Abu Dhabi [UAE], April 22 (ANI/WAM): Abdulaziz Akkulov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the UAE, said that ties between the UAE and Uzbeksiaan have seen rapid development in recent years, marked by strong cooperation in international organisations and joint preparations to host the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand later this year.

His remarks came during a dialogue session held on Monday at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, which focused on Uzbekistan's contributions to UNESCO initiatives and efforts to align with the UAE in advancing sustainable development goals.

The session was attended by Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of the Academy, along with senior officials from both sides.

The ambassador said that the strategic partnership was formalised during the visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan to the UAE in January 2025.

'Uzbekistan and the UAE enjoy dynamic and mutually enriching cooperation in the cultural sphere, marked by a shared commitment to preserving heritage and fostering intercultural dialogue,' he stated.

The ambassador also praised Uzbekistan's annual participation in the Sheikh Zayed Festival, where it showcases traditional arts and crafts through its national pavilion.

He highlighted that leading museums in both countries are working together on joint exhibitions and professional exchanges. In March, Uzbekistan became the ninth member of ALIPH - the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas - a step he said reinforces joint efforts to safeguard cultural heritage.

He welcomed the launch of ALIPH's regional call for projects in April 2025 to protect Central Asia's heritage from climate threats, underscoring the active role of both Uzbekistan and the UAE in these efforts.

Akkulov also said that Uzbekistan is preparing to host the Second Summit of the Central Asian Countries and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, scheduled for 5th May in Samarkand.

He noted that Samarkand, one of the world's oldest cities, has become a prominent international hub for conferences, tourism, and business, having hosted events such as the SCO Heads of State Summit (2022), the 25th Session of the UN World Tourism Organisation General Assembly (2023) and the Central Asia-EU Summit (2025). (ANI/WAM)