In Samarkand, the opening of the UN Tourism thematic office “Tourism on the Silk Road” and a certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of a tourism university took place
According to the Committee for Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan, during the official visit of the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Shaikha Al Nowais, to Uzbekistan, the opening ceremony of the UN Tourism thematic office “Tourism on the Silk Road” took place in Samarkand. She also participated in the certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the International Tourism Academy.
The newly established thematic office is intended to become an important international platform for promoting sustainable tourism across the Silk Road region, coordinating joint projects, developing cross-border tourist routes, and strengthening regional cooperation.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism emphasized the symbolic significance of establishing the office in Samarkand, noting that for centuries the city has been a place where goods, ideas, culture, and trust intersected. According to her, Samarkand continues to maintain its unique role today as one of the key centers connecting countries and peoples.
Shaikha Al Nowais also noted that Uzbekistan’s proposal to host the thematic office in Samarkand received the support of the organization’s Member States. She подчеркнула that this became possible thanks to the strategic vision and consistent policy of the country’s leadership aimed at developing tourism, expanding international cooperation, and strengthening Uzbekistan’s role across the Silk Road region.
The Secretary-General also expressed full support for the activities of the office on behalf of UN Tourism.
During her visit to the office, Shaikha Al Nowais expressed particular admiration for the building, highlighting its historical character, and highly appreciated the art collection presented in its interiors.
As part of the program, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism also took part in the certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the International Tourism Academy.
Addressing the graduates, Shaikha Al Nowais emphasized the importance of education as the foundation of both professional and personal development, quoting an Arabic proverb: “Knowledge is light.” According to her, knowledge enables individuals to better understand the opportunities and challenges they face and to move forward with confidence.
In her remarks, the Secretary-General also highlighted the special role of Samarkand as one of the great historical centers of knowledge and culture, noting that the spirit of learning, openness, and aspiration for development continues to thrive in the city today.
Special attention in her speech was given to the support for youth and education provided by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Shaikha Al Nowais emphasized that the Head of State is a strong advocate for the younger generation, and that education occupies a central place in the strategic vision of the country’s future.
