The 29th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP29), held in Baku from November 11–22, continues with various events, presentations, bilateral meetings, and discussions.

Axar.az reports that on November 16, within the framework of the session, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture, Adil Karimli, held a bilateral meeting with the Director-General of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), Ms. Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral.

Welcoming the guest, the minister expressed gratitude for her participation in the COP29 event. He emphasized that Azerbaijan places great importance on preserving and restoring cultural heritage.

The minister noted that Azerbaijan has actively participated in protecting and restoring monuments belonging to various religions at both state and international levels, including through the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, chaired by First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva. The country has provided financial support for projects such as the reconstruction of the Islamic Art Department at the Louvre Museum in Paris, the restoration of the Strasbourg Cathedral, and the renovation of the Hall of Philosophers at the Capitoline Museums in Rome.

The minister also informed the guest about the destruction and plundering of Azerbaijan’s historical and cultural heritage during the nearly 30 years of Armenian occupation. He stated that systematic work is now being undertaken to restore the damaged and looted monuments.

Ms. Gujral thanked the Azerbaijani side for the high-level organization of COP29 and the opportunity to meet.

During the conversation, discussions were held on enhancing cooperation between Azerbaijan and ICCROM, exchanging expertise in preserving and restoring cultural heritage, organizing joint training programs and seminars, and other related issues.

At the end of the meeting, the guest was presented with a commemorative gift.