The 5th International Symposium “Alisher Navoi and the Eastern Renaissance” Celebrated in Tashkent

The Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies hosted the 5th International Symposium “Alisher Navoi and the Eastern Renaissance”, held on the occasion of the 585ᵗʰ anniversary of the birth of Mir Alisher Navoi, one of the greatest poets and thinkers of the Turkic world. The event, co‑organized by the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, the Alisher Navoiy International Public Foundation, and the Writers’ Union of Uzbekistan, brought together scholars and diplomats from across Asia and Europe.

A Ceremony of Respect: Flowers at the Navoi Monument

The symposium opened with a flower‑laying ceremony at the Alisher Navoi Monument in the National Park of Uzbekistan. This symbolic gesture underscored the enduring reverence for Navoi’s literary legacy and his role in shaping the cultural identity of the region.

Diplomatic representatives joined the ceremony, including the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan, as well as guests from the Italian Embassy. Particularly notable was the participation of Japanese and Chinese students, who honored Navoi by delivering their speeches in the Uzbek language — a powerful demonstration of cultural exchange and respect.

Official Opening at the University

The official opening ceremony took place at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.
Distinguished speakers included:

Prof. Gulchehra Rikhsiyeva, Rector of the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies
Professor Olimjon Davlatov, Executive Director of the Alisher Navoi International Public Foundation

During the event, the organizers held the Award Ceremony for the winners of the “Followers of Navoi” competition, recognizing young scholars and enthusiasts who continue to keep Navoi’s intellectual heritage alive.

A representative from the Turkish Embassy also addressed the audience, highlighting Turkiye’s strong historical, linguistic, and cultural ties with Navoi’s legacy.

An International Gathering of Scholars

The symposium united prominent academics, researchers, and cultural figures from various countries, reflecting Navoi’s global influence. Among the participants were scholars from:

Belgium
South Korea – Geelhwan Ko
Hungary – Damla Saygılı
Austria – Fatih Yücel
Turkiye
Afghanistan – Mazharuddin Labib
Pakistan
Iran – including Yaghoub Khazaei
Kyrgyzstan
Cyprus – Ghadir Golkarian, Professor at Near East University, Doctor of Sciences

The diversity of the participants highlighted the universal significance of Alisher Navoi’s work, transcending linguistic, national, and cultural borders.

A Cultural Finale: “Nazm va navo” at Turkiston Palace

The symposium concluded with a literary and musical evening titled “Nazm va navo”, held at the Turkiston Palace of Art. The program blended poetry and traditional music, creating an atmosphere that paid tribute to Navoi’s profound contributions to Eastern literature, lyrical expression, and aesthetics.