Ambassador Juan Antonio Fernández Palacios was received by Ms. Gabriele Eschig Secretary-General of the Austrian Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The courtesy call took place in the premises of that institution in a friendly atmosphere in which Ambassador Fernández Palacios referred to the seven decades of relations between Cuba and the UNESCO and to the historical bonds expressed in the celebration of the 70 anniversary in 2017.
Specially, celebration of the International Jazz Day in Havana in its 6th edition was a prominent part of the program of activities. The Cuban capital was the first to host this international event in representation of the Latin American and the Caribbean region. The then UNESCO´s Director General, Mrs. Irina Bokova attended the concert on the occasion of her third official visit to the Island.
During the meeting the working priorities of both Commissions were highlighted. Besides, the main projects linked to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage were mentioned; the UN 2030 Agenda and the targets of the Sustainable Development Goals; Program of Associated Schools; UNESCO's Memory of the World Program and the preservation of the historical memory. Those are suitable spaces for the future cooperation and exchange between the National Commissions of both countries.
The Cuban National Commission for UNESCO also celebrated its seven decades in 2017. Since its founding on 17 November 1947, this institution has been the advisory body to the Government concerning its relations with the Organization.
(Embacuba Austria/Cubaminrex)