Egypt's FM stresses not politicizing UNESCO's work

CAIRO – 6 March 2023: Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shokry received Monday Chairperson of the Executive Board of UNESCO Tamara Rastovac, who is visiting Egypt within a tour in the Arab region, lauding her constructive work since her election in 2019.

Nevertheless, the minister "stressed the salience of not politicizing discussions within the organization, and adopting resolutions enjoying the highest degree of congruence after a wide-scope dialogue, while focusing on the main missions of the organization and that are education, science, and culture," the ministry's press statement indicated.

The meeting tackled ways of bolstering the role of UNESCO in supporting the requests of member states to restore their usurped cultural legacy and properties.

Rastovac expressed her appreciation for the backing of Egypt to UNESCO, and briefed the minister on issues that currently represent a challenge to the organization's work.

The chairperson of the UNESCO's executive board affirmed her eagerness for working based on consensus and participation of all members to formulate stances away from political polarization, ensuring the achievement of the organization's developmental and cultural goals.