Sheikha Latifa Engages with UNESCO Director at Davos Forum

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who leads the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, met with Khaled El Enany, the Director General of UNESCO, at the 56th Annual World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, which took place from 19 to 23 January.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a Board of Trustees member of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, along with His Excellency Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and other senior officials, were present at this significant encounter.

This dialogue formed part of the UAE's proactive involvement in the World Economic Forum, a pivotal global platform that gathers leaders, policymakers, international organizations, and specialists to contemplate economic challenges and foster international collaboration.

In their discussions, Her Highness articulated the UAE’s aspirations concerning education, culture, knowledge, and heritage, underscoring their strong alignment with UNESCO’s objectives. She emphasized that culture, education, and science are foundational to sustainable development, helping to bolster national identity, social cohesion, and international dialogue.

The topics addressed also included UNESCO's initiatives for protecting global cultural heritage, promoting creative sectors, and enhancing education and scientific exploration. Her Highness reiterated the UAE's dedication to enriching cooperation with UNESCO by sharing insights, evolving modern cultural frameworks, and endorsing knowledge-driven initiatives at both regional and global stages.

Both parties delved into common goals, such as preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, nurturing the creative economy, empowering communities through education, and advancing the role of culture in holistic development.

Moreover, the meeting underscored the necessity for improved regional and international collaboration amid swiftly evolving global issues. They concurred on the essential role of culture and education in enhancing mutual understanding, encouraging dialogue among countries, and bolstering global sustainable development.