Presentation on preparations for the upcoming UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand and on Uzbekistan’s tourism potential held in Brussels

A special event dedicated to the preparations for the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand was held in Brussels, featuring a presentation of Uzbekistan’s tourism potential and the introduction of Antonio Buscardini as Uzbekistan’s Tourism Ambassador to the Benelux countries, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event was organized by the Embassy of Uzbekistan to the Benelux countries in cooperation with the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan and the media company Travel Tomorrow, with support from the Brussels Press Club. Representatives from the diplomatic corps, media, and the tourism and cultural communities of Belgium attended.

Speakers emphasized the significant international importance of the upcoming UNESCO General Conference, which will be held outside Paris for the first time in 40 years. They highlighted the prestige of hosting such a major event in the ancient city of Samarkand, a symbol of dialogue, diversity, and openness throughout the centuries.

Participants were informed about the establishment of an organizing committee chaired by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, the implementation of a "green" solutions plan, and the simplification of visa procedures.

It was underlined that Uzbekistan views the forthcoming event as a long-term investment in international cooperation and strengthening ties, including in youth development, education, and heritage preservation.

Special attention was drawn to Uzbekistan’s significant role as a new center for cultural diplomacy and sustainable tourism. It was noted that Uzbekistan ranks first in Central Asia by the number of students studying at leading universities worldwide. The country actively pursues policies for the protection and promotion of cultural heritage, including through international exhibitions in Paris, Berlin, Venice, and other European cities.

Farhod Fayzillaev, Advisor to the Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan, dedicated his speech to the dynamic development of the country’s tourism sector. He noted that Samarkand was named the World Capital of Tourism in 2023, and that leading publications such as CNN Travel and Lonely Planet have included Uzbekistan in their lists of top travel destinations. Furthermore, airports are being modernized, and cultural, pilgrimage, ecological, and gastronomic tourism are being actively developed. Particular emphasis is placed on expanding partnerships with European tour operators, including those from the Benelux countries.

Antonio Buscardini, President of the Press Club and head of the media company, expressed his view that hosting the UNESCO General Conference in Uzbekistan reflects the international community’s trust in the country and recognition of the successes of the New Uzbekistan in education, science, and culture. He also shared his personal deep impressions of Samarkand.

During the event, the documentary film "Embarquement: Samarkand", produced by Antonio Buscardini’s media company for the TV5Monde channel, which reaches over 400 million households worldwide, was screened.

A significant moment was the awarding of the certificate to Antonio Buscardini, confirming his appointment as honorary tourism ambassador of Uzbekistan to the Benelux countries. He expressed sincere gratitude to the Uzbek side for the honor and assured that he would make every effort to promote Uzbekistan’s rich cultural and historical heritage and tourism potential.

According to the vast majority of participants, the event served not only as a platform for exchanging ideas and plans but also as an important step in enhancing the country’s image as a responsible and attractive international partner. It was emphasized that the event confirmed the growing attention to Uzbekistan as a cultural, tourism, and diplomatic hub in Central Asia and will facilitate partnerships between Uzbekistan and the national tourism associations of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

It was also noted that the thorough preparation for the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference is a vivid demonstration of the country’s commitment to open, sustainable, and inclusive development on the global stage.