Olivia
February 11, Iraq: Iraq has successfully recovered tens of thousands of smuggled artifacts through diplomatic efforts, overcoming complex legal and negotiation challenges, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein announced. He emphasized that these achievements were made possible through close collaboration with international organizations and countries committed to preserving cultural heritage.
The year began with the return of significant historical treasures, including the statue of the sun god Maran Shamash, rare Assyrian relics from the eighth century BC, and textile paintings from the ancient Al-Tar caves in Karbala. The textile pieces had been on loan to a Japanese mission since 1975. Minister Hussein stressed that these artifacts are not merely historical objects but integral to Iraq’s national identity.
He also acknowledged the crucial role played by the Legal Department of the Foreign Ministry and Iraqi embassies in Tokyo and Bern, which worked in coordination with institutions in Japan and Switzerland. He highlighted the shared global responsibility of protecting cultural heritage and called for continued international cooperation in recovering stolen artifacts.
Minister Hussein expressed his gratitude to all parties involved in the recovery efforts, calling it a historic milestone that strengthens Iraq’s connection to its past while ensuring its cultural treasures are preserved for future generations. He urged both local and international stakeholders to intensify efforts to reclaim the remaining antiquities, describing them as part of humanity’s collective heritage and a testament to civilization’s early development.
Minister of Culture Dr. Ahmed Fakak Al Badrani echoed these sentiments, extending his thanks to the Foreign Ministry and all contributors to the recovery. He stressed the need to continue protecting Iraq’s rich heritage, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural legacy.
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