UNESCO Director-General visits Cape Verde to boost cooperation
The Director-General of UNESCO has begun a visit to Cape Verde on July 23rd to strengthen cooperation in areas of heritage, culture, and oceans. During his stay in Praia, he is scheduled to meet with national authorities, including Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho, Minister of Culture António Duarte, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Manuel Amante da Rosa. Discussions will focus on common interests in education, culture, heritage, youth, and sustainable development.
The Director-General's itinerary includes a visit to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2009, recognized for its historical significance as the oldest colonial urban center in the tropics and its role in Atlantic history. He will also visit the National Historical Archive Institute to view historical documents related to slavery, which are part of UNESCO's International Memory of the World Register.
On July 24th, the Director-General will be received by President José Maria Neves on the island of Boa Vista. The visit also features the inauguration of an exhibition at the Boa Vista Archaeology Museum titled "Histories that the Oceans Unite," showcasing results from a UNESCO-funded underwater archaeology project involving participants from eight African countries. The mission will conclude with the Director-General's participation in the closing ceremony of the 5th Decade of Ocean Conference, where he will deliver an official address.
This visit signifies an opportunity for UNESCO to deepen its engagement with Cape Verde, leveraging the nation's rich cultural and historical assets, particularly its UNESCO World Heritage sites and maritime heritage. The focus on cooperation in heritage, culture, and oceans aligns with global priorities for sustainable development and the preservation of shared history. The initiative highlights the potential for international organizations to support developing nations in safeguarding their cultural legacies and promoting ocean science. Future collaborations could explore innovative approaches to cultural tourism and marine conservation, fostering economic growth while respecting environmental and historical integrity. The exchange underscores the interconnectedness of cultural heritage and ocean stewardship in the context of global challenges.
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