Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, was awarded the "Heritage Personality of the Year" shield during the inaugural 2026 Arab Heritage Media Awards. The honor was presented by Dr. Yousef Ali Al-Kazim, head of the Arab Heritage Media Union. Bendouda dedicated the award to Algeria, emphasizing her commitment to safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage. Additionally, Dr. Al-Kazim made a historic visit to the "Crying Cow" archaeological site in Djanet, accompanied by the Minister, during the International Festival of Rock Art. This visit underscored efforts to bolster Arab cultural cooperation and highlight Algeria's archaeological treasures.