Addressing the 221st session of the UNESCO Executive Board, Ambassador Amr El-Gowaily, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs and International Security, delivered Egypt’s statement, underscoring the critical need for concerted global efforts to bolster shared human values in pursuit of collective goals through international forums.
Amb. El-Gowaily urged a significant increase in investment in the United Nations system and a steadfast commitment to its principles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its unity to effectively confront the mounting challenges facing a world grappling with escalating conflicts and increasing violations of fundamental human rights. He stressed the imperative for every individual to enjoy full human dignity in every corner of the globe.
Highlighting UNESCO’s unique potential, stemming from its universal membership and diverse fields of expertise, Amb. El-Gowaily emphasized its vital contributions in the realm of knowledge, encompassing culture, education, and the sciences, as essential pillars for fostering both peace and development.
The Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed Egypt’s unwavering commitment to supporting UNESCO, not only at the national level but also through its robust engagement in regional activities. He pointed to Egypt’s role as host to the organization’s regional office in Cairo, which is scheduled to hold a cross-regional capacity-building workshop on combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property from April 16 to 18, 2025. This initiative underscores Egypt’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and fostering international cooperation in this critical area.
A key highlight of Amb. El-Gowaily’s address was the distinguished candidacy of Professor Khaled El-Enany for the position of UNESCO Director-General. Professor El-Enany’s nomination, endorsed by Egypt, the Arab States, and the African Union Executive Council, has garnered significant international support, reflecting the depth of his vision cultivated through extensive visits and engagements over nearly two years.
Amb. El-Gowaily noted that this vision, which Professor El-Enany will present during the Executive Board’s hearing this week, aims to enhance the organization’s effectiveness by building upon established principles while adapting to emerging changes in a digital age characterized by integrated knowledge and dispersed tools. He emphasized Professor El-Enany as a candidate who embodies a bridge between diverse cultures and civilizations, with the aspiration of making the organization truly “UNESCO for the Peoples.”
Egypt’s strong advocacy for Professor El-Enany and its call for greater global unity and investment in UNESCO underscore its commitment to multilateralism and its belief in the organization’s crucial role in addressing the complex challenges facing the international community.
