New delhi: UNESCO has announced the inclusion of Antep embroidery, a distinctive embroidery style from Trkiye's southeastern province of Gaziantep, in its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition was confirmed during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee Meeting for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India.

According to Anadolu Agency, Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy shared the significance of this achievement, noting that the recognition of Antep embroidery raises Trkiye's total number of living heritage elements on UNESCO's lists to 32. This milestone strengthens Trkiye's position as the second nation globally with the most cultural elements registered.

The evaluation report by UNESCO praised the submission of the Antep embroidery file, highlighting it as a comprehensive and well-prepared dossier. Trkiye was commended for its dedication to preserving living heritage, showcasing Antep embroidery as a testament to cultural sustainability.

Antep embroidery, characterized by its intricate technique of using white thread on white fabric, involves pulling and cutting threads to create patterns. This method has been passed down through generations in the region, serving as both a cultural tradition and a vital source of income for women, thereby supporting sustainable development and social cohesion.

In a related development, UNESCO has also granted special cultural heritage status to Italian cooking. While iconic dishes like pizza were already listed, the broader culinary traditions of Italy, along with their methods of practice and transmission, have now been recognized as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage.