Seoul, December 5 (RHC-Minrex)-- Cuba has reiterated its commitment to the Safeguarding and Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage, during the general debate of the 12th Session of the Intergovernmental Council of Intangible Heritage, sponsored by UNESCO in Seoul, South Korea.

The President of the National Council for Cultural Heritage, Gladys Collazo, stressed that the protection of the nation's intangible heritage is a priority within Cuban cultural policy.

The Cuban representative added that safeguarding and preserving intangible heritage is a fundamental aspect in the defense and promotion of cultural diversity in the face of growing globalization.  "The understanding of the intangible cultural heritage of the peoples of the world contributes to the dialogue between cultures and promotes respect for other ways of life.”

Gladys Collazo also said that the importance of intangible cultural heritage does not lie in a cultural manifestation in itself, but in the wealth of knowledge and techniques that are transmitted from generation to generation and that contribute to the consolidation of national identity.  She pointed to the progress made by Cuba in the implementation of the Convention at the national level and the projection for regional work included in the action plan of the Ministers of Culture of CELAC.