UN Lauds UAE's Faya-to-Sharjah Water Transfer Fear
By : Krishna Mishra
UNESCO Official Hails UAE’s Leadership in Global Heritage Preservation
Paris | Emirates News Agency (WAM)** – *Simona-Mirela Miculescu*, President of the General Conference of the **United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)**, has praised the **United Arab Emirates** for its exemplary global leadership in **preserving cultural and natural heritage**.
In an exclusive interview with WAM in Paris, Miculescu described the UAE as a **“model to be emulated”** and a **key UNESCO partner**, highlighting the country’s commitment to heritage protection at both national and international levels.
Faya Palaeolandscape: A Milestone Achievement
Miculescu applauded the UAE’s recent success in securing the **Faya Palaeolandscape** in **Sharjah** a place on the **UNESCO World Heritage List**, calling it a *“powerful message”* of the nation’s dedication to safeguarding humanity’s shared memory.
“Faya is not merely an archaeological site. It provides rare evidence of early human development and human interaction with nature during a crucial period of prehistoric migration,” she said.
She emphasised that the site holds **global importance**, offering critical insight into the **first human migrations** from Africa to Asia—an era still actively studied by anthropologists and researchers worldwide.
Global Commitments and Civilisational Vision
According to Miculescu, the UAE’s heritage work is not confined to its borders. She highlighted the country's active role in **restoring and protecting heritage sites affected by conflict**, particularly in the **Arab region**.
> “The UAE not only protects its own national heritage but also takes the initiative to help safeguard global heritage. This reflects its civilisational vision and ethical responsibility toward all humanity,” she noted.
The UNESCO official praised the UAE for its support of major international efforts, including post-conflict heritage rehabilitation and cultural conservation projects.
### **A Model for Heritage and Sustainable Development**
Miculescu also commended the UAE for integrating **heritage preservation into sustainable development**, describing its approach as a **global model**. The UAE’s investment in **sustainable tourism** and efforts to **involve local communities** in managing heritage sites were highlighted as best practices.
“The UAE proves that heritage can serve as a foundation for both cultural pride and economic growth,” she said.
A Strong and Evolving Partnership
Reflecting on the strong bilateral relationship, Miculescu stated:
> “UNESCO deeply values the UAE’s tangible contributions—from financial support to shaping global cultural policy. The UAE demonstrates that culture is not a luxury, but a necessity for peace and prosperity.”
She expressed gratitude to the UAE’s leadership, calling the country a **“progressive model that blends modernity with cultural authenticity.”**
Looking Ahead
Miculescu concluded with optimism about the future of UAE-UNESCO cooperation, voicing hopes for **more UAE sites** to be added to the World Heritage List and affirming their **scientific and human significance** to the global community.
> “The UAE’s commitment to heritage protection sends a clear message of hope—that progress and identity can thrive side by side,” she said.