Mexico & Jordan Unite for Chichén Itzá & Petra

Petra, Jordan — In a significant international cultural agreement, the governments of Mexico and Jordan have signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in the protection and promotion of the archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá and Petra. The signing ceremony took place in front of the iconic building known as Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) within the Petra Archaeological Park.

The memorandum establishes a legal framework for developing cooperative projects that will include the exchange of specialists and knowledge in the fields of conservation, restoration, and the dissemination of cultural heritage. It also paves the way for the joint organization of workshops, courses, and academic activities focused on the management and operation of archaeological sites.

The document was signed by the Chief Commissioner of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Fares Braizat, and the Director of Site Operation for Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), Vania Carrillo Bosch. Carrillo Bosch attended in representation of the head of Mexico's Ministry of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, and the Director General of INAH, Joel Omar Vázquez Herrera.

The management of this agreement was made possible through diplomatic efforts promoted by the Mexican Ambassador to Jordan, Jacob Prado, and reflects the commitment of both nations to strengthen cultural ties.

The memorandum also contemplates combined efforts to generate digital and printed publications, binational participation in festivals and exhibitions, and the development of joint research projects in cultural tourism as a tool for heritage protection.

Both Chichén Itzá and Petra are sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, a fact that makes this alliance an unprecedented cultural bridge between the Middle East and the Americas.

As part of their agenda in Jordan, the international delegation conducted a working visit to various spaces within the Petra Archaeological Park. The activities included the traditional 'candlelit night' at The Treasury, a visit to the Nabataean Cultural Center, and an expedition to Jabal Harun. This sacred mountain, associated with Aaron, the brother of Moses in Judeo-Christian tradition, is situated at 3,160 meters above sea level.

Additionally, academic panels were developed on strategies for sustainable tourism and balancing economic development with cultural protection.

With this signing, Mexico and Jordan reinforce their commitment to multilateralism and reaffirm their willingness to protect two of humanity's most emblematic historical sites. The cooperation between Petra and Chichén Itzá sets a precedent for international collaboration in favor of heritage, research, and responsible tourism.