For Immediate Release
February 24, 2004

Preserving Cultural Heritage In Iraq
Iraq Fact of the Day

Much of Iraq's rich cultural heritage was threatened under Saddam Hussein's regime, and after the dictator's fall, opportunists pilfered priceless works from some Iraqi museums. Determined to preserve the ancient history of their country, a group of 23 Iraqi specialists -- 15 women and eight men mostly between 25 and 35 years old -- are in the United States for a five-week training program at the Smithsonian Institution. The museum professionals will participate in lectures, discussions, and training in Washington, Philadelphia, and Santa Fe. This is one example of ways that Iraqis, the United States, and other allies are working together to help Iraq reintegrate into the international community.

Source: U.S. Department of State and the Coalition Provisional Authority, Baghdad