Page 116 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025

2/21/25, 5:16 PM WGS: UNESCO Showcases Power Of Multilateralism In Restoring Cultural Heritage | Pakistan Point
Beyond reconstruction, the initiative prioritised training local communities to take ownership of
their heritage. Originally set to train 1,500 Iraqis in Mosul, the program surpassed expectations,
empowering over 3,000 individuals with skills in restoration and conservation. More than 100
professionals have been equipped with specialised expertise, ensuring the community itself
sustains the restoration work for generations to come.

Azoulay emphasised the importance of this approach, “We followed what the people
of Mosul wanted because this is their legacy. Using traditional materials and techniques, we
ensured authenticity while investing in people. This is how we rebuild not just cities, but
identities.”
The UAE’s dedication to cultural preservation extends beyond Mosul. Since 2002, the country
has funded restoration projects worldwide, including two mosques and a church in Jerusalem,
multiple initiatives in Africa, alongside numerous ongoing efforts across the globe. Each project
is centred around people, history, and capacity building – ensuring long-term impact.

“The UAE’s efforts in Mosul sparked a ripple effect,” noted Al Qassimi. “Once we committed, the
EU and 13 other nations followed. This is the essence of multilateralism – turning shared
responsibility into action.”

As the world enters an era of rapid technological advancement, the challenge remains: How to
ensure the younger generations value and protect cultural heritage?

Al Qassimi highlighted the role of technology in cultural preservation, “Capacity building is key,
but we must also integrate emerging tools like AI. During the restoration of Al-Nouri Mosque, we
uncovered previously unknown ablution rooms. Imagine what AI and digital reconstruction could
do for future archaeologists and architects.”
In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, the success of the Mosul project reaffirms the relevance of
institutions like UNESCO. “With 194 member states, UNESCO has the credibility to mobilise
nations for cultural preservation,” said Azoulay. “The UAE’s leadership in Mosul stands as a
powerful example of what is possible when countries unite for the benefit of humanity.”

Al Qassimi concluded with a resounding endorsement of global cooperation, “We live in
polarised times, yet I remain hopeful. The Mosul initiative proves that when nations commit to
action, multilateralism thrives.”
As the UAE continues to champion cultural heritage restoration worldwide, its commitment to
preserving history serves as a beacon of hope for future generations.

This year’s summit convened over 30 heads of state and government, more than 80
international and regional organisations and 140 government delegations. Its agenda featured
21 global forums exploring major future trends and transformations, over 200 interactive
sessions with more than 300 prominent speakers – including presidents, ministers, experts,
thought leaders, and decision-makers – and over 30 ministerial meetings and roundtables
attended by more than 400 ministers.

https://www.pakistanpoint.com/en/story/1923643/wgs-unesco-showcases-power-of-multilateralism-in-resto.html 2/2