ISLAMABAD: In a commemorative speech, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador H.E. Mr. Alisher Tukhtaev marked the dual milestones of the 35th anniversary of Uzbek as the State Language and the 630th birth anniversary of the renowned scholar, Mirzo Ulughbek.
The ambassador highlighted the profound significance of Uzbek as more than just a mode of communication, calling it a living embodiment of the nation’s cultural heritage, traditions, and identity.
Established as the State Language in 1989, Uzbek has since played a critical role in fostering unity among diverse ethnic groups in Uzbekistan and contributing to literature, art, and science. Mr. Tukhtaev expressed pride in Uzbekistan’s efforts to promote the language both domestically and internationally, through education, support for young writers, and the development of linguistic resources like dictionaries and IT tools. The creation of the Uzbek-Urdu Dictionary of Mushtarak Words by Uzbek scholar Ansoriddin Ibrohim, with over 4,000 shared words, was noted as a symbol of the close cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
Turning to the legacy of Mirzo Ulughbek, Mr. Tukhtaev praised him as an influential figure in both governance and science. As a Timurid ruler in the 15th century, Ulughbek established the famous Samarkand Observatory, where he and his students made groundbreaking astronomical discoveries. His work, particularly the star catalog Ziji Jadid-e Kuragoni, remained a vital reference for centuries.
Beyond his contributions to astronomy, Ulughbek was a pioneer in education, bringing together scholars at his madrasa in Samarkand, fostering intellectual growth. His commitment to knowledge and scientific inquiry left an indelible mark on global science and culture, a legacy that continues to inspire scholars today.
The ambassador concluded by emphasizing the continued relevance of Ulughbek’s work, not just for Uzbekistan but for the global scientific community, including notable Pakistani astronomers.
