Lazare Eloundou Assomo

Director of UNESCO World Heritage Centre

In 1972, the World Heritage Convention was born in the spirit of international cooperation and solidarity. It is a unique international treaty linking for the first time the concept of nature conservation and the preservation of cultural properties, recognizing the way people interact with nature and the fundamental need to preserve balance between the two.

China has long advocated for the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. Since certifying the World Heritage Convention in 1985, China has been playing a leading role in the implementation of the convention, actively sharing its rich experience and expertise in the field of heritage conservation with other state parties and heritage stakeholders.

Heritage conservation is not only about preserving the past. It is a dynamic process for developing and testing new approaches and ideas to address global challenges and bring people together. As the World Heritage Convention enters its next 50 years, many people are asking if it is still relevant today. My answer is undoubted "yes". By constantly working to save the shared heritage of humanity and recognize the value of its diversity, we are promoting inclusive approaches and making critical contributions to the key mandate of UNESCO. Our journey will continue for years to come.