The symposium will address the impacts of climate change on cultural heritage sites and the assessment of associated risks, the application of modern technologies and adaptation measures to safeguard these sites, strengthening the environmental resilience of historic cities, and developing green infrastructure. Particular attention will be paid to integrating cultural heritage considerations into urban planning and regional development processes, as well as drawing on traditional environmental knowledge specific to Khorezm and the Lower Amu Darya region.

At the event, Uzbekistan will present initiatives aimed at protecting cultural heritage from climate-related threats, applying traditional knowledge and cultural practices to climate change adaptation, enhancing the climate resilience of historic cities, introducing innovative solutions and expanding scientific and practical cooperation. The development of international partnerships and opportunities for mobilising funding will also be discussed.

The symposium is expected to bring together international experience and scientific approaches to safeguarding cultural heritage in the context of climate change and to result in recommendations on adapting cultural heritage sites to climate impacts and integrating relevant measures into national climate plans. The introduction of cultural heritage indicators within the framework of global adaptation goals will also be considered.

In addition, the symposium will seek to identify practical projects aimed at reducing climate risks in Khiva, Khorezm and the Aral Sea region, while strengthening cooperation among government agencies, UNESCO, international and scientific organisations, and local communities. Other important expected outcomes include expanding opportunities for joint research, knowledge exchange, capacity-building and the mobilisation of international funding.