The National Assembly Speaker said that, as part of its legislative activity, the National Assembly had recognized the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage.

“In 2010 we ratified the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This convention as the first step in the systemic care for Serbia’s cultural heritage enabled the Ministry of Culture to put Slovak naive painting on the national register of intangible cultural heritage. This opened its road toward the UNESCO list, which we as a state fervently wish for. I would like to stress that Serbia has demonstrated its dedication to safeguarding the cultural heritage of national and ethnic communities. Serbia is a country of many peoples and cultures, aware of the heritage it preserves and cultivates as its most valued bridge to Europe”, stressed the Speaker.

Kukan said he was pleased that Speaker Gojkovic had made it possible to exhibit the art of Slovak naïve painters in such grand space as the National Assembly. He also said that the Slovak minority is the best example of how minority communities should function, loyal to the country they live in, but also faithful to their heritage.

Click here to watch the opening of the exhibition.