Updated:January 20, 2017

Mayor’s comment on the formal decision by Government on recommendation of “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region” to UNESCO

January 20, 2017

Today, the Cabinet approved to submit a formal recommendation (official version) of “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region” to UNECSO World Heritage Centre.

　It is only 1 year since the withdrawal of recommendation in February last year. It is fully thanks to understanding and cooperation of many those concerned including National Diet members from Nagasaki district, Prefectural and City assembly members, related organizations and local residents in Kuroshima. Here again I would like to express my sincere appreciation to them all.

　I have heard that the Government is going to submit a formal recommendation to UNESCO by February 1 and that an on-site inspection will be implemented in autumn this year by ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites). We will continue to make a full effort, in closer collaboration with Government, Nagasaki Prefecture, other concerned local authorities (Cities and Towns) and Sasebo citizens for the purpose of its registration in 2018.

Norio Tomonaga
Mayor of Sasebo