François Déroche: "In written sources, the history of Tashkent dates back to ancient times, and many outstanding scholars originated from here".

I am a specialist in the study of ancient Quranic manuscripts. For a long time, I have conducted research on the Katta Langar Quran manuscript. At this international forum, I am presenting my projects for the preparation of facsimiles of 114 rare Quran manuscripts from around the world for placement in the Quran Hall of the Center for Islamic Civilization, as well as for organizing an international Quran calligraphy festival. In my view, it is essential to hold more international events like Uzbekistan’s Cultural Heritage Week. Studying the heritage of our ancestors is, firstly, very important for educating the younger generation, and secondly, such conferences play a significant role in promoting and preserving cultural and spiritual heritage, as well as in returning new copies of manuscripts to Uzbekistan. Holding the Week specifically in Tashkent is also significant, as, according to written sources, the history of Tashkent dates back to ancient times, and many outstanding scholars originated from here.