On October 31, 2025, Sirojiddin Muhriddin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan and Chairman of the National Commission of Tajikistan for UNESCO, held a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, according to the Tajik Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During his meeting with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, the two diplomats discussed key issues related to bilateral relations, focusing on political and economic cooperation, as well as expanding humanitarian ties between their countries.

Both ministers acknowledged the growing scope of collaboration between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, reiterating their commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the neighboring nations.

In addition to his meeting with the Uzbek minister, Muhriddin also met with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.

The discussions focused on the prospects for expanding cooperation in several priority areas, including science and education, the protection of cultural heritage, natural sciences, and water management.

Photo: Tajik MFA

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Muhriddin highlighted Tajikistan’s strong commitment to deepening its partnership with UNESCO, emphasizing the country’s readiness to actively contribute to regional and global initiatives.

The Tajik side also expressed its gratitude to Director-General Azoulay for her valuable work during her tenure, particularly her efforts to strengthen UNESCO-Tajikistan cooperation.

As Azoulay’s term as Director-General nears its end, the Tajik delegation conveyed appreciation for her leadership and contributions to advancing shared goals between Tajikistan and UNESCO.