Oman urges action on Gaza heritage destruction

PARIS: The Sultanate of Oman is participating in the 222nd session of the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), held at the organisation’s headquarters in Paris from October 1 to 16.
Delivering Oman’s statement, Amina bint Salim al Balushiyah, Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to Unesco and Vice-Chair of the Executive Board for the Arab Group, commended the Organisation’s continued efforts in advancing education, culture and science amid global challenges. She reaffirmed Oman’s support for Unesco's pivotal role in promoting global peace and sustainable development.
Al Balushi emphasised the need for transparent and strategic discussions to address Unesco's financial situation, underscoring that its sustainability depends on bold, long-term measures that align with global transformations and the sustainable development goals of member states.
She also stressed the importance of strengthening Unesco's field offices — particularly in the Arab region — highlighting that they serve as the first line of defence during crises and must be empowered to operate effectively.
Commending Unesco's major international initiatives such as the Global Teachers Summit in Chile, Digital Learning Week, MONDIACULT in Spain, and the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in China, she noted Oman’s pride in the inclusion of Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and Al Sareen reserves in the Unesco World Network of Biosphere Reserves, describing it as a milestone in Oman’s commitment to environmental conservation and biodiversity.
Al Balushi called for stronger institutional coordination and diverse financing mechanisms to ensure Unesco's independence and long-term viability, while also stressing the importance of gender equality and geographical balance within the organisation’s workforce to promote fairness and enrich institutional experience.
Speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, Al Balushi delivered a strong condemnation of the genocidal war against the Palestinian people, noting the destruction of more than 110 historical and religious sites in Gaza, as well as ongoing violations in Al Quds Al Sharif (Jerusalem) and the Ibrahimi Mosque.
The Arab Group also condemned attacks targeting the State of Qatar and the Old City of Sana’a in Yemen, urging the protection of cultural heritage during armed conflicts.
The Group further called for greater financial transparency, an expanded funding base, and stronger cooperation with the private sector and civil society, affirming their aspiration for Unesco to play a greater role in supporting the region’s educational and cultural development. — ONA