The 46th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO opened on Sunday in New Delhi, India.
The session will last until July 31.
The committee will evaluate the condition of 124 sites already inscribed on the UNESCO's prestigious World Heritage List, as well as 27 nominations for additions of cultural and natural sites.
The World Heritage Committee meets once a year, and consists of representatives from 21 of the States Parties to the World Heritage Convention elected by their General Assembly.
World Heritage Committee opens 46th session in New Delhi
Thousands of residents and tourists in Macao gathered at the Taipa Houses and the Sai Van Lake Square on Tuesday night to usher in the arrival of the year of 2025 with spectacular performances and festivities.
At the Taipa Houses, the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government hosted a multicultural New Year's Eve event. Artistic groups from Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam, together with local performers, showcased unique singing and dancing, creating a vibrant carnival atmosphere for the audience.
The countdown event at the Sai Van Lake Square featured energetic music and dance performances by singers and bands from Hong Kong and Macao, with nearly 10 thousand residents and tourists joining the lively celebration.
As the clock struck midnight, performers and the audience counted down together, ringing in the New Year with blessings and joy.
"The year 2024 is unforgettable as we celebrated the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. In 2025, we wish for a more prosperous and thriving nation, greater happiness for the people, and a brighter future for Macao," said U Kin Nam, a local resident.
"The year 2024 marked the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland, a significant milestone for Macao, and a year full of personal achievements for me. In the new year, I wish greater prosperity for our nation and the Macao SAR, and that everyone achieves even more," said Mak Lai Ian, a local resident.
"May our country enjoy prosperity and the people live in peace and harmony, and the Macao SAR enjoy better development," said Wong Ka Man, a local resident.
Macao ushers in new year with vibrant celebrations
