Russia’s and Uzbekistan’s Muftis Sign Cooperation Memorandum in Rio de Janeiro

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the VI International Conference “Spiritual Silk Road: The Role of Spiritual and Moral Values in Bringing Peoples and Continents Closer,” held in Rio de Janeiro, a meeting took place between Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin, Chairman of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation and Chief Mufti, and Sheikh Nuriddin Holiknazar, Chairman of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan and Mufti of the country.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chairmen of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia — Muftis Rushan Abbyasov, Ildar Galeev, and Dinar Gainetdinov.

Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin warmly thanked the Uzbek delegation for participating in the forum, emphasizing the deep historical and spiritual ties between the Muslims of Russia and Uzbekistan. He particularly highlighted the significance of the world-renowned madrasa “Miri Arab,” which played a major role in training religious figures during the Soviet period, and fondly recalled his own years of study there. The head of Russian Muslims invited the Uzbek Mufti to visit the Moscow Cathedral Mosque and lead Friday prayers.

In response, Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Holiknazar expressed gratitude for the invitation and proposed holding the next “Spiritual Silk Road” conference in Uzbekistan.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining agreements to develop cooperation in religious, educational, scientific, and cultural-educational spheres. Special attention was given to joint projects in theological research, exchange of experience in religious education, work with youth and migrants, prevention of extremism, and the organization of joint conferences, seminars, and scientific events.

The signing of the memorandum marked an important step in strengthening the fraternal ties between Muslims of Russia and Uzbekistan, based on centuries-old traditions of friendship, respect, and spiritual unity.