UNESCO to provide support for sustainable tourism projects in Cusco

11:00 | Urubamba (Cusco region), Apr. 11.

UNESCO in Peru and Turismo Cuida Civil Association will support programs and projects aimed at assessing, protecting, and promoting the cultural heritage of Urubamba province in Cusco —in harmony with tourism— to achieve sustainable development.

This will be put into practice pursuant to a cooperation agreement that establishes a strategic working alliance to put culture on the map —along with tourism— as a fundamental axis for the implementation of sustainable development procedures.

Head of the UNESCO Office in Lima (Peru) Magaly Robalino described as positive the actions and commitments to heritage protection related to development.

"The protection of (cultural) heritage is a condition for inclusive social development. The more we commit to these postulates, the better possibilities we have to ensure the country's rich heritage," she told Andina news agency.

Additionally, Robalino said this responsible territorial development approach —based on tourism and culture— will result in higher competitiveness of the place, inhabitants, and local authorities.

Example

For his part, Turismo Cuida representative Enrique Quiñones reported it has been three years since they began implementing the Huallaga Plan in Ollantaytambo district of Urubamba province, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur).

"The target is not only Ollantaytambo. This plan will serve as an example for other towns so that they can replicate the model," he remarked.

UNESCO will provide support for the development of educational activities at schools and materials to explain the value of Peru's cultural heritage. The initial investment totals S/320,000 (around US$97,116).

(END) PHS/JOT/RMB/MVB

Publicado: 11/4/2019