President Mirziyoyev Opens 43rd Session of UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In the historic city of Samarkand, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered the official opening address at the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference.

The forum is being held outside UNESCO headquarters in Paris for the first time in 40 years, highlighting Uzbekistan’s high international standing and the global community’s trust in its ability to host the conference.

In his speech, Mirziyoyev emphasized the unique historical and cultural significance of Samarkand as a center of science, education, and intercivilizational dialogue. He noted that the city was a thriving hub of knowledge and culture, where the observatory of Mirzo Ulugbek produced a unique star catalogue that influenced the discoveries of Copernicus and Kepler. The President welcomed all delegation members and particularly acknowledged the presence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, and UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.

Key Challenges and Global Initiatives

Mirziyoyev highlighted the growing global challenges to preserving cultural heritage, including geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, and unequal access to knowledge and digital resources, which exacerbate social and economic inequality. He stressed the need to strengthen multilateral cooperation and solidarity among UNESCO member states.

Among Uzbekistan’s key initiatives at the conference are the development of inclusive education through artificial intelligence, the “AI in Schools” project, and the establishment of an International Forum of Experts on AI Ethics. The President also proposed the creation of a UNESCO Academy for Women’s Leadership and a Global Forum on Women in Education, Science, and Culture.

Special attention was given to preserving intangible cultural heritage, including maqom music, the “Lazgi” dance, miniature painting, Navruz celebrations, and traditional crafts. Mirziyoyev proposed establishing an International Institute for Digital Heritage and designating November 19 as International Documentary Heritage Day under UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” program.

Environment, Sustainable Development, and Media Literacy

The President introduced the “UNESCO Eco-Capital” initiative, aimed at recognizing cities that successfully implement green programs and demonstrate environmental responsibility. He also proposed a comprehensive UNESCO strategy to promote media literacy, designed to protect youth from manipulation and the spread of disinformation.

Mirziyoyev underscored the importance of promoting tolerance and interfaith dialogue, calling for the use of unique Uzbek cultural and educational projects, such as the Center for Islamic Civilization and research centers dedicated to Imam Bukhari, Imam Maturidi, Imam Termezi, and Bahauddin Naqshband.

Uzbekistan’s Achievements and UNESCO’s Role

The President highlighted the high level of Uzbekistan’s cooperation with UNESCO in recent years, including hosting the World Conference on Early Childhood Education, celebrating the 1050th anniversary of Abu Rayhan Beruni, and establishing an international award in his honor. The inclusion of Khiva, Bukhara, Shakhrisabz, and Samarkand in the World Heritage List, as well as recognition of natural areas and intangible heritage elements, demonstrates the country’s strong international recognition.

Under UNESCO’s auspices, Uzbekistan has successfully operated eight university chairs and 24 partner schools. Tashkent and Fergana have joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, and hundreds of cultural heritage sites have been restored according to international standards.

Conclusions and Outlook

Mirziyoyev stressed that the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference will serve as an important platform for developing global solutions in education, science, culture, and the arts. He noted that the “Samarkand Spirit,” rooted in the traditions and values promoted by UNESCO, will guide further strengthening of international cooperation and trust.

The President wished all conference participants success and expressed confidence that its outcomes would positively contribute to the development of a sustainable and harmonious global partnership.