"Azerbaijan has always supported and promoted the values of UNESCO and has become an active member and reliable partner of the organization," said Deputy Foreign Minister Mahmud Mammadguliyev at the international scientific conference "The Role of UNESCO Conventions Concerning the Protection of Cultural Properties and Aspects of Improving Their Implementation," jointly organized by the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO, ICOMOS Azerbaijan National Committee, ICOM Azerbaijan National Committee and the Institute for Development and Diplomacy of ADA University, APA reports.

"Two years ago, we liberated our lands from 30 years of occupation. During the years of occupation, Armenia systematically destroyed and illegally appropriated the cultural wealth of Azerbaijan. You saw this during your visit to Agdam. 65 out of 67 mosques were completely destroyed. It is cultural genocide committed by Armenia against our cultural heritage, according to the principles of UNESCO, it is a violation of international conventions," said the deputy minister.

 

The deputy minister said that Azerbaijan is interested in cooperation with the organization in the post-occupation period and during the reconstruction process. He reminded that ISESCO sent an independent technical mission to Azerbaijan this year: "We are ready to conduct an independent technical mission of UNESCO in the liberated territories, Armenia prevents this, politicizes the process, Armenia should stay away from these steps."

https://apa.az/en/foreign-policy/azerbaijan-mfa-we-are-ready-to-conduct-an-independent-technical-mission-of-unesco-in-the-liberated-territories-391230