PARIS: Saudi Arabia emphasized its commitment to cultural preservation and international cooperation during the 221st session of the Executive Board of UNESCO, held at the organization’s headquarters in Paris.
According to the report, The session, running from April 8 to 17, brings together representatives from UNESCO’s 58-member Executive Board, alongside key international stakeholders.
The board, one of UNESCO’s main governing bodies, evaluates the organization's programs and budget, and helps shape its strategic direction.
Leading the Saudi delegation, Abdulelah bin Ali Al-Tokhais, the Kingdom’s permanent representative to UNESCO, delivered an address highlighting Saudi Arabia’s long-standing relationship with the organization.
He noted the Kingdom’s early support for UNESCO, dating back to its signing of the UN Charter in 1945.
Al-Tokhais spotlighted ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and UNESCO, particularly through the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning.
He referenced the successful hosting of the Sixth International Conference on Learning Cities in Riyadh under the patronage of King Salman.
As part of its cultural efforts, the Kingdom announced two key digital initiatives in partnership with UNESCO set to launch in early 2025 the Virtual Museum of Stolen Objects and the Digital Heritage Platform.
He also highlighted the Saudi Fund to Support, Protect, and Promote Culture and Heritage at UNESCO, reaffirming the Kingdom’s dedication to the organization’s mission and its global development goals.
Representatives from the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and various national institutions also participated in the session, further reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to international cultural cooperation.
[Reported by Saudi Press Agency]
