India is gearing up to create history as it prepares to take the helm of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee and host its session for the very first time. The highly anticipated event is scheduled to unfold in New Delhi from July 21 to 31, 2024, as confirmed by Vishal V Sharma, India's Permanent Representative to UNESCO.
A Momentous Occasion for India’s Cultural and Historical Heritage
This remarkable development signifies a pivotal moment in India’s rich cultural and historical legacy. It marks the inaugural instance of a country both chairing and organizing the committee’s proceedings. The decision to hold the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in India was unanimously agreed upon during UNESCO’s 19th extraordinary session.
Delhi Set to Host the 46th Session
The official statement from UNESCO affirms this decision, stating, “Following a proposal by the authorities of the State Party of India and in consultation with the UNESCO Director-General, the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee will take place from July 21 to 31, 2024, in New Delhi, India.”
Vishal V Sharma took to the microblogging platform X to share this momentous news, expressing India's immense pride in hosting this prestigious global event. His tweet read, “India to chair & host UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee for the 1st time in the convention’s history! The dates & venue of the 46th session have been announced: 21st to 31st July 2024 in New Delhi (India).”
Understanding UNESCO’s Role
UNESCO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, is dedicated to fostering worldwide peace and security through collaborative efforts in education, arts, science, and culture. The World Heritage Committee, comprising representatives from 21 member states and convening annually, plays a crucial role in adding new sites to UNESCO’s esteemed list of World Heritage Sites. The upcoming event in New Delhi holds immense significance in the realm of heritage preservation and global collaboration.
The hosting of this event by India not only underscores the nation’s commitment to preserving cultural treasures but also serves as a platform for fostering international cooperation in safeguarding the world’s heritage. India’s leadership in this capacity is poised to bring attention to diverse cultural landscapes and historic sites, further promoting global understanding and appreciation for shared heritage.
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