Samarkand (TDI): President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a landmark address at the opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, marking the first time in four decades that the gathering was held outside the organization’s headquarters in Paris.
Welcoming world leaders, diplomats, and UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, President Mirziyoyev expressed gratitude for the trust placed in Uzbekistan to host such a prestigious global forum.
He said the event’s venue, the ancient city of Samarkand, a historic center of science and civilization, symbolized the enduring spirit of intercultural dialogue and humanistic values. “Samarkand has long been a cradle of knowledge, a bridge between East and West, and a land of peace and friendship among nations,” he remarked.
The Uzbek leader praised UNESCO’s 80-year contribution to global education, science, culture, and heritage preservation, emphasizing the organization’s growing role in promoting peace, diversity, and interfaith harmony.
Mirziyoyev voiced deep concern over global divisions, conflicts, and cultural destruction caused by wars and geopolitical tensions. He urged member states to revitalize multilateral cooperation and reaffirm their commitment to UNESCO’s humanitarian goals.
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During his address, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev unveiled a five-point plan aimed at deepening international cooperation and advancing UNESCO’s global agenda. His proposals covered education, culture, women’s empowerment, climate action, and digital responsibility.
The president called for greater access to quality learning for all, proposing the creation of a UNESCO Platform for Inclusive Education for Children with Special Needs. He also suggested convening a World Summit on Vocational Education to promote global knowledge sharing, alongside launching a “School of Artificial Intelligence” pilot project in Uzbekistan. In addition, he proposed hosting an International Expert Forum on AI Ethics under UNESCO’s auspices.
Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to protect humanity’s shared heritage, urging the strengthening of UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” program. He proposed designating November 19 as the International Day of Documentary Heritage and establishing an International Institute for Digital Heritage. He also invited member states to attend an International Handicrafts Congress to be held in Bukhara in 2027.
Highlighting gender inequality in global education and research, the president proposed the creation of a UNESCO Academy on Women’s Leadership and a Global Forum of Women Leaders in Education, Culture, and Science to be hosted in Samarkand.
To confront the growing environmental threats to cultural landmarks, Mirziyoyev announced the “UNESCO Ecological Capital” Global Initiative to recognize cities adopting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. He also supported a new UNESCO resolution on safeguarding heritage amid globalization and climate change, offering Khiva as the venue for an International Symposium on Heritage and Climate.
Addressing the dangers of misinformation, he proposed an International Festival of Children’s Cultural Content and the development of a Comprehensive Strategy on Media and Information Literacy to protect young audiences. He further invited nations to collaborate through Uzbekistan’s Islamic Civilization Center and related institutions to advance tolerance, enlightenment, and interfaith harmony.
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The president also reviewed Uzbekistan’s growing partnership with UNESCO, including the successful implementation of a five-year cooperation program (2023–2027). He noted the addition of several Uzbek sites, including monuments along the Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor and the Turan Deserts, to the World Heritage List, alongside intangible cultural elements like Shashmaqom, Lazgi, and Navruz.
He further highlighted ongoing projects such as UNESCO Chairs and Associated Schools in Uzbekistan, international art festivals, and major declarations adopted with UNESCO’s support, including the Khiva Process, the Tashkent Declaration on Early Childhood Care, and the Universal Access to Information declaration.
Concluding his address, President Mirziyoyev expressed confidence that the conference would mark a new era of cooperation among member states.
“The Spirit of Samarkand, inspired by UNESCO’s timeless values, will continue to unite us in the pursuit of shared progress and sustainable development,” he said. The President wished all participants success and meaningful outcomes from the historic gathering.
