Anas Haj Zeidan, Director General of Antiquities and Museums, met Sunday with a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), headed by Tosaka Sota, Director of JICA’s Tokyo headquarters, to explore ways of boosting cooperation in urban planning for Syria’s historic cities, particularly Old Damascus and Old Aleppo.
The discussions focused on mechanisms for implementing integrated urban planning projects that preserve the unique historical and cultural fabric of both cities, while also meeting the demands of sustainable development amid the challenges posed by urban and environmental changes.
The JICA delegation expressed the agency’s readiness to offer its technical and professional expertise in urban planning and heritage conservation, drawing on Japan’s leading experience in the field.
These talks are expected to open new avenues for fruitful collaboration between the two sides, contributing to the protection of Syria’s historic cities and restoring their cultural splendor.
