Within the framework of his official visit to France, the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met with the UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to discuss cooperation between Tajikistan and UNESCO.

President Emomali Rahmon expressed his gratitude to UNESCO's contribution toward the development of cooperation in the fields of culture, science and education.

The meeting covered the preservation of valuable historical and cultural heritage of the Tajik people, including the inclusion of historical and cultural sites situated in the territory of Tajikistan, i.e. in the Great Silk Road, in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

"In the context of globalization, preservation of natural history, values, including language, national culture of ancestors and noble traditions and customs is of great importance", - noted President Emomali Rahmon.

Tajikistan and UNESCO cooperation’s main aim is to maintain peace and stability and sustainable development through the expansion of ties.

The traditional musical genre "Shashmaqom", Navruz holiday and Chakan embroidery art are already on the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Tajikistan intends to celebrate the 5500th anniversary of ancient Sarazm, which in 2010 was also included in the Heritage List.

While discussing the implementation of plans for increasing the influx of tourists, and enhancing the presentation of historical and cultural monuments, the officials emphasized the necessity of UNESCO's assistance in working out the right strategies for the development of education and improving teacher training workshops.

Director-General Azoulay proposed strengthening cooperation within the framework of UNESCO's special programs for the study of glaciers and water resources. In this regard, the parties exchanged views on pressing global issues, such as climate change and its negative impacts.

At the end of the meeting, President Emomali Rahmon invited Director-General Azoulay to visit Tajikistan, which was accepted with pleasure.