Rabat: The International Conference on "Heritage Management in the Islamic World in Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations," organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), commenced on Sunday in Rabat, with broad participation from international experts and researchers.

According to Qatar News Agency, the opening session featured a speech by HE Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and CEO of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov. He noted that restoration projects implemented by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation reflect Azerbaijan's commitment to intercultural dialogue and the protection of international values. Alakbarov described the partnership between the Foundation and ICESCO as central to efforts to preserve cultural heritage.

ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed Al Malik highlighted the 44th anniversary of the organization's founding during his remarks. He emphasized that heritage represents "the book of the present and the future." Al Malik pointed out that conflicts in 19 Islamic countries have endangered 27 World Heritage sites and praised the restoration of more than 120 sites in Shusha and the Karabakh region.

The opening session concluded with the announcement of the winners of the ICESCO-Azerbaijan Natavan Prize for Cultural Excellence. This was followed by the inauguration of a photo exhibition titled Reimagining, which showcased best practices in post-conflict recovery before the commencement of conference discussions.