Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping announced plans to enhance “strategic” cooperation with UNESCO, aiming to extend benefits to “all countries.” This statement was made during a meeting with UNESCO’s Director General Khaled El-Enany in Beijing, as reported by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning on US social media platform X.

According to Anadolu Agency, El-Enany highlighted that the partnership between China and UNESCO is especially crucial amidst global challenges to multilateralism. He emphasized that this collaboration could foster “more dialogue, more trust, and more concrete results for peace, development, and shared progress.” El-Enany expressed gratitude for the warm reception from President Xi and acknowledged China’s significant role as one of UNESCO’s key partners.

Reflecting on President Xi Jinping’s visit to UNESCO in 2014, El-Enany remarked on its lasting impact on China-UNESCO relations. He reiterated that the visit underscored the importance of exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, aligning with UNESCO’s core mission. UNESCO, established in 1945 and based in Paris, is dedicated to promoting peace, security, and international collaboration through education, science, and culture.