NNA - Minister of Culture Dr. Ghassan Salameh received in his office at the National Library in Sanayeh the Head of the Culture Sector at UNESCO’s Lebanon Office, Engineer Joe Kraidy, in the presence of Director General of Antiquities Engineer Sarkis Khoury.

Discussions focused on the condition of cultural properties in Lebanon that are at risk due to the armed conflict.

The meeting also addressed the need to communicate with relevant international and UN organizations, particularly UNESCO in Paris, to take the necessary measures to preserve archaeological sites in Lebanon—especially those listed under enhanced protection according to Protocol II of the 1954 Hague Convention.

It was noted that the Shama Castle had previously suffered significant damage as a result of the recent war in the south. The Ministry of Culture – Directorate General of Antiquities had submitted a request to UNESCO in Paris for immediate and swift intervention to protect the castle site, which is covered under enhanced protection.