Uzbekistan, host of the upcoming 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP20) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), has revealed the official logo for the meeting.
The CITES CoP20 logo was designed by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan. It 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, where CITES COP20 will take place.
The rock art depiction of the Argali, listed in CITES Appendix II and native to the mountain regions of Central Asia, serves as a reminder of the need to conserve rare and endangered species. It also symbolizes the deep connection between nature and the region’s historical legacy. 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 his announcement at the opening of the 78th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee (SC78), Mr. Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 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.”
“We are deeply honoured by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Abdukhakimov at SC78 and warmly congratulate the Ministry on the remarkable design of the logo,” said CITES Secretary-General Ms. Ivonne Higuero. “This emblem of 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.”
CITES COP20 will take place in historic Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from November 24 to December 5, 2025. A CITES Party for nearly 30 years, Uzbekistan’s natural wealth includes numerous CITES-listed species, such as the snow leopard, the saiga antelope and medicinal plants.
By bringing the world wildlife conference to Samarkand, Uzbekistan says it is demonstrating its commitment to international cooperation and the future of wild fauna and flora species.