also signed the CIC's Book of Distinguished Guests. She called the museum an amazing place and noted that the exhibition lets visitors travel through the history of Uzbekistan, from ancient times through two Renaissances to the modern stage of the country's development. She said she was especially impressed by the way ancient artifacts, jewelry, carpets, and books are combined with modern technology and artificial intelligence tools.
The Center for Islamic Civilization was built in the Uzbek capital, next to the Hast-Imam complex. Designed in the style of medieval architectural monuments, it features four portals, each 34 meters high, and a central dome rising 65 meters. The building houses a Quran hall, a conference hall seating 550, and a museum whose exhibitions will span the entire history of Uzbekistan, from pre-Islamic times to the present day. The CIC is intended to become a platform for studying the heritage of past generations and its contemporary interpretation, in partnership with the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan and with research and educational centers around the world.
