Statements made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development Spokesperson (Paris, February 27, 2015)

Iraq – Destruction of cultural heritage
Economic diplomacy – Egypt – Extension of the Cairo metro system

Iraq – Destruction of cultural heritage

France condemns the destruction of ancient sculptures and artifacts in Mosul Museum by Daesh. It assures the Iraqi authorities of its support in their efforts to ensure that the perpetrators of these despicable acts are brought to justice.

The heritage of Iraq - the cradle of humanity - is at great risk. The systematic and calculated attacks perpetrated by Daesh are based on a rationale of deliberate destruction.

UNESCO, which adopted a resolution on the protection of heritage in Iraq last fall, plays a key role in saving this heritage. We assure UNESCO’s director-general of our support in her efforts to mobilize the international community.

The UN Security Council adopted, on February 12, resolution 2199 which notably condemns the destruction of Iraqi and Syrian cultural heritage and calls on the states parties to prevent the illicit trade of cultural property. France is currently mobilizing its efforts in New York together with its partners to ensure that this issue is taken fully into account in the international community’s response.


Economic diplomacy – Egypt – Extension of the Cairo metro system

France welcomes the signing in Cairo on February 25 of contracts worth almost €440 million for the extension of Cairo Metro Line 3. These contracts were signed between the Egyptian Transport Authority and a group of French companies (Vinci, Bouygues, Alstom, Thales, Colas, and Eurovia), in a consortium with Egyptian companies (Orascom and Arab Contractors).

This major achievement in the area of French-Egyptian cooperation, the previous phases of which received financial support from the French government and European co-financing, will benefit almost 4 million passengers every day.

By providing an effective solution to urban traffic problems, the Cairo metro system contributes to sustainable development and helps improve daily life in the Egyptian capital.