Baghdad, Iraq- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met today, Tuesday, with Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), to discuss ongoing efforts to support cultural and heritage projects in Iraq. During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of providing the necessary support for UNESCO’s activities, which play a critical role in preserving Iraq’s heritage and promoting sustainable development.
According to statements from the ministry, the meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ headquarters in Baghdad. This marks Azoulay’s second visit to Iraq. She is scheduled to visit the city of Mosul next, before concluding her tour in Erbil, home to the ancient citadel listed on the World Heritage List.
The discussions centered around strengthening cooperation, particularly in UNESCO’s support for Iraqi institutions involved in heritage preservation. The meeting also addressed ongoing projects in Mosul, many of which are nearing completion.
Hussein expressed his appreciation for UNESCO’s efforts in Iraq, particularly in the reconstruction of archaeological and religious sites in Mosul that were damaged during the ISIS occupation, such as the Al-Hadba Minaret and Al-Nuri Mosque. He reiterated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ commitment to supporting UNESCO’s initiatives, which contribute to the preservation of Iraqi heritage and its role in sustainable development.
Azoulay emphasized UNESCO’s willingness to deepen cooperation with Iraq in the cultural, scientific, and heritage sectors. She highlighted the diversity of projects underway, including the rehabilitation of damaged archaeological sites, curriculum development, capacity building, and urban development initiatives in cities like Mosul, Nasiriyah, and Erbil.
