China is willing to improve international cooperation on heritage conservation and make due contributions to the protection of world heritages, Chinese State Councilor Chen Zhili said in Suzhou Monday.

In a speech at the opening ceremony of the 28th Session of the UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, Chen said China has established a broad and profound partnership on heritage conservation with many counties, international agencies, especially with the United Nation Education Science Culture Organization (UNESCO).

Citing the protection of Cambodia's Angkor Wat as an example, Chen said at the initiation of the UNESCO and invitation of the Cambodian government, China has joined the renovation project of the Chau Say Thevoda of Angkor Wat.

China's efforts have been highly praised by the Cambodian government and international organizations.

She noted that the Chinese government has always held that the diversity of the world's civilization and culture should be honored, different historical and cultural traditions should be respected and the world heritage should be well preserved.

"The convocation of the 28th session proves once again that the mutual respect, dialogue and cooperation among different culture and civilizations are of crucial importance to the peace and development of the world," she said.

In addition, she said throughout the years, UNESCO has made outstanding contribution to the protection of world heritages through extensive international exchanges and cooperation.

"China wishes to join hands with all countries and relevant international agencies to make unremitting efforts to protect the cultural and natural heritages for the benefit of the future generations," she said.
 
(Xinhua News Agency June 28, 2004)