The Head of our state, warmly welcoming the guests, especially noted that the organization of the conference and participation of representative delegations of foreign countries in its work are another evidence of the expanding international cooperation aimed at strengthening interethnic harmony and religious tolerance in society, developing interfaith dialogue. 

It was emphasized that these joint efforts are called upon to promote the true values and truly humanistic goals of holy Islam in the world, to effectively counter modern challenges and threats, such as international terrorism and extremism. 

“Enlightenment against ignorance” – providing universal access to education, eliminating illiteracy and ignorance – these principled approaches of Uzbekistan have been repeatedly noted at authoritative international forums. 

The President of Uzbekistan, at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly in New York, forwarded the initiative on adoption of a special resolution on “Enlightenment and religious tolerance”. 

It should be noted that today targeted practical work is being conducted in this direction, in our country, international cooperation is expanding. 

In particular, Imam Bukhari International Research Center in Samarkand and Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent are being established in order to study the great heritage of our ancestors and transfer priceless knowledge to future generations. 

At the meeting it was emphasized that modern global process, increasing challenges and risks of security and stability stipulate the need for joint efforts, development of interfaith cooperation and dialogue. Issues of further strengthening of interethnic harmony and religious tolerance, development of education and moral upbringing of youth were discussed. 

Chairman of the Muslims Board of the Caucasus Allahshukur Pashazade expressed deep gratitude to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome and conveyed sincere greetings and best wishes on behalf of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. 

The guests of the meeting highly appreciated the ongoing activity in our country on ensuring tolerance and mutual respect, religious freedom, protection of the rights of believers. 

Participants of the international conference assured their readiness to continue active dialogue and full-scale cooperation with the Republic of Uzbekistan in order to ensure peace, harmony, stability and prosperity.