ICHCAP

ICHCAP, with the support of the Cultural Heritage Administration of the Republic of Korea and in collaboration with the International Institute for Central Asian Studies (IICAS), has published Nowruz Traditions Along the Silk Roads. The book highlights the rich traditions of spring and New Year celebrations across 13 Eurasian countries.

To commemorate the publication, a book launch ceremony was held on November 8, 2025, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan — a historic hub along the Silk Road — in conjunction with the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference. The event brought together around 50 participants, including diplomatic representatives, cultural heritage experts, and officials from international organizations.

Nowruz, marking the beginning of the New Year and the arrival of spring, is a traditional festival symbolizing unity, renewal, and harmony within communities. Celebrated across a vast region linking Asia and Europe, it is recognized by UNESCO as a Representative Element of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, jointly inscribed by 13 countries: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia. The United Nations has also proclaimed March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, underscoring its universal value.

Jointly authored by experts from the 13 countries, Nowruz Traditions Along the Silk Roads explores the significance of Nowruz as a shared cultural heritage, its common features and diverse expressions across regions, and its evolving meanings within diaspora communities. The publication also highlights Nowruz as a symbol of solidarity and peace that transcends borders, emphasizing its importance as a living, shared heritage.

Distinguished participants in the launch event included H.E. Dr.Ahmad Pakatchi (Permanent Delegate of Iran to UNESCO), H.E. Dr.Dilshod Rahimi (Permanent Delegate of Tajikistan to UNESCO), H.E. Dr.Gülnur Aybet (Permanent Delegate of Türkiye to UNESCO), Dr. Özal Oğuz (Secretary-General of the National Commission of Türkiye for UNESCO), and Ms. Kang Yeoul (Chargé d’Affaires, Permanent Delegation of the Republic of Korea to UNESCO).

In their remarks, attendees emphasized that “in times of uncertainty marked by conflict and division, Nowruz serves as a powerful reminder of the values of harmony and cultural diversity,” highlighting the essential role of cultural heritage in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among nations.

ICHCAP stated that the publication and its launch event serve as a foundation for strengthening regional cooperation networks on shared cultural heritage across Eurasia. The Centre will continue to promote the values of living shared heritage — such as Nowruz — through joint international research, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.