BEIJING, February 9. /Dunyo IA/. A ceremonial event was held at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Beijing to mark the 585th anniversary of the birth of the great poet, thinker, “Sultan of the World of Ghazals” and statesman Alisher Navoi, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event was attended by Uzbek nationals studying at Chinese universities, those temporarily residing or working in the country, embassy staff and their families as well as representatives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Secretariat based in Beijing.

It was noted that Alisher Navoi’s birthday is not only an important historical date but also a genuine celebration of spiritual and cultural heritage. Events of this kind help to foster young people’s interest in literature, science and national values, reinforcing connections with their cultural roots.

It was emphasized that the priceless literary legacy of the great poet rightfully stands alongside the masterpieces of world literature, evoking a profound sense of pride and respect.

Special attention was given to Alisher Navoi’s wise admonition: “Caring for the language is caring for the nation”. It was noted that Uzbekistan’s state language policy harmoniously aligns with comprehensive reforms aimed at promoting human dignity and cultural enrichment.

It was emphasized that systematic efforts to study Alisher Navoi’s legacy among young people are of great importance, as is the creation of adapted, accessible versions of his works for modern audiences, including through mobile applications and digital platforms.

Navoi’s heritage was recognized as an inexhaustible source of spiritual values, with its study, preservation and transmission to future generations described as a sacred duty for everyone.

Additionally, the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Shanghai organized an event at Shanghai University dedicated to the great thinker, poet and founder of the Uzbek literary language, Alisher Navoi. The meeting was attended by Uzbek students enrolled at the university, further promoting engagement with their cultural heritage.

The event highlighted the rich legacy of the outstanding statesman and public figure Alisher Navoi as well as his exceptional role not only in the development of Uzbek literature, but also in shaping world literature, national culture and the literary-aesthetic worldview of the Uzbek people.

Participants were also informed that the Government of Uzbekistan places special emphasis on the preservation and promotion of the heritage of great cultural and historical figures.

At the conclusion of the event, staff of the Consulate General and Uzbek students took part in a ceremony to lay flowers at the monument of Alisher Navoi located on the university grounds, honoring his enduring legacy.

Sardar Gasanov, an Uzbek national working in China, commented:

I am pleased that we have gathered at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Beijing alongside fellow compatriots to celebrate the birthday of Alisher Navoi, the founder of the Uzbek literary language. The great poet made a tremendous contribution to world literature and poetry. Thanks to his works, the Uzbek language has gained broad international recognition and his literary legacy is studied and highly valued around the globe. Notably, a monument to Alisher Navoi has been erected in Shanghai, one of China’s largest cities, honoring his enduring influence.

Sevinch Safarova, a university student, shared her thoughts:

In honor of the 585th anniversary of the birth of the great poet and thinker Alisher Navoi, we visited the Embassy of Uzbekistan in China. During the event, we discussed the life and works of our esteemed predecessor, noting that his priceless cultural legacy remains relevant and significant for young people today. We listened to his ghazals and rubai. Alisher Navoi is not merely a poet, but a true master of the world of words. His Khamsa is an invaluable treasure, bequeathed to us and to future generations.

Sherali Tojimatov, an English language instructor, noted:

- At the cultural evening organized at our embassy, we once again reflected on the life and works of our esteemed predecessor, the “Sultan of the World of Ghazals” Alisher Navoi. Our fellow compatriots recited his ghazals and rubai. We constantly turn to his works and strive to pass on this spiritual legacy to our children. As an Uzbek who has been living and working in China for many years, I can note that interest among Chinese youth in studying the Uzbek language is growing. They are becoming acquainted with the works of our great poets and writers through dedicated mobile applications and digital platforms.