"The Tusi Chieftain Sites symbolize communication of values and common development among different ethnic groups and present a model for protection of cultural diversity, which will have significance for all human beings today," Tong said.

The World Heritage list already includes several Chinese sites relevant to non-Han ethnic groups, such as Honghe Hani Rice Terraces and Old Town of Lijiang, both in Yuanan province. However, Tong said these previous entries mostly reflected a single peoples' ethnic culture rather than a common culture among ethnic minorities.

The Tusi sites still need further study, so the successful bid for the World Heritage designation will help establish an international framework for additional academic work, Tong said.

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