Ministry of Ecology, environmental protection and climate change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The logo, designed by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change was presented today, February 3, in Geneva, Switzerland, during the 78th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee.

In his opening speech, Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection  and Climate Change, said: "The COP20 logo serves as a symbol of Uzbekistan’s commitment to 
safeguarding our precious wild species. Each of its elements carries a special meaning, reflecting the inseparable connection between nature, culture, and the history of our region. Uzbekistan is proud to host COP20—an important platform for discussing global challenges related to biodiversity conservation, particularly international trade. We are confident that 
the upcoming meeting will mark a step forward in strengthening international cooperation and developing effective mechanisms for wildlife conservation."

The logo  features several elements representing Uzbekistan's natural and cultural heritage: an ancient petroglyph of an Argali (Ovis ammon), the medicinal Rhodiola semenovii and landmarks from the historic city of Samarkand, which will host CITES COP20. The petroglyph of the argali, listed in CITES Appendix II and found in the mountainous regions of Central Asia, serves as a reminder of the need to protect rare and endangered species while symbolizing the connection between nature and the region’s historical heritage. The flowers of the medicinal plant highlight the vital role of flora in ecosystems and its importance for human health.  The flowers of the medicinal plant highlight the 
vital role of flora in ecosystems and their importance to human health. Meanwhile, the landmarks of Samarkand, one of the world's oldest cities, reflect Uzbekistan's rich history, culture, and hospitality. Samarkand will not only host the conference but also act as a bridge between the past and the future, embodying the unity of cultural and environmental heritage.

During her speech at the meeting, CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero congratulated the government of Uzbekistan on the successful design of the logo and noted: “This emblem Uzbekistan’s magnificent wildlife beautifully captures the spirit of CITES’ 50-year legacy of conserving both plants and animals and represents a concrete step in setting the 
stage for our critical discussions and decisions ahead at COP20."

As a reminder, Uzbekistan is the first country in Central Asia to host  the meeting of the 184 Parties (183 countries and the European Union) to CITES, along with a wide range of stakeholders in wildlife conservation and trade.  More than 4,000 participants and delegates are expected to attend the global event, which will be organised in the "Year of Environment Protection and Green Economy".