The Round Table on the Use of the Internet in the Promotion of National Heritage and Cultural Tourism in Central Asia is being organized by UNESCO and the Kazak Institute of Archeology, in Almaty, from 23 to 24 September 1997.

During the Round Table, eminent scientists and decision-makers from Kazakstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan will explore the national heritage of the region and ways of presenting these on the Web. UNESCO World Heritage Centre experts will be given, for perusal, presentations of cultural and natural sites which might later appear on the World Heritage List of UNESCO and become the objects of international cultural studies and tourism.

The Round Table will be an attempt to create an Internet forum where Central Asian scientists and activists can exchange views amongst themselves and with their colleagues abroad. We hope that this will enhance regional cooperation in science and culture and boost first-hand information about Central Asia on the Internet.

It is also hoped that the Round Table will help to raise funds to protect and preserve cultural and natural sites in the region. "HeritageNet" and a "Regional School for Young Web Designers" are just a sample of initiatives, which will be discussed in depth during the seminar.

Foundations, international agencies, research institutes or individual scientists who are interested in obtaining the most up-to-date information on ideas, challenges and trends in Central Asia, are also welcome to participate in the Round Table or join their Central Asian colleagues on-line! They are also welcome to present papers related to the topics of discussion.

The Round Table will take place in a beautiful hotel situated in the Tian-Shan mountains just a five minute taxi ride from the centre of Almaty - "City of Apples" - which is rich in history and art museums, and has a lively social life.