A delegation of Uzbekistan headed by Gayane Umerova, Chairman of the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art, and Bahodir Abdikarimov, Director of the Cultural Heritage Agency, met with Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral, Director General of the International Center for the Study of Cultural Property Conservation and Restoration (ICCROM) in Paris.
Following the talks, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Cultural Heritage Agency of Uzbekistan and ICCROM. The document defines strategic directions of cooperation aimed at strengthening the country's potential in the field of protection and rational use of cultural heritage.
The memorandum covers four priority areas:
- Sustainable management of World Heritage sites. The parties agreed to coordinate efforts to develop modern management models for cultural sites included in the UNESCO List.
- Modernization of approaches to the conservation of architectural monuments. The focus is on the implementation of scientific methods, international standards and digital technologies in restoration work on objects of historical and architectural significance.
- Development of the museum sector and scientific literacy. The partnership involves supporting the professional development of museum employees, developing educational programs, and promoting cultural values through scientific and interactive formats.
- Expanding regional cooperation in Central Asia. The parties agreed to coordinate actions for the preservation of intangible cultural heritage in the region and promote the interstate exchange of experience.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening Uzbekistan's position as an active participant in the international cultural dialogue. Cooperation with ICCROM opens up opportunities for attracting best practices, scientific expertise and technological solutions in the field of cultural policy. Uzbekistan considers the development of partnerships with international organizations as a strategic platform for long-term modernization of the field of heritage protection and cultural diplomacy.
