Session Of Unesco�s Executive Board Closes With Tangible Results

UNESCO News release:

"The 171st session of UNESCO�s Executive Board, chaired by Ambassador Hans-Heinrich Wrede (Germany), closed today following more than two weeks of debate devoted notably to the preparation of UNESCO's General Conference to be held next October. The session was 'very intensive', dominated by the question of how to 'turn good ideas into good strategies, and from there, into solid application and follow up' said Ambassador Wrede. 'UNESCO will be relevant,' said Ambassador Wrede in his closing speech, 'when it flexibly responds to those most in need. We must agree on the best way to move forward. We have reaffirmed the unanimous conviction: Education is the priority. Approaching the MDG deadline, the pressure is on to ensure effective and swift implementation of the 'Education for All' objectives........

"'The budget,' said Ambassador Wrede, 'sparked a most animated and substantive debate. Many members emphasized a pragmatic approach and asked for a better use of existing resources. All agreed that UNESCO should better concentrate on its areas of expertise, before additional resources are invested. Members requested special attention for LDCs, E-9 countries and Africa.'

"The 172nd session of the Executive Board will be held at UNESCO Headquarters from September 13 to 29, just ahead of the 33rd session of the General Conference, which will take place from October 3 to 21."