UNESCO adds 42 new sites to World Heritage List

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee, composed of representatives from 21 countries elected by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, gathered in Riyad, the capital of Saudi Arabia, to examine sites to be inscribed on the World Heritage List and to inspect the conservation status of properties on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

At its extended 45th session, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee inscribed a total of 42 new heritage sites on the World Heritage List, 33 of which are cultural and 9 natural.

Of the inscribed sites, 15 are located in Europe, 12 in Asia, 6 in Africa, 6 in North and South America, and 3 in the Middle East.

LARGEST EXPANSION IN A SINGLE SESSION SINCE 1982

It is stated that this number represents the largest expansion seen in a single session since 1982.

The "Uruq Bani Ma'arid Protected Area" became Saudi Arabia's 7th World Heritage Site and its first Natural Heritage Site.

Organizations that contributed to the organization of the extended 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee were honored at the closing ceremony.

It was emphasized that the success of the Committee session in Riyad once again confirms Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting global efforts for the protection and conservation of world heritage in line with UNESCO's goals.

UNESCO World Heritage Director Lazare Eloundou Assomo stated that they were welcomed very warmly in Riyad and thanked Saudi Arabia for its hospitality and support for the protection of cultural and natural heritage.

News Source: 12punto