Fuad Hussein and UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay met to discuss supporting Iraq’s cultural and heritage projects. They emphasized the importance of UNESCO’s role in preserving heritage, particularly in Mosul, with several projects nearing completion. Azoulay highlighted the significance of ongoing cooperation in various fields, including urban development.
On Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to discuss support for cultural and heritage projects in Iraq. Hussein emphasized the need for necessary backing of UNESCO’s activities, which aim to preserve Iraqi heritage and promote sustainable development.
This marks Azoulay’s second visit to Iraq; following their meeting in Baghdad, she will travel to Mosul and visit Erbil, known for its ancient citadel listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their discussions focused on collaboration, especially regarding UNESCO’s support for local institutions and ongoing projects in Mosul, many of which are nearing completion.
Hussein expressed gratitude for UNESCO’s contributions toward rebuilding archaeological and religious sites in Mosul, including the Al-Hadba Minaret and Al-Nuri Mosque, both damaged during ISIS’s territorial advances. He reiterated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ continued support for these initiatives aimed at safeguarding Iraqi heritage.
Azoulay highlighted UNESCO’s commitment to enhancing cooperation in cultural, scientific, and heritage sectors in Iraq. She mentioned various projects, including the rehabilitation of damaged sites, curriculum development, and urban development efforts across several Iraqi cities like Mosul, Nasiriyah, and Erbil.
The context of the meeting revolves around UNESCO’s role in the preservation of cultural heritage in Iraq, particularly after the significant destruction caused by conflicts, including those instigated by ISIS. This reflects a broader international effort to restore and maintain Iraq’s rich historical sites, which are crucial for the nation’s identity and economic development.
The meeting between Fuad Hussein and Audrey Azoulay symbolizes a collaborative effort to restore Iraq’s cultural heritage. By enhancing support for ongoing projects and facilitating cooperation, both parties aim to preserve significant archaeological sites and promote sustainable development through culture and education.
Original Source: ina.iq
