UNESCO Chief Hails UAE’s Role in Global Cultural Cooperation at World Governments Summit 2025
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay has praised the United Arab Emirates’ key role in international cultural cooperation, recognizing it as a leading partner in heritage preservation and post-crisis reconstruction efforts.
Speaking at the World Governments Summit 2025 (WGS) in Dubai, Azoulay underscored the importance of global collaboration in education, culture, and science, highlighting the “Revive the Spirit of Mosul” campaign as a prime example of heritage-driven recovery. Launched in 2018, the initiative has successfully restored major historical landmarks in Mosul, with the UAE as its primary financial supporter.
Heritage Restoration and Community Rebuilding
Azoulay detailed the progress made under the Revive the Spirit of Mosul project, including the restoration of:
- Al-Nouri Mosque and its iconic Al-Hadba Minaret
- The Convent of Our Lady of the Hour and Al-Tahera Church
- Al-Aghawat Mosque
- Al-Ekhlass School in the Old City
By the end of 2024, 124 heritage houses had been rehabilitated, enabling displaced families to return home. Reflecting on her recent visit to Mosul, Azoulay described how the city’s historic center is once again vibrant, proving that heritage restoration plays a critical role in rebuilding communities.
UAE’s Expanding Role in Cultural Diplomacy
Beyond heritage preservation, Azoulay commended the UAE’s active role in global cultural cooperation, both within UNESCO and the G20. She highlighted the country’s commitment to vocational education and the arts, referencing Abu Dhabi’s international conference on technical education held last year as an example of its leadership in integrating the arts into sustainable development.
Looking ahead, she announced that Abu Dhabi will host UNESCO’s International Jazz Day on 30 April 2025. The event will feature:
- Cultural activities, exhibitions, and music workshops
- Engagement opportunities for students and artists from across the region
- A high-level cultural summit bringing together global leaders to foster dialogue through the arts
Strengthening Cultural Ties for the Future
Azoulay’s remarks at the World Governments Summit 2025 reaffirm the UAE’s growing influence in global cultural diplomacy, emphasizing its efforts in heritage conservation, education, and artistic collaboration. As the UAE continues to champion international cultural initiatives, its role as a key UNESCO partner is set to expand further in the years ahead.
