Azerbaijan’s FM addresses UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand PHOTO

At the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov underscored the country’s steadfast commitment to cultural heritage preservation, inclusive education, scientific advancement, and intercultural dialogue, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s support for multilateralism, global cooperation, and UNESCO’s mission. Caliber.Az highlights the key points from his statement.

•  Sincere gratitude to brotherly Uzbekistan for the warm hospitality and the excellent organization of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in the historic city of Samarkand.   

•  The 80th anniversary of the UN Charter and the Constitution of UNESCO is a powerful reminder of the importance of multilateralism, peace, and global solidarity based on shared values and cooperation among nations. 

•  Azerbaijan’s partnership with UNESCO is rooted in the promotion of cultural heritage, inclusive education, science, and intercultural dialogue. Azerbaijan supports UNESCO programs and contributes to Priority Africa through targeted initiatives.    

•  Successful implementation of the Azerbaijan–UNESCO Trust Fund, established under the 2013 Framework Agreement, finances projects on girls’ education, gender equality, literacy, and heritage protection in various countries.    

•  Azerbaijan’s global leadership in promoting intercultural and interreligious dialogue through the Baku Process, endorsed by the UNESCO Executive Board, and the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, fosters understanding and peace among cultures.    

•  Large-scale destruction of Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage during the occupation of its territories and ongoing efforts to restore and protect monuments, is part of national reconstruction and peacebuilding efforts.    

•  Azerbaijan’s dedication to education and youth empowerment, including within the Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant — providing 500 scholarships for students from OIC, NAM, and Small Island Developing States.    

•  Azerbaijan’s cooperation with UNESCO in areas such as open science, artificial intelligence, and science diplomacy, promoting ethical innovation and equal access to knowledge.    

•  UNESCO remains a vital platform for fostering understanding and cooperation among nations. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to building bridges across cultures and generations, ensuring that no nation or community is left behind.  

By Aghakazim Guliyev