Qatar National Library announced the start of the “Second Doha Workshop on Countering the Trafficking of Cultural Property with a Focus on Documentary Heritage”. This pivotal event underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in the Arab and Middle Eastern regions to ensure the protection of invaluable cultural assets.
In partnership with the General Authority of Customs and in collaboration with the US, Italian, and French embassies in Qatar, Qatar National Library aims to deepen the understanding and implementation of best practices in preventing the illicit trade of cultural property and documentary heritage.
During the opening session, HE Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari said: “The increasing global threat is evident, despite international conventions like those from UNESCO in 1970 and UNIDROIT in 1995. As smugglers harness modern social media and with geopolitical unrest further propelling these illicit activities, our history, culture, and heritage face unprecedented risks. This workshop aims to illuminate these challenges and foster collaborative solutions for preserving our shared heritage.” HE Chairman of the General Authority of Customs Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Jamal said: “Our participation today underscores our crucial role in advancing global efforts to combat the illegal trade in cultural assets. The authority has enacted regulations regarding prohibitions, import and export restrictions, and the unauthorized transfer of cultural properties. This reiterates Qatar’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under international treaties, particularly
the UNESCO 1970 Convention aimed at curbing the trafficking of illicit cultural property. Addressing these illicit activities is of paramount importance to our mission, particularly in light of the significant threats posed by theft, smuggling, and the unauthorized commerce of cultural assets at our borders.” This edition of the workshop is geared to build upon the successes and lessons from the inaugural session last year. It promises enriching discussions, insights, and contributions from esteemed participants such as UNESCO, Interpol, World Customs Organization, among many other international bodies.
The workshop began with in-depth closed consultations featuring experts from both regional and international arenas. As the workshop moves into its open sessions starting today, attendees can expect a series of insightful lectures and presentations from the industry’s leading figures. The workshop will wrap up on 14 September with specialized training sessions, expertly designed to equip customs officers from Qatar and the surrounding region with the tools and knowledge essential for the protection of cultural property.
Source: Qatar News Agency