On October 30, 2026, an international scientific-practical conference titled «A Mark Left in History: A Legacy for Future Generations» took place at the Asia International University in Bukhara. This major forum was dedicated to strengthening historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as promoting the legacy of Kazakh scholars and enlighteners who received their education at the renowned Kukeldash Madrasa in Bukhara.
The event was attended by representatives from the Karaganda Region delegation, as well as leading scholars, historians, researchers, cultural figures, and media representatives from both countries. A notable highlight was the participation of members from the international historical-cultural expedition «Abylai Khan’s Path» (Abylai Khannyn Qara Zholy), who are currently traveling along the significant route «From the Orda of Abylai Khan to Zhideli-Baysyn».
Talgat Sharipov, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Samarkand, delivered welcoming remarks to the participants. In his address, the diplomat emphasized the strategic importance of deepening bilateral humanitarian ties. He noted that the legacy of prominent thinkers who emerged from the historical and spiritual environment of Bukhara serves as a solid foundation for good-neighborly relations and represents a shared treasure belonging to both fraternal nations.
The primary objective of the conference was to examine and promote the legacy of historical figures who, through the educational environment of the Kukeldash Madrasa, exerted a profound influence on the development of science, culture, literature, and social consciousness across the Kazakh steppe. For centuries, this institution served as a focal point for the pursuit of knowledge among the peoples of Central Asia. Its graduates-a distinguished cohort of Kazakh biys (traditional leaders/judges), steppe thinkers, poets, and spiritual mentors (ulema)-returned to their homelands to share the knowledge they had acquired, engaging in teaching, scholarly pursuits, and creative endeavors.
Forum participants paid special attention to the study and popularization of the legacy of the great Bukhar Zhyrau. During the discussions, it was emphasized that this prominent thinker served as a key associate, chief advisor, and ideologue to Ablai Khan; their unique partnership-encompassing both statecraft and spiritual guidance-played a decisive role in uniting the Kazakh lands and strengthening the nation’s statehood.
As part of the conference, a presentation of new books in the Uzbek language dedicated to the historical, cultural and spiritual heritage took place: «Bukar Zhyrau», «Bukar Zhyrau Zhane Kokiltash Madrases», as well as «Kokiltashta oqygan kazakh gulamalary».
These fundamental works were authored by prominent Kazakhstani researchers and public figures: the renowned historian and ethnologist, Doctor of Historical Sciences, and Professor Zhambyl Artykbayev; Amantay Akishev, head of the «Bukhar Zhyrau Asyl Murasy» (Noble Heritage of Bukhar Zhyrau) public foundation; and Khurshida Abdullayeva-an Uzbek writer, poet, journalist, and translator who represents the Television and Radio Complex of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The participants exchanged views on preserving historical memory, passing on cultural heritage to future generations, and developing cooperation in the humanities and social sciences. The organizers and experts agreed that the purpose of today’s meeting lies not only in preserving the memory of the past but also in exploring the shared spiritual heritage of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan at a new level, and in promoting it within the international cultural sphere.
Holding such events directly contributes to strengthening friendship and mutual understanding, and to expanding cultural dialogue between the peoples of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
