Cairo: The General Secretariat of the Arab League organized Monday a discussion panel on "Environmental Heritage and its Sustainability," on the occasion of Arab Cultural Heritage Day. The event gathered member states of the Arab League, along with Arab, regional, and international organizations, civil society, and experts and researchers in the field of heritage.

According to Qatar News Agency, Ambassador Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Social Affairs Sector at the Arab League, emphasized the significance of this year's theme. The initiative aligns with the 2003 International Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting that preserving cultural heritage is a continuous process of human creativity and adaptation to environmental changes. She underscored the importance of linking heritage and creativity to foster sustainable living in healthy, just, and inclusive societies.

Ambassador Abu Ghazaleh pointed out that cultural heritage plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable development across various domains. The rich and authentic cultural heritage, with its diverse dimensions, can propel sustainable development by integrating cultural, social, and economic elements. It serves as a key factor in defining social roles and transmitting cultural identities to future generations.

Furthermore, she stressed the General Secretariat's commitment to preserving Palestine's cultural heritage, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. In line with this commitment, a film about Palestine's heritage was included in the discussion panel's agenda, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Palestinian heritage.

During the event, attendees viewed a film about Palestine's heritage, presented by the Arab Council of the Union of Arab Archaeologists, which highlighted the cultural richness and significance of Palestinian heritage.