YANGON, May 21 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar has launched the third phase of capacity building for preserving cultural heritage in the country with the funding of the Italian government and with the cooperation of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The project would be supportive of putting Bagan into world heritage list and enhancing efficiency in archaeological research and conservation, Minister of Religious Affairs and Culture U Aung Ko told an introduction ceremony Saturday, reported Myanmar News Agency Sunday.
Italian Ambassador Pier Giorgio Aliberti vowed to continue assisting Myanmar's restoration work with quake-hit Bagan, one of the famous tourist destinations of the world, until achieving success.
The first phase of the project was launched in 2012, while the second reinforced the successful results of its predecessor and laid foundation for putting Bagan in the world heritage list.
The third phase serves as the provider of management programs for the three ancient Pyu cities, the first ever already designated world heritage of Myanmar in 2014.
Meanwhile, archaeological excavation of the three Myanmar ancient Pyu cities, Hanlin, Beikthano and Sri Kestra continued for tourist development under a cultural heritage preservation plan.
Since inscription by the UNESCO, the three heritage sites have attracted visitors from home and abroad and research programs as well as tourist development tasks have also been accelerated in the areas.
With brick walls and moats, the three Myanmar ancient cities are respectively located in Sagaing region's Wetlet township, Magway region's Taungdwingyi township and Bago region's Pyay township.
