Uzbek cultural official points to potential of stronger ties with Azerbaijan

Cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan create opportunities for the two countries to more broadly showcase their achievements and reforms to each other’s audiences, Oktam Usmonov, press secretary of the Islamic Civilisation Centre, told Report.

Speaking after the premiere of the documentary The Civilisation of Transoxiana in Tashkent, Usmonov said cooperation between media representatives from the two countries is important for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening humanitarian ties.

“Through the cultural ties between our two peoples, we can present Uzbekistan’s achievements and reforms to Azerbaijani audiences, as well as tell Uzbek audiences about developments and reforms in Azerbaijan,” he said.

The documentary The Civilisation of Transoxiana explores the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage, which for centuries was one of the major centres of science, education and Islamic civilisation.

The film examines the development of scientific thought in Transoxiana and the contributions of prominent scholars from the region to global science.

It highlights the legacy of Imam al-Bukhari, Imam al-Tirmidhi, Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, Avicenna, Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, Abu Mansur al-Maturidi and other distinguished thinkers.

The documentary also focuses on the preservation of Uzbekistan’s historical heritage, including ancient manuscripts and archaeological discoveries, as well as modern projects aimed at returning cultural artefacts to their homeland.

The film premiered as part of the International Media Forum “Islamic Civilisation: A New Perspective, New Discoveries,” which brings together journalists, scholars, media representatives and cultural figures from various countries.

By Jeyhun Aghazada