KABUL (Pajhwok): The Ministry of Information and Culture (MoIC) says its technical teams, in coordination with security forces, prevented the smuggling of 142 historical artefacts over the past year.
The ministry made the announcement as May 18 marks International Museum and Cultural Heritage Day, observed annually around the world.
In an audio message, MoIC spokesman Khubaib Ghufran said the ministry carried out extensive activities during the past year to preserve and protect Afghanistan’s historical artefacts and cultural heritage.
He said these efforts included surveys, professional excavations, restoration, preservation and cleaning of historical artefacts.
Ghufran added that technical teams, working closely with security forces at border crossings across the country, remained engaged around the clock to prevent the illegal smuggling of artefacts.
He said around 1,430 restored and preserved historical items had also been transferred to the National Museum of Afghanistan and 12 other active museums nationwide over the past year.
According to him, the artefacts are now on display for visitors and history enthusiasts.
Ghufran stressed that the ministry remained committed to preserving the country’s historical artefacts and cultural heritage and was continuing efforts through its relevant departments to ensure their protection.
kk/sa
