ayasofia -2-

Noura al-Kaabi...
UAE Minister of Culture and Youth...

has declared cultural heritage should be preserved for the good of society: "It should neither be misused nor altered through change in a way that touches the human essence," she said.

"Especially for sites that are inscribed under World Heritage by Unesco. They have exceptional international value, and are the common heritage of all peoples and cultures."

On Saturday, Ms al-Kaabi said the status of Hagia Sophia was changed without any regard to its wider value. "It has remained a global landmark with significant cultural legacy. It also served as a bridge connecting different peoples and cementing their bonds."

"World heritage sites have become the platforms for knowledge exchange between diverse cultures and civilisations that evolved in history across time. Hagia Sophia is an important example of interaction and dialogue between Asia and Europe and should remain a witness to harmonious human history."

~bron~