In 2025, Samarkand will host the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference - the United Nations Organization for Education, Science, and Culture. The decision was made at the previous session in November 2023, marking the first time since 1985 that the event will take place outside of Paris.
On March 15, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a resolution outlining preparations for the international forum. The document highlights the enhanced cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO in recent years, emphasizing UNESCO's role in elevating the country's reputation globally.
The resolution mentions the recognition of 14 unique aspects of Uzbekistan's cultural heritage by UNESCO between 2017-2023, including the inclusion of Bukhara in the Creative Cities Network. The 1050th anniversary of the birth of the great scholar Abu Rayhan al-Biruni was widely celebrated at UNESCO headquarters in September 2023.
An organizational committee, led by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, has been established to prepare for the UNESCO General Conference. The session will take place at the Silk Road Samarkand tourist complex, with the committee handling all organizational aspects, including modernizing venues with technical and telecommunication equipment.
Cultural events, excursions, and high-level receptions will be organized in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Shakhrisabz as part of the session. Additionally, multimedia productions will be created to highlight the significance of hosting the conference in Samarkand, to be broadcasted in domestic and international media and shared on social networks using hashtags and challenges.
Various commemorative items such as a book-album, postage stamps, calendars, and propaganda materials will be produced in multiple languages. The Uzbekistan Cultural and Arts Development Fund will serve as the working body of the organizational committee, with the state enterprise "InterForum" leading the preparations.
The resolution also mandates the expansion of Uzbekistan's permanent representation at UNESCO and assigns responsibilities to ministries and agencies for timely and quality execution of tasks. Efforts to promote Uzbekistan's rich history, cultural heritage, and global initiatives abroad have been emphasized, with a focus on collaboration and cooperation with international partners.
The regions of Karakalpakstan, Tashkent, and other relevant entities are tasked with conducting informational campaigns to elaborate on the significance of hosting the conference and positioning Uzbekistan as a key player in global politics and initiatives. Efforts to preserve cultural heritage sites in Samarkand and organize immersive exhibitions have also been outlined.
The preparations for the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand reflect Uzbekistan's commitment to showcasing its cultural heritage, fostering international cooperation, and solidifying its position on the global stage.
