On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed annually on 13 October, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) joins the international community in expressing solidarity with all victims of natural and human-made disasters around the world.
This year’s theme, “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,” highlights the urgent need to invest in resilience-building and preventive measures rather than in post-disaster recovery.
The OIC underscores that disasters continue to impose heavy human and economic costs, severely affecting socio-economic development and posing existential threats to vulnerable communities across many of its Member States.
With several Member States frequently impacted by floods, epidemics, earthquakes, landslides, storms, and droughts, the OIC places high priority on disaster prevention and management, as emphasized in its Ten-Year Program of Action 2025.
Reaffirming its commitment, the OIC calls for stronger partnerships among Member States, international organizations, and local communities to develop effective strategies that enhance preparedness, reduce vulnerabilities, and improve recovery capacities.
“As disasters become more frequent and intense due to climate change and other global challenges, we must act collectively and decisively to build resilience and protect lives,” said H.E. Mr. Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary-General of the OIC. “Investing in prevention today will save countless lives and resources tomorrow.”
The OIC also stresses the need to accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, in line with national disaster management strategies and priorities.
Articles highlighting Uzbekistan’s unique historical and cultural heritage and the dynamic development of its modern tourism infrastructure have been published on the leading Arab tourism portal “Sayeh”, reports Dunyo IA.
In an article under the headline “Samarkand – A Rich History and a Modern Tourism Experience”, particular attention is devoted to the pearl of the Great Silk Road, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as “Samarkand – Crossroads of Cultures”. The publication provides a detailed account of the Registan Square ensemble, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Shah-i-Zinda Complex, emphasizing that the unique ancient architecture and blue glazed mosaics preserve the memory of the development of world science, politics and art. At the same time, the article notes that the dynamic development of hotel facilities, transport infrastructure and tourism services is making visits increasingly comfortable.
In the publication “The Most Remarkable Tourism Experiences in Uzbekistan”, the article highlights a comprehensive approach to travelling across the country. A visit to Samarkand is recommended to be combined with trips to Bukhara, with its Poi-Kalyan Ensemble and Ark Citadel, as well as Khiva, home to the open-air museum of Ichan-Kala. The capital, Tashkent, adds the dynamism of a metropolis and the distinctive architecture of its metro, while the mountainous regions of Zaamin and the Tien Shan offer opportunities for ecotourism.
Publication concludes that the key appeal of Uzbekistan as a tourist destination lies in the harmonious combination of its rich historical heritage with the everyday life of modern cities. The country’s renowned hospitality, distinctive national cuisine with its traditional plov-making traditions, the vibrant atmosphere of Eastern bazaars and developing craft workshops give travellers an authentic local experience. The systematic modernization of infrastructure, expanding accommodation options and convenient transport connections make Uzbekistan an ideal destination for international tourists seeking to combine exploring history, immersing themselves in culture and enjoying nature.