Speaking at the opening ceremony, Alamjon Dulatov, president of the Amir Ali Shir Nawai International Cultural Foundation, hailed Persian as a “gateway to intellectual and cultural dialogue” between the two nations.
Highlighting the enduring bonds that unite Iran and Uzbekistan, Dulatov emphasized the deep historical, religious, and literary connections shared by the two nations, noting that Persian literature remains a foundational element of their cultural identity.
“Initiatives like this course not only improve language proficiency among academics, but also serve as a platform for sustained scholarly exchange,” he said.
Dulatov commended Samarkand State University for its efforts in promoting Iranology and Persian studies, revealing that two specialized classes in Persian language and Iranian studies have been launched for faculty members since February 2025.
He also recalled the contributions of iconic transregional figures such as Avicenna—born in Bukhara and active in Hamedan and Isfahan—and the 15th-century poet and statesman Amir Ali Shir Nawai, whose bilingual works in Persian and Turkish enriched Central Asian literary heritage.
Proposing the course be held on an annual or biennial basis, Dulatov stressed the importance of continuity in cultural and academic collaboration. He also expressed gratitude to Iran’s Cultural Attaché and Embassy in Tashkent for their support in advancing cultural diplomacy.
“The promotion of shared linguistic and literary heritage forms the bedrock of deeper political and economic partnerships,” he added.
The course, which runs from July 25 to August 5, 2025, underscores a growing commitment by both countries to reinvigorate the Persian cultural sphere and build enduring scholarly networks across the region.
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