VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Seychelles has formalised a significant step forward in international cultural cooperation through the signing of a memorandum of cooperation with the Rescue Archaeology Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The Seychelles-Russia MoU was signed by Minister Amanda Bernstein and Dr Natalia F. Solovieva, director of the Rescue Archaeology Centre, witnessed by officials from both nations.
The memorandum establishes a framework for enhanced collaboration in cultural heritage preservation, including archaeology, conservation, research, and heritage management. It provides for knowledge exchange, joint scientific initiatives, and capacity-building opportunities between Seychelles and leading Russian institutions. Key benefits for Seychelles include support for the Venn’s Town Unesco World Heritage nomination through comprehensive mapping of the site and its ruins.
The Russian partners have expressed strong interest in supporting Seychelles in advancing the Venn’s Town heritage dossier, including providing technical expertise to strengthen the scientific credibility and technical depth required for a successful Unesco inscription. The MoU will enable Seychellois professionals to benefit from specialised expertise in archaeology, conservation, and restoration.
The partnership proposes the development of a shared digital platform to integrate African heritage sites, including those in Seychelles, enhancing the visibility, documentation, and accessibility of cultural assets. The agreement includes specialist training programmes and opportunities for academic and professional exchange, contributing to building sustainable local expertise in heritage preservation.
The MoU presents a critical opportunity for Seychelles to adopt a more comprehensive and systematic approach to heritage management across both inner and outer islands. It directly supports national efforts to secure Unesco World Heritage recognition for Venn’s Town, a site of profound historical and cultural significance.
The Seychelles-Russia heritage MoU represents a strategic investment in safeguarding Seychelles’ cultural heritage while positioning the country more prominently on the global stage.
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