Removal from UNESCO List Not a Problem

Mumcu also said: "Istanbul, with its history, nature, architecture and many other unique assets, is a special place with no equal in the world, and it doesn’t need to be included in the World Culture Inheritance List."

Saying that Turkey’s culture and laws do not fit into UNESCO standards, Mumcu indicated UNESCO’s demand for a regional administration plan for every project as an example of incompatibility. Mumcu said: "Pamukkale is a unique place in the world. We have prepared a plan for it, but UNESCO has rejected the plan since it has no regional administration plan."

The UNESCO Culture Inheritance Center is to hold its annual council meeting today in Paris. If the developmental plans for Istanbul’s historical works are brought to the agenda, Istanbul’s chance of remaining on the list will increase. If able to fulfill its obligations within one year, Istanbul will assure its place on the list.