Mme France Attends UNESCO’s Landmark Anuradhapura Heritage Conference, & Engages with Sri Lankan PM H.E Dr Harini Amarasuriya

Mme France Marquet Joins Global Leaders at UNESCO Conference to Safeguard Anuradhapura’s Living Heritage – Meets Her Excellency Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka"

Paris, France – 1 April 2025 – In a landmark gathering at UNESCO Headquarters, international experts, policymakers, and heritage advocates came together for the International Expert Conference: “An Integrated and Sustainable Approach to Safeguarding the World Heritage Property of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka and Associated Living Heritage.”

The high-level event, co-organized by UNESCO and the Government of Sri Lanka, featured opening remarks by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and was honored by the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, underscoring the global and national significance of preserving this ancient spiritual capital.

Madam France Marquet, Principal Trustee of the Madanjeet Singh Foundation (MSF) and South Asia Foundation Representative to UNESCO, attended as a distinguished participant, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to cultural preservation and sustainable development in South Asia.

A Timeless Legacy Facing Modern Challenges

Right To Left: Madam France Marquet,Trustee, MSF with Her Excellency Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura stands as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a beacon of Theravada Buddhism. Its sprawling ruins, sacred Bodhi tree, and monumental dagobas (stupas) reflect over 1,300 years of spiritual devotion, urban planning, and architectural brilliance.

However, rapid urbanization, tourism pressures, and climate threats demand innovative, collaborative solutions to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Key Themes & Forward-Thinking Strategies

The conference explored integrated approaches under the ‘Integrated Heritage Management Programme for the Ancient City of Anuradhapura (IHMPACA)’, with discussions focusing on:

• Holistic Heritage Management: Bridging tangible and intangible heritage conservation.

• Community Empowerment: Strengthening local stewardship of living traditions.

• Tech-Driven Preservation: Leveraging digital documentation and AI for restoration.

• Sustainable Tourism: Balancing visitor access with cultural protection.

• Global Partnerships: Mobilizing support from World Bank, JICA, KOICA, AFD, and other agencies.

A Continuation of UNESCO’s Legacy in Sri Lanka

The event builds upon the success of UNESCO’s 1981–1991 International Campaign for the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, which revitalized Anuradhapura’s heritage. Today’s conference reaffirms the power of international solidarity in safeguarding humanity’s shared treasures.

Live streaming enabled global participation, allowing heritage professionals, policymakers, and the Sri Lankan public to engage in this critical dialogue.

Quotes from the Conference

“Anuradhapura is not just a relic of the past—it is a living testament to human ingenuity and faith. Protecting it requires innovation, unity, and respect for the communities who keep its spirit alive.”
— Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General

“Sri Lanka is committed to preserving our sacred heritage while ensuring sustainable development. This conference marks a pivotal step in global collaboration.”
—Her Excellency Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

“The Madanjeet Singh Foundation stands with UNESCO and Sri Lanka in championing heritage as a pillar of peace and sustainable development.”

Looking Ahead

The outcomes of this conference will shape Anuradhapura’s conservation roadmap, blending tradition with cutting-edge strategies to ensure its legacy endures.

 About the Madanjeet Singh Foundation (MSF):
Founded by the late Madanjeet Singh, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, MSF promotes cultural heritage, education, and sustainable development across South Asia.

About UNESCO:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization leads global efforts to protect cultural and natural heritage through conventions, campaigns, and international cooperation.

End

This press release is crafted to be engaging, authoritative, and media-friendly, ensuring broad coverage and public interest.

Source: UNESCO Website

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