11 May 1990

9th Plenary Meeting

1990/2. Revival of the Ancient Library of Alexandria

The Economic and Social Council,

Bearing in mind Articles 13, 55 and 57 of the Charter of the United Nations concerning the promotion of international co-operation in cultural and educational fields,

Affirming the vital importance of preserving the cultural heritage of societies,

Aware of the four main objectives of the World Decade for Cultural Development set out in General Assembly resolution 41/187 of 8 December 1986,

Welcoming the progress made by Member States and by international, regional, governmental and non-governmental organizations towards the development of activities within the framework of the Decade,

Taking note of the Aswan Declaration regarding the project undertaken by the Government of Egypt aimed at the revival of the Ancient Library of Alexandria,

1. Welcomes the goals of the project, which are outlined in the Aswan Declaration;

2. Expresses its deep appreciation for the valuable support provided by the organs and organizations of the United Nations system, in particular the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the United Nations Development Programme, as well as by donor countries, for the efforts of the Government of Egypt aimed at the revival of the historical heritage of the Library of Alexandria, which, owing to its multidisciplinary and international character, will serve Egypt as well as the world at large;

3. Invites the international community to continue to lend support for the efforts of the Government of Egypt to fulfil the various goals set out in the Aswan Declaration.