Australia keen to Strengthen Cultural Links with India

New Delhi, Jan 13 (IANS) An Australian delegation Tuesday highlighted different ways in which Australia can help India in preservation, protection and promoting its culture and heritage by offering wide range of skills and services.

Australian heritage experts interacted with the members of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the Institute of Archaeology in the Red Fort to discuss ways in which this partnership can be built further.

"Australian conservation architects, engineering firms and experts in cultural interpretation are keen to share their proven best-practice approaches and techniques with Indian organisations. That will help to preserve heritage buildings for sustainable tourism," Stuart Rees, trade commissioner (acting), Australian Trade Commission, said at an interactive workshop.

"These experts can help develop conservation management plans to ensure the longevity of temples, monuments, palaces and other historical buildings," he added.

Rees is a part of a 17 member Australian cultural services delegation that is in India for the ongoing Australia Business Week in India.

He also pointed out that Australia's heritage sector professionals use the latest scientific principles and methods during the restoration process to protect delicate works of art and centuries-old architecture and artefacts.

"Australian experts also offer cultural mapping services that use the latest research methods and tools to identify, document and plan for the best way to promote a state or region's cultural assets," he said.

Other areas in which the delegation is keen to demonstrate its expertise and skills are the range of services in upgrading or enhancing the attractiveness of destinations, including interior design, lighting, signage, acoustics, and improving accessibility for people with disability.