The Yemeni ambassador to Switzerland discusses enhancing cooperation on cultural property protection with the Federal Office director.

Yemen’s Ambassador Discusses Cultural Heritage Protection with Swiss Officials

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

Dr. Ali Majour, Yemen’s Ambassador to Switzerland, met today with Fabienne Baraga, Director of the Swiss Federal Office of Culture and Head of the International Cultural Property Transfer Service. The two officials explored ways to enhance cooperation in protecting cultural properties and recovering Yemeni artifacts.

Acknowledging Swiss Support

Ambassador Majour expressed gratitude on behalf of the Yemeni government for Switzerland’s constructive collaboration. He highlighted the successful recovery of five Yemeni artifacts seized at the Free Port of Geneva in 2009. This effort reflects a shared commitment to the UNESCO 1970 Convention on combating the illicit trade of cultural property. Majour emphasized that recovering these artifacts represents both a legal and moral responsibility, contributing to the preservation of Yemen’s national identity and historical memory.

Impact of Conflict on Cultural Heritage

During the meeting, Majour detailed the significant damage inflicted on Yemen’s cultural heritage due to the war instigated by Houthi militias. He underscored the urgent need for action to safeguard these invaluable assets.

Practical Mechanisms for Artifact Return

The discussion also covered practical mechanisms for the return of the artifacts. Options included diplomatic channels for transportation, utilizing specialized companies for safe and insured shipping, and addressing logistical arrangements. The parties agreed on the importance of completing technical documentation and preparing condition reports before and after transport to ensure the artifacts’ safety.

Temporary Retention of Artifacts in Switzerland

Both sides considered the possibility of temporarily retaining the five artifacts in Switzerland. This would involve signing a formal bilateral agreement that clearly establishes Yemen’s ownership and guarantees its sovereign right to reclaim the artifacts at an appropriate time. This arrangement could occur within a framework of agreed loan or joint exhibition, reflecting cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Future Collaboration and Capacity Building

The meeting concluded with an agreement on the importance of ongoing institutional coordination and experience exchange. They discussed opportunities for building the capacities of Yemeni personnel in areas such as digital documentation, emergency museum management, and the legal tracking and recovery of cultural properties. These efforts aim to strengthen the bilateral partnership and contribute to the protection of global cultural heritage.

Attendees

Dr. Hamid Omar, the Deputy Ambassador, also attended the meeting.

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