In 2025, the unique historic city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan will host the UNESCO General Assembly.

For the first time in more than 40 years, a key event of the United Nations cultural organization will take place outside of Paris.

The last time a UNESCO General Assembly was held outside of Paris was in 1985, in Sofia, Bulgaria. Since then, Paris has remained the permanent venue for this key event, and the move of the Assembly to Samarkand underlines the importance of this event.

Photo courtesy: Uzbekistan Embassy

Samarkand, one of the oldest and most prominent cities in Central Asia, is famous for its magnificent architectural monuments and rich history. The city was an important hub of the Great Silk Road that connected East and West.

Today, Samarkand is known for its historical buildings, such as the Registan, the Ulugbek Observatory and the Shahi-Zinda Mausoleum. These monuments not only reflect the architectural excellence and scientific achievements of antiquity, but also bear witness to the cultural exchange and influence of Samarkand on the development of world civilization.

Photo courtesy: Uzbekistan Embassy

Samarkand's unique historical monuments are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and attract tourists and scholars from all over the world. They not only increase the tourist attraction of the city, but also serve as an important reminder of the importance of preserving cultural and historical heritage for future generations.

The UNESCO General Assembly is a key event in which representatives of Member States debate current issues in the fields of education, science, culture and communication.

​Photo courtesy: Uzbekistan Embassy

The Assembly plays an important role in shaping UNESCO's global policy, developing new initiatives and creating international standards. UNESCO, founded in November 1945 and headquartered in Paris, brings together 193 member states.

Uzbekistan became a full member of UNESCO in 1993, and in 1996 the Organization's Representative Office was opened in Tashkent. Holding the Assembly in Samarkand is not only a recognition of Uzbekistan's contribution to global cultural and educational development, but also an opportunity to highlight the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage.

​Photo courtesy: Uzbekistan Embassy

This event will provide a unique platform to discuss the future of cultural exchange and sustainable development internationally. Samarkand, which has become a center of global cultural dialogue, will reaffirm its role as an important hub of global culture and science.