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Tokyo, February 24, 2026

A workshop on the protection of Sudanese antiquities was launched today in Tokyo, Japan, with the participation of experts from relevant Sudanese institutions, along with representatives from UNESCO and ICESCO. The workshop aims to develop practical projects for the protection and recovery of Sudanese cultural heritage in the post-war phase.

The workshop is organized with the support of the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Al-Raih Haidoub, Sudan’s Ambassador to Japan, expressed the appreciation of the Government and people of Sudan for Japan’s continued support.

He highlighted Japan’s successful post-war reconstruction experience, emphasizing the importance of benefiting from this expertise in protecting and rehabilitating Sudanese archaeological sites.

The Ambassador called for the workshop’s recommendations to include organizing an international conference on the protection of Sudanese antiquities, particularly in light of the systematic looting and destruction of heritage sites by the terrorist militia during the war.

On the sidelines of the workshop, participants led by Ambassador Haidoub met with Mr. Takamasa Saito, Director General of the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, who affirmed the institute’s readiness to strengthen cooperation with Sudan in the field of cultural heritage protection, drawing on Japan’s advanced expertise in restoration and reconstruction.

On behalf of the participants, Ambassador Haidoub expressed his gratitude to the institute and the Japanese government for organizing the workshop.

It is worth noting that Japan has long provided development and humanitarian support to Sudan, including projects in health, agriculture, education, and infrastructure, and is expected to continue contributing to post-war reconstruction efforts.