Seminar on Education & Protection of Cultural Heritage in South Eastern Europe

Joint Chair Statement concerning the destruction of statues by the Taliban
22-23 March 2001 at UNU, Tokyo

1. We strongly condemn the destruction by the Taliban, of Afghanistan's valuable statues such as the Giant Stone Buddhas of Bamiyan, which are the shared heritage of all mankind.

2. Afghanistan is the crossroads between Eastern and Western civilizations including Islam and Buddism and this has led to the current richness of culture. In this way a vast number of precious statues which are represented by the giant Buddhas in the central city of Bamiyan in Afghanistan, are recognised across the world as being of universal value. We believe that these should be protected regardless of our own religion and beliefs. If the destruction of this cultural heritage continues, this loss will do immeasurable damage to the whole of humankind. This concern shared by the international community, was also expressed at this seminar, 'Seminar on Education & Protection of Cultural Heritage in South Eastern Europe' hosted by the Japanese government on 22-23 March at UNU, Tokyo. In order to put a stop to this sort of reckless destruction against the shared heritage of humankind, it is necessary to respect the diversity of cultures and civilizations. For this reason dialogue between every country and every civilization in which there is a spirit of tolerance and sensitivity, is necessary.

3. We strongly condemn such cultural terrorism by the Taliban and urge them to stop immediately this destruction and take appropriate measures to protect the cultural assets of Afghanistan. Furthermore, we sincerely hope that the international community will show political will and find an appropriate mechanism or additional legal basis in order to deter and cope with such action in the future.