Armenia is concerned about destruction of cultural heritage in Iraq

The Minister of Culture of Armenia, Hasmik Poghosyan, on Monday met with her Iraqi counterpart, Faryad Rawanduzi.

First, Poghosyan underscored Rawanduzi’s participation in the international conference that was held in Armenia’s capital city of Yerevan, and along the lines of the 70th anniversary of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The Armenian culture minister also proposed her Iraqi colleague expansion of cooperation within the framework of UNESCO conventions.

Poghosyan added, however, that Armenia is concerned about the Islamic State’s destruction of cultural heritage in Iraq. But at the same time, she assured that Armenia is taking all necessary measures to prohibit and prevent illegal imports of cultural property, and as a result of armed clashes.

Hasmik Poghosyan also stated that Armenia shares Iraq’s concern, since Armenia likewise has conflicts and closed borders with two of its neighbors—Turkey and Azerbaijan.

She noted that Armenia and Iraq have taken steps to develop collaboration, including cultural.

Rawanduzi, for his part, said even though the Armenians in Iraq live a full life, they require more frequent contact with their national culture. Poghosyan responded that Armenia stands ready to carry out such cultural initiatives.

The parties also discussed the avenues for preparing a document on cultural cooperation.