Chinese State Councilor Chen Zhili on Monday called for
nationwide efforts to mark the first national Cultural Heritage
Day.
The protection of China's cultural heritage was a
long-term, arduous task, which required the cooperation of all the
people, said Chen at the first working meeting of the national
leading team on protection of cultural heritage.
Thorough investigation and protection plans for cultural
heritage sites and artifacts should be carried out urgently, and
the protection of historic cities, towns and villages at major
construction sites should be strengthened, she noted.
Supervision of the trade in cultural relics had to be enhanced
and the collection of antiques should be regulated with tighter
laws and better enforcement, said Chen.
The protection of intangible cultural traditions and phenomena
should also be strengthened, Chen said.
A three-year survey and protection plan of intangible cultural
heritage is underway, according to previous reports.
The meeting deliberated and approved an activity scheme for the
first national cultural heritage day which falls on June 10.
The State Council in February designated the second Saturday of
June as the national Cultural Heritage Day to boost public
awareness of heritage protection.
Many historic buildings, sites and scenic spots have been
destroyed in recent years. The smuggling of antiques and robbery of
ancient tombs and relics sites are rampant in some regions,
according to a circular issued by the State Council in
February.
Improper development of cultural heritage and over-exposure of
cultural relics have also threatened artifacts and sites, it
said.
The government will establish a system for cultural heritage
protection by 2015, when comprehensive and effective protection
will be given to all historically, culturally and scientifically
sites and artifacts, along with public awareness campaigns,
according to the circular.
(Xinhua News Agency May 9, 2006)
