Tolerance and Knowledge: The Fruit of Dialogue Between International Centers

A scientific conference titled “Uzbekistan – A Land of Tolerance: Cultural Heritage and Interfaith Dialogue” was held at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center in collaboration with the International Research Center under the Nur-Mubarak Egyptian University of Islamic Culture in Kazakhstan. The event was attended by a delegation headed by Professor Shamsiddin Karim, director of the Center at Nur-Mubarak University, along with researchers and experts from the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center.

The conference featured in-depth discussions on ensuring freedom of conscience in Uzbekistan, strengthening interfaith tolerance and the practical significance of the state’s religious policy concept. It was emphasized that in Uzbekistan, every individual is guaranteed the right to religious affiliation and belief. A spirit of mutual respect and harmony prevails among representatives of various religions and denominations. Moreover, openness and a scholarly approach are considered priorities in the activities of religious educational institutions. This policy is notable for aiming to maintain a balance between secularism and religion.

Participants also exchanged views on issues of inter-institutional scientific cooperation, including future plans for joint research projects, training seminars and collaborative publications. Special attention was given to the study and digitization of manuscripts, and to making them accessible to the academic community and the wider public. The importance of applying modern technologies to the in-depth study of manuscripts related to Islamic civilization, and analyzing them from the perspectives of source studies and linguistics to derive new academic conclusions, was highlighted.

The attendees agreed that such meetings contribute significantly to fostering religious tolerance in the region and to developing cooperation in the fields of science and culture. They expressed a shared commitment to continue this work consistently in the future.

The conference served not only to strengthen scientific collaboration, but also to further promote Uzbekistan’s achievements in interfaith dialogue and the preservation of cultural heritage on the international stage.