Meriam Jelliti
Doha
Qatar understands that identities are determined by culture and that people have the right to choose how to interact with the world through different customs, values, traditions and celebrations, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to Qatar HE Eleni Michalopoulou has said.
"Throughout centuries of conflicts and wars, many cultures have been severely damaged and destroyed, yet many countries are still attempting to piece together their identity. Cultural heritage plays a large role in this process,” she said.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune, the ambassador stressed the need to create communication between generations, and encourage creativity in order to achieve sustainable development.
"Protecting cultures is an ongoing discussion in the United Nations. Countries like Greece and Qatar have a host of agreements between them concerning documentation and excavation, in addition to undertaking several initiatives in this regard,” she said.
"We have a very rich and unique heritage, and every country has the responsibility to protect its heritage and show it to the world. Our own existence depends on acknowledging our history, knowing our roots and deriving the principles that relates to the culture. All countries need to unite against the looting of cultures and realize that culture relates directly to peace, justice and friendship between countries. So, we have to work against looting and organised crimes because we know that all of these abnormal activities target the hearts of humanity,” she added.
The ambassador said that there’s a commitment to the need of defending the truth and the values of seeking knowledge, the idea of virtue and of being righteous citizen as a part of the society. In order to achieve this, we need to acquire knowledge through proper education, she said.
"Many cultural heritages have currently become the focus and inspiration for the development of communties and businesses. Hence, governments have a big role in preserving cultural heritage to improve people’s welfare. Qatar’s efforts should be commended for its amazing work in preserving heritage, promoting the culture and showing the world that there is an urgent need to protect the culture of the civilization. In order to do this, Qatar facilitated cultural communication starting with the Doha Declaration and the museums, which are an exemplary source of knowledge for visitors and residents in Qatar, and for the new generation in particular. Qatar has done a commendable work that needs to be acknowledged and seen as exemplary,” she concluded.