SOCHI (Sputnik) – Russia is ready to send an archaeological expedition to the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria, Russian Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky said Thursday.
"We, Russia, are ready to take all the expenses and send a permanent archaeological expedition that will stay and work there. There will be archaeologists, scientists, museum workers and, probably, a few restorers," Medinsky told journalists.
In March, Damascus forces, supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces, liberated Palmyra from the Islamic State terrorist group, outlawed in many countries including Russia.
Terrorists have destroyed a significant part of Palmyra's historic ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Russia's State Hermitage Museum director Mikhail Piotrovsky has said the museum will take part in all UNESCO events aimed at the restoration of Palmyra.
