International symposium takes place Navoiy, Uzbekistan, dedicated to Alisher Navoiy

Photo by Derya Soysal

On 8 February, a conference dedicated to the famous poet Alisher Navoiy was held in Navoiy, Uzbekistan, writes Derya Sosal.

Alisher Navoiy, born on February 9, 1441, in the Timurid Empire (present-day Uzbekistan), was an Uzbek poet and an important symbol of the Chagatai language.

The symposium began with a speech by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who emphasized the importance of Alisher Navoiy’s literary, scientific, and political contributions. The president highlighted the humanist messages conveyed by the poet, demonstrating the universal nature of his poetry.

The Uzbek president also stressed that Navoiy played a key role in elevating and developing the Uzbek language, making him one of the most significant authors in modern history.

He concluded his speech by stating that Uzbekistan is currently experiencing its Third Renaissance, drawing inspiration and energy from the works of the great poet.

Following the president’s speech, participants from 20 countries (including the United States, China, Iran, Belgium, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, etc.) shared their thoughts on the importance of Navoiy’s legacy.

Among the speakers, Derya Soysal, a Belgian expert on Central Asia, emphasized that the Timurid era was one of the most prestigious periods in history in terms of science and art. She also pointed out that Navoiy serves as a unifying symbol for the Turkic world.

Additionally, Turkish professors Abdurrahman Güzel and Vahit Türk, as well as American historian Said Reza Huseini from the University of Cambridge, spoke about the poet’s crucial role in both history and Turkic literature.

Vahit Türk noted that the most frequently used word in Navoiy’s poetry is “Könül” (heart/spirit), which appears in 22 ghazals.

The symposium was enriched by literary and historical studies, providing deeper insights into Navoiy’s contributions.

The event concluded with a concert organized by the Navoiy municipality and a grand feast. Finally, flowers were placed in front of Alisher Navoiy’s statue in Navoiy.

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