Minister: New infrastructure projects may threaten historical monuments

New construction and infrastructure projects may pose certain risks to historical buildings and monuments, according to Azerbaijani Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, Report informs.

Speaking at the conference Preservation of Historical‑Religious Monuments: Challenges and Perspectives, jointly organized by the ministry and Azerbaijan's State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations, Karimli stressed the importance of sensitivity and scientific approaches in project implementation.

"Time is a crucial factor here. At the same time, preserving the originality of historical monuments, ensuring their protection, and carrying out restoration and conservation must be closely interconnected and coordinated so that one process does not harm another," he said.

The minister also highlighted the significance of integration: "New buildings are being constructed, and new urban landscapes are forming. However, integrating historical buildings into this new urban environment is one of the most important issues. This creates both risks and new challenges. I believe that especially in regions with intensive urban development, a special balance must be established between the preservation of historical‑religious monuments and cultural heritage and modern urban planning."

Karimli concluded that creating the right balance between urban development and heritage preservation requires joint and coordinated efforts of state institutions, the private sector, and the scientific community.