Minister Shahin Meets UNESCO Executive Board President and Regional Groups to Advance Protection of Palestinian Cultural Heritage

At the conclusion of her two-day official visit to UNESCO Headquarters, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Shahin held a series of meetings with the President of UNESCO’s Executive Board, Ambassador Nasser bin Hamad Al-Hanzab, members of the Arab Group, and the six regional groups.

The discussions focused on strengthening UNESCO’s role in implementing its decisions related to Palestine and mobilizing international support to protect Palestinian cultural heritage, including efforts to inscribe Sebastia on the List of World Heritage in Danger. Minister Shahin also highlighted the ongoing Israeli violations against Palestinian cultural heritage, education, and journalists, stressing the need for stronger international action, enhanced monitoring mechanisms, and greater accountability under international law.

The meetings reaffirmed the importance of coordinated international efforts to safeguard Palestinian cultural heritage, protect journalists, and uphold UNESCO’s mandate in preserving culture, education, and freedom of expression.