As the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) expands its role beyond security cooperation, cultural preservation has emerged as a cornerstone of its mission. During the 22nd Meeting of Ministers of Culture in Qingdao, member states reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding shared heritage amid growing global challenges.
Bridging Past and Present
The meeting coincided with the 10th anniversary of the destruction of Syria's ancient city of Palmyra – a stark reminder of cultural vulnerabilities. SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev emphasized collaborative efforts to combat artifact trafficking, building on 2024 agreements to share expertise in preserving traditions.
Silk Roads: A Model for Cooperation
Archaeologist Wang Jianxin highlighted practical collaboration through the Collaborative Research Center for Archaeology of the Silk Roads. "Chinese teams now assist in temporary protection measures and excavation monitoring across SCO nations," he noted, showcasing cross-border preservation efforts.
Security Through Culture
With 40% of UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in SCO member states, the organization positions itself as a guardian against both ideological destruction and illicit trade. Recent initiatives focus on digitizing artifacts and creating shared databases to combat smuggling networks.
As SCO cultural ministers prepare for joint exhibitions along historic trade routes, their work underscores how regional cooperation can protect humanity's collective memory while fostering mutual understanding.
