Islamabad: S. Paul Kapur said the illicit trafficking of antiquities is a multibillion-dollar global criminal enterprise that robs nations of their history and identity and cannot be confronted by any country alone.

Addressing the 'Legacy Returns Home' artifacts repatriation event at the Islamabad Museum, he said the successful recovery and repatriation of more than 450 antiquities to Pakistan reflected strong bilateral cooperation and commitment to protecting cultural property and upholding the rule of law.

Kapur stated that the recovered artifacts, collectively valued at more than $23 million, were returned through the efforts of the Antiquities Trafficking Unit of the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Pakistani authorities.

He observed that the illegal trade in antiquities fuels organized crime and, in some cases, finances extremist networks. He said the United States works closely with international partners, including INTERPOL, customs and law enforcement agencies, museums, and academic institutions, to identify trafficked objects, dismantle criminal networks, and promote ethical standards in the global art and antiquities market.

The U.S. official emphasized that border security plays a critical role in preventing trafficked cultural property from entering international markets. He noted that the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection use intelligence sharing, advanced detection capabilities, and international coordination to intercept illicit artifacts.

Kapur further highlighted the significance of the fully ratified U.S.-Pakistan Cultural Property Agreement, stating that it helps prevent illegally exported artifacts from entering the U.S. art market and supports ethical standards in the antiquities trade.

He said the agreement's five-year action plan would promote museum exchanges, conservation training, collections management, and partnerships between universities, museums, and research institutions in both countries.

Referring to the United States' upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations under the 'Freedom 250' initiative, Kapur said Americans also recognize the importance of preserving cultural heritage and historical legacy.

He reaffirmed Washington's commitment to continued collaboration with Pakistan in combating cultural property trafficking and preserving historical heritage.