Irbid, Sept. 29 (Petra) -- Yarmouk University President Malek Sharairi and Director of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) in the United Arab Emirates Saeed Al-Naqbi, along with an accompanying delegation, discussed Tuesday prospects for cooperation in archaeological research and studies and the preservation of cultural heritage.

According to a university statement, Sharairi expressed the university’s appreciation for cooperation with the authority as a specialized institution in archaeological work and scientific research.

He highlighted the university’s efforts in archaeological research as it marks its 50th anniversary this year, particularly through its Faculty of Archaeology and Anthropology and its excavation projects, studies and research initiatives aimed at uncovering, documenting and preserving archaeological sites and evidence.

He highlighted Jordan’s rich archaeological and historical heritage and the material remains that reflect the succession of civilizations throughout the country’s history. Jordan, he said, is among the regions that witnessed the emergence and development of successive human civilizations over the ages. He also noted the contributions of the school’s faculty members to documenting this heritage and advancing archaeological and historical knowledge in Jordan.

Al-Naqbi, for his part, praised Yarmouk University’s longstanding academic reputation and presence at both the national and international levels, stressing the importance of cooperation and exchanging expertise in areas of mutual interest.

He highlighted the authority’s work in archaeological research and the exploration of archaeological sites and finds in the UAE, as well as the Emirate of Sharjah’s focus on documenting its archaeological heritage and cultural heritage. He also outlined the authority’s role in organizing and developing archaeological work at the institutional level.

As part of the visit, the delegation toured the Faculty of Archaeology and Anthropology, where it met with Dean Khaled Al-Bashaireh and a number of academic and administrative staff.

The delegation also toured the Jordan Heritage Museum, one of the country’s prominent academic cultural and scientific institutions dedicated to documenting and preserving national heritage, from ancient times through the modern era.

//Petra//WH