On 26 February 2013, Ms. Nadia Tazi, Executive Director and Founder of the Association for the Protection of Afghan Archaeology, presented a thank you letter to Mr. Nopadol Gunnavibol, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, for the assistance from Thailand on the protection Mes Aynak, a Buddhist historical site in Afghanistan.

   Ms. Tazi expressed her appreciation to the Deputy Permanent Secretary for the work of the Thai government to protect Mes Aynak in Logar Province of Afghanistan from being destroyed by copper mining. This historical site contains the remains of an ancient settlement with Buddha statues, stupas and a monastery complex. The Association is concerned that copper mining near the site by the China Metallurgical Group Corporation would destroy this archaeological treasure. Ms. Tazi emphasized the need to raise awareness among Buddhist associations around the world to delay copper mining in the area to preserve Mes Aynek. Thailand has called for to the UNESCO issue measures to protect Mes Aynak and requested the Afghan Government to delay mining activity in the area to preserve Mes Aynek and also the Afghan Government to delay mining activity in the area.

   The Deputy Permanent Secretary stated that Thailand, as a Buddhist country, would try to preserve this historical site and the Thai Foreign Ministry stands ready to provide any necessary assistance regarding on this issue.