DOHA: Qatar National Library (QNL) and the National Library of Uzbekistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday to pave the way for future joint initiatives in various fields, including cultural exchange, technical cooperation, scientific research, and librarianship.
The MoU was signed by Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library, and Umida Teshabayeva, Director of the National Library of Uzbekistan. This agreement underscores the commitment of both institutions to promote and preserve shared Islamic cultural heritage and to foster international collaboration in the realm of librarianship.
Before the official signing ceremony, Tan Huism was given a comprehensive tour of the National Library of Uzbekistan by Mrs. Teshabayeva. During her visit, Tan expressed admiration for the library’s advanced facilities, its impressive collection of rare manuscripts, and the innovative approaches being implemented, such as content production for their YouTube channel and audiobooks.
At the signing ceremony, Tan Huism emphasized the critical role of cultural diplomacy and international cooperation in preserving cultural heritage and improving global access to knowledge.
“Our commitment at Qatar National Library is to work closely with our counterparts at the National Library of Uzbekistan to develop innovative projects and initiatives that will benefit both our countries and the global community,” Tan stated.
“We aim to leverage the evolving field of librarianship to create projects that not only serve our countries but also enhance global access to knowledge and contribute to a broader appreciation of our shared cultural legacy.”
Umida Teshabayeva also spoke at the ceremony, reflecting on the importance of collaboration between libraries. She shared her experiences from a recent visit to Qatar National Library, where she participated in the 29th meeting of directors of national libraries of Asia and Oceania.
“It is my pleasure to seal this close relationship with Qatar National Library by signing this memorandum,” Teshabayeva said. “I would like to express my gratitude to our guest for taking her time to visit our library.”
The National Library of Uzbekistan, established in 1870, boasts a vast collection of over 8 million resources, including maps, gramophones, sheet music, posters, newspapers, microfiche, and microfilm.
Among its treasures is the “Turkestan Collection,” a comprehensive encyclopedia of Central Asian history, ethnography, geography, economics, and culture, spanning 594 volumes from the early 1860s to 1917.
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