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The Director-General congratulates Kyrgyzstan for its efforts to safeguard intangible cultural heritage
The Director-General congratulated Kyrgyzstan on the inscription of the Kyrgyz epic trilogy: Manas, Semetey, Seytek on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Humanity at the eighth session of the Intergovernmental Committee, which took place in Baku in December 2013.
On 10 February 2014, the Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, met with Mr Karganbek Samakov, Member of Parliament of Kyrgyzstan and Chairperson of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee. Mr Asein Isaev, Charg茅 d鈥檃ffaires of the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in Belgium and of the Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, was also present at the meeting. The protection of the country鈥檚 intangible cultural heritage and the growing cooperation between UNESCO and Kyrgyzstan in this area was at the centre of their discussion.
The Director-General congratulated Kyrgyzstan on the inscription of the Kyrgyz epic trilogy: Manas, Semetey, Seytek on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Humanity at the eighth session of the Intergovernmental Committee, which took place in Baku in December 2013.
鈥淭he recent inscription of the Kyrgyz epic trilogy on the Representative List opens new avenues for showcasing the diversity of intangible cultural heritage and for promoting international understanding鈥, said the Director-General by presenting the certificate of inscription to Mr Samakov. 鈥淐ultural heritage is an important element for nurturing a sense of pride, identity and continuity for every nation and UNESCO will take every measure to assist Member States in preserving their cultural treasures鈥, she said.
Transmitted orally from one generation to another, the Kyrgyz epic trilogy embodies the historical memory of the Kyrgyz people. It survives thanks to a dedicated community of epic tellers, both women and men, of all ages, who consider the trilogy as an important cultural heritage for which they take personal responsibility. The trilogy helps young people to better understand their own history and culture.
鈥淚 hope that this inscription will also strengthen the commitment of the national authorities and all stakeholders to safeguarding the rich and diverse intangible heritage of Kyrgyzstan. UNESCO stands ready to continue supporting such efforts鈥, said Irina Bokova.
Mr Samakov confirmed Kyrgyzstan鈥檚 determination to expand its cooperation with the Organization in this important area, especially by presenting new elements for the Representative List.
