News Today: Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister joins UNESCO conference in France to discuss safeguarding sacred heritage sites.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya is currently on an official visit to Paris, France, where she is participating in a high-level international expert conference on safeguarding sacred heritage sites.

The International Expert Conference on an Integrated and Sustainable Approach to Safeguarding the World Heritage Property of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura and Associated Living Heritage is being held today at UNESCO Headquarters. The event features UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay alongside top global experts in cultural preservation.

The conference, jointly organized by UNESCO and the Government of Sri Lanka, focuses on sustainable conservation strategies for Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most historically and culturally significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Discussions will explore long-term preservation methods, community engagement, and integrating heritage protection with modern development.

“Preserving Anuradhapura is essential for safeguarding Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage while ensuring sustainable development. This forum brings together global expertise to achieve that goal,” said Prime Minister Amarasuriya.

In addition to her participation in the conference, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet senior French government officials to strengthen bilateral relations and explore avenues of cultural and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and France.

The Prime Minister’s delegation includes Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Seneviratne, who will contribute to discussions on religious and historical conservation efforts.