Samarkand welcomes tourism leaders attending the 25th UN WTO General Assembly.

As an important connecting city on the Silk Road between China, Persia, and Europe, Samarkand is considered the cradle of trade, culture, and science.

Samarkand, the southeastern part of Uzbekistan and the gathering place for cultures, will host the 25th UNWHO General Assembly (October 16-20, 2023). This "cultural crossroads" will hold the United Nations' first major tourism event, and this week will be a focal point for activities as the tourism sector charts a new course for rapid recovery. In addition to plenary sessions and many other commitments, the Assembly will host two thematic forums - on education and investment - aligned with the Organization's core priorities. The 25th UN WTO General Assembly is a significant event for the future of the tourism industry. Global leaders will come together to shape the direction of tourism to serve both people and the planet.

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The magnificent gates, vast colorful domes, and remarkable marble, mosaic, and gilded decorations of architectural heritage were recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2001. Samarkand, known in ancient times as Afrasiab, is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Major monuments include the Registan Mosque and madrasahs, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the Shakhi-Zinda complex, and the Gur-Emir ensemble, as well as the Ulughbek Observatory.

“The 25th session of the UN WTO General Assembly taking place in the beautiful city of Samarkand is poignant for both the tourism industry and our society. Tourism has weathered the largest storm in its history and we are now on track to return to pre-pandemic levels of international arrivals by the end of this year. However, at the same time, we must urgently face new challenges, most notably the escalating climate crisis, economic instability, and prolonged geopolitical tensions. Becoming part of the solution depends on us, as the world's leading people-to-people economic activity. We can and must fulfill our duty to harness the potential of tourism as a source of sustainable development, opportunities, and understanding.” Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization stated.

“This Assembly provides us with a platform to work together based on a shared belief in what tourism can offer for people and the planet. As always, our discussions will be frank and challenging. I trust in our ability to share knowledge, collaborate, and identify viable solutions, prioritizing tourism investment, jobs, and education. I also hope we all will be inspired by our surroundings. Samarkand showcases the rich and proud history of Uzbekistan. It stands as a testament to the efforts of the Government of Uzbekistan in preserving its heritage and considering tourism as a means to share this heritage with people from around the world. I thank the generous hosts for their warm hospitality and look forward to a successful and inspiring Assembly.”

Aziz Abdukhakimov, Deputy Chairman of the Government Commission for Tourism Development – Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, remarked: “The leadership and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan recognize tourism as a strategic sector of the national economy with significant potential for economic growth, improving the welfare of people, especially local communities, and supporting the most vulnerable. Committed to furthering green and sustainable tourism, this country seeks to promote its tourism brand through infrastructure diversification, expanding tourism products, and enhancing service quality. The Government of Uzbekistan warmly welcomes all stakeholders of the global tourism market, including tourism agencies, the private sector, academia, and others, to the wonderful city of Samarkand. Samarkand, where civilizations, cultures, and religions intersect, is the perfect venue for the world's major tourism event – the session of the UN WTO General Assembly. Symbolically, the 25th anniversary session will take place in Uzbekistan in the year marking its 30th anniversary of joining the World Tourism Organization. Uzbekistan has been, is, and will remain a steadfast ally of UN WTO in promoting responsible, inclusive, and accessible tourism worldwide. Welcome to Uzbekistan!”

“I extend warm greetings to the 25th session of the World Tourism Organization taking place in the beautiful city of Samarkand. Tourism leads to progress. As one of the largest sectors of the global economy, it holds immense power in connecting cultures, creating new opportunities and fostering sustainable development. However, tourism is also affected by interconnected global challenges. ” António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations indicated. “The climate crisis is threatening many tourist destinations and the livelihoods of communities around the globe. Many developing countries reliant on tourism are facing an escalating financial crisis. We must harness the full potential of tourism to get back on track towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This requires investing in sustainable and inclusive tourism – adopting emission-free pathways; protecting the environment and biodiversity; creating sustainable jobs; and contributing to building resilient social protection systems. I know that we can count on the United Nations World Tourism Organization to help realize this vision together, building a better future for people and the planet. Wishing the Assembly great success.”