Samarkand: Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Ayman Ashour, delivered Egypt's statement at the 43rd session of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) held in Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan. The session was attended by key figures, including the President of the General Conference, the Chairperson of the Executive Board, the Director-General, ministers, heads of delegations, and representatives from member states.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Dr. Ashour began his speech by congratulating the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh, Ambassador Khondker Mohammad Talha, on his election as President of the 43rd session of the General Conference. The Minister extended gratitude from the Egyptian government to Uzbekistan for their warm reception and hospitality. He noted Egypt's alignment with the statement of the Arab Group, to be delivered by Ambassador Ali Abdullah Al-Haj Al-Ali, the Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates.
Dr. Ashour expressed appreciation on behalf of Egypt for the election of Dr. Khaled El-Anany as Director-General of UNESCO. He called upon member states to ratify Dr. El-Anany's selection and support the consensual approval of the budget and program. This, he emphasized, would enable the implementation of a solid collective mandate.
The Minister highlighted the progress made since the 42nd session of UNESCO, despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and conflict in Gaza. He noted the positive developments in Egypt's cooperation with UNESCO, including the support for the Adaptation and Resilience in Water (AWARe) initiative, its integration into the International Hydrological Programme, and Egypt's involvement in the FRIEND-Nile program. Another achievement included a resolution on the "Egyptian Knowledge Bank" and an international delegation's visit to Egypt to study its experience.
Further agreements between Egypt and UNESCO include academic cooperation in architecture and urban planning and the establishment of the International Academy for Promoting Environmental Sustainability. Dr. Ashour emphasized Egypt's ongoing efforts in culture, particularly in promoting and preserving heritage, combating illicit trafficking in cultural property, and supporting UNESCO's cultural conventions, with a focus on challenges facing the Arab and African regions.
The Minister also announced the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum on November 1, 2025, as a significant cultural landmark. He reiterated Egypt's commitment to strengthening its presence in UNESCO, aiming for consensus among member states and avoiding politicization, while seeking support for its nominations to the Executive Board and the Intergovernmental Council of the International Hydrological Programme.
Dr. Ashour concluded by expressing Egypt's anticipation for a successful General Conference session that will transition leadership to a new administration, aiming to unite global efforts for peace and development.