USD 100 million fund to be established for protection of cultural values
Five Nobel Prize winners yesterday called for urgent international action to protect world heritage sites from the destruction wrought by extremist groups and conflicts. The Daily Star reports.
In an appeal launched on the eve of an international conference in Abu Dhabi, the laureates pointed to the irreparable damage that has been done to some of the world's most treasured ancient sites in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and Mali.
"Part of our history has been lost forever, with the goal of fanaticism being to undermine our hope for the future," they said.
During today’s summit held in Abu Dhabi, their announcements have been accepted and a decision has been made to establish a $100 million fund for the protection of the cultural monuments in the conflict zones. France will allocate 30 million USD.
The funds will be directed to the protection, relocation and restoration of the cultural values.