The 10th Congress “World Heritage of CIS Countries” opened in Moscow on November 24. The event was organized by the Likhachev Russian Research Institute for Cultural and Natural Heritage (Russian Heritage Institute) – the CIS basic organization in the field of the world heritage preservation.
CIS Secretary-General Sergey Lebedev sent his greeting message to the Congress organizers and participants.
The greeting noted that the Congress’s 10th anniversary demonstrates that the idea of preserving and promoting the unique heritage of our nations resonates deeply with professionals and enthusiasts from all the CIS countries. The forum has become a respected platform for exchanging experiences, a birthplace for important initiatives, and, especially valuable, a space for genuine human connection among people united by a common mission.
Sergey Lebedev emphasized that the CIS countries possess truly invaluable cultural and natural heritage. They are home to dozens of UNESCO World Heritage sites – from ancient cities of the Great Silk Road to unique nature reserves, from architectural masterpieces to monuments preserving evidence of pivotal moments in human history.
“Our heritage is not merely stones and landscapes. It is a living culture, traditions, crafts, languages, and customs passed down through generations. It is our identity, our roots, what makes each Commonwealth nation unique while simultaneously connecting us through invisible yet strong threads of shared history”, – stated CIS Secretary-General.
He noted that in an era of global challenges, the task of preserving cultural heritage takes on special significance. It is necessary not only to protect monuments of the past but also to integrate them into contemporary life, showing the younger generation that their ancestors’ heritage is not museum antiquity but a source of inspiration, pride, and creative energy.
Sergey Lebedev expressed confidence that the Congress would make a substantial contribution to enhancing cooperation among the CIS Member States in protecting cultural and natural heritage, developing intercultural dialogue, and strengthening mutual understanding and friendship.
The Congress will continue until November 25. Its participants traditionally include representatives of organizations managing World Heritage sites and sites nominated for UNESCO listing in the Commonwealth countries, representatives of national and regional heritage protection authorities of the CIS states, and experts in cultural and natural heritage.