The government has reached the decision to submit the text of the ‘UNESCO 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property’ for approval from the People’s Majlis.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih reached the decision to sign the treaty empowering the protection of cultural and archaeological objects, following a meeting with his Cabinet of Ministers held on Tuesday.

The cabinet recommended to sign the convention, following discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage.

The ‘UNESCO 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property’ is a treaty that empowers the protection of cultural and archaeological objects.

A total of 143 nations have signed the treaty so far.

Prohibiting and preventing the illicit import, export, and transfer of ownership of cultural property has become crucial due to the ongoing loss of cultural and archaeological legacy impacting the studies of history and historical events of Maldives.

Maldives' signing the convention will pave the path for easier efforts to prevent similar incidents from reoccurring and obtain technical assistance from UNESCO in these areas.

The pact makes it more feasible for unlawfully acquired antiques and papers to return to the Maldives, in compliance with current laws and regulations.

Further, it will facilitate the implementation of Act No. 2019/12 (Heritage Act) and the rules issued in connection with this act.