TEHRAN – A delegation of Iranian experts are discussing ways with international fellows to protect intangible cultural heritage in a session running in Port Louis, Republic of Mauritius, from November 26 to December 1.

Presenting relevant reports, consulting about global registration of living cultural heritage for 2019 and 2020, and arranging exhibitions are top on agenda for Iranian team during the 13th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, CHTN reported.

Twenty-four state members of the committee, elected by the General Assembly of the 2003 Convention, are attending the event, which is chaired by Prithvirajsing Roopun, the minister of Arts and Culture of the Republic of Mauritius.

On this occasion, the committee also examines the reform of the periodic reporting mechanism, further discuss the roles of accredited NGOs, reflect on how to follow up on issues related to elements already inscribed, as well as continue its deliberations on the complex role that communities play in safeguarding their living heritage at risk in emergencies.

Amongst the Iranian entries to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list are Radif of Iranian music, traditional skills of carpet weaving in Kashan, ritual dramatic art of Ta’ziye, music of the Bakhshis of Khorasan and Qalishuyan rituals of Mashhad-e Ardehal near Kashan.    

“Chogan, a horse-riding game accompanied by music and storytelling” won Iran the same UNESCO status in the 12th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017.

AFM/MQ/MG