In a strategic move aimed at enhancing Qatar’s regional and international role in managing documentary heritage, the National Archives of Qatar signed a partnership agreement with UNESCO to host the regional conference titled “Memory in Heritage: Strengthening Cooperation on Documentary Heritage in the Arab Region.” The conference will be held in Doha on January 21-22, 2025. Bringing together experts, representatives of national libraries, museums, and archives from various countries in the region, as well as international and regional organisations.The conference aims to foster regional cooperation to develop innovative mechanisms for the protection and sustainability of documentary heritage while addressing challenges such as climate change and regional conflicts. Additionally, it seeks to increase the representation of Arab documentary heritage in international forums through unified efforts and a shared strategic vision.Dr Ahmed Abdullah al-Buenain, Secretary-General of the National Archives of Qatar, stated: "Hosting this conference in partnership with UNESCO reflects Qatar's commitment to supporting regional and international efforts to safeguard documentary heritage. At the National Archives of Qatar, we strive to provide a platform that brings together experts and relevant institutions to build strategic partnerships that contribute to protecting this documentary legacy. As well as leveraging it through innovative technological solutions and digitization, thereby strengthening its sustainability and showcasing its value as an active element in cultural and regional development."Al-Buenain added: "The 'Memory of the World's program, launched by UNESCO, provides a significant framework to support regional and national institutions in protecting documentary heritage. This partnership represents an opportunity to enhance regional cooperation and develop sustainable policies that safeguard documentary heritage. Through this collaboration, we aim to play a role in strengthening the position of regional institutions and fostering a shared vision to ensure the continuity of efforts to protect this invaluable cultural legacy."Salah Khaled, UNESCO Representative to the Gulf States and Yemen and Director of the UNESCO Office in Doha, highlighted the critical importance of preserving documentary heritage, said: "Protecting and preserving documentary heritage is vital—not only as a testament to the past but also for safeguarding cultural identity, explaining the present, and building bridges for future generations." He underscored its role in promoting intercultural dialogue, respect, and understanding while showcasing exchanges across regions and continents.Khaled also pointed out that the Arab region is underrepresentation in the Memory of the World register, which accounts for just 4% of the international total. To address this, UNESCO advocates for a regional committee to compile a documentary heritage register, promote coordination and capacity-building, and raise awareness about preserving documentary heritage institutions.Khaled noted that "this regional register will highlight the Arab region's contributions to science, culture, communication, and education, ensuring stronger representation at the international level." He emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step toward strengthening cooperation among national committees and institutions, with its success relying on collaborative efforts across the region.The Memory of the World program, launched by UNESCO in 1992, serves as an international platform aimed at supporting national and regional institutions in developing policies and efficiently managing documentary heritage. Through this conference, the National Archives of Qatar, in partnership with UNESCO, seeks to present a forward-looking vision that ensures the sustainability of efforts to protect this cultural legacy and unifies efforts to address shared challenges threatening its continuity. The conference represents a significant step toward fostering regional cooperation and ensuring that this heritage remains an integral part of the Arab cultural identity and shared human history.