8. The plan of action, based on the approach already adopted by Unesco in similar cases, aims to provide the Lebanese Government with aid which would enable it to relaunch, as far as possible through its own efforts, the safeguarding and protection activities which were interrupted by the conflicts in the region.
9. The detailed project, which is conceived as a vast programme of integrated regional development, is based on the following principles:
(a) preparation of a regional development plan which would include the protection of the archaeological site of Tyre, its surrounding areas and its cultural property, and would cover:
- The historic quarter of the city of Tyre, including the archaeological area inside the medieval walls;
- The archaeological area including the necropolis and the hippodrome;
- The north and south ports;
- The archaeological perimeter of Tyre;
(b) the suspension of the archaeological excavations pending the establishment, by the Department of Antiquities, of a national team residing in Tyre which would be responsible not only for the protection of cultural property but for conservation work on the excavated area and for the publication of findings.
10. In the case of Tyre, perhaps more than in other cases, the protection and enhancement of cultural property cannot remain an end in itself. The slow death of the city is due partly to the departure of its inhabitants and partly to haphazard reconstruction. If the restoration work about to be done' to it is to be fully effective and a lasting success, an overall safeguarding and promotion operation must be carried out, leading to a marked improvement in the living conditionsof the local people.
11. This objective implies a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach which should nationally, contribute to socio-cultural development and hence strengthen awareness of the national cultural identity; internationally, draw attention to the historical and cultural importance of Tyre and its surroundings and promote the mutual appreciation of cultures.
12. The international community will be asked to support the efforts already made by the Lebanese Government by providing not only financial donations, but also experts, equipment and facilities which cannot be procured on the spot, and by awarding training fellowships.
13. The Lebanese Government, within the limits of the budget allotted to the project and in accordance with the recommendations which will be made by the working group, will provide supervising staff and labour, local materials (wood, stone and bricks), and any other facilities which it is in its power to supply.
In association with UNESCO it will endeavour to obtain voluntary assistance and financial support
