Uzbekistan forum explores Islamic civilisation's role in modern science

Published on 21/07/2026 - 15:00 GMT+2

Centuries after scholars from Central Asia helped shape mathematics, medicine, astronomy and philosophy, their intellectual legacy is once again at the centre of international discussion. The First International Forum of Islamic Civilisation brought together more than 450 researchers, religious leaders and policymakers from over 50 countries to explore how centuries of Islamic scholarship continue to influence education, scientific research and international cooperation.

The journey begins in Tashkent, where the forum opens with discussions on the role of education, science and cultural dialogue in addressing contemporary global challenges. It then continues to Samarkand and Termez, historic centres of Islamic learning, where participants revisit the legacies of Imam al-Maturidi and Imam al-Tirmidhi while exploring new initiatives ranging from interactive museums and manuscript digitisation to artificial intelligence and international academic partnerships.

Along the way, the programme highlights the lasting contributions of scholars such as al-Khwarizmi, Ibn Sina and al-Biruni, whose discoveries continue to shape modern science. The forum concludes with the adoption of the Tashkent Declaration, setting out a roadmap for future cooperation in research, education and the preservation of Islamic heritage.