Experts recommend preserving the authenticity of the Oc Eo - Ba The relics.

(CLO) International experts have advised An Giang province to ensure the preservation of the original state of the Oc Eo - Ba The relic site and to develop an effective buffer zone management plan.

On January 12th, the Management Board of Oc Eo Cultural Relics in An Giang province held a meeting with a delegation of experts led by Professor Ichita Shimoda (Tsukuba University - Japan) to consult on the nomination dossier for World Heritage status.

During the meeting, experts provided feedback on the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) report, conservation and management work, outdoor exhibition plans for archaeological sites, as well as visitor reception, heritage interpretation, and preparation for the field survey by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), along with the potential for future international cooperation.

Professor Ichita Shimoda and other experts and scientists conduct a field survey of the Oc Eo - Ba The archaeological site complex. Photo: baoangiang.com.vn

The delegates particularly emphasized the importance of preserving the original state of the site, developing effective buffer zone management plans, and attracting the active participation of the local community.

Professor Shimoda suggested that the dossier should be compared with archaeological sites demonstrating the Oc Eo culture in the lower Mekong River region, and should clearly explain the reasons for selecting the main sites at Oc Eo - Ba The as components of the nominated asset.

According to Mr. Shimoda, this interpretation will help clarify the integrity and affirm the outstanding global value, thereby addressing the concerns that ICOMOS may raise.

Professor Ichita Shimoda emphasized that one of the key points to be added is to clearly affirm that the Oc Eo culture was the foundation that shaped the Funan regime, helping UNESCO directly identify the heritage value through archaeological remains.

He also noted that An Giang province needs to supplement its maps with detailed maps for each area instead of just using aerial photographs in order to meet stringent assessment standards.

Previously, from January 9th to 11th, Professor Ichita Shimoda conducted a survey, investigation, and field research of the Oc Eo - Ba The archaeological site and the Giong Xoai and Nen Chua sites in An Giang province.

Professor Ichita Shimoda is an expert in archaeology of the Mekong River region. He is also a member of the SEAMEO network – the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization.

Source: https://congluan.vn/chuyen-gia-khuyen-cao-dam-bao-tinh-nguyen-goc-cua-di-tich-oc-eo-ba-the-10326543.html