On Friday, India and the United States signed a significant agreement aimed at repatriating India’s cultural heritage from the US. The signing took place during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi.
The Cultural Property Agreement, signed by US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, and Govind Mohan, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Culture, is a major step in strengthening cultural ties between the two nations. Union Minister of Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, also attended the ceremony.
The agreement is seen as a major milestone in the effort to protect cultural heritage and combat the illegal trade of antiquities. It will help facilitate the return of stolen or looted cultural items to India, ensuring they are returned to their rightful place.
The US Embassy in India highlighted that the agreement is the result of nearly two years of collaboration between experts from both countries. It fulfills a commitment made by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi to enhance cooperation in protecting cultural heritage, as outlined in their joint statement from June 2023.
US Ambassador Eric Garcetti praised the agreement, emphasizing its focus on justice and connecting India with the global community. He stated that the agreement is about returning what is rightfully India’s and allowing people worldwide to appreciate and experience Indian culture.
Union Minister Shekhawat also expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, calling it a significant achievement for both nations. He noted that it would streamline the process of repatriating cultural properties to India and potentially pave the way for similar agreements with other countries.
The agreement was negotiated under US law implementing the 1970 UNESCO Convention, which aims to prevent the illicit import, export, and transfer of cultural property. With this agreement, India joins 29 other countries that have bilateral cultural property agreements with the US.
This development underscores India’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage and assisting other nations in safeguarding their own. It also reflects a broader international effort to combat the illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts and ensure their rightful return.
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