The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) co-organized the International Conference “Andalusian Legacy and Civilisation: from Birth to Contemporary Transformation.” The Conference, convened on 6 and 7 November 2024 in Granada, Spain, was held by ICESCO Chair for Alliance of Civilizations at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at Qatar University, in cooperation with several Arab and European institutions. The event gathered historians and academics from 13 countries and featured discussions of approximately 40 research papers.

In his address during the Conference’s opening session, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector at ICESCO, emphasized the world’s need for forums and organizations that foster hope amidst global conflicts. Mr. Karimov noted that the presence of Muslims in Andalusia embodied a vibrant example of constructive intercultural relations, with the region experiencing 800 years of scientific, literary, and artistic creativity. Mr. Karimov concluded by affirming ICESCO’s support for all international efforts aimed at promoting the values of intercultural dialogue.

Amb. Khalid Fathalrahman, Head of ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue, chaired the Conference’s closing session. In his remarks, he highlighted that the Conference exemplifies the concept of “civilizational diplomacy,” coined by ICESCO. Amb. Fathalrahman praised the Conference’s recommendations, which pave the way for integrated efforts to celebrate the manifestations of Islamic cultural contributions in Andalusia.

The Conference papers covered various topics, including the historical foundations of the Islamic presence in Andalusia, exploration of its influences, and analyses of contemporary transformations in the context of Spain’s relationship with the Islamic world.