Justice and Culture Minister Owen Bonnici urged the international culture community to strengthen cooperation between various countries so that the world’s heritage – which is at risk of being destroyed especially in war-torn countries – is safeguarded.

Speaking during a conference organised by the Italian government as part of the Expo 2015 in Milan where a record 83 ministers and high representatives of the culture sector attended, Dr Bonnici said that “we should not become orphans of our identities”.

Dr Bonnci emphasised that Malta is supporting UNESCO’s efforts to safeguard historic sites across the world. He said it is a pity that at times we come across images of historic sites which have been destroyed.

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi also addressed the conference.