The United States and Central Asian Countries Agree on Joint Protection of Cultural Heritage

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The United States and the five Central Asian countries — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the creation of the C5+1 diplomatic platform reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the protection and preservation of cultural heritage.

In a joint statement, the countries highlighted the unique cultural heritage of each state and emphasized the importance of exchanging expertise in monument preservation, museum management, and safeguarding cultural assets.

“The United States recognizes the significance of Central Asian countries’ cultural heritage and supports efforts to preserve it, including exchanges, joint exhibitions, and institutional cooperation,” the U.S. Department of State said.

The parties agreed to establish regional networks to prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural property, expand institutional partnerships, and facilitate expert exchanges in the fields of conservation, curatorship, restoration, and archaeology.

Special attention was given to the participation of C5+1 countries in the activities of the Council of National Museums, temporary exchanges of exhibits for exhibitions, and the promotion of national craft traditions, music, and dance.

Additionally, the cooperation framework includes support for educational and scientific initiatives, as well as the organization of cultural festivals and events aimed at popularizing the rich cultural heritage of the region.