The President of Uzbekistan emphasizes the importance of expanding cooperation with UNESCO

In Samarkand, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General.

The meeting focused on issues related to the development of Uzbekistan’s multifaceted partnership with this authoritative UN institution.

At the beginning of the conversation, Audrey Azoulay warmly congratulated the President on the historic event – the hosting of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, which is being held for the first time in 40 years outside UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris.

A positive assessment was given of Uzbekistan’s extensive efforts to organize the conference at the highest level and to enrich its agenda with practically significant events. In particular, these include the launch of the UNESCO Regional Center for Early Childhood Education, the ceremony honoring the winners of the Beruni Prize, a special event dedicated to the 3,000th anniversary of Samarkand, as well as forums on museums, artificial intelligence, gender issues, and many other topics.

The highest level of cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO in recent years was noted with satisfaction. The two sides have jointly organized the World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education, celebrated the 1050th anniversary of Beruni in Paris, and established an international prize in honor of this great scholar.

At the initiative of the Uzbek side, three important UNESCO resolutions have been adopted, and several new sites and cultural elements of Uzbekistan have been included in the Organization’s special lists.

Readiness was expressed to expand and deepen the partnership with UNESCO and to implement new joint projects in priority areas.

Following the meeting, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the development of cooperation in science, education, and culture, as well as her personal efforts in promoting Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev awarded Audrey Azoulay the high state award – the “Do’stlik” (Friendship) Order.

UzA