The Director-General thanked warmly the Minister for hosting the 36th session of the World Heritage Committee on the special occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Convention, stating the very special venue of Saint Petersburg, "a unique city permeated by a long history and heritage".

UNESCO: EDUCATION

In its decision, the 21-member Committee responsible for implementing the World Heritage Convention, called on the Director-General of UNESCO to create a special fund to help Mali in the conservation of its cultural heritage.

UNESCO: OFFICE IN BRASILIA

"Heritage is the very thing that makes England special in the eyes of the world and can help to underpin the economic recovery, " she said.

BBC: English heritage sites 'thriving'

The Committee will also review the state of conservation of the 30 World Heritage properties inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger and may decide to add to that list new properties whose preservation requires special attention.

UNESCO: CULTURE

He also made special emphasis on the long-term commitment assumed by States and local authorities and communities to preserving World Heritage Sites.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES