On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed annually on 13 October, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) joins the international community in expressing solidarity with all victims of natural and human-made disasters around the world.
This year’s theme, “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,” highlights the urgent need to invest in resilience-building and preventive measures rather than in post-disaster recovery.
The OIC underscores that disasters continue to impose heavy human and economic costs, severely affecting socio-economic development and posing existential threats to vulnerable communities across many of its Member States.
With several Member States frequently impacted by floods, epidemics, earthquakes, landslides, storms, and droughts, the OIC places high priority on disaster prevention and management, as emphasized in its Ten-Year Program of Action 2025.
Reaffirming its commitment, the OIC calls for stronger partnerships among Member States, international organizations, and local communities to develop effective strategies that enhance preparedness, reduce vulnerabilities, and improve recovery capacities.
“As disasters become more frequent and intense due to climate change and other global challenges, we must act collectively and decisively to build resilience and protect lives,” said H.E. Mr. Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary-General of the OIC. “Investing in prevention today will save countless lives and resources tomorrow.”
The OIC also stresses the need to accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, in line with national disaster management strategies and priorities.
Embassy of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the Center, organized Japan’s first large-scale presentation of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan in Tokyo, reports Dunyo IA.
Event was attended by representatives of Japanese educational and cultural institutions, private companies, tourism organizations, diplomats from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, researchers, media representatives, as well as Uzbek compatriots and students residing in Japan.
During the presentation, it was highlighted that the Center of Islamic Civilization, established at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, will serve as an international platform for studying Islamic enlightenment, science, and culture, as well as for fostering dialogue among civilizations.
Event showcased comprehensive materials on the rich historical and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, the foundational contributions of great scholars such as Imam al-Bukhari, Imam al-Tirmidhi and Imam al-Maturidi to the development of Islamic jurisprudence and science, as well as the significant role of Amir Temur and the Temurid dynasty in world history.
Professor Tursunali Kuziev, Advisor to the Director of the Center, delivered a keynote address entitled “Toward the future through enlightenment”, detailing the significance of preserving cultural heritage, restoring historical memory and strengthening international dialogue.
Professor Manabu Shimizu of the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE-JETRO) in Japan underscored the importance of Uzbekistan's Third Renaissance concept and the advancement of cooperation among diverse civilizations, including Japan.
Within the framework of the event, a promotional documentary on the Center of Islamic Civilization was screened, alongside video presentations on Uzbekistan's prominent scholars and a photographic exhibition dedicated to the country's cultural heritage and architectural monuments.