UAE Takes Vice Presidency at UNESCO’s 43rd General Conference

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Samarkand, Uzbekistan – The United Arab Emirates has been elected to the role of Vice President for the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, highlighting its growing impact on the international stage regarding culture and education. The event, which brings together representatives from 194 member states, will run from October 30 to November 13.

Heading the UAE delegation is Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Chair of the UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science. The election serves as a testament to the UAE's proactive engagement in worldwide cultural diplomacy and collaborative efforts.

During the conference, UNESCO announced the inclusion of the late Emirati poet Ahmed Bin Sulayem and the United Arab Emirates University in its 2026–2027 Anniversaries Programme, commemorating both the poet's 50th death anniversary and the founding of the UAE's first university in 1976.

Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi reinforced the UAE’s dedication to UNESCO’s objectives in education, culture, and science, while also noting the country’s collaborative work on heritage restoration projects like the ‘Revive the Spirit of Mosul’ initiative, showcasing its efforts in post-conflict resilience and preservation.

As the current chair of the Arab Group within UNESCO, the UAE continues to solidify its role as a reliable partner in international cultural and educational dialogues. Its election as Vice President of the General Conference further emphasizes its commitment to enhancing global conversations and safeguarding heritage across the globe.