UAE Contributes to Asian Cultural Heritage Summit in China

Post by : Mara Rahim

Representing its Ministry of Culture, the UAE attended the Second General Assembly of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia (ACHA) in Chongqing, China. This event gathered cultural ministers, senior officials, and experts from over 20 nations to deliberate on both regional and global collaborations aimed at preserving cultural heritage. The UAE delegation, led by Undersecretary Mubarak Al Nakhi, underscored the significance of collective efforts in safeguarding human heritage during his opening remarks.

In his address, Al Nakhi emphasized that the protection of cultural heritage stands as a primary national objective for the UAE, contributing significantly to sustainable development. He pointed out the UAE’s global commitment, notably its investment of over US$50.4 million in Iraq’s “Revive the Spirit of Mosul” initiative, along with its support for numerous international projects that focus on the restoration and preservation of historical sites.

As a founding member of ACHA, the UAE collaborates closely with its counterparts on efforts involving research, restoration, digital documentation, and the safeguard of both tangible and intangible heritage. The UAE also plays a vital role in addressing contemporary challenges, such as climate change, natural disasters, and conflict that threaten cultural sites in the region. During the assembly, attendees discussed new collaborative projects and established funding mechanisms aimed at enhancing preservation efforts.

The assembly concluded with the affirmation of Chongqing as the permanent headquarters for ACHA’s Scientific and Technical Committee, marking a notable shift towards harnessing advanced technology and artificial intelligence for heritage protection. Delegates noted that these emerging tools can enhance documentation, risk management, and long-term preservation strategies, particularly in areas impacted by environmental and conflict-related challenges.

The UAE’s participation at the assembly highlights its influential role in the Alliance's evolution and its ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration across Asia. By backing research, restoration, and capacity-building initiatives, the UAE remains dedicated to protecting shared history and reinforcing global efforts towards heritage preservation. Its endeavors illustrate a sustained commitment to both regional and international heritage conservation.