On 26 November 2024, ICCROM’s Director-General, Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral, met with H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture of the United Arab Emirates, at the Ministry's headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting focused on advancing the "Group of Friends of Culture-Based Climate Action," established during COP28 in Dubai last year. They discussed strategies to implement concrete, actionable initiatives showcasing how cultural heritage-based solutions can play a pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis.
Another significant topic was the importance of capacity-building initiatives, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), youth, and women.
They also emphasized the value of targeted training programmes at both local levels and designated hubs in the UAE, with a strong focus on preserving and enhancing traditional crafts and production skills.
The conversation also addressed the issue of illicit trafficking of cultural objects. Both representatives stressed the need for robust capacity-building efforts for key stakeholders, to strengthen preventive measures and combat this challenge effectively.
Together we can turn these discussions into action—empowering communities, protecting heritage, and driving cultural solutions for a sustainable future.