Inauguration of Room X of the UNESCO Executive Board

As you know, anniversaries are an opportunity to reflect on the past and to look towards the future. It is suitable therefore that as we celebrate our 70th anniversary we do so here in a meeting room that is fit-for-purpose for a governing body clearly anchored in the 21st-century.

As you know, anniversaries are an opportunity to reflect on the past and to look towards the future. It is suitable therefore that as we celebrate our 70th anniversary we do so here in a meeting room that is fit-for-purpose for a governing body clearly anchored in the 21st-century.

Anniversaries are also times to give and to receive gifts from others.

And in this instance I would like to thank each and every one of the donors who have generously provided contributions – either financial, or in kind – in order to achieve the ambitious renovation project.

What could be a more lasting commemoration to symbolize the belief we all have in the values and aspirations of UNESCO than to ensure to protect and preserve the built heritage within which we meet to take decisions for the benefit of all of humanity in the fields of Education, the Sciences, Culture and Communication? During a time of fiscal constraint, some may question the need for such a renovation.

But I would say that considering current events of the terrible events that are happening in the world today where culture is targeted for destruction by extremists, we are dutybound to protect and preserve the cultural heritage on UNESCO House – the House of all Peoples and Cultures!

Key Themes: Inauguration Room X

Date : 2015-Oct-12