Irina Bokova, ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO Director-General, called for new efforts to build trust, on the basis of respect and mutual understanding, following the 199th session of the Executive Board of ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO,that closed on 14 April, 2016.
The ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO Executive Board took decisions on issues relating to the Middle East, including to the World Heritage Site of the .
"Jerusalem is a Holy Land of the three monotheistic religions, a place of dialogue for all Jewish, Christian and Muslim people, nothing should be undertaken to alter iits integrity and authenticity" said Irina Bokova. "It is a mosaic of cultures and peoples, whose history has shaped the history of all humanity. Only respect and dialogue can build the trust we need to move forward — this is the strength of ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO, for the benefit of all."
"I believe Member States have a responsibility to ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO’s mandate, to move forward in ways that promote dialogue, tolerance and peace,” continued Irina Bokova. “This is especially important for young people, who should be nurtured and educated for peace.”
The Director-General has always appealed for dialogue and consensus so that ±¬ÁÏÍøESCO’s mandate of protecting World Heritage and promoting tolerance and mutual respect can be taken forward.
Document Sources: United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (±¬ÁÏÍøESCO)
Subject: Assistance, Education and culture, Jerusalem
Publication Date: 17/04/2016