Bangladesh’s Tangail saree weaving industry has been recognised as an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ by UNESCO.

The ongoing 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee under the 2003 UNESCO Convention in New Delhi, India took the decision on Tuesday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This marks the country’s sixth individual registration under the convention and the second registration since Bangladesh was elected as a member of the committee four years ago.

Dedicating the achievement to all weavers and women of Bangladesh, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO and President of the General Council, Ambassador Ambassador Khondker M. Talha, said, “This is a remarkable honor for Bangladesh. It represents global recognition of the exquisite craftsmanship of Tangail weavers, who have preserved this art for over two centuries. Tangail sarees, worn daily by Bangladeshi women, inspired this international acknowledgment.”

He said that the recognition adds a new dimension to the country’s overall efforts to safeguard its intangible cultural heritage.

The ambassador emphasised that Bangladesh has numerous other cultural elements worthy of UNESCO recognition and that enhancing documentation capacity and developing skilled personnel related to the convention could open doors for more such achievements.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the 20th session on December 7 where UNESCO’s newly appointed Director-General Khaled El Enany was also present.