President Shavkat Mirziyoyev expressed sincere gratitude to international partners for supporting the historic decision to host the event in Samarkand, according to a release from the news agency received by ANTARA on Tuesday..
"On behalf of the multinational people of Uzbekistan and personally, I sincerely thank all our foreign friends and partners for supporting the historic decision to hold the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in the ancient city of Samarkand in 2025," the president wrote on his Telegram channel, as cited by Dunyo.
At the conclusion of the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference held in Paris from November 7 to 22, 2023, member states unanimously adopted a resolution to convene the next session -the 43rd - in Samarkand in 2025.
The decision was endorsed by all 194 member states, marking high-level recognition of Uzbekistan’s ongoing reforms and active engagement with UNESCO.
UNESCO’s decision also represents a major diplomatic success for Uzbekistan, as the session will be held outside its regular venue for the first time in 40 years.
The selection of Samarkand underscores international acknowledgment of Uzbekistan’s achievements in culture, science, education, communication, and information, as well as the country’s rich historical heritage.
As one of Central Asia’s oldest and most prominent cities, Samarkand is famed for its architectural landmarks and vibrant history. Once a key hub on the Great Silk Road, the city connected East and West through trade and culture.
Today, Samarkand is renowned for its iconic sites such as Registan Square, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis - symbols of architectural excellence and the city’s contribution to world civilization.
"I believe this important global event, held in our region for the first time, will once again demonstrate to the international community the vast civilizational potential of Uzbekistan and the Central Asian states," Mirziyoyev said.
"In turn, Uzbekistan will make every effort to organize and conduct the upcoming session at the highest level," he added.
To support the preparations, the president issued a decree on March 16, 2024, titled “Measures to Prepare for the Holding of the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in the City of Samarkand in 2025.”
Under the decree, an Organizing Committee was established to oversee preparations, and several working groups are now coordinating the related activities.
According to available information, more than 5,000 participants from 194 countries are expected to attend the conference and its side events.
In cooperation with UNESCO, the Government of Uzbekistan plans to hold a series of joint events addressing key topics such as the use of artificial intelligence in museums, gender equality, and women’s empowerment.
Ahead of the main conference, Samarkand will also host the 14th UNESCO Youth Forum and the 12th Interregional Meeting of National Commissions for UNESCO.
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Reporter: Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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