Post by : Maya Rahman

Represented by the Ministry of Culture, the UAE attended the Second General Assembly of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia (ACHA) in Chongqing, China. This significant event convened cultural ministers, senior officials, and experts from over 20 nations to deliberate on both regional and global strategies for the preservation of shared heritage. Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, spearheaded the UAE delegation and opened the discussions by stressing the necessity of collaborative efforts in safeguarding human heritage.

Al Nakhi remarked that the protection of cultural heritage remains a pivotal national concern for the UAE, contributing notably to sustainable development. He highlighted the UAE's global commitment, which includes a substantial contribution of over US$50.4 million to Iraq’s “Revive the Spirit of Mosul” initiative. Additionally, he pointed to the UAE’s involvement in various international restoration projects aimed at safeguarding historic sites.

As a founding entity of ACHA, the UAE collaborates with fellow members on research, restoration efforts, digital documentation, and the preservation of both tangible and intangible heritage. The UAE is also committed to addressing contemporary challenges like climate change and conflicts that jeopardize cultural landmarks across the region. During this Assembly, participants assessed new collaborative projects and proposed funding strategies to enhance preservation efforts.

This meeting concluded with the decision to appoint Chongqing as the permanent headquarters of ACHA’s Scientific and Technical Committee. This move signals a growing embrace of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence for heritage protection. Attendees emphasized how innovations can enhance documentation, risk management, and long-term preservation methods, particularly in areas facing environmental challenges and conflicts.

The UAE's active role in this Assembly highlights its commitment to advancing the Alliance’s initiatives and fostering collaboration across Asia. Through its support in research, restoration, and capacity-building programs, the UAE remains dedicated to protecting collective history and contributing to global heritage conservation efforts. This dedication reinforces its legacy in regional and international cultural preservation.

#Culture #UAE News #GCC News #Gulf News