Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman participated in the proceedings of the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), hosted by the city of Busan in the Republic of Korea.

According to Oman News Agency, the event saw the participation of States Parties to the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. The delegation of the Sultanate of Oman was led by Amna Salim Al Balushi, Permanent Delegate of the Sultanate of Oman to UNESCO. Oman participated as an observer, engaging in discussions on nomination dossiers for new World Heritage sites and reviewing state of conservation reports for existing sites.

The 48th session resulted in the adoption of 25 new sites onto the World Heritage List, which now includes 1,273 sites globally. These additions feature 19 cultural sites, 5 natural sites, and 1 mixed site. Discussions also covered the state of conservation reports for various sites, leading to several decisions aimed at enhancing the protection of cultural and natural heritage.

Oman's delegation was particularly active in side events, sharing its experience in capacity-building and implementing the World Heritage Convention in African nations. The event titled "Enhancing African Expertise in World Heritage" highlighted Oman's commitment to international cooperation and expertise exchange.

The Omani delegation showcased a strategic program developed in partnership with UNESCO since 2021, which supports five African countries in strengthening their national capacities in World Heritage. This program has trained approximately 250 heritage specialists and aided in the preparation of nomination dossiers, reflecting Oman's commitment to supporting the World Heritage Convention.

Bilateral meetings with UNESCO officials and representatives from other States Parties were also conducted, focusing on enhancing cooperation in heritage protection and capacity-building. Oman's participation in the session underscores its dedication to safeguarding human heritage and aligning with international efforts under the 1972 World Heritage Convention.