Najaf: Najaf Governor Yousef Kanawi met with the committee tasked with visiting archaeological sites-formed by the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage-in the presence of a UNESCO representative and relevant authorities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Najaf Governor’s media office stated that the meeting addressed support for the Kufan pilgrimage route project-or the ancient Kufan pilgrimage route, traditionally known as “Darb Zubaidah”-connecting Iraq and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Discussions focused on ensuring the project’s success, given its shared historical and cultural significance.

The Governor affirmed the readiness of security and service agencies to provide the necessary support and assistance for the project and to meet its requirements in coordination with the relevant bodies.

He also called for proceeding with plans and procedures to establish an Iraqi-Saudi border crossing, a move that would enhance connectivity between the two nations, contribute to reviving this historic route, and leverage their shared cultural heritage.

It is noteworthy that the Iraqi Authority for Antiquities and Heritage is working-in cooperation with stakeholders in Najaf and UNESCO-to have the ancient Kufan overland pilgrimage route (Darb Zubaidah), which runs from Najaf to Mecca, inscribed on the World Heritage List.