Climate complicates heritage preservation

Shi Jiazhen, a veteran archaeologist and director of the Longmen Grottoes Research Academy, shares experience from the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The contemporary preservation of cave temples not only requires the integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern high-tech methods, but also demands practitioners possess both scientific research and project awareness, Shi says.

He adds that it is important for all parties, including owners, expert groups, designers, construction companies and supervisors, to be involved throughout the process of implementing cultural heritage preservation projects.

During the Chongqing forum, the Academy of the Dazu Rock Carvings and the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan signed a memorandum of understanding on establishing friendly relations and cooperation.

Both sides will enhance communications and cooperation on cultural heritage protection, use and management.

Feryal Ali Gauhar, adviser with the Cultural Heritage Management of the Diamer Basha Dam Project in Pakistan, says that she thought the climate impact on cultural heritage is not just an issue for China, but also for the international community.

"Because only when we understand our past and we are able to interpret our past and the connections that different communities make with each other, can we learn from each other," Gauhar says.

Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn