President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev arrived in Uzbekistan on November 15 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to take part in the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders.
According to Report’s correspondent in Tashkent, Aliyev was welcomed with an honor guard at Tashkent International Airport, where he was greeted by Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and other senior officials.
Aliyev and Mirziyoyev Hold One-on-One Meeting
Later in the day, Aliyev held a one-on-one meeting with President Mirziyoyev.
The two leaders noted that relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan – rooted in alliance and strategic partnership – continue to expand across multiple sectors.
They highlighted the importance of regular high-level visits in strengthening bilateral ties and welcomed the growing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries in recent years. Aliyev’s participation in the Consultative Meeting was described as an important signal of this regional engagement.
Both presidents also exchanged views on further deepening cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian fields.
Aliyev Visits Center of Islamic Civilization
President Aliyev also toured the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, a major cultural and academic project launched by President Mirziyoyev in 2018.
The complex, built in the architectural style of ancient Samarkand, spans more than 10 hectares and features a 65-meter dome. It houses research departments, a national registry for rare manuscripts, a manuscript foundation, archives, a publishing division, and extensive exhibition spaces.
The center’s museum includes halls dedicated to pre-Islamic civilizations, the First and Second Renaissances, 20th-century Uzbekistan, and the concept of the “Third Renaissance.”
A central exhibit features a dedicated Qur’an Hall, displaying the historic Mushaf of Uthman as well as rare Quranic manuscripts from the Samanid, Karakhanid, Khwarazmshah, and Timurid eras.
The complex also incorporates modern educational technologies, holographic installations, and multimedia displays such as the “Time Wall,” which animates major historical eras and scientific achievements. The center cooperates with UNESCO, ICESCO, and other international institutions.
Aliyev Attends ‘Heritage of the Future’ International Award Ceremony
Later on November 15, President Aliyev attended the “Heritage of the Future” International Award ceremony held in Tashkent.
Among this year’s laureates was renowned Azerbaijani mugham master and People’s Artist Alim Gasimov, who received the award representing Azerbaijan.
